Private Tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall with Cable Car and Lunch

A Day Beyond Beijing’s Crowds: Exploring Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Beijing’s bustling streets and dive into some of China’s most scenic and historic sights, this private tour to Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall is a fantastic choice. Priced at $248 per person, it offers a well-rounded 9-hour experience that combines comfort, culture, and stunning views, all tailored to your pace. You’ll be picked up from your hotel by a private guide, making the day smooth and personalized from start to finish.

What we particularly love about this tour is the opportunity to explore Gubei Water Town, a charming replica of southern water towns like Wuzhen, without the crowds. The combination of exploring quaint canals, shop-lined streets, and historic architecture makes for a relaxed yet immersive experience. The second highlight, the Simatai Great Wall, is less touristy than the popular Badaling section, allowing you to enjoy the Wall’s original atmosphere and breathtaking vistas.

One possible consideration is the roughly two-hour drive from Beijing, which might feel long if you’re eager to start exploring immediately. However, this time is well spent with scenic countryside views and insightful commentary from your guide. This tour suits travelers who value a more authentic and private experience, especially those interested in combining scenic beauty with cultural history away from large crowds.

If you’re eager to discover lesser-known corners of China’s most iconic sites with a focus on comfort, personalized attention, and genuine scenery, this day trip is an excellent fit. It’s especially perfect for those who want a flexible schedule and a more intimate, relaxed exploration.

Key Points

• Private, fully personalized experience tailored to your group.
• Visit Gubei Water Town, a beautifully preserved water town replica, with three hours to explore.
• Climb the Simatai Great Wall via cable car, enjoying breathtaking views and fewer crowds.
• Includes all entrance fees, cable car rides, and lunch, offering good value.
• Flexible departure times make planning easier.
• Authentic atmosphere preserved at Simatai, with minimal renovation.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Gubei Water Town: A Quaint Water Town Experience

The tour begins with your guide coming to pick you up from your Beijing hotel lobby in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Gubei Water Town takes about two hours, but it’s far from dull. Your guide will share stories about the history and significance of the area, enriching your understanding of this scenic spot.

Once you arrive, you’ll get an authentic taste of what makes Gubei Water Town so special. Its layout, with canals winding between traditional-style buildings, is reminiscent of Wuzhen Water Town, but it’s less commercialized than other tourist hotspots. The six distinct zones—Old Barracks Area, Minguo Street, Water Street, Wonglong, and more—offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels. It’s a place where you can wander at your own pace, enjoying the calm waters, traditional architecture, and local snacks.

Travelers have raved about the scenic charm here, with one reviewer noting, “Gubei water town is beautiful and fascinating. Probably need more than a day to explore the place.” This comment hints at the town’s depth; if you’re inclined, you might want to plan for additional time in the future.

Lunch and the Journey to the Great Wall

After about two hours exploring the town, your guide will lead you to a local restaurant for a delicious Chinese lunch. The meal offers a chance to savor regional flavors and recharge for the next part of the day.

Simatai Great Wall: Authentic and Less Crowded

Post-lunch, you’ll ascend to the Simatai section of the Great Wall via a cable car—an essential part of this experience that provides stunning aerial views of the surrounding mountains and Gubei Water Town. Unlike the heavily renovated sections such as Badaling or Mutianyu, Simatai retains much of its original, rugged character. Renovations here are minimal, focusing only on essential reinforcement, so you’ll feel immersed in a truly historic atmosphere.

Once at the top, you’re encouraged to walk around freely, soaking in the views and the atmosphere. One reviewer describes the climb as “really the climax of our trip,” with breathtaking vistas from the towers and a sense of stepping back in time. The cable car round trip is included, making the ascent and descent effortless, especially if you’re concerned about steep climbs.

Authenticity and Fewer Tourists

Because Simatai isn’t as developed or crowded as other sections, you’ll likely find yourself with space and quiet, allowing you to fully appreciate the historic stones and sweeping views. This is a major plus for travelers seeking a more genuine experience, rather than a staged tourist attraction.

End of the Day and Return

When you’re ready to leave, you’ll take the cable car back down and return to Beijing, completing the day’s adventure. The entire experience, including all entrance fees and transportation, is designed for your comfort and convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

According to reviews, guides like Lucy and Susan are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make history come alive. One comment states, “Most memorable was being able to go onto the least known part of the Great Wall,” emphasizing the exclusivity and special experience of this less crowded section. The inclusion of cable cars, lunch, and private transport adds value, especially compared to self-organized trips that might lack these amenities.

The scenic drive and countryside views are also highly appreciated, providing a break from urban Beijing and a glimpse into the rural landscape of northern China.

Practical Considerations

While the two-hour drive might seem lengthy, it’s a worthwhile trade-off for the tranquility and authenticity you gain. The tour is flexible, with departure times that can be arranged to suit your schedule, which is helpful for fitting into your overall travel plans.

Since the tour is private, your group can enjoy a leisurely pace, ask plenty of questions, and explore at your own comfort level. Be prepared for some walking, especially at Simatai, where the terrain is natural and slightly rugged.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private day trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic experience outside of Beijing’s crowded attractions. It suits those who appreciate scenic beauty and historical atmosphere—especially at Simatai—without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. If you’re keen on discovering lesser-known sites, enjoy personalized guides, and want a peaceful escape into rural China, this tour will serve you well.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who value guided insights, scenic views, and the chance to explore at their own pace in a private setting. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, the private nature ensures an intimate, relaxing day away from the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour involves some walking and a cable car ride, so consider your group’s physical comfort levels.

How long is the drive from Beijing?
The trip to Gubei Water Town takes approximately two hours each way, giving you scenic countryside views during the transfer.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall are included in the price.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers private transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, cable car rides at the Great Wall, bottled water, and lunch.

Can I change the departure time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible departure times to better fit your schedule.

Is the tour private or part of a group?
It’s a fully private tour, exclusive to your booked group, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I wear or prepare for?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for hiking around the Great Wall. Bring a camera, sun protection, and any personal essentials.

In essence, this tour offers a rare chance to see parts of the Great Wall that aren’t overrun with travelers, combined with the charm of a water town. It balances historical exploration with scenic beauty, all delivered in private comfort. For those craving an authentic, relaxed, and visually stunning day out from Beijing, this trip hits the mark—just remember to bring your curiosity and sense of adventure.