Private Tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall with Cable Car and Lunch

Experience the Best of Beijing’s Outside-the-City Treasures: Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

If you’re visiting Beijing but want a break from the bustling streets and tourist crowds, this private tour offers a tranquil escape into some of China’s most picturesque and historic sites. You’ll get to explore Gubei Water Town, a charming replica of a traditional water town, and hike along the Simatai section of the Great Wall, known for its preserved, authentic atmosphere. The tour’s highlight is its completely private setup, meaning your group gets personalized attention, flexible timing, and an intimate experience.

What we love most? The blend of culture and scenic beauty—plus, the convenience of transportation and meals included. However, keep in mind that the drive takes around two hours each way, so those seeking a quick sightseeing fix might find the travel a bit long. This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, in-depth exploration without the crowds, and who enjoy learning from friendly, knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance fees, cable car rides, and lunch are included, making this a hassle-free day out.
• Personalized and Private: The tour is exclusively for your group, offering flexibility and a tailored experience.
• Authentic Sites: Focus on Simatai’s less-restored, historic sections of the Great Wall for a more genuine feel.
• Scenic & Cultural: Gubei Water Town mimics traditional water towns with charming canals, shops, and eateries.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lucy and Susan are highlighted for their friendliness, knowledge, and enthusiasm.
• Convenient Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort and saves time.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Your Hotel and Comfortable Transport

The journey begins with a personal pickup from your hotel, which is a real plus. The private vehicle, typically air-conditioned, ensures a comfortable ride through China’s rural scenery. The drive to Gubei Water Town takes about two hours, giving you time to relax or chat with your guide, who will share interesting tidbits about the landscape and historical background of the Great Wall.

Gubei Water Town: A Delightful Water Town Experience

Upon arrival, you’re immediately greeted with the picturesque charm of Gubei Water Town. Often compared to the famous Wuzhen Water Town in southern China, this site is a well-preserved replica with six distinct areas, such as Old Barracks, Minguo Street, and Water Street. The town features traditional Chinese architecture, bustling shops, and inviting restaurants—perfect for wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.

One of the standout features, according to reviews, is how “beautiful and fascinating” Gubei Water Town is, with many saying you’d need more than a day to fully appreciate it. The town’s canals and bridges lend it a tranquil, almost fairy-tale quality, ideal for photos and relaxed exploring. Guides often share stories about the town’s history, adding depth to your visit.

The Second Stop: Simatai Great Wall and Lunch

After about two hours exploring Gubei Water Town, the tour moves on to the Simatai section of the Great Wall—one of the most authentic and less-restored parts, giving you a real sense of the history. You’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch in the village, savoring traditional flavors that give a hint of the regional cuisine.

Post-lunch, it’s time for the fun part: the cable car ride up to the Wall. The cable car round-trip is included, which makes it easier to access the upper parts of this steep, historic section. Many reviewers highlight the breathtaking views from the top—the scenery of the mountains, the Wall stretching across the ridges, and Gubei Water Town below are unforgettable.

Once at the top, you’ll have some free time to hike and explore. The Simatai section is renowned for its original appearance—renovated only for essential reinforcement, it retains much of its ancient charm. It’s a stark contrast to more developed sections like Badaling, and that’s precisely what makes it special.

Authenticity & Expert Guidance

A key aspect noted by reviewers is how knowledgeable guides like Lucy and Susan enhance the experience. Lucy, in particular, received praise for her friendly, informative approach—she shared insights about the Great Wall’s historical significance and pointed out interesting features during the hike.

The tour also includes bottled water, which helps stay refreshed on the walk, and the vehicle transports you comfortably between sites, saving you from the hassle of navigating public transport or taxis.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $248 per person, this all-inclusive, private experience offers substantial value. When you factor in entrance fees, cable car rides, a traditional lunch, private transport, and a personal guide, it’s a comprehensive package that saves you time and effort. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a seamless, stress-free day with personalized attention.

Compared to typical group tours, the private aspect offers flexibility—if you want to linger at a certain spot or take more photos, your guide can accommodate. The reviews echo this sentiment, with travelers mentioning how “the guide and driver were professional and kind”—adding a layer of comfort and trust.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration outside of Beijing’s busy city center. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic sites, scenic views, and having a knowledgeable guide to enrich their understanding. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, it provides an intimate, flexible outing.

It’s also ideal for visitors who want to avoid the crowds and commercialized sections of the Great Wall, opting instead for the more historic, less-restored Simatai. Those who enjoy leisurely walks, cultural stories, and stunning vistas will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall offers an excellent balance of convenience, authenticity, and scenic beauty. The thoughtful inclusion of transportation, meals, and entry fees makes it a hassle-free way to explore some of China’s lesser-known yet remarkable attractions. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge set it apart, turning a simple sightseeing day into a memorable cultural experience.

While the two-hour drive each way might seem long, it’s a small price to pay for the chance to enjoy a peaceful water town and walk along a section of the Great Wall that feels genuinely historic. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a personalized and immersive adventure away from the typical crowds.

If you’re eager to see a different side of China’s history and scenery with the comfort of private transport and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, a private, air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day’s journey, ensuring comfort and convenience.

How long does the drive to Gubei Water Town take?
It takes approximately 2 hours each way from Beijing.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers entrance fees, round-trip cable car rides at the Great Wall, lunch, bottled water, a professional guide, and private transport.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible departure times to suit your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking and hiking involved, especially on the Great Wall.

What makes Simatai different from other sections of the Great Wall?
Simatai retains much of its original, historic appearance and has been minimally renovated, offering a more authentic experience compared to more developed sections like Badaling.

To sum it up, this private tour of Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers an engaging, authentic, and comfortable way to experience some of China’s most captivating sights. It’s especially recommended for travelers who value personalized service, rich scenery, and historical authenticity, making it a memorable addition to your Beijing itinerary.