Gubei Water Town Overnight and Mutianyu Great Wall 2 Day Private Self-Guide Tour

A Two-Day Private Self-Guided Tour of Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall

When it comes to experiencing China’s most famous monument, the Great Wall of China, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. This two-day private tour offers a relaxed, self-guided exploration of two distinct sections—Simatai and Mutianyu—paired with the tranquility of Gubei Water Town. For around $202.67 per person, you’ll enjoy private transportation, flexible scheduling, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, all led by an attentive, English-speaking driver.

What we particularly appreciate are the personalized touches, like choosing your hotel inside Gubei Water Town (with options over 50), and the chance to touch peaceful life away from the city noise. The flexibility of self-guided exploration means you can linger as long as you like at each site, which is a rare and valuable feature for such a popular destination.

One potential consideration is that entrance tickets for some sections and activities, like the Mutianyu Great Wall, are not included in the price**, so travelers should budget accordingly. Also, since the driver cannot enter the water town with you, you’ll need to handle your own hotel check-in, which is straightforward but worth noting.

This tour suits travelers who prefer independence, enjoy self-paced exploration, and are looking for a more authentic, less crowded experience of the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing break from Beijing’s hustle to connect with nature and history.

Key Points

• Flexible Schedule: Self-guided touring allows you to explore at your own pace, ideal for those who dislike group rushes.
• Scenic Diversity: From the historic Gubei Water Town to two different Great Wall sections—Simatai and Mutianyu—you get a well-rounded experience.
• Authentic Experience: Spending a night in Gubei Water Town offers a peaceful retreat away from Beijing’s noise.
• Cost-Effective: The price includes private transportation and driver service, with options to tailor your visit.
• Limited Included Tickets: Entrance fees for some sites, notably Mutianyu, are not included; plan for additional expenses.
• Personalized Service: Your private driver, who also provides helpful guidance, enhances the comfort and convenience of this trip.

Exploring Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall

This two-day adventure begins with a pick-up from your Beijing hotel around noon, followed by a scenic drive of about two hours to Gubei Water Town. As you arrive, you’ll check into your hotel—an arrangement you’ll handle directly with the hotel, but your driver will help coordinate. Staying inside the water town means you can explore at your leisure and enjoy the ticket inclusions for the water town itself.

Gubei Water Town is a charming, modern-style water village reminiscent of ancient southern Chinese towns, complete with traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, bridges, and waterways. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind and enjoy the slower pace of life. As your first evening unfolds, you may choose to explore the night view of the Great Wall at Simatai, which requires a separate ticket purchased in advance. The open hours start at 5:30 pm, so plan accordingly if you want to catch the stunning illumination and atmospheric views after sunset.

The Simatai section of the Great Wall is famous for its steep, rugged terrain and preserved architecture. The fact that tickets differ for day and night visits is something to note—your hotel staff can guide you to the right options. Exploring this section in the evening offers a totally different perspective, with fewer crowds and a magical ambiance.

On Day 2, your driver will take you to the Mutianyu Great Wall, another well-loved section, especially for its less strenuous hikes and beautiful surroundings. Upon arrival, your driver will assist with entry tickets, which are included, and help suggest the best route—whether you prefer taking the cable car or chairlift up and sliding or walking down. This flexibility means you can tailor your walk to your energy level and interest, from a brief 2-hour visit to a more leisurely 4-hour hike.

The Mutianyu section is renowned for its restored watchtowers and scenic vistas, perfect for photo opportunities. Afterward, your driver can take you back to Beijing—a roughly two-hour drive—or directly to the airport if you’re catching a flight, which takes about 1.5 hours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The most praised aspect—according to the review—has been the knowledgeable, accommodating driver, who not only navigates efficiently but also offers insightful commentary on Chinese history in English. Andrea_K shared, “Our driver Mr. Ping is very accommodating to schedule changes and gave a good introduction to Chinese history,” which highlights the personalized service that sets this tour apart.

Another highlight is the stunning scenery at both the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. Travelers consistently mention how peaceful and beautiful these sites are—far from the bustling crowds of central Beijing. The nighttime views of the Great Wall, in particular, are often described as magical.

The self-guided component allows for more freedom, enabling travelers to spend extra time at favorite spots without feeling rushed—a big plus for photography, relaxed sightseeing, or simply savoring the views.

However, some travelers note that entrance fees for certain parts of the Wall, like Mutianyu, are not included in the tour price, which adds to overall costs. Also, since the driver can’t go inside the hotel to help with check-in, you’ll need to handle that task yourself—generally straightforward but worth remembering.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival at Gubei Water Town and Simatai

Your journey begins with a late afternoon pickup from your Beijing hotel, followed by a comfortable two-hour drive through scenic countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel—many options are available, and your choice of accommodation can greatly enhance your stay.

Once checked-in, you’re free to explore Gubei Water Town at your own pace. The town’s traditional architecture, stone bridges, and waterways make for a delightful stroll, especially in the quiet evening hours. If you opt for the nighttime Great Wall tour, you’ll need to purchase tickets ahead of time. This experience is often highlighted for its atmospheric, less crowded environment, and the lights illuminating the wall create a truly memorable sight.

Day 2: The Great Wall at Mutianyu and Return

The second morning features a drive to Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved and most accessible sections of the Great Wall. Your driver, who will assist with tickets and route planning, ensures you get the most out of your visit. Whether you prefer a cable car ride or a hike, the choice is yours.

Given the scenic beauty and well-preserved watchtowers, this part of the Wall is a favorite among visitors. If you’re feeling energetic, a longer walk can be combined with photo stops along the way. Your driver will wait at a designated meeting point, so you can explore without feeling hurried.

After your Wall visit, the options include heading back to Beijing—a ride of about two hours—or heading directly to the airport if you’re on a tight schedule. The flexibility to tailor your departure arrangements adds to the tour’s appeal.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The value of this tour largely comes from its personalized service and self-guided flexibility. You get the benefit of a private driver, who speaks English and can offer tips along the way, making the experience more comfortable and informative than a typical group tour.

The accommodation inside Gubei Water Town is a significant perk, allowing you to experience local life and scenery without the rush of a day trip. Many travelers find that staying overnight fosters a more relaxed, immersive experience, especially since you can explore at night and early morning when the crowds are absent.

Regarding costs, the tour offers excellent value when you consider private transportation, the driver’s service, and the flexibility. However, keep in mind that entrance tickets for some sites are additional, and you might want to budget a bit extra for meals, souvenirs, or optional activities.

The review from Andrea_K sums it up well: “Our driver Mr. Ping is very accommodating to schedule changes and gave a good introduction to Chinese history,” reflecting the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. Many travelers appreciate the combination of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration and prefer a more authentic, less crowded experience. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want to touch the history and beauty of the Great Wall while enjoying the comforts of a private vehicle.

If you’re someone who values flexibility, peaceful surroundings, and personalized service, this tour offers a nice balance between guided independence and professional support. It’s also a great option if you want to avoid the typical crowded bus tours and prefer to create your own rhythm over two memorable days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your Beijing hotel, making the start and end of your trip seamless.

Are tickets for the Great Wall included?
Tickets for Mutianyu are included, but for Simatai, you’ll need to purchase your own tickets—your hotel staff can assist with the options.

Can I explore the Water Town at night?
Yes, you can explore Gubei Water Town and, with an additional ticket, enjoy the night view of the Great Wall at Simatai starting at 5:30 pm.

What about meals?
Meals are not included in the tour, so you can plan to enjoy local restaurants or pack snacks as per your preference.

How long do I spend at each site?
You have flexibility, but typically, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring Simatai in the evening, and 2-4 hours at Mutianyu the next day, depending on your pace.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, especially since it’s flexible and private, but consider walking distances and terrain, particularly on the Wall.

To sum it up, this two-day private, self-guided tour offers a thoughtful way to experience the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town beyond the crowded tourist spots. It combines scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and personalized service, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more relaxed, authentic, and flexible Beijing adventure. If you enjoy exploring at your own pace, want to stay overnight in a peaceful setting, and value knowledgeable guidance, this tour is a solid investment in your Beijing trip.