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Simatai Great Wall
司马台长城
5.8
4.7/5
1,582 Review
based on 501 reviews
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in BEIJING W TOWNOpening hours of Simatai Great Wall
Recommended sightseeing time: 3–5 hours
Address:
North of Simatai Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun County, Beijing
Map
Phone:Ticket inquiry: +86-10-81009999|+86-10-81008010
Simatai Great Wall Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions
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AuthenticGreat WallAttraction]
Simatai Great Wall is one of the latest opened sections in BeijingGreat WallAttraction, located at the border of Beijing and Hebei, has preservedMing Great WallThe original Great Wall was built along razor-edged mountain ridges, making it extremely precipitous and creating diverse wall forms in this section. The eastern segment has 16 watchtowers, while the western segment has 18.BadalingCompared to other attractions like the Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall is farther from the city center, so it has always had few visitors.Badaling Great WallThat kind of overcrowding phenomenon. In addition, the Simatai Great Wall was developed relatively late, avoiding the issue of excessive renovation, and withBadaling Great WallIn comparison, this place appears more authentic, with dilapidated walls and ruins stretching as far as the eye can see. Every fall, the red leaves here attract many travelers to admire the crimson-covered mountains from the ancient Great Wall, offering a completely different experience from viewing the foliage at Fragrant Hills.
Simatai Great Wall east section introduction:
Simatai one-sided wall is now open:
The Simatai Great Wall, hailed by UNESCO as the "original Great Wall," was officially inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987. It has gained global acclaim for its five distinctive marvels: thrilling ascents, dense watchtower distribution, picturesque scenery, ingenious design, and complete preservation. The Times of the UK once ranked it as the "top of the world's 25 must-see landscapes." A professional saying circulates in the industry: only by climbing Simatai can one truly understand the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. Unlike other standardized restoration sections, Simatai completely retains its authentic Ming-era features, serving as the definitive model for studying the military engineering, frontier defense wisdom, and architectural aesthetics of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall.
The opening of the Simatai single-sided wall showcases one of the rarest and most unique ridge-core remnants along the Great Wall. Centered around this perfectly preserved Ming Dynasty single-sided wall as its landmark feature, complemented by four exceptionally rare original Ming structures, these layered and mutually enhancing elements create China's only authentic outdoor classroom of Ming frontier defense. Together, they fully reconstruct the military system and cultural heritage of the Great Wall as it existed six centuries ago.
Single-sided wall [the Great Wall's perfectly preserved single-sided wall]:
The single-sided wall, as an irreplaceable gem of the Great Wall, is the only surviving original structure of its kind along the entire wall, with no replicas or restoration alterations, preserving the authentic architectural style of the Ming dynasty. Ming border garrison troops mastered the military strategy of "using terrain to fortify defenses," innovating the wall's construction by leveraging Simatai's steep ridges and cliffs: abandoning the conventional dual-wall structure, they utilized the sheer outer cliffs as a natural defensive barrier, building only a single orderly defensive wall on the inner side, creating the unique marvel of the single-sided wall.
It is not a naturally collapsed ruin, but a functional structure deliberately designed, precisely laid out, and completely preserved under Ming military planning, serving as the physical embodiment of Qi Jiguang's frontier defense philosophy. This entire wall section perfectly integrates natural barriers with man-made defenses, shattering the public's conventional perception of the Great Wall as having "twin high walls in continuous regularity." Walking along the single-sided wall on the precipitous ridge, with one side flanked by the solid ancient Ming wall and the other by sheer cliffs dropping thousands of feet, visitors directly experience both the majestic grandeur and the harsh realities of Ming frontier defense.
It is precisely because of this unique form and heritage that the industry consensus emerged: only by climbing Simatai can one truly understand the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. Ascending this single-sided wall allows genuine comprehension of the ancients' supreme military wisdom in "using natural barriers as defenses and craftsmanship to repel enemies," as well as the Ming Great Wall's construction philosophy of adapting to local conditions and following natural advantages. It serves as a precious physical specimen for studying the Ming Dynasty Great Wall's frontier defense system and architectural techniques.
[Four rare supporting relics]
1. Octagonal dome-top watchtower: A rare octagonal watchtower on the Great Wall, built without wooden beams or iron nails, relying solely on interlocking brick-and-stone physics for load-bearing, representing the pinnacle of Ming Dynasty masonry craftsmanship;
2. Twin lotus stone carving: an original Ming dynasty relief carving on the arched gate of the enemy tower, embodying soldiers' wishes for national peace and family reunion on the frontier;
3. Ming dynasty wall-attached platform: The only intact original wall-attached platform along the entire Beijing Great Wall, used for stationing troops and storing military provisions, restoring the authentic scenes of frontier defense life;
4. Arrow window arch lintel: The original Ming dynasty brick and stone arch features refined lines, embodying the architectural aesthetics of the Ming dynasty Great Wall.
The Simatai Great Wall takes the single-sided wall as its core framework and four exceptionally rare original Ming structures as its cultural pillars, perfectly preserving the historical appearance, military system, and humanistic stories of the 600-year-old Ming Dynasty Great Wall. This opening strictly follows the cultural relic revitalization principle of "minimal intervention and preservation of original state," bringing these long-secluded frontier remnants out of obscurity and transforming them into a living cultural classroom accessible to the public for climbing, viewing, interpreting, and reflecting. It truly achieves mutual empowerment between heritage conservation, cultural transmission, and tourism integration, enabling more people to ascend the Simatai Great Wall and understand the Ming Dynasty Great Wall.
Travel route reference
The hiking trail at Simatai Great Wall is relatively steep. It takes more than 1 km of uphill walking from the foot of the mountain to the watchtower, requiring a certain level of physical strength. At the base of the Great Wall, there is a cableway that directly reaches near "East Tower 8" and "East Tower 5". Visitors with limited physical strength can choose to take it. The cableway costs CNY 90 for a one-way trip and CNY 160 for a round-trip.
Simatai Great Wall Reviews: Insider Insights and Visitor Experiences
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Simatai Great Wall Photos: Trip Moments
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The Great Wall of China Without the Crowds: Where Is It Possible?In mid-April, we visited Gubei, a picturesque Chinese water town nestled at the foot of the Simatai section of the Great Wall. We stayed here for two nights, booking two hotels right in town via Trip.com. Unfortunately, we missed the express bus and had to take local buses, arriving in the evening. The entire town is beautifully illuminated 🏮🏮🏮 -shimmering with glowing lanterns that reflect in the canals, creating a magical fairy-tale vibe. On our first night, we caught a spectacular fire show and then wound down in the hot spring pools. We woke up to a quiet morning with hardly anyone around. A light drizzle didn’t ruin our plans to visit the Great Wall, though it did change how we got there. Instead of hiking up, we took the cable car🚠. We lucked out with clear, fog-free weather, and the views were truly breathtaking: the winding silhouette of the wall against the mountains looked surreal and majestic. We hiked past 10 watchtowers almost completely alone, only occasionally bumping into a few other tourists (mostly fellow Russians!). By the way, this section of the wall is lit up at night, making it possible to explore even after sunset. After our hike, we headed back into town, climbed up to the pagoda🛕, and rang the bell a few times. We took our time wandering the endless alleys filled with inviting little shops 🏫 (you can collect a souvenir stamp at almost every single one). We also checked out the local winery and a traditional fabric-dyeing workshop. That's where I found the perfect souvenir—a cashmere shawl in Gubei's signature colors, which now holds very warm memories of this incredible place.♥️♥️♥️OlyaBaikal
Romantic Beijing One-Day Tour | Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall, create unforgettable memories on the Great Wall💫 In Beijing, find romance in the sunset and lights of the Simatai Great Wall Whether you are traveling as a couple, on your honeymoon, or looking for the perfect photo spot, this place has an incredible vibe❗ Gubei Water Town, a northern water town, paired with the magnificent Simatai Great Wall for a worry-free, one-stop trip. Trip highlights ✅ Round-trip bus transfers with city center departure, so you don't have to worry about driving ✅ In-depth exploration of Gubei Water Town, featuring small bridges, flowing water, and dyeing workshop alleys—perfect photo spots everywhere ✅ Climb the Simatai Great Wall to chase the sunset, wait for nightfall, and watch the Great Wall lights slowly illuminate for the ultimate romantic experience ✅ Guided service included to help you understand the history behind the ancient town and the Great Wall ✅ Ticket booking assistance to save you the hassle and help you easily start your romantic journey Stroll through the ancient town during the day, browse small shops at your leisure, and enjoy the water town scenery. Climb the Great Wall at dusk as the evening breeze brushes against the walls and the sunset paints the mountains. When the lights come on, they wind along the Great Wall, making it the perfect spot for couples to take photos and capture memorable moments. Perfect for friends traveling together, couples on their honeymoon, or international visitors to China. Travel tips ▪️ There is a significant temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light jacket if traveling in autumn ▪️ Allow plenty of time if you want to photograph the sunset and night views ▪️ International visitors should bring their original passport and confirm the number of travelers and the time before departure北京明远未来国际文旅有限公司
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Simatai: A Journey Over 400-Year-Old Stones🏔️ Simatai is a truly unique section of the Great Wall of China. With 10 watchtowers open to the public, this part of the wall remains in its raw, original state—untouched by modern restoration, complete with crumbling bricks and the profound marks of time 🏯 Instead of taking the cable car back, we chose to hike down right along the wall itself 🚶♀️ Step by step, tower after tower. The steps are uneven, worn down by centuries, and sometimes so steep you have to grip the parapet for balance 🧗 But each step reveals views you would miss from above: the ancient curves of the wall disappearing into forested peaks and watchtowers that have stood in silent vigil for hundreds of years. Do you know the feeling of walking on stones laid over 400 years ago? This wall remembers the heavy tread of soldiers, the glow of watch fires, and the rising signal smoke 🔥 You aren’t just following a trail; you’re walking in their footsteps. Not as a mere tourist, but as a living part of this history 🥾 The descent took about an hour ⏳ and it was more than just a hike—it was a moment of pure contemplation. In the silence, broken only by your own footsteps 🍃 as the wall stretches toward the horizon, you realize: this is the real Great Wall. It’s not a polished postcard; it’s raw, authentic, and very much alive ❤️ There’s a Chinese proverb: "不到长城非好汉" — "He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true hero." But I would add this: those who walk it tower by tower, stone by stone, carry away a piece of that eternity with them 🌄Ekaterina Minkashova
Staying at a 'fairy' hotel in Gubei Water Town, the family trip was so healing.The 'Little Kyoto of the North' at the foot of the Great Wall is truly perfect for kids. Small bridges over flowing water, bluestone paths, sculling boats, and drone sky lantern shows make it feel like you've traveled to a Jiangnan water town. A leisurely two-day, one-night trip, the kids had a blast, and parents could relax too. The Sima'tai Great Wall night tour was absolutely amazing. China's most perilous Great Wall, the only one to retain its original Ming Dynasty appearance, and the night tour is truly fantastic. Cable car one-way 90 RMB, round-trip 160 RMB. Night tour open from 17:30-21:40. Admission 40 RMB / person. We took the cable car up the mountain at dusk, watching the sky slowly darken and the Great Wall lights illuminate. The awe was truly indescribable. Standing on the Great Wall, overlooking the panoramic view of the water town, with thousands of lights, it was truly beautiful. My child said, "Mommy, it looks like stars have fallen here." There weren't many people on the night tour of the Great Wall, it was very quiet. Feeling the breeze and watching the night view, that feeling was truly healing. Remember to wear non-slip shoes; some parts of the Great Wall are quite steep. The Great Wall is also beautiful during the day, with fewer people, allowing for a leisurely stroll. We went again the next morning and walked the family-friendly section, which wasn't very steep, and the child walked the entire way by themselves. Climbing high to see the panoramic view of the water town, with green mountains and clear waters, was exceptionally beautiful. · -- Limited night tour experiences are incredibly exciting. The Great Wall Music Water Dance Show on Wangjing Street, around 19:50 every night, lasts 15 minutes per show, combining music, lights, mist, and fire. It's truly spectacular. The child watched intently and wanted to see it again after it ended. The mist in the front rows is quite heavy, so it's recommended to bring an umbrella. Drone Sky Lantern Performance at Riyuedao Square, one show each at 20:20 and 21:50 every night. Hundreds of drones form various patterns, and finally, sky lanterns rise, which is truly romantic. The child looked up, very excited, saying, "Mommy, there are so many stars in the sky." Lantern Night Tour from 17:30-18:30, ticket + lantern approximately 120 RMB / person. Walking through the ancient streets with a lantern, the atmosphere is absolutely enchanting. Ancient Pagoda Iron Flower Show at Deyuelou Front Square, an intangible cultural heritage molten iron performance, with iron sparks flying everywhere. It's truly stunning, and the child watched in amazement. · -- Rich family-friendly experiences. Yongshun Dyeing Workshop offers traditional dyeing, blue calico, and tie-dye DIY for about 50 RMB / person. The child made a piece of blue calico by hand and felt a great sense of accomplishment. Yinghua Academy offers movable type printing experience, explaining the Four Great Inventions to children, which is very educational. Shadow Puppet Theater offers DIY shadow puppet characters and shadow puppet shows. The child even got to operate a shadow puppet themselves, which was very fun. Tongwan Hall is Beijing's No.1 indoor children's playground, with 10+ themed areas. An all-day pass is 128 RMB, and the child played there for three hours and didn't want to leave. Eight Banners Equestrian Experience includes a 20-minute ride and photos, suitable for ages 3+. It was the child's first time riding a horse, and they were very brave, wanting to ride again after one lap. Sculling boat tour on Yuanyang Lake is 80 RMB one-way, 120 RMB round-trip. Sitting on the sculling boat, admiring the ancient buildings on both banks, and listening to the sound of the oars, is truly delightful. · -- Accommodation 🏨 Gubei Water Town Gubei Light Resort Hotel A prime hotel in the heart of the water town, directly facing Riyuedao Square, with a kids' club / swimming pool / family rooms, and a super fun daily bubble party. 🏨 Gubei Water Town Hotel First choice for self-driving families, with direct access to the scenic area from the underground parking. The castle-style building is nestled by mountains and water, offering distant views of the Sima'tai Great Wall, and complete family amenities. 🏨 Gubei Water Town Yu She Boutique Hotel A Japanese-style boutique hotel where you can enjoy private in-room hot springs without leaving. The duplex family rooms are spacious, and its central location in the scenic area makes getting around super convenient. 🏨 Beijing Gubei Yunzhu Family Theme Villa A family-themed villa at the foot of the Sima'tai Great Wall, offering various animation-themed family rooms. The duplex three-story space is large, and it's super convenient, just 50 meters from the scenic area. · --LunarNomad_012
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The Most Serene Stretch of the Great Wall: SimataiOf all the sections along the Great Wall of China, Simatai resonated with me the most. It doesn’t feel like a typical tourist trap; instead, it feels like a living piece of history, preserved almost exactly as it was centuries ago. What sets Simatai apart is its raw authenticity, minimal restoration, and the unique opportunity for night visits. While many sections near major cities feel over-restored, Simatai retains its rugged charm. The stone steps are uneven, the towers look genuinely ancient, and the wall itself seems to grow naturally out of the mountain terrain. This gives the entire experience a much more authentic and atmospheric feel. We arrived early in the morning, which turned out to be the perfect move. We had the wall almost entirely to ourselves, allowing us to soak in the views and the silence. Even with the sweltering heat, the scenery was so breathtaking that I found myself stopping every few minutes just to take it all in. Since Simatai follows the jagged mountain ridges, the views feel endless. The wall winds sharply upward before stretching out toward the horizon, surrounded by vast, open spaces free from modern skyscrapers or city noise. At times, it was hard to believe Beijing was so close; it felt like we were miles away from civilization. The sheer scale of the place is something photos just can't capture. It’s hard to convey the true magnitude of these mountains or the way the wall disappears into the distance. It’s only when you’re standing there that you truly grasp the monumental feat of its construction. By the time we started our descent in the late afternoon, the crowds had begun to swell, making us realize how lucky we were to have experienced it in the morning. Simatai felt like a genuine step back in time—peaceful, quiet, and offering some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in China.VladislavTru
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Beijing Getaway: Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall.⭐️⭐️Lighting Up the Beijing Night: Gubei Water Town & Simatai Great Wall⭐️⭐️ The absolute highlight of a Beijing trip! Discover the water town and the Great Wall that shine even brighter at night. ✔️ Gubei Water Town (古北水镇) is a sprawling water town nestled at the foot of the Great Wall, blending antique Ming and Qing dynasty architecture with scenic waterways. The harmony of majestic mountains and tranquil waters has earned it the nickname "Jiangnan Water Town of the North." ✔️ Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城) is the only section of the Great Wall in China perfectly preserved in its original state and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Built along rugged terrain, it boasts magnificent views. Notably, it's the only section open for night tours, offering a breathtaking nighttime view of the town from above. ✔️ Every night at the Gubei Water Town square, mesmerizing drone and fountain shows take place. The lanterns illuminating every corner of the village create a romantic vibe, making it a top spot for Instagram-worthy shots. 🕒 How to Get There from Downtown Beijing & Travel Time Distance: Located about 120 km northeast of downtown Beijing (departing from Dongzhimen). Travel Time: * Direct Shuttle Bus: Departs from Dongzhimen (东直门) Outer Bus Station and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Private Car/Taxi: Takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours without traffic. Recommended Itinerary: Arrive around 2–3 PM to soak in the daytime scenery of the town, take the cable car up to the Simatai Great Wall before sunset to enjoy the night views, catch the evening shows, and then head back. 🍽️ Travel Info Summary Must-Try Food: * Various local street foods at the Gubei Water Town food alley, including Gubei roasted pears (梨), spicy fried tofu, and lamb skewers. Admission Fees: * Gubei Water Town Ticket: 140 RMB Simatai Great Wall Night Ticket (including cable car): Approx. 160 RMB (subject to change) 📍 Address: Simatai Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun District, Beijing (北京市密云区古北口镇司马台村) ⏰ Operating Hours: 09:00 ~ 22:30 (Night admission hours vary by season) 🚘 Parking: Available at the large parking lot at the entrance of Gubei Water Townmckmk9
1h from Beijing | You're really missing out if you don't visit here in autumn!Gubei Water Town in autumn is so beautiful it leaves you speechless 🍁 Just a short drive from Beijing, you can escape to this water town nestled under the Great Wall, surrounded by red leaves. ✨ Trip Highlights (Don't miss these) ▪️ Night tour of Simatai Great Wall: The only section of the Great Wall that retains its original Ming Dynasty appearance. Take the cable car up at dusk and watch the town's lights flicker on below—it's breathtaking. ▪️ Yongshun Dyehouse: The courtyard is draped in blue and white fabric that ripples like clouds in the breeze. Against the backdrop of autumn leaves, every photo looks like a masterpiece. ▪️ Autumn boat ride: A rare experience in the north—seeing the town from the water. With the afternoon sun hitting the canals as you drift under stone bridges, you might just forget you're not in the south. ▪️ Drone show: The signature performance at Sun and Moon Island Square after dark. The moment the sky lanterns rise, you'll know the ticket was worth it. 📅 How to plan We recommend arriving in the afternoon to explore the dyehouse and winery while it's still light out. The evening is the highlight: Take a boat ride to watch the sunset → Climb the Great Wall for the night view → Head down just in time for the drone show. If you have time, stay overnight—the town is truly stunning in the quiet of the early morning. 🍜 Quick bites Bridgehead cakes, shredded radish pancakes, and tofu cubes—everything made fresh on the street is delicious. A warm baked pear is perfect for holding in your hands on an autumn day. ⚠️ Travel tips · There's a big temperature difference in autumn, so be sure to bring a jacket for the Great Wall at night. · It gets very crowded on weekends, so try to visit on a weekday if you can. · Tickets are valid for a single entry on the day of use, so plan your time accordingly. Before the leaves fall, come catch the autumn breeze at the foot of the Great Wall 🍂Amelia Ainsworth71
We booked the day tour to Gubei + the great wall at Simatai. The town looked beautiful during the day but when it gets dark and lights turn on, oh my. I would definitely want to return for the night tour, it was simply breathtaking! Our guide Susie was amazing too - very helpful. Part of our group didn't speak english well, so Susie had prepared all information in chinese (which they translated in an app), sent it in our group chat, so everyone would have it available on their phones at any time. Highly recommend for foreigners!4tunecookie
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Simatai Great Wall: The Most Stunning and Mystical Mountain Ridge Section in China🏯🇨🇳 Simatai Great Wall: An ancient architectural marvel perched atop mountain ridges, widely considered one of China's most beautiful and mystical sections of the Wall. For those seeking a Great Wall experience away from the usual crowds, Simatai is a must-visit. Located northeast of Beijing, it is famous for its steep, winding sections that hug the mountain peaks. Dotted with ancient watchtowers, the panoramic views offer a profound sense of stepping back into the Ming Dynasty. 🏔️ ✨ Highlights You Can't Miss: · East Watchtowers: Explore the historic wall and towers (please note only specific sections are open to the public). · Heavenly Ladder: A thrilling, near-vertical climb that serves as a perfect challenge for hiking enthusiasts. · Cable Car: Take a scenic ride to the top for a bird's-eye view of the wall snaking across the ridges. · Night Tour: The crown jewel of Simatai—experience the wall illuminated under the night sky. · Gubei Water Town: A charming replica of an ancient Chinese town at the base of the wall, perfect for dining, exploring, and overnight stays. 🌙 Unique Charm: Simatai is one of the rare sections of the Great Wall that offers night tours. The sight of the illuminated wall silhouetted against the mountains, mirroring the lights of the town below, is truly magical. Note: The night tour is restricted to the path between towers 5 and 6. 💡 2026 Travel Update: Daytime adult tickets are 40 RMB, while the night tour is priced at 200 RMB (per official Beijing tourism data). Entry times and conditions vary by season, so be sure to check cable car schedules and book in advance, particularly during peak holidays. 📍 Travel Info: It's a 2 to 2.5-hour journey from central Beijing. We recommend pairing it with a visit to Gubei Water Town and staying overnight to fully enjoy the transition from day to night. Simatai Great Wall offers a profound encounter with history, stunning alpine scenery, and an unforgettable nocturnal atmosphere that showcases the true grandeur of the Great Wall. 🧡methawee_vvy
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Simatai: The Cable Car to the WallAt Simatai, you can reach the wall in two ways: hiking or taking the cable car. We opted for the cable car—and we definitely didn't regret it. 🏔️ Simatai: The Cable Car to the Wall At Simatai (Simatai), you can ascend the wall in two ways: on foot or by cable car. We chose the cable car—and we didn't regret it one bit. The cable car takes you up to the 8th watchtower 🚡 In just 7 minutes, you’re at the top. It’s more than just a ride; it feels like a teleport: one moment you’re standing at the base among the tourists, and the next, you’re above the clouds with the wall stretching across the mountain ridges beneath your feet 🐉 Once there, we realized there are two paths from the cable car to the tower 👀 🔹 One is a steep, almost vertical climb directly up the wall. 🔹 The second is a gentler bypass route leading toward the 5th tower. Naturally, we chose the first one 😅 And... man, was it exhausting. Even after reaching the tower, our legs were throbbing like we’d trekked miles instead of just a hundred meters 🦵 Then we spotted the second, flatter entrance—it would have been so much easier. But we only found that out after the climb. Classic! 🤦♀️ So here’s a tip: if you want an easier time, look for the gentle path toward the 5th tower. We found out about it way too late 😄Ekaterina Minkashova
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Simatai Views🔥Epic Beijing Adventure: Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town 🚶♂️🔥 If you're craving a wild slice of the Great Wall—one that's a bit less crowded and totally photogenic—Simatai is your spot! Located north of Simatai Village (Gubeikou Town, Miyun County), this section packs steep climbs, killer mountain views, and connects right next to the dreamy Gubei Water Town (seriously, bring your camera!). The walk is challenging but 100% worth it for the epic sunrise/sunset vibes, plus it's open for both daytime and night visits (check below for timings!). Top Spot: Simatai Great Wall 📍 North of Simatai Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun County, Beijing 🕐 Opening hours (May–Oct): 9:00–17:00 & 18:00–22:40 | (Nov–Apr): 9:00–17:00 & evenings varying by day (till 20:40–21:10) 💸 Entrance: 40 RMB Travel Hack: Wear real hiking shoes—the path is steep and rugged! Pack water, and don't skip warm layers if you're heading for sunset/night (it gets windy). Next Door Gem: Gubei Water Town offers food, tea houses, and pure vibes, and it's perfect for chilling post-wall climb. Hot tip: Check out a local noodle shop for hearty eats. Pro tip: Staying overnight in Gubei lets you hit the Wall early for fewer crowds! Getting Around: 🚌 Buses run from Beijing city (Wangjing Traffic Hub station) or book a shuttle via trip.com for max convenience. #SimataiGreatWall #BeijingAdventure #ChinaTravel #GubeiWaterTown #tripdotcom Adventure_TI***e6
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Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall.📄Gubei Water Town and the Simatai section of the Great Wall offer one of the most scenic and atmospheric travel routes around Beijing. It's the perfect choice for those who want to experience the Wall not as a heavily commercialized tourist spot, but as a rugged ancient fortress, while also enjoying a romantic stroll through a beautifully styled, traditional water town. ✨Gubei is a modern reconstruction of a northern Chinese village, inspired by the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, a river flows right through its center. The banks are linked by elegant stone bridges, building facades are draped in ivy, and hundreds of lanterns light up the town as evening falls. The area is fully functional, complete with hotels, restaurants, boutique shops, and traditional craft workshops. The seven-story pagoda stands out as one of the town's major landmarks. From its upper levels, you can take in breathtaking views of the rooftops, canals, and the mountain ridges where the Great Wall winds its way along the peaks. The evening lights make Gubei feel truly magical. Lanterns lining the water's edge, the warm glow from the windows, and their reflections on the river create the perfect setting for a leisurely walk and stunning photos. ☀The Simatai Great Wall is one of the rare sections that still retains its raw, original charm. Unlike the crowded Badaling section, there are fewer guardrails, some steps are naturally weathered, and the path climbs steep, dramatic inclines. This is exactly why Simatai is known as a more challenging, yet incredibly rewarding hike. 📄Taking the cable car is a great way to reach the starting point of the hike. The ride offers sweeping panoramic views of the mountain ranges and the serpentine path of the Wall. Keep in mind that the cable car might close after heavy rain or hail, in which case you'll need to hike up on foot. 🤝Important note: Hiking the Simatai section requires comfortable walking shoes and a basic level of fitness. Flip-flops, smooth-soled shoes, or high heels are a big no. Make sure to pack some water, a light jacket (it can get pretty windy up high), and a raincoat, as mountain weather can be quite unpredictable.Olga Teacher
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Forbidden City Ticket with Optional Guide Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Afternoon Day TourMutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Tickets | Exclusive Visitor Center + Free Shuttle + Fast Entry | EN/ES/RU Guides | 5-Hour Visit, Skip the ticket LineMutianyu Great Wall Day Trip & Includes Chairlift/Toboggan Ticket / Private Car Rental Available for 2 People or MoreBeijing Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip | Daily 7:30-11:45 | Round Trip + Entrance TicketPrivate Mutianyu Great Wall Trip With English-speaking DriverBadaling Great Wall Day Trip Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour with Hotel Pickup, maximum 12 people.Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip | ZANBUS | 7:30-11:45 TourBeijing Private Airport Transfer: From PEK/PKX Airport to Downtown Hotels and Vice VersaForbidden City Tour with Entry Ticket Included Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City &Treasure Museum Small-Group TourPrivate Tour: Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City Included Admission TicketsMutianyu Great Wall Private Self-Guide Trip With English Speaking Driver Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace One-Day Tour Beijing Travel EssentialsBeijing TransportationBeijing Day ToursBeijing Spa & MassageWater Activities in BeijingBeijing Bus TicketsBeijing Cultural ExperienceBeijing ActivitiesBeijing Sports & AdventureThings to do in ShanghaiThings to do in BeijingThings to do in Hong KongThings to do in OsakaThings to do in ZhangjiajieThings to do in SingaporeThings to do in ChongqingThings to do in TokyoThings to do in GuangzhouThings to do in Xi'anThings to do in ChinaThings to do in JapanThings to do in ThailandThings to do in VietnamThings to do in South KoreaMore recommendations
Popular Types of Attractions in Beijing
Historical attractions | Sightseeing tours | Night view | Boat tour | Cable car | Outdoor activities | Climbing & viewpoints | Shooting | Parks | Amusement parks | Ice and snow parks | Film and television bases | Nature and wildlife | Climbing & viewpoints | Natural scenery | Beaches and shores | Cultural institutions | Themed exhibition halls | Museums | Science & technology museums | Exhibitions & events | Performances | Concerts | Exhibitions | Leisure activities | Spa/massage | Farms and pastures | Camping and campsites | Water sports | Rafting
Popular Restaurants in Beijing
RI TAN SHUAN ROU | PEKING CHAMBER | Bei Jing Dou Yi Chu Shao Mai Guan (Qian Men) | HUA'S RESTAURANT | NAN MEN HOTPOT | Bianyifang Restaurant | Xiaodiaolitang Beijing Cuisine & Roast Duck (Bird's Nest Branch) | Yaoji Chao Gan (Gulou Branch) | Ciqikou Old Bean Juice Shop (Shop The Temple) | HUDA RESTAURANT | The Horizon Chinese Restaurant | Country Kitchen | QUANJUDE | HaiWan Ju (ZengGuang Road Main Branch) | 天兴居(鲜鱼口街店) | Huguo Temple Snacks (Huguo Temple Flagship Store) | HeHua Tai Cai (ShuangZiZuo) | Niu Jie Ju Bao Yuan (Niujie Original Branch) | In & Out Lijiang Theme Restaurant (Sanlitun) | BaoRui MenDing RouBing | Chenji Braised Intestine Restaurant | Yin San Douzhi (Tiantan Branch) | Kao Rou Ji | Liuji Zhizi Barbecue (Hufang Bridge Branch) | Ju De Lou Fan Zhuang Roast Duck & Beijing-Shandong Cuisine (Jinsong Branch) | Menkuang Hutong Century-Old Luzhu (Xinjiekou Branch) | XiaoXiang Ge (SanlitunSOHO) | Niujie Halal Man Heng Ji | JIANGNAN GARDEN | ZIGUANGYUAN
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Popular Ranked Lists
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Popular Trip Moments
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More Things To Do in Beijing
Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Tickets | Exclusive Visitor Center + Free Shuttle + Fast Entry | EN/ES/RU Guides | 5-Hour Visit, Skip the ticket Line | Beijing The Palace Museum guide tour *including admission ticket (optional English, Russian, Spanish) | Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip & Includes Chairlift/Toboggan Ticket / Private Car Rental Available for 2 People or More | Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City &Treasure Museum Small-Group Tour( Eng, Esp or Rus Opt) | Beijing Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square Half-Day Guided Tour | Guide Exp & Admission | Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip | ZANBUS | 7:30-11:45 Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall 1-day tour | Bus departure between 7 am-2 pm + optional guide in English, Chinese, Russian or Spanish + no shopping | Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall 1-Day Tour [VIP Private Charter ◆ Door-to-Door Pickup/Includes Admission Ticket & No Shopping] | Forbidden City Tour with Entry Ticket Included (English speaking guide) | Forbidden City Half-day Tour(Tickets Included) & Tiananmen Square Tickets Reservation | Beijing Temple of Heaven + Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests + Yuanqiutan + Echo Wall half-day tour - combo ticket - multiple group types available | Beijing BEIJING W TOWN + Great Wall at Simatai 1-day tour ◆ optional private tour transfer within the fifth ring road hotels | Forbidden City Tour With Entry Tickets | Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace One-Day Tour [BUSDA Sightseeing Bus | In-depth Guided Tour] | Beijing The Palace Museum half-day tour [including admission ticket + Treasure Gallery ticket] multiple group types/Chinese, English, Spanish, Russian guide | Nanjing Professional English Tour Guide Service | Beijing The Palace Museum half-day tour [guaranteed entry including admission ticket] 15-person premium small group | experienced Chinese-English guide | Beijing summer palace - private chartered tour + English private guide + admission ticket | Beijing BEIJING WTOWN round-trip bus + guide service | Mutianyu Great Wall 5-Kilometer Guided Hike with Uphill Cable Car | Mutianyu Great Wall 1-day tour ● includes cable car up and slide down ● optional private chartered tour with door-to-door pickup and drop-off ● no shopping | 1-day tour of Chengde Mountain Resort, exploring the royal summer retreat and experiencing the splendor of the Kangxi and Qianlong golden age. | Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall private chartered tour [pick-up service + open-air chairlift and toboggan ticket] | BEIJING WTOWN red leaves viewing + Simatai Great Wall 1-day tour | optional day tour/night tour, optional private tour | Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, Summer Palace & Authentic Peking Duck One-Day Bus Tour | Beijing Private Sightseeing Tour: Xishan National Forest Park & Dajue Temple with Tickets | Beijing Zoo + Mutianyu Great Wall 1-day tour [one family one group·depart after waking·exclusive private charter] | Half-day tour of Tiananmen Square and the Palace Museum, including admission tickets, with in-depth explanations by English/Russian guides. | “Your Imperial Story Begins Here: Costume Experience + Complimentary Summer Palace Entry” | Mutianyu Great Wall 1-day tour ● includes round-trip cable car tickets ● optional private chartered tour with pickup and drop-off ● no shopping throughout
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Other visitors' reviews of Simatai Great Wall
Show More ReviewsThis is one of the well preserved Great Wall. Its condition is very good and looks very conventional. There is only cable for going up and down to the station where you can take a walk to upper or lower towers. There are no any other types of service or shop. So the tourists are not very busy as other Great walls. **Caution: We have purchased gate ticket and cable car ticket. The gate ticket QR code from this APP can't be used so we need to buy paper version at the counter.