Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Private Day Tour

Experience the Best of Beijing’s Hidden Gems: Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

If you’re looking to venture beyond the usual Beijing sights and want to see a different side of China’s history and scenery, this Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall private tour is a fine choice. For around $110 per person, we spend about 8 to 9 hours exploring one of the most scenic water towns near Beijing and the most rugged, less-visited stretch of the Great Wall. The tour includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water, making it a smooth, hassle-free experience.

What we love about this experience is the authentic, less touristy vibe of the Simatai section—built in the Ming Dynasty and largely untouched by renovation—and the chance to wander Gubei Water Town’s charming streets and water canals. Plus, the professional drivers and reliable service make this a comfortable way to see these iconic sights.

One potential consideration is that admission tickets, cable cars, and shuttle buses are not included. Also, since the drivers may not speak English fluently, communication relies on translation apps—something to keep in mind if you’re eager for guided commentary.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a combination of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and adventure. It’s especially ideal for those who want to experience an iconic section of the Great Wall without the crowds, and enjoy a relaxed day exploring a water town that feels more like a local village than a tourist trap.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a less-visited, untouched section of the Great Wall, perfect for hiking and photography.
• Charming Water Town: Gubei Water Town offers traditional architecture, water views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup simplifies logistics.
• Flexible Timing: The 9-hour tour gives ample time to explore without feeling rushed, with options for extra time at additional cost.
• No Hidden Fees: The price covers parking and gas; tickets, meals, and optional cable cars are separate.
• Authenticity & Reliability: Top-rated service with over 500 five-star reviews, emphasizing honesty and professionalism.

Exploring Gubei Water Town: A Picturesque Water Village

Our first stop is Gubei Water Town, often called “Wuzhen in Beijing,” a vibrant spot that mixes water, mountains, and traditional architecture. Built around Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir, this town features reconstructed traditional courtyard-style buildings that give a sense of stepping back in time. It’s a lively place that combines natural beauty with human craftsmanship.

What makes Gubei Water Town special is its relaxed pace and scenic setting. The streets are lined with shops, cafes, and wooden bridges that cross the canals. Many visitors mention how charming and perfect for a leisurely stroll it is—something we wholeheartedly agree with. Our guide or driver might provide some background, but most visitors enjoy just wandering at their own pace, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The reviews highlight how helpful and punctual the driver and organizer are, with one comment stating, “The organization was perfect and the driver very helpful and punctual.” The town is also an excellent spot to grab a traditional lunch or a quick snack, although meals are not included in the tour.

The Majestic Simatai Great Wall: A Rugged Wonder

The second highlight is Simatai Great Wall, a section built during the early Ming Dynasty that has escaped major renovation, making it feel more authentic and rugged compared to other parts near Beijing. The 4.5 km stretch offers some of the most dramatic views and challenging hikes on the entire Wall.

Expect steep inclines, narrow pathways, and original watchtowers that have stood for centuries. It’s a place for those who want a bit of adventure; the walk can be demanding but incredibly rewarding. Several reviews mention how easy the cable car and walkway are to navigate, making the climb more manageable.

While the admission fee isn’t included, the opportunity to walk along this relatively untouched section is worth it. The views are frequently described as “magnificent” and “breathtaking,” especially if you’re a lover of history and scenery.

Transport and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The tour offers private transportation from your hotel or any location within the 5th Ring Road of Beijing, with an air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water. Drivers are experienced and reliable, although they might not speak fluent English; communication is facilitated through translation apps. If you’re staying near Daxing Airport, there’s a small extra fee.

The tour is scheduled for about 9 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. If you wish for more time on either site, that can be arranged for an extra fee. Most travelers find this duration fits well with a relaxed, immersive experience.

Authenticity and Service Quality

Reviews clearly show that this tour company has a strong reputation—more than 500 five-star reviews from satisfied travelers worldwide. Many praise the professional, courteous service, with one guest noting, “Mr. Su Debin was my driver and was extremely friendly.”

The company emphasizes honesty and transparency: no hidden fees, no shopping stops, and the price includes parking and gas. The tour does not include meals or tickets, which gives you flexibility to choose what and where to eat or explore.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This private tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking and authentic scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a less crowded experience of the Great Wall and appreciate charming water towns. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a full-day, immersive experience with comfortable transport will find this ideal.

People who value reliable, professional service and want to avoid the hassle of arranging transport and tickets on their own will also benefit greatly. It’s a great option for travelers who prefer a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and scenic beauty.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a day that combines natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and a touch of adventure, this Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall tour delivers. The tour’s strength lies in its authenticity—walking the rugged, historic Great Wall, and wandering through a picturesque water town that feels untouched by mass tourism. The reliable transportation and excellent reviews add peace of mind, ensuring your day runs smoothly.

While it’s not a guided tour with a lot of commentary—tickets and meals are costs you’ll need to budget separately—the experience is about personal discovery and scenic vistas. It’s best suited for independent-minded travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace but want the convenience of organized logistics.

This tour offers value for money, a high level of service, and a chance to see parts of China that are both beautiful and historically significant—making it a memorable highlight for your Beijing trip.

FAQ

Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel or airport pickup within the 5th Ring Road of Beijing, making it hassle-free to start your day.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, giving enough time to visit both locations without feeling rushed.

Are tickets to Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall included?
No, admission tickets, cable cars, and shuttle buses are not included, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private vehicle is air-conditioned, and drivers are experienced, although they may not speak English fluently.

Can I customize the duration at each site?
Yes, if you wish to spend more time at either Gubei Water Town or Simatai Great Wall, you can pay extra for additional hours.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable with walking and some hiking, especially at the Great Wall. The scenic water town is very family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and perhaps a camera for capturing stunning views. Tickets, meals, and optional cable cars are not included.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

This detailed, balanced adventure offers an enriching day exploring some of Beijing’s most scenic and authentic sights—perfect for those looking to step off the beaten path.