Private Sunset&Night Tour: Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town

Discovering the Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town: An Authentic Day Trip from Beijing

Taking a day to explore the Simatai section of the Great Wall alongside the picturesque Gubei Water Town offers a rare chance to see one of China’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, well-organized way. This private sunset and night tour, priced at $182 per person, is designed for travelers who want a guided experience that combines stunning views, cultural charm, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love that it includes hotel pickup, so you avoid the hassle of planning transport — a real time-saver. Second, the cable car ride up and down the wall ensures you don’t have to worry about steep climbs or tired legs. However, a possible consideration is the 9-hour duration, which can be a long day if you’re not used to full-day excursions. This tour is perfect for those who want an immersive, comfortably paced visit that highlights the best of these two sites at sunset and night — ideal for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone wanting an authentic experience away from the crowds.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit both Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall in one day without the hassle of coordinating transport.
• Comfort and convenience: Private vehicle, hotel pickup, and round-trip cable cars make the day stress-free.
• Unique sunset experience: Watch the Great Wall get illuminated at dusk, with spectacular views over Gubei Water Town.
• Authentic sights: Simatai retains its original appearance from the Ming Dynasty, offering a more rugged, less commercialized section of the Wall.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the history and culture.
• Flexible, private tour: Only your group participates, with options for guide services and group discounts.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting with Gubei Water Town

At 12:30 pm, you’ll be greeted by an English-speaking guide and driven in a private vehicle from your Beijing hotel. The roughly two-hour drive takes you north to Gubei Water Town, an area built around the Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir. This town isn’t just a tourist trap; it’s a carefully reconstructed water village inspired by Wuzhen Water Town in southern China, featuring picturesque canals, bridges, and courtyard houses.

Several reviewers mention the town’s charm and beauty. Cheri_A, who describes her experience as “amazing,” notes that the guide May was “knowledgeable, kind, and funny,” making the visit both educational and enjoyable. The town’s architecture and canals offer excellent photo opportunities, especially in the soft evening light as the sun begins to set.

Exploring Gubei Water Town

You’ll have about two hours of free time here, which is enough to wander, snap photos, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Many visitors appreciate that this stop offers a nice balance — enough time to see the sights without feeling rushed, yet not so long that you tire of the surroundings. The town’s vibe is lively yet relaxed, and some travelers mention the presence of local shops and snack stalls, perfect for a quick bite or souvenir shopping.

Ascending the Simatai Great Wall

Next, the journey continues to Simatai, the most famous and well-preserved section of the Great Wall near Beijing. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this part of the Wall is renowned for its rugged, dangerous beauty and original appearance. It’s also one of the few sections open to visitors at night, which adds a magical touch to your experience.

Here, you’ll take round-trip cable cars, a highlight praised by many reviewers. The cable car ride is a practical way to access the Wall, especially since the terrain is steep and uneven. One reviewer, Naseem_A, called the experience “extraordinary,” especially noting the unforgettable drone show and the guide Justin Wan’s professionalism, who shared informative insights about the Wall’s history.

Sunset and Night Illumination

Arriving at the Wall around sunset, you’ll witness the spectacular view of Gubei Water Town below. The lighting at this time creates perfect conditions for photos — a golden glow over the ancient stones and water. As dusk turns to night, the Wall is illuminated, and you’ll enjoy the unique experience of seeing the Wall under a starry sky.

The cable car ride allows you to relax and admire the beautifully lit structure without the fatigue of walking back uphill. Reviewers mention how special this moment is; Orrachat_L appreciated the “supportive guide Mr. James,” who made the experience smooth and enriching.

Overall Duration and Experience

The full tour lasts about 9 hours, providing a leisurely pace with enough time to appreciate each site. The private vehicle and all-inclusive tickets mean you don’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics — just focus on enjoying the experience.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses an air-conditioned private vehicle with a driver and a translator app for smoother communication. This setup is especially valuable for those who don’t speak Mandarin, removing potential language barriers and ensuring a smooth journey. The round-trip cable car tickets are included, which is a big plus for those who prefer to avoid the strenuous climb.

Guide Service and Group Size

The options include Guide + Transportation, with reviews highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides like May and Jenny V, who provided insights about the sites and made the trip more engaging. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility.

Pricing and Value

At $182 per person, the price covers transport, admission tickets, cable cars, and guide services — offering good value considering the logistics involved. Compared to self-organized trips, this package saves you time and potential stress, especially when navigating unfamiliar routes.

Additional Considerations

• The tour is best suited for travelers who can handle a full day (about 9 hours), including some walking and sightseeing.
• Dress in smart casual attire, and apply sunblock if visiting in summer.
• While meals are not included, nearby food options are available at Gubei Water Town and the Wall.
• Children are welcome but need to be accompanied by an adult.
• For those with mobility issues or who dislike long walks, the cable cars are a significant benefit.

What Reviewers Say and What We Learned

Many travelers praise the professionalism of the guides. Cheri_A notes that May was “wonderful,” and Orrachat_L mentions Mr. James’s patience and support. Authentic, friendly guides seem to make all the difference, transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

The views at sunset receive consistent praise. Multiple reviews highlight how the illuminated Wall and the peaceful atmosphere make for breathtaking photographs and a feeling of stepping back in time.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One reviewer felt it was “not worth the price” due to the lack of English-speaking escort, but this seems to be an isolated case and possibly a misunderstanding about the guide vs. driver service.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of two highly scenic sites near Beijing, with the perfect blend of comfort, culture, and stunning visuals. The inclusion of hotel pickup, cable cars, and guided commentary makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day with memorable moments.

It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. If you’re happy to spend a full day on your feet and enjoy beautiful vistas at sunset and night, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who value convenience, comfort, and authentic sights. It’s especially great for travelers who prefer a private, guided excursion rather than navigating alone. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with breathtaking views and don’t mind the longer duration, this tour offers excellent value.

While not suitable for travelers with very limited mobility or those on a tight budget, it’s perfect for those wanting a stress-free, insightful, and beautiful exploration of one of China’s most legendary landmarks.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Beijing hotel, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tickets and transportation included?
Yes, all entrance tickets, cable cars, and transportation via private vehicle are included in the price.

Can I see the Great Wall at night?
Absolutely. Simatai is one of the few sections accessible at night, and the illumination adds a special atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

What should I wear?
Smart casual clothing is recommended. Summer visitors should bring sunblock; comfortable walking shoes are advisable.

Are guides included?
Yes, the tour features an English-speaking guide (if you opt for the guided version), enhancing your understanding and enjoyment.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility, but all bookings are based on the provided itinerary and inclusions.

To sum it up, this private sunset and night tour of Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers travelers a beautifully curated, hassle-free way to see two of China’s most iconic sights in one day. It balances comfort, authenticity, and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to experience the grandeur of the Great Wall beneath the evening sky.