Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall

Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: Great Wall hiking
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: Gubei Water Town
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: Gubei Water Town
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall
Photo of Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall: water town near Beijing
Address Simatai Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun District, Beijing
Hours 09:00-22:30
Phone +86 10 8100 9999
Announcement: AAAA Scenic Area & World Heritage
Entrance ¥180
Hours 09:00-22:30
Best Season Autumn and Winter (for hot springs)
Time needed 1-2 Days
Last visit: May 22, 2026
Author: Lei Li
Reviewer: Ying Zhang

Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Travel Guide

Simatai Great Wall Tickets: Prices, Night Tours & How to Book

Simatai Great Wall Tickets: Prices, Night Tours & How to Book

Bo Wu 2026-05-25 Verified

Planning to visit the Simatai Great Wall? This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about Simatai Great Wall tickets, including current prices, how to book online, night tour options, cable car access, and essential visiting tips to avoid crowds and save money.

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Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Overview

A rare combination of a beautiful recreated southern-style water town resting at the foot of the original, steep Simatai Great Wall.

Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 09:00-22:30
  • Best season: Autumn and Winter (for hot springs)
  • Ticket note: 140 CNY (Water Town) + 40 CNY (Simatai Great Wall)

Essential Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 10 8100 9999
  • Hot Springs
  • Hotels
  • Cable Car
  • Boat Rides

How to Get to Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall

Tourist express bus from Dongzhimen.

Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Travel Safety & Advice

Medical center in the water town. Emergency: 120

Practical Info

  • Simatai Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun District, Beijing
  • 09:00-22:30
  • +86 10 8100 9999
Lei Li
Lei Li
Certified Master Tour Guide
Lei Li, a Beijing-based Certified Master Tour Guide, specializes in North China itineraries covering the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

☆☆☆☆☆ — (0 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • 140 CNY (Water Town) + 40 CNY (Simatai Great Wall)

Online booking may be required

Tips

Simatai is the only section of the Great Wall open for night tours (with lanterns).

Reality Check

  • Long queues — arrive early
  • ID / passport may be required
  • Weather gamble
  • Cooler at higher elevation
  • Not fully accessible
  • No direct transit in some areas

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Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall Travel FAQ

Are prices inside Gubei Water Town much higher than outside?
Generally, yes, but with a crucial distinction. For generic souvenirs (keychains, hats), the markup is significant. For genuine artisan crafts, you're paying for the craftsmanship and the unique setting. You might find similar-quality silk or woodwork elsewhere, but not with designs specific to this location. View it as paying for the experience and authenticity, not just the object.
What's the one souvenir most tourists overlook but is actually worth it?
A personalized Chinese seal (chop). Several shops, often near calligraphy studios, will carve your name or a short phrase in Chinese characters into a stone or wood seal. It's functional (for stamping ink), deeply personal, and a craft that dates back thousands of years. It feels more meaningful than anything you can just grab off a shelf.
How do I get my purchases home safely if they're fragile?
First, buy fragile items like ceramics last. Be very clear when purchasing: "This is for travel, please wrap it very securely." (Zhege yao dalv you, qing bao de anquan xie). Use your clothing as padding in your suitcase. I always pack a few extra socks or t-shirts to wrap around delicate items. If it's extremely valuable, consider carrying it in your hand luggage, though check airline rules on certain items.
Is it possible to visit both Gubei and Simatai in one day from Beijing?
Technically yes, but it's a marathon and you'll be exhausted. You'll spend over 4 hours in a bus and have to rush through both sites. The day-trip crowds peak between 10 AM and 2 PM, so you'll experience the worst of the congestion. If one day is all you have, book the direct tourist bus, buy the combo ticket, and head straight for the Simatai shuttle upon arrival to hike first.
What should I wear for the Simatai hike?
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are non-negotiable—think hiking shoes or trail runners. The stone steps are worn smooth and can be slippery. Dress in layers; it can be windy and cooler on the Wall than in the town. A hat and sunscreen are essential, even in autumn. Carry a small backpack for water and a light jacket.
Is the night hike on Simatai Great Wall safe?
The night tour is on a specific, well-lit section (usually East 5 to East 6). It's heavily managed with guides and railings. It's safe in terms of organization, but it's not a hike. It's a controlled walk for the views and atmosphere. If you're seeking a real hiking challenge, the daytime is your only option.
How do I avoid the biggest crowds?
Avoid Chinese national holidays and summer weekends at all costs. Visit on a weekday. For Simatai, the golden hours are either first thing in the morning (if staying overnight) or late afternoon after 4 PM. Most package tours start leaving around then. I've had entire Wall sections almost to myself starting at 4:30 PM.
Is Gubei Water Town wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Gubei's main streets are paved and relatively flat, but the charm is in the alleys with steps and bridges. A wheelchair could navigate the core area with difficulty. Simatai Great Wall is absolutely not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. The cable car helps, but the Wall itself has only steep, uneven steps.
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