Beijing Private Tour to Juyongguan Great Wall and Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride

If you’re dreaming of ticking off iconic sights in Beijing while also soaking in some beautiful natural scenery, this private tour offers a well-balanced experience. It combines history, culture, and nature, all in one day, with the perk of having a dedicated guide to personalize your journey. We’ve looked into this trip to see what makes it stand out—and what you should consider before booking.

What truly caught our attention are the insider insights from past travelers, the flexibility of a private guide, and the distinctive views at both destinations. One of the biggest pluses is that you get to skip the crowds often associated with popular sites like the Great Wall, along with the comfort of private transportation. That said, the tour runs around 8 to 9 hours, so it’s a full day, which might feel a bit long for some. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who crave a more personalized, well-rounded experience—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or those wanting to see both the historic and scenic sides of Beijing.

Key Points

• Private experience: You’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle, avoiding crowded group tours.
• History & nature combo: Visit the iconic Juyongguan Great Wall and the picturesque Longqing Gorge in one day.
• Authentic insights: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and stories to your visit.
• Scenic boat ride: The cruise in Longqing Gorge is a highlight, offering spectacular views.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup within the 4th ring road simplifies your day.
• Value for money: Includes entrance fees, a local lunch, and a boat ride—all for a competitive price.

Introduction: Why This Tour Could Be a Perfect Fit

If you’re eager to experience both China’s iconic history and its stunning natural landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this private tour ticks all those boxes. We love that it offers a personalized touch, with a guide who can tailor your experience and answer all your questions, making it more enriching than a standard group outing.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Juyongguan, a less crowded but equally impressive section of the Great Wall, and the scenic Longqing Gorge, which rivals the Li River in beauty. The inclusion of a boat ride adds a fun, relaxing element to the day. The price point is also appealing, considering the private guide, transportation, entrance fees, and a local meal are bundled together—making it a great value for a full day of exploring.

The only consideration is the full-day length—if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or shorter trips, this might feel a bit intense. But overall, it’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that combines history, scenery, and culture.

Discovering the Juyongguan Great Wall

Our first stop is the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall, a site that’s often overshadowed by Badaling and Mutianyu but holds its own unique charm. Surrounded by mountains, this pass once served as a crucial military stronghold—a strategic point for defending Beijing. Built originally during the Han Dynasty, the site features ancient fortifications, watchtowers, and even a historic city tower.

Travelers who’ve been here describe it as less crowded, making it more enjoyable for photos and exploration. One reviewer shared, “There were no crowds, access was quite convenient,” which means you can really take your time soaking in the views and imagining the historical battles fought here.

Your guide will give you context about the significance of the site, pointing out details that might be missed if you explore alone. Expect roughly 2 hours at this site, including time to walk along the wall, take pictures, and learn about its history.

What makes Juyongguan special?

Unlike the more commercialized sections, Juyongguan retains a authentic, less touristy feel. Its strategic location within the mountains offers stunning vistas, and the site’s architecture showcases ancient military ingenuity. The supporting facilities like the city tower and watchtowers tell stories of an era when this was a bustling frontier post.

A Tasty Break with Local Flavors

After the first leg of your journey, you’ll enjoy a local Chinese lunch, which is included in the tour price. This is a great chance to sample authentic dishes, possibly featuring regional flavors, and fuel up for the afternoon’s adventure. Past travelers noted the good value of the included meal, with some mentioning it as a highlight of the trip.

The Beauty of Longqing Gorge

Next, about a 30-minute drive brings you to Longqing Gorge, often called the “Little Li River” but, in fact, considered more beautiful and, some say, more dramatic. This area boasts steep cliffs, sharp peaks, and flowing lakes, creating a landscape that feels almost surreal. It’s a place where nature’s artistry is on full display.

You’ll get to experience a cruise on the lake, offering breathtaking views of stone cones, stone swords, and towering cliffs. Many visitors find Longqing Gorge to be more picturesque than other famous Chinese gorges, with one reviewer noting it’s “more beautiful than Li River” and “more dangerous than the Three Gorges,” emphasizing its wild, rugged appeal.

The boat cruise lasts around 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery from the water. The serenity of this spot, combined with its impressive natural formations, makes it a memorable part of the day.

What to Expect During the Whole Experience

Transportation: Comfort is key for a full-day trip, and your private vehicle ensures smooth transit between sites. The driver and guide work in tandem to keep the schedule on track while allowing flexibility.

Timing: The itinerary is designed for efficiency—about 1.5 hours to reach Juyongguan, 2 hours exploring the Great Wall, followed by lunch, then 30 minutes to Longqing Gorge, and another 2 hours for the gorge cruise. The total duration is roughly 8-9 hours, making it a comprehensive but manageable day.

Guide: The highlight, according to travelers, is the knowledgeable and friendly guide. They provide insightful stories and context—something that sets private tours apart from self-guided visits.

Cost and Value: At $178.20 per person, this tour packs in a lot—entrance fees, lunch, boat ride, and private transport. While it might seem steep compared to entrance-only tickets, the convenience and personalized attention make it a great value.

Accessibility: Hotel pickup within the 4th ring road is included, simplifying logistics and saving you from figuring out public transit or hailing taxis.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This private tour is ideal if you’re after a customized experience with an expert guide, want to avoid the crowds, and love a mix of history and natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort and convenience but still want to see authentic sites that aren’t overly commercialized.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate scenic boat rides and are happy with a full, active day of sightseeing. If you prefer shorter or more relaxed tours, a half-day option might be better, but for those eager to maximize their time, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Beijing’s rich history and stunning landscapes. The private guide service guarantees a personalized experience filled with insightful stories and flexibility. The combination of Juyongguan’s historic significance and the natural beauty of Longqing Gorge makes it a rewarding day for a variety of travelers.

It’s especially great for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, or first-time visitors who want to see a different side of Beijing away from the usual crowded spots. The included lunch, boat ride, and transportation mean you can relax and focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about logistics or added costs.

While the long day might be tiring for some, the value of the experience—combining expert guidance, scenic vistas, and authentic cultural exposure—more than justifies it. For those seeking a personal, immersive day trip, this private tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if your hotel is within the 4th ring road of Beijing, pickup and drop-off are included, providing convenience and comfort.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs around 8 to 9 hours, covering transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and the boat ride.

What about the guide? You’ll have an English-speaking, professional guide who offers personalized attention, historical insights, and local tips.

Is there a lot of walking involved? Yes, especially at the Great Wall and Longqing Gorge, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included in the price? Entrance fees, a tasty local lunch, bottled water, a boat ride at Longqing Gorge, private guide, and transportation are all included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Be mindful of the walking involved.

What if I have dietary restrictions? Please advise at the time of booking, and the guide can assist with suitable meal options.

What makes this tour different from others? The private, tailored experience and the chance to visit less crowded, authentic sites like Juyongguan set this trip apart.

This private tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and personalized service, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to make the most of a day in Beijing.