A Full-Day Adventure to Beijing’s Most Storied Walls and Water Towns

When you think of Beijing, the Great Wall immediately springs to mind—and for good reason. This private tour offers a chance to visit Mutianyu, one of the most picturesque sections, and then switch from day to night with visits to Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall at sunset. For $298.92 per person, you get a well-rounded experience that includes hotel pickup, private transport, guided commentary, entrance fees, and even the fun of a toboggan ride—making it a great value for those eager to see a lot in one day.

We especially appreciate how this tour balances timed sightseeing with opportunities for authentic exploration. The less-crowded Mutianyu provides a peaceful walk, and the night view of Simatai is genuinely breathtaking—an uncommon perspective that many travelers cherish. Plus, the local lunch at Gubei Water Town offers a taste of regional cuisine, making the experience more immersive.

One thing to consider is that the tour runs around 8 to 10 hours, so it’s a long day—perfect if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to extend your time, you might want to budget extra for additional hours. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with a focus on authentic, scenic, and memorable moments—ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off the Great Wall and explore a charming water town.

Key Points

All-in-one experience: Combines daytime visits to Mutianyu and a nighttime tour of Simatai with Gubei Water Town.
Comfort and convenience: Includes hotel pickup, private vehicle, and guided commentary.
Unique perspectives: Night viewing of the Great Wall offers stunning, less-crowded vistas.
Family-friendly and accessible: Suitable for most travelers, with options like cable cars and toboggans.
Value-packed: Entrance fees, cable cars, and lunch included—no hidden costs.
Long but rewarding: 8-10 hours, perfect for those eager for a full day of sightseeing.

Visiting the Mutianyu Great Wall: A Scenic Marvel

The journey begins with pickup from your hotel, a hassle-free start to what promises to be an immersive day. Your guide, likely someone knowledgeable and friendly, will share stories about the Great Wall’s construction and significance during the roughly 1.5-hour drive. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of countryside scenery, giving you a glimpse of rural China that many visitors overlook.

Once at Mutianyu, you’ll find a section that’s often regarded as less crowded than Badaling, making it perfect for those who want to appreciate the Wall’s grandeur without the throngs of travelers. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the various watch towers and take in the spectacular vistas of the surrounding hills. The advantage here is the flexibility—whether you prefer to hike, take a cable car, or enjoy the fun toboggan ride, you can choose what suits you best.

We liked that the tour offers round-trip cable car or ski lift tickets, which are handy for conserving energy while still getting the full experience. The toboggan ride, in particular, adds a fun, almost childhood-like element to the visit, making it memorable for travelers of all ages. As one reviewer noted, the time on-site was “less hurried” and allowed for genuine appreciation of this architectural wonder.

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Lunch and a Stroll Through Gubei Water Town

After a hearty local lunch—an essential part of any China trip—you’re off to Gubei Water Town, about an hour’s drive away. This charming replica of Southern Water Towns like Wuzhen offers a relaxing break from the more strenuous Wall walk. Stepping into Gubei, you’ll find quaint shops, tasty eateries, and distinctive hotels, perfect for those interested in architecture, local crafts, or simply soaking in a different side of China.

The guided walking tour here is a highlight, allowing you to discover the town’s hidden corners and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir or two. The town’s atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, offering an authentic slice of life along the water.

Nighttime Marvel at Simatai Great Wall

The evening begins with a cable car ride up to the Simatai Great Wall, a site famed for its steepness and dramatic views. But the real magic happens at night, when lanterns light up the path, creating a dreamlike scene. You will have free time to explore the 10 open watch towers, which are illuminated against the dark sky, offering breathtaking panoramas.

Many travelers, including one who described the experience as “very nice,” find that the night view adds a different, almost mystical character to the Wall—something you won’t get during the day. Overlooking Gubei Water Town from this vantage point makes for unforgettable photos and a special feeling of standing amidst history and nature at dusk.

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour packs in lots of value: hotel pickup and drop-off (within the 4th ring road), private transport, a professional guide, all entrance fees, cable car or ski lift tickets, and a traditional lunch. Having everything organized means you don’t need to worry about navigating public transportation or figuring out what to pay for—often, those hidden costs can diminish the experience.

The small group or private setting ensures a more personalized experience, allowing your guide to tailor commentary and pace to your interests. As one review pointed out, “Great experience,” especially when visiting a site as sprawling and steep as Simatai in the evening.

The Balance of Experience and Practicality

A key strength of this tour is how it balances depth and convenience. You get to see two iconic sections of the Great Wall, each with their distinct character—Mutianyu’s gentler slopes and scenic beauty, and Simatai’s rugged, dramatic towers lit by lanterns at night. The inclusion of lunch in a local village adds flavor and supports local businesses.

Of course, the length of the day—up to 10 hours—means it’s quite full. If you prefer a slower pace or want to linger longer at any stop, you might consider adding extra hours for a fee. But for most travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing, it’s a well-structured itinerary.

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Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive day in Beijing that mixes outdoor adventure with cultural charm. It’s also suited for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking to capture stunning photos—especially at dusk. The tour’s focus on authentic scenery, guided insights, and scenic views ensures you’ll leave with memorable impressions and plenty of great photos.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this tour means trusting that you’ll get a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. Your guide’s expertise will make the journey richer, and the included amenities make it straightforward and stress-free. It’s a perfect pick for travelers who want an active day of exploring without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

While it’s a long day, the value for money—covering transportation, entrance fees, and a local lunch—makes it an excellent option for those craving a full, meaningful experience of Beijing’s most famous sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for accommodations within the 4th ring road of Beijing.

How long does the entire tour last?
It runs about 8 to 10 hours, making it a full-day experience. You can pay extra if you’d like to extend it.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered, including cable cars, toboggans, and access to the Great Wall sections.

Can I choose between cable car and ski lift?
Yes, the tour offers a round-trip cable car or ski lift ticket at Mutianyu, depending on your preference.

Is there a chance to walk the Wall or just take transportation?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Mutianyu for walking, hiking, or riding the toboggan. You’re encouraged to explore and enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children may enjoy the toboggan ride and scenic views, but it’s good to check with your guide about specific age limits.

What is Gubei Water Town like?
It’s a charming replica of Southern water towns, with shops, restaurants, and hotels, offering a relaxing break from the wall hikes.

How is the night view of Simatai?
Many say the lantern-lit towers create a magical scene—definitely worth the visit if you want a different perspective on the Wall.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking. Check the weather forecast, as the evening might be cooler.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking.

This tour offers an exceptionally well-rounded look at Beijing’s historic landmarks, blending outdoor activity with cultural charm. Ideal for first-timers eager to see the iconic sights comfortably and authentically, it guarantees a memorable day—daylight or moonlight.