Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Badaling Unrestored Great Wall Private Day Tour

Exploring Beijing’s Hidden Gems: Longqingxia Gorge Cruise & Unrestored Great Wall

When it comes to experiencing Beijing beyond the crowds and typical tourist spots, this private day tour truly hits the mark. It offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a compelling choice for travelers who crave authentic sights away from the usual hustle.

What we love about this experience? First, the peaceful boat ride through Longqing Gorge gives you a chance to unwind in stunning scenery. Second, the visit to the less-crowded, unrestored Badaling Great Wall lets you walk a segment that’s rich in history and raw in its preservation. Lastly, the thoughtful inclusion of a local lunch at a farmer’s house offers a taste of regional cuisine and life.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking and some uphill hiking at the Great Wall—so, good walking shoes and decent fitness help. This trip suits travelers who enjoy nature, history, and a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience of Beijing’s surroundings.

Key Points

• Unique combination: Combines natural scenery with historic architecture in a single day.
• Less crowded sites: The unrestored Badaling section offers a quieter, more authentic experience.
• Expert guide & private transport: Ensures personalized attention and smooth logistics.
• All-inclusive price: Includes entrance fees, lunch, boat ride, and transportation.
• Authentic local lunch: A chance to enjoy regional cuisine at a local farmer’s house.
• Authentic experience: Reviewers praise guides and the stunning views, enhancing the trip’s value.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Longqingxia Gorge: Natural Beauty and Serenity

Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Beijing, setting the tone for a personalized journey. After about 90 km north, you arrive at Longqing Gorge, an area famed for its peaceful, verdant scenery. Flanked by lush mountains and passing under the Gucheng Reservoir, built in 1981, this locale is a visual treat.

The highlight here is the 1.5-hour boat cruise, which feels more like a relaxing escape than a major sightseeing activity. Expect gentle breezes and breathtaking views of curious stones, wooded peaks, and the karst caves. On the boat, you’ll pass attractions like the Baihua (Hundred Flowers) Cave and Shenxianyuan (Immortal) and Jingang temples—each adding layers of cultural intrigue to the natural landscape.

One reviewer, Julia, shared that her experience was “absolutely amazing,” especially noting how the boat ride allowed her to appreciate the area’s peaceful beauty away from crowded tourist spots. She also opted to pay extra for cable car rides, which she found worth the slight additional cost—providing sweeping views of the gorge and mountains.

Lunch at a Local Farmer’s House: Authentic Flavors

Post-cruise, the tour takes you to enjoy regional cuisine at a local farmer’s house. This offers more than just a meal; it’s a chance to taste authentic home-cooked dishes and observe rural life, making the experience more genuine. Many travelers find this part of the trip a highlight, appreciating the chance to connect with local culture in a casual setting.

The Unrestored Badaling Great Wall: An Authentic Historic Encounter

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the less touristy section of Badaling, the unrestored Great Wall. Unlike the heavily preserved and crowded tourist hotspots, this part of the Wall preserves its natural ruggedness and offers a more genuine sense of old China.

The tour includes roughly two hours here, giving ample time to walk along the ancient stones, snap photos, and soak in the sweeping views. Julia loved that her guide provided insights into the Wall’s history and significance, making her walk both educational and emotionally engaging.

This section is perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a more intimate connection with history. The walk can involve some uphill sections, so comfortable shoes are advisable, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the day, your private guide and driver ensure a seamless experience—from hotel pickup to drop-off back in downtown Beijing. The vehicle is private, meaning you can move at your own pace, and the tour includes all transportation costs, parking, and tolls. This is a major plus: it simplifies logistics and lets you relax without worrying about navigating or catching public transit.

What You Get for the Price

At $228 per person, this tour might seem like a splurge, but considering the all-inclusive nature—entrance fees, a boat ride, lunch, private transport, and guiding services—it offers excellent value.

Having a private guide enriches the experience, as you’ll get tailored insights, local tips, and a more personalized approach. Julia’s review highlights how her guide, Maggie, “went above and beyond,” making her feel well taken care of.

The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is another key feature, especially after a full day of exploring. Plus, with the option of group discounts, it can become even more budget-friendly if traveling with friends or family.

Authenticity and Quality: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Julia also appreciated that the guide was attentive and personable, which added depth to her experience. The choice to visit an unrestored portion of the Great Wall rather than a more commercialized section is praised, as it offers a more authentic, less-crowded experience.

The boat ride in Longqing Gorge receives special mention for its tranquility and natural beauty. This is a rare opportunity to connect with nature in a way that’s both relaxing and scenic. Many travelers also value the chance to sample authentic regional cuisine, feeling it enhances the culture.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for the Great Wall hike, which involves uphill walking.
• If you’re interested, consider upgrading with the cable car, as Julia did, for a spectacular view of the gorge.
• Bring some cash or cards for any extras you might want to purchase or tip your guide.
• The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and gentle hikes are involved.
• Vegetarian options are available if you inform the tour provider in advance.
• The tour operates in good weather; in case of rain or poor conditions, a full refund is offered, ensuring peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of natural beauty and historical authenticity. If you’re tired of crowded attractions and seek a more intimate connection with China’s landscapes and heritage, this tour delivers.

It’s perfect for those who value personalized attention and prefer a well-organized, all-inclusive day with a knowledgeable guide. Families with children, moderate hikers, and culture enthusiasts who enjoy exploring less commercialized sites will find this particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Beijing combines the best of both worlds: the tranquil, stunning scenery of Longqing Gorge and the rugged, authentic challenge of the unrestored Great Wall. The inclusion of local cuisine and expert guidance makes it a well-rounded, memorable day.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or someone simply seeking a quieter side of Beijing, this trip offers substantial value and authentic experiences that many other tours might overlook. Its tailored approach, small group feel, and top-notch reviews make it a standout choice for a meaningful day outside the city’s busy streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and some uphill hiking, so consider your child’s fitness level.

What is included in the price?
The price covers boat rides, entrance tickets, a local lunch, guide and driver services, private transport, parking, tolls, and an escalator at the Great Wall.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, a full refund is not available.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the hotel?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged; just inform the tour provider when booking.

How long is the boat ride at Longqing Gorge?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring sun protection or rain gear if needed.

This tour offers a rare chance to see a quieter, more authentic side of Beijing’s natural and historic treasures. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and all logistical details taken care of, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting to go beyond the usual crowded landmarks.