BeijingGubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Day Tour

BeijingGubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Day Tour Review

If you’re looking for a day trip that balances iconic scenery with authentic cultural insights, the BeijingGubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall tour might just be what you need. For around $39, this guided trip takes you to two standout locations just outside of Beijing—the historically significant Simatai section of the Great Wall and the charming, picturesque Gubei Water Town. Expect a full day of wandering ancient battlements, exploring traditional architecture, and taking in landscapes that change beautifully with each season.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is how it offers a well-rounded experience without breaking the bank. The combination of a UNESCO World Heritage site with a water town that echoes old China makes for a memorable mix. Plus, having an English-speaking guide helps bring the history and stories alive, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. However, a consideration for some travelers might be the moderate physical activity, as climbing and walking are involved, especially at the Great Wall. This tour is best suited for those eager to see iconic sights comfortably and with a guided touch—ideal for history buffs, photographers, and culture-seekers alike.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day guided experience outside Beijing.
• Access to the authentic Simatai section of the Great Wall, known for its original appearance.
• Visit to Gubei Water Town, a scenic and traditional-style water village.
• Includes admission tickets and comfortable transportation.
• Guided by knowledgeable English speakers who can enhance your understanding.
• Not including lunch or optional extras like cable cars, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point at Guomao Station—the tour begins conveniently in central Beijing, with air-conditioned transportation that takes you out of the city and into the countryside. The bus ride, which lasts about an hour, gives you a chance to relax and preview what’s ahead. Small groups of up to 20 travelers ensure the experience isn’t too crowded or rushed—more intimacy means better chances to ask questions and soak in the atmosphere.

First Stop: Gubei Water Town—this picturesque water village is a highlight for many. Known for its Northern architectural style, the town’s well-preserved buildings evoke old China, with their wooden facades and intricate details. The Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir is a peaceful spot to admire the water, which flows through the town, creating scenic reflections and providing a tranquil backdrop for photos or a gentle stroll. Visitors often comment on the charm of the streets, the vivid street shows, and the opportunity to see traditional crafts or street food stalls.

Next: Simatai Great Wall—this is the star of the tour for many, and for good reason. Recognized as one of the few sections of the Great Wall that retains much of its original appearance, Simatai offers a more rugged, authentic experience compared to the heavily restored sections like Badaling or Mutianyu. The Wall’s varied structures—steep stairs, watchtowers, and battlements—mean you’ll get a sense of the real effort it took to build. The views are spectacular, especially as you ascend the battlements, gazing out across mountains and greenery that shift through the seasons. Several reviews mention the guides’ knowledge about the Wall’s history and architecture, which really enriches the experience.

Optional: Climb and Explore—you can walk along the battlements, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. Since the wall is partially restored, you might find some sections more challenging but rewarding, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity. The tour also offers the possibility of a night tour of Simatai, unique and less crowded, which is noted as a rare opportunity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes admission tickets to Simatai and Gubei Water Town, plus air-conditioned transport and an English-speaking guide. These are significant value-adds, especially since separate tickets and transportation can cost more if booked independently.

However, some extras are not included—such as lunch, cable cars, personal expenses, and insurance. The absence of lunch means you should plan to bring snacks or buy food at Gubei Water Town, which offers some local options. Also, if you want to take the cable car up or down the Great Wall, you’ll need to pay extra.

The Practicalities

The tour runs for about 10 to 12 hours, making it a full but manageable day. Starting at Guomao station is convenient if you’re staying in central Beijing, and the drop-off back at the same point makes logistics easier. Given the moderate physical fitness required, travelers should be prepared for some walking and climbing.

The Authentic Touches and What You’ll Value

From the reviews, one of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides. They don’t just herd you along; they share stories about the Wall’s construction, its significance, and interesting tidbits about Gubei Water Town’s history. Travelers appreciated the insider tips, like the best spots for photos or quiet areas away from crowds.

The views at Simatai are consistently highlighted as spectacular and ever-changing—bright greenery in spring, lush landscapes in summer, fiery hues in autumn, or snow-dusted peaks in winter. Many mention that the partially restored sections allow for authentic exploration, making you feel closer to the original construction compared to tourist-heavy, heavily restored sections elsewhere.

Visitors also comment on how the small group format makes the experience more personal, allowing for better interaction with guides and more flexibility at each site. The included tickets eliminate the hassle of queuing or buying at the gate, which can save time and reduce stress.

A Few Considerations

Some travelers noted that lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat at Gubei Water Town is advisable. The walk along the Wall, especially at Simatai, can be physically demanding—so those with mobility issues or low stamina should be prepared accordingly. Also, weather can impact the experience—on rainy or foggy days, views might be obscured, but the tour offers options to reschedule or refund.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to see a less-commercialized section of the Great Wall and enjoy a scenic water town. It’s also suited for photographers eager to capture authentic architecture and sweeping landscapes. The small group size and guided commentary make it a good choice for those wanting a more intimate, informative experience.

If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy the splendor of one of China’s most famous landmarks, this tour offers solid value. It’s less suited for travelers seeking luxury amenities, like included meals or cable cars, or for those with limited mobility.

Final Thoughts

The BeijingGubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall tour offers a balanced blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and historical insight at an accessible price point. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views make it a worthwhile choice for travelers who want to experience a more authentic and less crowded side of the Great Wall.

While it’s not a tour for those looking for luxury or all-inclusive amenities, it delivers on the essentials—beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and practical organization. Expect a full, rewarding day that leaves you with plenty of photos and stories to share.

Whether you’re an avid history fan, a nature lover, or someone simply eager to stand on a section of the Great Wall that still feels wild and original, this tour is a compelling way to spend your day outside Beijing.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned bus transport from Guomao station and back, making the logistics smooth and straightforward.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and climbing are recommended. Bring snacks or cash for lunch since it isn’t included. An umbrella or raincoat might be useful depending on the weather.

Can I climb the entire Great Wall at Simatai?
You can explore much of the Wall, including battlements and watchtowers. However, some sections are more challenging, so good footwear and moderate fitness are advised.

Are the tickets for Gubei Water Town included?
Admission tickets for Gubei Water Town are included, but optional extras like cable cars are not.

What is the group size?
The tour limits group size to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Elderly travelers or children who are comfortable with walking and climbing should be fine, but those with mobility concerns should consider this.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this guided day trip from Beijing offers a practical, enriching way to experience two of the region’s most treasured sights. With authentic scenery and expert guides, it’s a sound choice for travelers wanting to see the real China beyond the city.