Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Private Day Tour

Exploring Beijing’s Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall: An Honest Review

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Beijing and experience a blend of natural beauty, traditional architecture, and one of China’s most iconic landmarks, then this private Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall tour might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of a well-organized, authentic experience that offers both relaxation and adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the combination of Gubei Water Town’s charming, water-side scenery and the raw majesty of the Simatai Great Wall. Second, the reliable private transportation makes navigating the distance easy and stress-free. And third, the flexibility in timing and personalized service ensures you get a tailored experience, whether you want to hike, take photos, or simply enjoy the surroundings.

That said, one consideration is that the drivers may not speak English, so communication could be a minor hurdle—though they’re professional, and a translation app helps bridge the gap. This tour best suits travelers who appreciate authentic sights without the hassle of planning logistics, and who aren’t fussed about extra costs for tickets or meals.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines scenic water town with an untouched section of the Great Wall.
• Convenient Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup within the 5th Ring Road.
• Flexibility: No shopping stops or hidden fees, with options for cable cars and walking.
• Value for Money: At $110 per person, it offers a comprehensive day including transport and bottled water.
• Expert Drivers: Professional and friendly, even if language barrier exists.
• Ideal for: Those seeking a mix of relaxed exploration and iconic Chinese sights, with minimal fuss.

Introduction to the Tour

This private tour offers a chance to see two of Beijing’s most picturesque and culturally significant sites—Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall. It’s designed for travelers who want an immersive day without the chaos of large group tours or overly commercialized attractions.

What we love most about this experience is the balance it strikes between nature and history. Gubei Water Town feels like a peaceful retreat, with traditional architecture and tranquil waters, offering some downtime before tackling the more rugged, awe-inspiring Simatai section of the Great Wall. The third highlight is the personalized transport, which means you don’t need to worry about crowded buses or confusing schedules.

However, a slight consideration is the duration—this is an approximately 9-hour trip, which can be tiring if you’re not used to long days of sightseeing. Also, because tickets and meals are not included, you’ll need to plan some extra budget and time for meals and entry fees.

This tour is perfect for those eager to see genuine sights, enjoy flexible timing, and avoid overly commercialized experiences. It’s equally suited to first-timers wanting a comprehensive day out or seasoned travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic exploration.

Exploring Gubei Water Town

The first stop, Gubei Water Town, is often described as “Wuzhen in Beijing.” It’s a carefully reconstructed water town that surrounds the Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir, with traditional courtyard-style buildings that mimic ancient Chinese architecture. Here, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the scenery is picture-perfect—mountains, water, and old-fashioned streets combine to create a setting that invites slow wandering.

Most visitors spend about three hours wandering around. Although entry tickets are not included, the town itself is a large-scale tourist destination, and you can easily spend time exploring its narrow lanes, bridges, and quaint shops. Reviewers mention that the water town is a delightful place for a relaxing walk, and many appreciated the glimpse into traditional water town life, even if some buildings are reconstructed.

One traveler, Nantaporn, mentioned that Gubei is “beautiful and charming,” and that the walk around is “happy and relaxing.” It’s a chance to take photos, sip tea, and enjoy authentic architecture away from Beijing’s urban sprawl.

Climbing the Simatai Great Wall

The journey continues to the Simatai Great Wall, which is renowned for its original, unrestored condition. Built during the early Ming Dynasty, it stretches for 4.5 kilometers and is considered one of the most challenging sections to hike, thanks to its steep steps and uneven pathways.

What makes Simatai extraordinary is its raw, rugged state—you’ll find fewer crowds here than at Badaling or Mutianyu, allowing for a more authentic, less commercialized experience. The views are spectacular, with craggy terrain and watchtowers that seem to cling to the mountains.

According to reviews, the hike up can be demanding but rewarding. Many visitors note that the walkways are manageable, especially with the optional cable car, which can be a real time-saver or a way to rest your legs. One reviewer, Justine, raved about the “magnificent views” and appreciated the flexible options to walk or take the cable car.

Because tickets and the cable car are not included, you’ll want to consider extra costs. Still, the untouched nature of Simatai means fewer travelers and more space to appreciate the sheer scale and history of this ancient structure.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s backbone is private transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle that makes traveling between Gubei Water Town and Simatai seamless and comfortable. Pickup is offered from any hotel within the 5th Ring Road, which covers the majority of Beijing’s hotels, making the process straightforward.

It’s worth noting that drivers may not speak English. However, most are experienced professionals who can communicate via translation apps, ensuring you’re picked up and dropped off smoothly. For those staying near Daxing airport, a small surcharge applies, so keep that in mind when booking.

The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, which means plenty of time for each stop. The schedule is flexible enough to accommodate your pace, but remember that extra time may incur additional costs. Bottled water is included, helping you stay hydrated during the walk.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

The reviews highlight the reliability and professionalism of the service. One reviewer, Spencer, appreciated Benny’s quick communication and flexibility, especially regarding unpredictable weather. The driver, Mr. Su Debin, was described as “extremely friendly,” making the day more enjoyable.

This tour is value-driven, considering the transport, water, and the convenience of hotel pickup for $110 per person. While tickets and meals are not included, many travelers find this an acceptable trade-off for the freedom to explore at their own pace and avoid the crowds.

It’s important to note that there are no shopping stops, and the experience is focused purely on sightseeing. If you’re looking for a stress-free, authentic way to see some of China’s most breathtaking sights, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to avoid overly commercialized tours, appreciate authentic views, and are comfortable with some walking and minor language barriers. It’s ideal for those who love scenic water towns and are eager to see a more untouched part of the Great Wall.

It’s also perfect for visitors who value flexible timing, comfortable transportation, and a small-group or private experience. If you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply want a break from Beijing’s urban environment, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

The Sum Up

This private Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall tour offers an excellent way to explore some of China’s most captivating sights with minimal fuss. The combination of traditional water town scenery and the rugged, historic Great Wall provides an immersive experience that balances beauty, history, and physical activity.

The reliable transportation and personalized service mean you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics. The authentic feel of Simatai, combined with the tranquil charm of Gubei Water Town, makes this tour a worthwhile addition to any Beijing itinerary.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value for money is clear when you consider the convenience, authenticity, and stunning sights you’ll encounter. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, memorable day out, especially those who appreciate scenic beauty and historical significance.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation with hotel and airport pickup within the 5th Ring Road.

Are tickets to Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall included?
No, admission tickets are not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase them separately on the day.

Can I take the cable car at Simatai?
Yes, you have the option to take the cable car for easier access to the Great Wall, though the cost is not included in the tour fee.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, allowing ample time for sightseeing and travel.

Are meals included?
No, meals and additional expenses like tickets or souvenirs are not included, so plan accordingly.

Will the driver speak English?
Likely not, but drivers are professional and will communicate via translation apps if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, but keep in mind the physical demands of hiking parts of Simatai. The cable car option can make it easier for elderly travelers.

How far is Simatai from Beijing?
It’s about 120 kilometers (74.5 miles) northwest of downtown Beijing, roughly a 2-hour drive depending on traffic.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and potentially a jacket if the weather is cool. Remember, tickets and meals are extra.

This tour provides a well-rounded, authentic experience for those wanting to escape Beijing’s city buzz and see some of China’s most scenic and historic sights with ease. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural charm, or just a break from the crowds, it’s a solid choice.