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

Visiting the Great Wall of China is a bucket-list essential, but doing so at night offers a totally different vibe—and that’s exactly what this private transfer tour promises. With a combination of a self-guided exploration at the iconic Simatai section and a stroll through the beautiful Gubei Water Town, this experience is perfect for travelers looking for a flexible, intimate encounter with one of the world’s most famous landscapes.

What we love about this tour is the personalized nature: it’s a private transfer, so you get to set your own pace, combined with stunning views that come alive after sunset. Plus, entry and cable car tickets are included, so there’s no fiddling with extra expenses or long lines. A potential challenge? Since it’s a self-led trip, those who prefer guided commentary might find it a bit too hands-off unless they choose to upgrade.

This experience works best for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see the Great Wall illuminated at night. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a relaxed way to enjoy one of China’s most treasured sights with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Flexible Schedule: Choose your departure time based on your preference for an evening adventure.
• Private & Self-Guided: Explore at your own pace, with an option to upgrade for guided insights.
• All-Inclusive Tickets: Cable car rides and entrance fees are covered, so no surprises on-site.
• Authentic Night Experience: Witness the Great Wall’s stunning illumination away from crowds.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned, private transfers with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Ideal for Photographers: Night lighting provides incredible photo opportunities of the Wall and Water Town.

An Honest Look at What You Get

This tour starts with hotel pickup in Beijing, with a friendly driver arriving at your preferred time. The drive to Gubei Water Town takes approximately two hours—ample time to relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, catch up on rest, or enjoy the countryside scenery. Many reviewers appreciate the smooth, safe ride and the helpful drivers, like Mr. Sun and Mr. Zhang, who go beyond just dropping you off—they assist with tickets, give clear directions, and even bring snacks and bottled water.

First stop: Gubei Water Town

Once you arrive, your driver will help you navigate the ticketing process for both the Water Town and Simatai Great Wall. The Water Town is a modern creation inspired by the classic Wuzhen Water Town, featuring scenic canals, charming shops, and restaurants, all in a soft opening stage with six areas. Reviewers mention how the town is beautiful and peaceful, especially in the evening when it’s lit up—perfect for a relaxed wander without the daytime crowds.

Here, you have around two hours to explore at your own pace. Many guests use this time to enjoy the gentle ambiance, snap photos of the illuminated water and architecture, or pop into one of the cozy cafes. Some reviewers have noted that a longer visit would be ideal, but given the time constraints, they still find this part of the trip to be delightful and worth every penny.

The highlight: Simatai Great Wall at night

The real star, of course, is the night walk on the Simatai Great Wall. The included cable cars make reaching the wall effortless, and once on top, you’re treated to views that are far more dramatic after dark. The lighting enhances the ancient stones, casting shadows that make the structure look both mystical and formidable.

Travelers frequently rave about the stunning views: “Breathtaking and highly recommended,” one reviewer mentions, highlighting the different perspective night offers. The Illumination makes the Wall look like a scene from a movie—an experience that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

The night walk lasts around two hours, which is plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Many guests appreciate that it’s self-led, giving them the freedom to linger or move on as they wish. For those who want a bit more context, there’s an option to upgrade to a guided tour, which could be helpful for history buffs or photographers wanting tips on capturing the best shots.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $148 per person, the price includes all major costs—entrance fees, cable cars, and transportation—which are often additional on other tours. The private nature means no noisy groups or rigid schedules, making it a more intimate and flexible experience.

The reviews echo this value, with travelers praising the smooth organization and helpful drivers. One even mentioned how they appreciated being able to reschedule for better weather, which underscores the flexibility and customer-first approach of this tour.

While food isn’t included, the Water Town offers plenty of dining options, so you can plan a meal before returning to Beijing. A standout feature is the professional, friendly driver service—many reviewers mention how punctual, patient, and supportive their drivers were, which significantly enhances the overall experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Gubei Water Town (2 hours):
This modern water town is designed to mimic traditional Chinese water villages, with quaint streets, canals, and bridges set against the backdrop of illuminated buildings. It’s a perfect spot for photos, leisurely walks, or just soaking up the peaceful evening atmosphere. Reviewers mention they could have spent longer, but appreciated the flexibility to explore what interested them most.

Simatai Great Wall (night walk):
The highlight of the tour, this section of the Great Wall is smaller and less commercialized than others like Badaling, making it ideal for a more authentic experience. The night lighting creates a magical atmosphere—shadows flicker across the stones, and the quiet of the evening adds to the sense of history. The cable car round trip is included, saving you from the hike up, and you can take your time walking along the battlements—many visitors describe it as a breathtaking, unforgettable sight.

Return Journey:
After your self-guided exploration, your driver will pick you up for the return trip to Beijing, typically taking around two hours. The reviews note how well-organized and comfortable the journey is, with drivers attentive to your needs and timings.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

• “Mr. Zhang was patient, friendly, and helpful,” highlights how helpful local drivers can make the experience smoother and more relaxed.
• Several mention how “the illuminated Wall and Water Town are stunning,” emphasizing how night lighting transforms the scenery.
• Travelers also appreciated the flexibility—being able to stay as long as they wished at each stop, which isn’t always possible on group tours.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Since this is a self-guided tour, bring a phone or camera with good battery life—it’s prime for photos.
• Dress warmly, especially in cooler months—nighttime can get chilly, and some parts of the Wall are exposed.
• The cable car round-trip is included, so no extra costs there, but don’t forget to bring some cash or cards if you want to buy souvenirs or snacks.
• If you prefer more commentary or historical context, consider upgrading to a guided option, as many reviews suggest guides do a good job with their knowledge.
• Be mindful of your timing—if you have a tight schedule, confirm your pick-up time to maximize your evening.

Final Thoughts

This private transfer experience offers a fantastic way to see the Great Wall at night while enjoying the relaxed pace of a self-led tour. It combines a peaceful walk along the illuminated battlements with a serene stroll through Gubei Water Town—a true feast for the senses and the camera. The inclusive nature of the tickets, the comfort of private transport, and the flexibility to explore at your own speed make it stand out among many group-based options.

For those who want a personalized, scenic, and memorable evening adventure, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic moments, stunning views, and flexible scheduling—all at a reasonable price point.

This experience is ideal for photographers eager to capture night-time views, history enthusiasts wanting a quieter, less crowded Great Wall, and travelers seeking a relaxed, private outing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy flexibility and personalized service, and for anyone curious about seeing the Great Wall beyond daylight hours. If you’re traveling in a group or as a couple who loves scenic, tranquil settings, this tour offers a wonderful balance of comfort and adventure.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided for hotels within the 4th ring road of Beijing, making the journey hassle-free.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can select a departure time that works best for you, giving you flexibility to plan your evening.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers private transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, round-trip cable cars at the Great Wall, and entrance tickets to both the Water Town and the Wall.

Is this a guided tour?
The standard option is self-guided, which allows you to explore at your own pace. Upgrades for a guide are available if preferred.

How long do I have at each site?
You’ll have approximately two hours at Gubei Water Town and two hours for the night walk on the Great Wall.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, warm clothing, and possibly cash or cards for souvenirs or snacks, although the tour includes bottled water.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not provided, but the Water Town has plenty of eateries, and you can plan to eat there or after your visit.

What is the experience like in bad weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—rain or shine, the views are still impressive.

Can I extend my stay at the Water Town or Wall?
Since it’s a self-guided experience, you can stay longer if you wish, but check with your driver for timing and return arrangements.

In all, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see the Great Wall in a peaceful, illuminated setting while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of private transport. It’s the perfect way for travelers to add an unforgettable night visit to their Beijing itinerary without the hassle of crowds or rigid schedules.