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

Exploring beyond Beijing’s bustling streets can feel like uncovering a secret. This private tour to Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall offers a chance to see some of China’s most captivating sights in a relaxed, personalized setting. We love that it boasts a fully private experience — no crowded groups, just your own small adventure with a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of a scenic cable car ride and an authentic local lunch makes this trip stand out.

That said, it’s a long day with around two hours of driving each way, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with slightly more travel time. If you’re craving a peaceful escape with stunning views, cultural depth, and a flexible itinerary, this tour could be an ideal fit. Perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone wanting a more intimate look at these lesser-visited spots, it balances comfort with authentic discovery.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience, ideal for small groups or couples.
• Includes entrance fees, cable car rides, and a traditional Chinese lunch — great value for a full day out.
• Visit Gubei Water Town, a charming replica of southern water towns, with plenty of shops and eateries.
• Explore the Simatai Great Wall, one of the less commercialized and more historic sections, with breathtaking views.
• Flexible departure times make planning easier around your schedule.
• Expert guides like Lucy and Susan provide insightful commentary, making history come alive.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour offers a chance to step away from the crowds and experience two iconic Chinese sites with the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide. The trip’s focus on authenticity — like visiting the largely unreconstructed Simatai section — means you avoid the overly touristy feel seen in more developed parts like Badaling or Mutianyu.

Multiple reviewers highlight the value of having a knowledgeable guide, who not only explains the history but also shares personal insights about the area. As one guest noted, Lucy was “excellent in giving us information about Gubei and the history of China,” making the experience more meaningful beyond just sightseeing.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Journey to Gubei Water Town

Your day begins with hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive takes approximately two hours, during which your guide will share fascinating stories about the Great Wall’s history and the surrounding countryside. This scenic drive is a highlight on its own, offering a glimpse into rural Beijing life and lush landscapes that contrast with the city’s urban sprawl.

Gubei Water Town: A Cultural Retreat

Once you arrive, your guide will lead you through the six areas of Gubei Water Town, a recreation of the classic southern water towns like Wuzhen. It’s a small but charming place, with narrow streets, canals, and bridges. You’ll find many shops, restaurants, and boutique hotels, making it an excellent spot for photography or a relaxed stroll.

Visitors like Patrizia appreciated the “beautiful and fascinating” nature of the town. She mentioned that “probably more than a day” might be needed to explore fully, but two hours provides a nice taste of its charm. The town’s atmosphere is authentic enough to feel like a step back in time, yet accessible with modern amenities.

Lunch in the Village

After exploring Gubei Water Town, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese meal in the village. The meal is included in the tour price, offering a convenient way to experience local flavors without the hassle of finding somewhere to eat on your own. Most reviews do not specify the exact menu, but given the overall quality, it’s safe to assume it’s a satisfying, regional-style lunch.

Simatai Great Wall: A Historic Wonder

Post-lunch, it’s time to visit the Simatai section of the Great Wall, one of the most authentic and preserved parts. Unlike the more commercialized sections, Simatai retains much of its original appearance, with minimal modern reinforcement, allowing visitors to truly feel like they’ve stepped into history.

The highlight here is the cable car ride—a scenic ascent that saves you from a steep climb and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and water town below. Reviewers like JweeLiang enjoyed the “breathtaking” vistas from the tower, emphasizing how special it is to stand on such a well-preserved section.

You’ll have time to walk along the wall, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the craftsmanship that Qi Jiguang supervised. When ready, a cable car takes you back down, completing the experience with minimal physical strain.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour includes all entrance fees, meaning no hidden surprises or extra costs. The round-trip cable car ride at the Great Wall is a big plus, giving you spectacular views while saving energy for the walk. The lunch adds cultural value, giving you a taste of regional cuisine, and the private guide and vehicle ensure a smooth, customized experience.

Reviewers have often mentioned how the guide’s insights enriched the visit. Lucy, for example, received praise for her friendly, informative approach, helping guests really appreciate the history and significance of these sites.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

At $248 per person, the price is reasonable considering the private guide, transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and cable car rides are all included. For those looking for a hassle-free day trip, this offers excellent value, especially compared to public tours that may be less personalized.

The tour is flexible regarding departure times, making it adaptable to your schedule — a real benefit if you’re juggling a packed itinerary. Since it’s a fully private experience, it’s ideal for honeymooners, families, or small groups wanting an intimate day out.

The length of the day, around nine hours, might be tiring for some. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, especially on the Great Wall, but the cable car helps mitigate strenuous climbs. The drive back offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic, less commercialized sites. The Simatai section’s preserved appearance means you walk where history was made, not just a tourist attraction. Guests like TzeWei_L appreciated the “informative” guide, who shared stories that brought the scenery to life.

Gubei Water Town, modeled after southern water towns, provides a picturesque setting that combines culture, shopping, and leisure in one spot. If you’re after a varied experience — a mix of historical exploration and relaxed wandering — this tour delivers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience away from crowds. History and architecture buffs will love exploring the lesser-known sections of the Great Wall in a relaxed setting. It’s also suited for photographers and culture enthusiasts eager to capture stunning views and authentic scenes.

If you prefer a smooth, all-inclusive day with transportation and meals taken care of, this tour hits the mark. It’s also beneficial for those who want to combine scenic beauty with cultural insight, thanks to guides like Lucy and Susan.

The Sum Up

This private tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers a well-rounded day of discovery in Beijing’s surroundings. With a focus on authenticity, personalized service, and stunning vistas, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want more than just the typical tourist spots. The inclusion of transport, entrance fees, cable car rides, and lunch makes it a great value, especially for those craving comfort and flexibility.

While it’s a slightly longer day, the experience of walking through historic sections of the Great Wall and exploring a charming water town makes it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides and intimate setting ensure a memorable, enriching adventure that goes beyond superficial sightseeing.

Best for anyone looking for an authentic, hassle-free escape outside Beijing, particularly couples, history lovers, or small groups seeking a private, meaningful experience.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Beijing to Gubei Water Town?
It takes about 2 hours by private vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic countryside during the transfer.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking, especially on the Great Wall. The cable car ride makes it easier for those who prefer to avoid steep climbs.

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers entrance fees, round-trip cable car rides, a traditional lunch, a private guide, private transport, and bottled water.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible departure times, so you can coordinate it with your other plans.

Will I need to pay extra for anything?
No, all major costs like entrance fees, cable cars, and lunch are included. Extra personal purchases are at your discretion.

How authentic is the Great Wall section visited?
Simatai remains largely unrenovated, preserving its original appearance. It provides a genuine historic experience, unlike more commercialized sections.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.