Unique Beijing Great Wall Day Tour from Shanghai: Explore Simatai and Relax in Picturesque Gubei Water Town

Tour Itinerary

In the evening, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel in Shanghai and take you comfortably to Shanghai Railway Station, assisting with your luggage and ensuring a smooth check-in for your overnight sleeper train. Enjoy a restful night in a cozy, air-conditioned cabin with comfortable bedding as you travel towards Beijing. Upon arrival the next morning at Beijing Railway Station, your personal local guide will be waiting at the arrival hall, easily recognizable with a “Your Way Holiday” sign. After a warm welcome, your guide will assist you with your belongings and accompany you to a private, air-conditioned vehicle. Sit back and relax on the scenic two-hour drive through Beijing’s outskirts and countryside to Gubei Water Town, where your guide will introduce the day’s highlights and prepare you for an immersive journey through the charming canals and the impressive Simatai Great Wall.

Upon arriving at Gubei Water Town, you’ll be transported into a stunning blend of history and nature, where traditional northern Chinese architecture meets tranquil canals and mountain views. Built in the style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the town features iconic landmarks such as the Wenchang Pavilion, historically dedicated to scholars seeking success in imperial examinations, and the Yongshun Dyehouse, where ancient fabric dyeing techniques from the Tang and Song Dynasties are still demonstrated. As you stroll through the Eight Banners Street, inspired by the Manchu military banners of the Qing Dynasty, or cross charming stone bridges reflecting the layout of classic water towns, you’ll experience the essence of China’s rich cultural heritage. Overlooking it all is the breathtaking Simatai Great Wall, constructed during the early Ming Dynasty in the 14th century, famous for its steep climbs and illuminated watchtowers at night. While deeply rooted in history, Gubei Water Town also embraces modern comforts, with stylish courtyard hotels, cozy cafés, and cultural experiences like shadow puppetry and traditional handcraft workshops, creating a unique space where the ancient and modern coexist in perfect harmony.

For lunch in Gubei Water Town, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic northern Chinese flavors in a charming local setting. Popular dishes often include Dongbei-style braised pork, rich and tender with a savory soy glaze, and steamed corn bread, a staple in the region’s rustic cuisine. Don’t miss the mutton hot pot, perfect for warming up after exploring the nearby Great Wall, featuring tender lamb cooked with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Freshwater fish from nearby rivers, prepared simply with ginger and scallions, also highlights the town’s connection to its natural surroundings. Paired with locally brewed herbal teas or traditional soy milk, your lunch here offers a delicious and comforting taste of Gubei’s culinary heritage.

After lunch, set out on an unforgettable journey to the Simatai Great Wall, renowned as one of the most well-preserved and visually breathtaking sections of the Ming Dynasty fortifications. You’ll have the option to ascend via a scenic cable car that offers sweeping panoramic views of the rugged, forested mountains and the serpentine wall stretching majestically along the steep ridges. Simatai is famous for its steep, challenging terrain and distinctive watchtowers—most notably the elegant Tower 14, which served as a vital military stronghold guarding Beijing’s northeastern frontier. Walking along the ancient stone steps, you can admire the remarkable engineering and strategic design that exemplify Ming-era military ingenuity. The surrounding landscape, with its jagged peaks, lush valleys, and misty forests, provides a dramatic and picturesque backdrop perfect for capturing stunning photographs that highlight the seamless blend of natural beauty and historic architecture. More than just a landmark, Simatai stands as a powerful symbol of China’s cultural resilience and heritage, inviting modern travelers to connect deeply with the past while immersing themselves in one of the country’s most spectacular scenic wonders.

After exploring the Great Wall, return to Gubei Water Town for a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the charming streets, where you can visit cozy cafés and quaint bookstores or take a peaceful boat ride around the canals to see the town from a unique perspective. For dinner, you have the freedom to choose from a variety of local options within the town, including delicious Peking roast duck or warming hot pot, perfect for ending your day. As night falls, the town is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere where you can admire the shimmering reflections on the water, the softly lit mountains, and the majestic silhouette of the Great Wall glowing in the distance—an unforgettable scene that perfectly captures the harmony of nature and history.

At the end of your day, your private driver will meet you in Gubei Water Town and escort you comfortably back to either Beijing Train Station or Beijing Capital Airport, depending on your onward travel plans. You’ll be able to relax in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle after a full day of exploration. Along the drive back, you can reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day—strolling through the peaceful canals of Gubei Water Town, tasting authentic northern Chinese cuisine, and standing atop the dramatic Simatai Great Wall with panoramic views stretching for miles. With stunning photos, rich cultural memories, and peaceful countryside impressions, you’ll end your Beijing journey on a perfect note, carrying home a truly special connection to China’s history and landscapes.

Price Per Person in US Dollars