Beijing Private Tour to Juyongguan Great Wall and Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride

Experience the Best of Beijing in a Day: Juyongguan Great Wall and Longqing Gorge

If you’re visiting Beijing and want to see beyond the typical crowded spots, this private tour offers an excellent way to explore two of the city’s most striking attractions in one day. For around $178, you’ll enjoy a customized experience that includes a visit to the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall—a site less crowded but equally breathtaking—and a trip to the Longqing Gorge, known for its stunning natural scenery and boat rides. The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, making it perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for a thorough, authentic adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances history and nature—you get to walk along a historic military stronghold that played a crucial role in Chinese defenses, and then unwind amid the lush, scenic landscapes of Longqing Gorge. Plus, the guide’s personal attention means you’re not just another face in a large group, but someone truly able to soak in the sights and stories. The inclusion of a local lunch and entrance fees simplifies planning and adds to the overall value.

A small caveat might be the drive time of about 1.5 hours each way—if you’re not a fan of long bus rides, this could feel a bit tiring. Also, since this is a private tour, flexibility is key: it’s best suited for those who appreciate a personalized experience rather than a rigid schedule. This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a deeper, less-touristy experience outside Beijing’s urban core.

This experience made our article of 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Beijing (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle for a more tailored visit
• Historical Significance: Explore the strategic Juyongguan pass of the Great Wall
• Natural Beauty: Enjoy the scenic Longqing Gorge with a boat ride
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, local lunch, boat ride, and hotel pickup included
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and flexible departure times
• Authentic Views: Less crowded sites for a more genuine experience

A Closer Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Drive to Juyongguan

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel within Beijing’s 4th Ring Road, ensuring a hassle-free start. The private guide will meet you in the lobby, and you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle that promises comfort through what might be a 1.5-hour scenic drive. During the ride, your guide—whose friendly professionalism is often highlighted in reviews—will share insights into the Great Wall’s history and significance, helping you appreciate what you’re about to see.

The drive itself is a highlight, as you pass through Beijing’s peaceful countryside, providing a glimpse of local life away from the city’s hustle. This part of the experience is a nice way to transition from urban Beijing to the countryside, setting the tone for a day of exploration.

Visiting Juyongguan: A Historic Stronghold

Juyongguan is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a military fortress with a history dating back to the Han Dynasty (220-206 BC). Perched amid mountains, this section of the Great Wall was once a critical defensive point. Unlike the more crowded Mutianyu or Badaling, Juyongguan tends to be quieter, allowing for a more intimate experience.

You’ll spend roughly 2 hours wandering the circular pass, which encompasses a city tower, watchtowers, and even a meeting place for emperors. The views from the walls are impressive—mountains stretching in every direction, with the ancient stonework contrasting sharply against the modern world. Visitors often comment on how access is quite convenient and how the site feels more authentic without the overwhelming crowds.

Lunch and Transfer to Longqing Gorge

After your time on the Wall, a local Chinese lunch provides a chance to sample regional flavors, which many travelers find highlights of their trip. Good food adds to the experience and gives you the energy needed for the afternoon.

Post-lunch, it’s about a 30-minute drive to Longqing Gorge, a natural wonder that rivals other famous scenic areas. The gorge’s steep cliffs, stone formations, and crystal-clear waters have earned it comparisons to Guilin’s Li River, with some saying it’s even more beautiful. This is a place where nature’s artistry is on full display—an ideal spot to relax after the morning’s historic exploration.

Exploring Longqing Gorge

Once at Longqing Gorge, the scenery is breathtaking. You might find yourself gazing at stone cones, stone swords, and pillars that carve out the landscape in striking shapes. The boat ride on the lake is a highlight, offering a peaceful way to take in the towering cliffs and flowing waters. Many reviews mention how the boat ride is a memorable part of the day, providing a different perspective from above and below.

The gorge also offers some natural “danger” with its steep cliffs and narrow paths, but that only adds to its allure for those who love a touch of adventure. Expect to spend about 2 hours here, with enough time to snap photos, wander the paths, or simply enjoy the tranquility.

Return to Beijing

After enjoying the stunning scenery and the boat ride, your guide will take you back to your hotel. The whole day wraps up with comfortable transport, leaving you free to reflect on the sights and perhaps plan your next Beijing adventure.

Authentic Value and Experience

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who value personalized attention. The private guide not only enriches the experience with insights but also allows you to set the pace—whether you want to linger longer at the Wall or take more time enjoying the gorge.

The combination of historical sites and natural scenery packs a punch in one day, offering a well-rounded perspective of Beijing’s surroundings. The inclusion of entrance fees, a local lunch, and the boat ride makes it a straightforward choice—no hidden costs or complex planning needed.

The reviews reinforce these impressions, with one traveler noting: “It was my first time using this service and although I had been to the Great Wall two times before, Juyongguan far exceeded expectations. No crowds, easy access, and beautiful scenery.” That’s a common sentiment—this tour provides a more authentic, less touristy experience that many visitors cherish.

Practical Considerations

The drive time might be a downside for some, especially if you prefer to minimize long bus rides. Still, the comfort of private transport and the scenic countryside views soften that aspect. Since it’s a private tour, flexibility is an advantage—if you want to spend more time at one site, your guide can often accommodate.

The tour is suitable for a broad range of travelers, including families (children must be accompanied), seniors, or anyone looking for a well-organized, informative day outside the city. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already seen the more popular Great Wall sections and want to explore a quieter, more authentic site.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, well-paced experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour delivers in spades. It’s ideal for those who want to combine history and natural beauty without the crowds, and who enjoy a leisurely day with some comfort. The inclusion of a boat ride and local lunch adds value, making it a convenient and memorable way to explore Beijing’s outskirts.

This tour is perfect if you’ve already seen the typical tourist spots and crave something more authentic and less commercialized. It suits travelers eager to connect with both the historical significance and natural splendor of the region, all while enjoying the ease of private transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup within Beijing’s 4th Ring Road, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

How long is the drive to Juyongguan?
It takes about 1.5 hours, passing through beautiful countryside scenery, which you can enjoy during the journey.

How much time will I spend at each site?
You’ll spend approximately 2 hours at Juyongguan Great Wall and another 2 hours exploring Longqing Gorge, including the boat ride.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local Chinese lunch is provided, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

What’s included in the price?
All entrance fees, the boat ride, guide services, private transport, bottled water, and lunch are included in the price.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide is typically flexible and can accommodate your pace and interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, and sensible shoes are recommended. Bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice if your plans change.

To sum it up, this private tour offers an excellent way to experience some of Beijing’s most scenic and historically significant sites without the usual crowds. It’s well-suited for travelers who value comfort, personalization, and authentic sights, providing a memorable day that balances history, nature, and culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, this trip promises a rewarding adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to tell.