Group Coach Day Tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

Exploring the Best of Beijing’s Historic Marvels: Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

If you’re visiting Beijing and craving a day away from the bustling city streets, this group coach day tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, scenic beauty, and traditional Chinese culture. For around $287, you’ll visit the famous Simatai section of the Great Wall, known for its steep, original architecture, and wander through the picturesque Gubei Water Town, a peaceful retreat with peppered alleyways and waterways that seem untouched by time.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic sights with convenient logistics—hotel pickup and round-trip transportation mean you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or finding your way back. Plus, the opportunity to walk along the only remaining part of the original Ming Dynasty wall and explore a water town that feels like stepping back into old China are genuine highlights.

A possible consideration is the early start—pickup begins at 6am, so if you’re not a morning person, you’ll want to prepare for a lively day ahead. Also, the tour’s length means you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock for things like lunch and travel times, but overall, it’s a fantastic value for those eager to see these iconic sites comfortably.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those who want a mix of natural beauty and cultural authenticity—all in one day. If you’re looking for a guided experience that balances education with great scenery, this option fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic Ming Wall: The Simatai section preserves the wall’s original Ming Dynasty architecture, offering a glimpse into China’s imperial past.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and round-trip coach transfers make this a hassle-free way to visit multiple sites.
• Cultural Experience: Gubei Water Town provides a snapshot of traditional Chinese life, complete with alleyways, waterways, and local crafts.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas from the wall towers and tranquil scenes in the water town.
• Full-Day Exploration: The roughly 8-hour tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed, thanks to well-planned timing.
• Great Value: Entrance fees, transport, and a guide are included, making it a cost-effective way to see these highlights.

A Deep Dive into Your Day of Discoveries

Starting with Comfort and Convenience

Your adventure kicks off early, with a pickup from your Beijing hotel between 6am and 6:30am. This early start allows you to beat some of the crowds and make the most of your day. The coach trip itself is about 2.5 hours, during which you’ll enjoy a light breakfast aboard—an excellent touch for those of us who prefer not to travel on an empty stomach.

Having a dedicated driver and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide (whose name, as some reviews suggest, is friendly and informative) means you’re in good hands. The group is small—up to 11 travelers—ensuring a more intimate experience where questions are encouraged, and the guide can cater to your interests.

First Stop: Gubei Water Town

Once you arrive at Gubei Water Town, you’ll notice its calm, old-world charm—think maze-like alleyways, traditional architecture, and scenic waterways. The town is not just a tourist attraction but a place where local life still quietly persists. You might find yourself peering into handicrafts workshops or watching a traditional martial arts performance—these are small touches that add authenticity.

One visitor, Jean Louis S, appreciated the personal touch: “Group tour has been a dedicated private tour for two with a driver and a very nice guide. We selected the next day return option to enjoy both peaceful Gubei Water Town and a morning trek on the Great Wall.”

While exploring, you can opt for a Chinese wine distillery visit or just enjoy wandering through the alleyways, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re hungry, a simple lunch is available (though at your own expense), giving you a taste of local cuisine.

The Highlight: Simatai Great Wall

After the water town, the journey continues to the Simatai section of the Great Wall, about 120 kilometers from Beijing. This part of the wall is special because it is the only remaining section of the original Ming Dynasty wall, built in the 6th century and later reconstructed by General Qi Jiguang.

The wall extends approximately 3.4 miles (5.4 km), with 35 beacon towers that once served as communication points. What makes Simatai stand out is its steepness and rugged beauty, offering some of the most dramatic views among the Great Wall sections. As you walk along the wall, you’ll notice the towers perched atop hills, giving you sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Your guide will narrate the history of how the Ming Dynasty built and fortified this part of the wall, making the experience both scenic and educational. Many visitors comment on how walking here feels like stepping back in time, away from the heavily restored and commercialized sections.

Extra Tips for a Memorable Visit

• Bring sturdy shoes: The stairs and uneven pathways can be challenging but rewarding.
• Dress in layers: The temperature can vary, especially at higher elevations.
• Take plenty of photos: The views are stunning, and photo opportunities abound from tower tops and vantage points.
• Allocate enough time: You’ll have ample opportunity to explore and take photos, but keep track of your guide’s schedule.

Returning to Beijing

After your walk, the tour concludes back in the city, typically ending around mid to late afternoon. You might want to plan for dinner or evening activities afterward, as you’ll be tired but enriched by your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines history, culture, and scenic beauty without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs. It’s especially suited for those interested in original Ming architecture and traditional water towns. The small group size and friendly guide enhance the experience for solo travelers, couples, or small families.

Those who appreciate authentic sites rather than heavily restored tourist spots** will find Simatai’s rugged charm particularly appealing. If walking steep sections of the Great Wall and wandering quiet alleyways sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour is a solid choice.

The Bottom Line: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers excellent value for its price, especially when you consider that entrance fees, transportation, and a guide are included. It’s a well-organized, manageable way to see two of the most captivating spots near Beijing, striking a good balance between comfort and authenticity.

The knowledgeable guide, the stunning views, and the authentic feel of the Ming wall make this a rewarding experience. If you’re short on time but want to get a real sense of China’s imperial past and scenic beauty, this tour checks all the right boxes.

Just be prepared for an early start and a full day’s outing. If that suits your travel style, you’ll likely walk away with memories—and photos—that will stay with you long after.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 6am, with the tour officially starting at 6:30am.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from over 36 hotels in downtown Beijing, making starting the day easy.

How long is the coach journey?
The trip from Beijing to Gubei Water Town and Simatai takes approximately 2.5 hours each way.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, hotel pickup, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide are included. A light breakfast is also provided.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included; you’ll need to buy your own at Gubei Water Town or bring snacks.

Can I take the tour on the second day?
No, the tour ends in Beijing after returning from the trip; if you want a second day, you’ll need to arrange separate accommodation.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the steep and uneven paths on the Great Wall.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

To sum it up, this full-day guided tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers a satisfying blend of history, scenery, and comfort. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see authentic Ming architecture, enjoy peaceful water town scenery, and avoid the logistical headaches of independent travel—all while paying a reasonable price for a memorable day out.