Private Beijing Transfer: Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town by Night

Discovering the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town by Night: An Honest Review

Exploring China’s iconic Great Wall of China and the charming Gubei Water Town after sunset offers a different perspective that many travelers rave about. This private evening tour from Beijing promises a blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized flexibility. While we haven’t tested it ourselves, detailed reviews and comprehensive descriptions highlight what makes this experience stand out—and what to consider before booking.

What we love most about this tour is its self-led exploration, the stunning nighttime illumination of the Wall, and the intimate, private transportation that keeps things comfortable and stress-free. The inclusion of entry tickets and cable cars takes away any hassle, allowing you to focus solely on soaking in the views. As a bonus, the opportunity to wander Gubei Water Town’s quaint streets at your own pace adds to the relaxed vibe.

One potential consideration is the long travel time—about two hours each way from Beijing—which might be tiring if you’re already jet-lagged or pressed for time. That said, the flexibility and comfort make it a worthwhile adventure for those eager to see these sights without the rush of group tours or daytime crowds.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value privacy, enjoy self-guided exploration, and want to experience China’s most famous landmarks in a more relaxed, scenic setting. History buffs, night owls, or those seeking a romantic or photogenic outing will find it especially appealing.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Nighttime illumination offers a unique view of the Great Wall and Water Town.
• Round-trip transport ensures comfort and convenience from your Beijing hotel.
• Includes tickets and cable cars, removing logistical worries.
• Ideal for those seeking a quieter, personalized visit away from daytime crowds.
• Long transfer times mean a full day of travel but also a chance for rest in transit.

The Experience in Detail

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

From the moment your driver arrives at your hotel lobby (for hotels within Beijing’s 4th ring road), things move smoothly. The air-conditioned vehicle is spacious enough for comfort, whether you choose to nap or enjoy the scenery. As reviewers note, communication is straightforward—most drivers are friendly, helpful, and punctual, with many using translation apps to bridge language gaps. One reviewer mentioned their driver, Mr. Sun, provided snacks and even a poncho when rain threatened to put a damper on the evening.

The drive to Gubei Water Town takes approximately two hours, giving you a chance to relax and prepare for the evening ahead. Many travelers appreciated the calm, scenic drive, which is a stark contrast to the busy city streets of Beijing.

Gubei Water Town: A Quirky Water-Front Village

Once you arrive, your driver will assist with tickets for both the Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. This newly built replica of Wuzhen Water Town offers a charming setting with narrow canals, traditional architecture, and lively shops. Several reviewers mentioned the Water Town’s beauty, especially at night when the lights cast a magical glow. One noted, “The village is beautiful, the cable car so cool, and the illuminated wall was stunning.”

The Water Town is divided into six areas, including the Old Barracks, Minguo Street, and Water Street, all open during the soft opening stage. You’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a lovely place for a relaxed stroll. Several reviewers appreciated the quiet, unhurried atmosphere, contrasting with daytime tourist crowds. One said, “The water town is not overfilled, and we felt like we had the place to ourselves.”

Nighttime Walk on the Simatai Great Wall

The main event is the lit-up Great Wall, which transforms into a breathtaking sight after sunset. The cable car round-trip ticket is included, so you can ascend easily and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside. Reviewers frequently mention how stunning the illuminated Wall looks at night, especially when viewed from the cable car or while walking the well-lit paths.

One guest described it as “a well-lit night walk that is unlike anything we’ve experienced,” emphasizing the peaceful ambiance and spectacular vistas. The Wall at night is less crowded, allowing for some solitary moments, perfect for photography or quiet reflection. The illumination enhances the wall’s rugged stonework, giving it a fairy-tale feel.

Exploring Gubei Water Town After the Wall

After your night walk on the Great Wall, you have time to explore Gubei Water Town independently. The town offers multiple small areas that are open for strolling, shopping, or sampling local cuisine. Reviewers have enjoyed trying the various restaurants and browsing interesting shops, often commenting on the delicious food and variety of local treats.

Many travelers found the relaxed pace ideal for soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. One said, “We loved the way the lights and scenery combined; it felt like stepping into a different world.” The peaceful environment makes it a perfect spot for a romantic evening or a casual wander.

Return Journey and Flexibility

After a few hours of self-guided exploring, your driver will pick you up and return you comfortably to your hotel. Reviewers have appreciated how smoothly the return trip is organized, noting the driver’s patience and support throughout.

How Does This Tour Offer Value?

The key to this experience is its balance of convenience, flexibility, and scenic beauty. At $148 per person, the price includes transportation, tickets, cable cars, and the peace of mind of a private, tailored experience. Compared to daytime tours, this evening trip offers fewer crowds, better lighting for photographs, and a more relaxed vibe. The private aspect means you can linger longer or leave early without feeling rushed.

The tour’s strength lies in its customization potential—you can explore at your own pace, whether you’re a quick photo snapper or a slow wanderer. The flexible departure times are a bonus, accommodating different schedules and weather conditions.

The Authentic Touch and Reviewer Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the dedicated drivers and helpful staff. One said, “Mr. Zhang was patient, friendly, and incredibly helpful,” highlighting the personal service. Others appreciated the ability to adjust plans—like changing the date for better weather—showing the tour’s accommodating nature.

The nighttime scenery is repeatedly described as breathtaking, and the Illumination of the Wall and Water Town transforms the experience into something truly memorable. The quiet, less crowded environment allows for a more intimate connection with the sights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers seeking a private and relaxed experience of these iconic sights. It’s ideal if you want flexibility, less crowded environments, and the chance to see the Great Wall at night—a rare opportunity. Couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting a more personalized adventure will find this especially appealing.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy self-guided exploration, as it allows you to set your own pace and linger where you wish. If you’re interested in photography, the illuminated Wall and scenic Water Town offer fantastic photo opportunities.

However, be prepared for the long drive from Beijing, which might not suit those with limited time or mobility constraints. Weather can also affect the experience, so dressing appropriately is advised since the tour operates in all conditions.

The Sum Up

This private transfer tour to Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town offers an authentic, flexible, and visually stunning way to experience these famous sites at night. The combination of scenic views, personalized pace, and cultural charm makes it a memorable choice for travelers who want a more intimate look at China’s landmarks.

While the lengthy transfer might be tiring for some, the quiet, illuminated surroundings and the freedom to explore on your terms make it worthwhile. This tour is best for those seeking a relaxed, private experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments and minimal crowds.

If you love scenic night walks, authentic local atmospheres, and tailored sightseeing, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Beijing visit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at hotels within Beijing’s 4th ring road, making transportation seamless.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 6 to 9 hours, including travel time and self-guided exploration.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers private transportation, round-trip cable cars at the Great Wall, and admission tickets to both the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town.

Can I explore the Water Town on my own?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for self-guided touring, so you can wander at your own pace and enjoy the scenic spots and shops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Since it operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the weather—layers for cooler evenings, rain gear if needed.

Can I upgrade the tour to include a guide?
Yes, there’s an option to explore the sights with a guide, which could enhance your experience but is an upgrade beyond the standard package.

What if I want to change the departure time?
You can request a different time, as the tour provides flexible scheduling; just communicate with your provider.

How do reviews describe the overall experience?
Reviewers consistently mention the friendly drivers, stunning views, and smooth organization. Many highlight the night illumination as an unforgettable highlight.

Is the experience rain or shine?
Yes, it operates regardless of weather, but be prepared and dress accordingly.

This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and quiet elegance—if that sounds like your ideal way to see the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town, it might just be worth booking your spot.