If you’re looking for an unforgettable day trip from Beijing, Gubei Water Town is an ideal choice. Nestled at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall, Gubei Water Town offers a unique blend of ancient Chinese architecture, scenic canal views, and authentic cultural experiences.
Gubei Water Town is a beautiful destination throughout the year, offering unique seasonal charms that make each visit memorable. However, autumn is one of the best times to visit, as the landscape transforms with rich hues of red, orange, and yellow, which reflect off the canals and frame the historic architecture, so I highly recommend planning a trip here then!
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip, from getting there to enjoying a peaceful boat ride along the canals and hiking the Simatai Great Wall.
Getting to Gubei Water Town
There are two main ways to reach Gubei Water Town from Beijing: by bus or private taxi.
- By Bus: The best way by public transportation is to take a direct bus from Dongzhimen Bus Terminal, which offers daily routes to Gubei Water Town. The bus ride takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 48 RMB per person one-way. Plan to leave early in the morning to make the most of your time at the town and the Simatai Great Wall. Note: You need to line up for the bus and pay on the spot, and cannot book in advance. This makes it difficult if you are traveling with a large group – you cannot guarantee if seats will be available.
- By Private Taxi: For a more personalized and flexible experience, hiring a private taxi is a good option. This will cost more, typically between 1000-1300 RMB round-trip, depending on your negotiation skills and season. While this is more expensive than the bus, it allows you to control your schedule and may be worth it for groups or families looking for convenience.
If you’re seeking a recommendation or want to connect with a local Beijing driver, I have a service in Beijing I can connect you with. I’ve booked several trips with this company, and they will help arrange a car for you according to the destination you want to visit and how many people are with you.
You can add my WeChat below and I will share the contact info with you. Alternatively, the driver service also uses WhatsApp (I currently do not). You can send me a DM on Instagram (@rachelmeetschina) or drop me an email (rachellynnweiss@gmail.com) and I can connect you.
Entrance Fees and Tickets
To fully experience Gubei Water Town, make sure you’re aware of the ticket options:
- Entrance Ticket: 140 RMB for an adult ticket. This ticket gives you access to the entire water town, allowing you to explore the beautifully preserved architecture, winding canals, and cultural exhibits.
- Boat Ride: For an additional 80 RMB, you can enjoy a serene boat ride through the canals. The boat ride is a must-try, offering a unique perspective of the town’s picturesque water views. Each boat can hold a small group, making it ideal for families or friends to experience together.
Highlights of Gubei Water Town
Gubei Water Town is known for its traditional Chinese architecture and immersive cultural attractions. Here are a few must-see highlights:
- Yongshun Dye House: This ancient dye house allows visitors to try their hand at traditional dyeing techniques. It’s a fun way to experience local craftsmanship and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
- Sima Liquor Distillery: Here, you can learn about the art of Chinese baijiu-making and sample a variety of unique flavors. It’s an excellent spot for foodies or those interested in China’s culinary traditions.
- Water Town Canal: A walk along the canals in Gubei Water Town is simply breathtaking, especially during mid to late October when the vibrant fall colors reflect off the water.
Staying Overnight in Gubei Water Town
To fully appreciate Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall, consider spending a night at one of the town’s charming guesthouses or hotels. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy the town in the early morning or evening, avoiding the peak daytime crowds.
- Wtown Hotel: This is a comfortable, family-friendly option with spacious rooms and modern amenities. It’s close to the water town’s main attractions, so you’ll have easy access to everything.
- Gubei Zhiguang Hot Spring Hotel: For a more luxurious stay, this hotel features hot springs and traditional architecture, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Hiking the Simatai Great Wall
Simatai is a scenic section of the Great Wall, with breathtaking views and steep climbs that showcase the Wall’s architectural marvel. Since it’s a quieter section compared to the more tourist-heavy spots like Badaling, Simatai offers a more authentic experience. Simatai is one of the only sections you can hike on at night as well.
- Ticket Cost and Hours: The ticket for the Simatai Great Wall is approximately 40 RMB. The best time to visit is either in the early morning or late afternoon to catch the sunrise or sunset, which highlights the fall colors beautifully.
- Cable Car: If you prefer not to hike the steep inclines, the cable car is available for an additional fee (usually around 120 RMB round-trip). The cable car ride provides a fantastic aerial view of the Great Wall and the surrounding landscape, especially when the autumn leaves are in full color.
- Autumn Foliage: Mid to late October is ideal for visiting the Simatai Great Wall, as the mountains are covered in stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow. The autumn colors contrast beautifully with the Wall, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Tips for Visiting in October
- Weather: October weather in this area is typically mild but can get chilly, especially in the evening. Be sure to dress in layers and bring a warm jacket.
- Photography: Bring a good camera! The combination of ancient architecture, colorful foliage, and scenic landscapes make for some incredible shots.
- Plan for Crowds: While October is a beautiful time to visit, it’s also quite popular. If you’re visiting during the National Holiday (first week of October), plan for larger crowds. Booking tickets and accommodations in advance is highly recommended.
Take a Trip to Gubei Water Town
Visiting Gubei Water Town and the Simatai Great Wall in October is a truly enchanting experience, where history, nature, and Chinese culture blend seamlessly. With the right planning, you can enjoy the beauty of the autumn leaves, explore the canals, and walk along the ancient stones of the Great Wall all in one day. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying overnight, this trip will leave you with unforgettable memories and stunning photos.
