SiMaTai GreatWall GuBeiWaterTown Night Trip English Driver-TR APP

Exploring the Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town in the Evening

This night tour to the Simatai section of the Great Wall offers a magical way to see a UNESCO World Heritage site under the stars. Unlike daytime visits crowded with travelers and guided groups, this private experience lets you enjoy the Wall at your own pace, with the added charm of twilight and moonlight. The tour includes a private cab, flexible timings, and a chance to walk along the unrestored, authentically rugged section of the Wall—only open at night.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the personalized nature of the trip. The private transportation means no waiting around or fighting for space in group tours. Instead, you get to choose your departure time, enjoy a smooth ride, and explore the Wall without the usual daytime crowds. Plus, the sight of Gubei Water Town lit up from afar, complementing the Wall’s ancient stones, creates a picture-perfect scene you won’t forget.

One possible consideration is that the admission ticket to the Wall is not included; you’ll need to purchase this separately at the site. Also, the tour is primarily focused on the walk and sightseeing, so if you’re looking for guided storytelling or detailed historical insights, that might be limited. Nevertheless, this trip is ideal for travelers craving an authentic, less touristy experience or those who want a relaxing, flexible evening outing with stunning views.

This tour suits visitors with a sense of adventure and appreciation for natural beauty, who prefer a more intimate viewing of one of China’s most iconic landmarks. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see the Great Wall from a new perspective, especially at night.

Key Points

• Private transportation: Offers a relaxed, personalized journey from your hotel or other locations.
• Authentic night experience: Walk along the unrestored section of the Great Wall, only open after dark.
• Flexible timing: Depart at your convenience within the operating hours, no fixed schedule.
• Stunning views: Enjoy the illuminated Gubei Water Town in the distance while bathed in moonlight.
• All-inclusive transport costs: Toll, parking, and road fees are covered, no hidden charges.
• Additional services: WiFi on board, bottled water, and optional infant seats make it convenient.

In-Depth Look at the Tour

This experience takes you on a roughly eight-hour round trip from central Beijing, with the main highlight being the Simatai Great Wall—the only section open at night. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel (or other designated locations), in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. The journey itself is smooth, with WiFi onboard, making it easy to relax or plan your evening.

The first stop, the Simatai section, is renowned for its steep, rugged terrain and authentic architecture. Unlike the more restored and tourist-heavy sections like Badaling, Simatai offers a more untouched, wild feel that transports visitors back in time. The highlight here is walking along the ancient stones, illuminated subtly by lanterns and moonlight, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

You’ll ascend via cable car, which is included in the tour. The cable ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Gubei Water Town, giving you a spectacular perspective of the landscape. Once at the top, you’re free to hike along the Wall, soaking in the peaceful, almost mystical environment that only a night visit provides.

The night scene is what makes this tour stand out. As darkness falls, the scattered lights along the Wall and below in Gubei Water Town come alive, crafting a picture-perfect vista. Reviewers note that walking under the moonlit sky, with lanterns casting a warm glow, is a truly memorable experience. One traveler from a previous review shared that they “bathed in the moonlight, enjoying the scenery with a lantern echoing the lights at the mountain foot,” which perfectly captures the enchanting atmosphere.

Since admission tickets are not included, you’ll want to plan for purchasing yours separately, but the added cost is small compared to the overall value of the experience. The tour’s flexibility means you can stay on the Wall for as long as you like within the operating hours—17:30 to 22:30 in summer or 17:30 to 21:00 in winter—without feeling rushed.

The journey back to Beijing is equally hassle-free, with the driver waiting for you at the designated spot. Some reviews emphasize how smooth the process was, appreciating the clear communication and punctuality. For travelers arriving by train or airport, transfer options are available, making this tour adaptable to various travel plans.

The Authenticity and Viewpoints

Walking along the unrestored, rugged sections of Simatai at night offers a distinctly authentic experience that is often missed during crowded daytime visits. The scenery is stunning, and the feeling of being on a historic structure that’s seen centuries of history, bathed in moonlight, is unparalleled. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge, with one noting that their driver was “waiting exactly where we were told,” adding to the overall ease.

While no guided tour guide is included, the focus on private, flexible sightseeing allows for a more personal experience. You may want to do some prior research about the Wall’s history or bring a flashlight or lantern for added ambiance. The absence of a guide means you’ll have more freedom but might miss out on detailed storytelling unless you arrange for additional guiding services.

The Water Town and Night Views

Gubei Water Town, visible from the Wall, adds a picturesque backdrop. When lit up at night, it resembles a scene out of a fairy tale with traditional architecture reflected in the water, creating a peaceful contrast to the ruggedness of the Wall. Many reviews mention how the views of the Water Town enhance the overall experience, making it more than just a walk along stone steps.

Practicalities and Pricing

At $130 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the private transportation, cable car ride, and flexible itineraries. The cost of tickets to the Wall itself is not included, so travelers should budget a small additional fee. Since most reviews highlight how smooth the process was, the overall experience feels well worth the price.

The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind if plans change. Because it’s a private experience, only your group participates, ensuring a relaxed, intimate outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, authentic experience of the Great Wall rather than large group tours. It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure, interested in seeing the Wall in a unique, tranquil setting. Since it’s flexible and private, it’s also great for couples, small groups, or families with older children.

If you’re looking for a way to see the Great Wall away from the crowds, enjoy scenic views, and end your day with a peaceful walk under the moonlight, this night tour is an excellent choice. It combines adventure, stunning scenery, and comfort, all in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private pickup and drop-off from your central Beijing hotel. Transfer options from train stations and Beijing Airport are also available.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about eight hours, with approximately two hours dedicated to reaching and exploring the Simatai Great Wall.

Do I need to buy tickets to the Great Wall separately?
Yes, admission tickets are not included. You will need to purchase your ticket at the site, but the tour covers tolls and parking costs.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour runs from 17:30 to 22:30 in summer and 17:30 to 21:00 in winter, making it suitable year-round. Summer evenings offer longer daylight hours, but the night scene is lovely in winter too.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?
Yes, infant or baby seats are available if advised at the time of booking. The tour is open to most travelers, but consider the walking involved and cable car rides.

Is a guide included?
No, this is a self-guided, private experience. You’re free to explore at your own pace, though some travelers might prefer to bring a guidebook or use a mobile device for extra info.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, the tour departs at your convenience within the operating hours, ensuring a flexible schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a flashlight or lantern if desired, and your camera for capturing the stunning night views.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

This private night tour to the Simatai Great Wall combines scenic beauty, flexibility, and a touch of adventure. It’s a wonderful way to experience this iconic monument in a peaceful setting, away from the usual crowds. The views of Gubei Water Town lit up against the dark sky make for unforgettable memories, perfect for travelers seeking a more authentic and personal experience.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, walking along the rugged, unrestored sections of Simatai at night offers a fresh perspective on the Great Wall’s grandeur. The smooth logistics, private transport, and stunning vistas make this tour well worth considering, especially if you value comfort and personalized service.

This experience is best suited for those who crave a quieter, more atmospheric encounter with the Wall and are happy to explore independently. Its flexibility and scenic appeal make it a strong choice for romantic getaways, small groups, or anyone eager to see a different side of China’s most famous landmark.

Note: Always check the current operating hours and ticket availability before booking, and plan for some extra time to purchase your entrance ticket on-site.