Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: The Guide I Wish I’d Had
I’ve spent years gazing at photos of Gubei Water Town, imagining what it’s like to wander narrow stone alleyways with the Great Wall looming in the distance. This place has always felt almost mythical to me—a living painting where you get both ancient China and all the comforts of modern travel.
So here’s everything I’d want to know before planning a trip: the best ways in, what to splurge on, what to skip, and a few insider tricks to make the whole thing feel like your own secret find.
Why Gubei Water Town Is Worth Your Bucket List
Built in 2014 but styled after the Ming and Qing dynasties, Gubei Water Town sits at the foot of the Simatai section of the Great Wall—about two hours from Beijing (China Highlights). It’s like stepping onto a movie set, except it’s all real: twinkling lanterns over canals, teahouses with river views, and a wall that lights up gold at night. It’s not just for show, though. There’s a slow pace here that’s perfect for unwinding.
Quick Facts
- Location: Gubeikou Town, Miyun District, 120 km from central Beijing. (Travel China Guide)
- Opening Hours: Town: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM. Simatai Great Wall: Day visits until 3:00 PM, night tours from 5:00 PM.
- Size: Roughly 9 square kilometers—big enough to get lost, small enough to feel cozy.
What to Do (and What Not to Miss)
- Walk the Simatai Great Wall
Of all the Great Wall sections, this is the only one in Beijing open at night. Take the cable car up at sunset, then walk the illuminated wall as the town glows below. There are fewer crowds, and it’s pure magic. - Boat Rides Under Lanterns
Don’t skip the canals. You can charter a small boat for a private ride—especially romantic after dark when the lanterns sway overhead. - Try Something New
Taste Simatai’s famous liquor (fiery but fun), learn traditional silk dyeing at the Yongshun Dyeing House, or just sample local snacks. Make a detour to the Mountaintop Church for panoramic views (and a break from the crowds). - Soak in the Hot Springs
If you’re lucky enough to be here in winter, nothing beats a hot spring soak with snow drifting down around you (Wild Great Wall).
How Much It’ll Cost
- Water Town Entrance: CNY 150 (Official site prices)
- Simatai Great Wall (day): CNY 40
- Combo Ticket: CNY 170 (best deal)
- Cable Car (one way): CNY 110; Round trip: CNY 180
- Simatai Night Tour + Cable Car: CNY 160–280 depending on options
- Hotel Guest Discount: Free or CNY 80 entrance if you stay in a boutique hotel
When to Go
- Spring: Blossoms and mild days.
- Autumn: Crisp air, red-gold mountains—probably the best season (China Discovery).
- Summer: Lively evenings and open-air shows.
- Winter: Snowy rooftops and hot springs; fewer crowds.
Getting There
- Tourist Shuttle: Leaves from Dongzhimen, about 2 hours, CNY 48 one way (Travel China Guide).
- Public Transit + Shuttle: Take the S5 train to Gubeikou Station, then a 30-minute shuttle bus (CNY 10).
- Budget Option: City buses are cheapest but slow.
Where to Stay
You’ve got range: splurge on the Wangjing Tower Hotel for Great Wall views or try a cozy inn right on the canals. Prices range from CNY 300 to 3,000 a night. Many hotels include free or discounted entry tickets (China Discovery).
Insider Tips
- Best Photo Spot: The bridge near Riyuedao Square just after sunset—amazing light.
- Hidden Alley Finds: Check behind Yinghua Academy for artisan crafts.
- Food to Try: Simatai Braised Pork and hawthorn sweets.
- Pro Move: Stay overnight for early-morning walks before the day-trippers arrive.
Final Thoughts
Gubei Water Town is one of those rare places where everything feels a little dreamlike, especially if you plan it right and let yourself slow down. Go for the views, stay for the quiet moments, and don’t forget to look up when the lanterns come on.
If you’ve got questions or want a custom itinerary, just ask. Happy travels!
Really appreciated the clarity and depth in this piece.
Fantastic resource!
Thank you! I rally value the time you have taken to read my blog 🙂