Private Transfer to Gubei WaterTown and Simatai Great Wall

A comprehensive look at the Private Transfer to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

This private day tour from Beijing offers a chance to explore two of China’s most captivating sights: the historic Simatai Great Wall and the enchanting Gubei Water Town. Designed for those who want a hassle-free, personalized experience, it combines comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery—without the crowds or rushed schedules.

What really shines here is the customized itinerary. You get the freedom to explore each site at your own pace, with a private driver and air-conditioned vehicle ensuring comfort throughout the approximately nine-hour journey. One thing to keep in mind is that entrance tickets, cable cars, and meals are additional costs, so it’s worth planning your budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a balance of self-guided exploration and professional convenience, especially those seeking authentic views away from overly commercialized spots.

A key consideration is that this experience is not wheelchair accessible and requires a reasonable level of physical activity—particularly if you choose to walk along the steep sections of the Great Wall. If you’re eager to enjoy scenic landscapes, historical marvels, and the charming vibe of a water town, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private, flexible itinerary allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Includes transportation, bottled water, and door-to-door service for maximum comfort.
• Additional costs for tickets, cable car, and meals mean you can tailor the experience.
• Authentic and scenic sites — Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town offer stunning views and local charm.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
• Most travelers book around a month in advance for best availability.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Gubei Water Town: Charm and Serenity

Your day begins with a roughly 2-hour and 15-minute drive from Beijing, heading north toward Gubei Water Town, situated about 145 kilometers from the city center. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the town’s distinctive blend of northern traditional architecture and water town aesthetics typical of the south of the Yangtze River. Think of blue-brick buildings, gray-tiled roofs, and a network of canals and bridges that create a “small South of the North” vibe.

One of the tour’s highlights is the rowboat experience on the Tanghe River, giving you a chance to enjoy the peaceful waters and picturesque scenery. Reviewers mention that Gubei Water Town is modern enough to have restaurants and amenities, which makes relaxing after sightseeing quite pleasant. In fact, several visitors appreciated how the town comes alive in the afternoon, filling with local life and visitors enjoying the cafes and shops.

Another aspect worth noting is the nighttime illumination, where the town lights up beautifully, creating a picture-perfect scene. While you’ll need to purchase your own admission tickets, the town’s charm makes it worth the extra expense. The relaxed pace here allows for spontaneous exploration, whether that’s grabbing a snack, taking photos, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Simatai Great Wall: Majestic and Challenging

After a leisurely visit to Gubei Water Town, your driver will take you approximately 2 hours to the eastern section of the Simatai Great Wall. This section stretches about 5.7 kilometers and boasts 10 ancient watchtowers, offering a less commercialized, more authentic experience of one of China’s most iconic landmarks.

What makes Simatai special? Several reviewers mention its imposing, undulating structure that resembles a giant dragon coiling among mountainous peaks. It’s both beautiful and demanding—perfect for those who want to challenge themselves or simply admire the breathtaking scenery.

You can choose to walk along the wall or take the cable car (tickets sold separately) to save energy or enjoy another perspective of the landscape. The views across lush, tiered mountains and lakes are often described as stunning, with many noting the steep, uneven sections that require some stamina. The wall’s eastern section, from Tower 1 to Tower 10, is open during the day, with a shorter night session available for an evening experience.

Flexibility and Timing

Your driver will adapt to your preferred departure time, with options for both a full-day and an evening visit, depending on your schedule. A significant advantage of this private tour is the lack of strict time constraints—you can linger as long as you like at each site, which many reviewers appreciate. As one guest pointed out, the driver did not set a time limit, emphasizing that the goal was to enjoy the experience.

Practical Considerations

• Tickets and cable cars are not included, meaning you’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees and optional cable car rides.
• Lunch is also additional, but there are plenty of dining options in Gubei Water Town and near the Great Wall.
• Bottled water is provided, keeping you hydrated on the sometimes steep or lengthy walks.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.

The Experience from Reviews

Multiple guests praise their guides and drivers, often mentioning friendly, punctual service. For example, reviewer Aaron noted that Mr. Liu was always on time and helped with tickets, making the process smooth. Another guest appreciated the extra hour spent in Gubei Water Town, emphasizing the flexibility that makes this tour stand out.

Visitors also highlight the authentic feel of Simatai, describing it as “challenging and fun,” even when the weather wasn’t perfect. The views of the lush mountains and the lake from the wall are consistently described as breathtaking, making the physical effort worthwhile.

Meanwhile, Gubei Water Town’s modern amenities and relaxed atmosphere balance the more rugged, historical nature of the Great Wall, creating a well-rounded day that feels both inspiring and comfortable.

Why This Tour Is Valuable

This private transfer and sightseeing package offers great value for travelers wanting a personalized experience outside of busy group tours. The door-to-door service means no stress about navigating public transportation or timing. The flexibility to enjoy each site at your own pace makes it ideal for those who prefer to explore without feeling rushed.

The combination of scenic views, authentic historical sites, and a charming water town makes this tour particularly appealing for photographers, history buffs, and those simply seeking a peaceful retreat from Beijing’s hustle. The emphasis on comfort and personalized service ensures a relaxed day, even if you’re traveling with family or friends.

While the extra costs for tickets and meals might seem like a drawback, they also give you the freedom to choose what you want to spend on, whether that’s upgrading to a cable car ride or enjoying a local meal. The positive reviews about attentive guides and flexible timing** reinforce that this is a well-organized, enjoyable experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a stress-free, personalized day outside Beijing’s city limits. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern comforts. It’s ideal if you prefer to travel comfortably without sharing with strangers, thanks to its private format.

Those interested in hiking or scenic photography will love the views along the Great Wall and in Gubei Water Town. But be aware that some sections of the Wall are steep or uneven, so visitors should be prepared for a bit of physical activity.

If you’re short on time but want to see two very different sides of China—its rugged history and water town elegance—this tour can be a perfect way to spend a day. It’s less suited for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues, but otherwise, it offers a rewarding, immersive experience.

FAQ

Does this tour include entrance tickets?
No, entrance tickets and cable car fees are additional. You can purchase your tickets at the site, and optional cable cars are available for an extra charge.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, your driver will pick a departure time based on your preferences, whether you want a full-day visit or an evening experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of restaurants in Gubei Water Town and nearby areas where you can enjoy local cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that children under 5 are free. The physical nature of walking on the Great Wall may require some supervision and stamina.

Are tickets purchased in advance?
Most travelers book about 37 days in advance, but you can also arrange it closer to your trip, depending on availability.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
No, this experience is not wheelchair accessible, and some walking sections can be steep or uneven.

To sum it up, the private transfer to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers a thoughtful blend of comfort, authenticity, and flexibility. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to avoid busy tour groups, enjoy scenic views at their own pace, and experience some of China’s most iconic sights in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape from Beijing, this tour promises a memorable day filled with stunning vistas and charming towns.