Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall: A Spring Festival Destination

Gubei Water Town, located at the foot of the Simatai section of the Great Wall in Beijing, offers a unique cultural and scenic experience, particularly during the Spring Festival. The town blends traditional Chinese architecture with the rugged beauty of the northern mountains, creating a distinctive setting for celebrating the Lunar New Year.

A Blend of History and Culture

Nestled in Gubeikou Town of Miyun County, Gubei Water Town is designed to resemble an ancient town from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and the Republic of China (1912-1949) periods. Most buildings are constructed in the traditional northern Chinese courtyard style [1]. During the Spring Festival, the town is adorned with lanterns, and folk performances are held, offering a contemporary take on traditional Chinese New Year celebrations.

Simatai Great Wall: A Historical Landmark

The Simatai Great Wall, adjacent to Gubei Water Town, is notable for retaining its original Ming-era appearance. It is too the only section of the Great Wall open for night tours [1], adding a romantic and historical dimension to the Spring Festival experience. The Simatai Great Wall is considered the most dangerous and majestic section of the entire Great Wall [1].

Visiting Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town covers an area of 3.5 square miles (9 square kilometers) and includes two scenic districts: Gubei Water Town itself and the Simatai Great Wall [1]. Visitors can reach the town by bus from Dongzhimen Bus Terminal in Beijing, a journey of approximately 2 hours costing around 48 RMB one-way [2]. Alternatively, a private taxi can be hired for a round-trip cost of 1000-1300 RMB [2].

Free Admission in January 2026

From January 1 to January 31, 2026, admission to Gubei Water Town will be free. Visitors are required to build an appointment at the visitor service center by presenting their passports [1].

Planning Your Visit

Gubei Water Town offers a variety of accommodations, including 30 hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs [3]. The town is a popular destination throughout the year, offering unique seasonal charms. It is situated near other sections of the Great Wall, including the Jinshanling Great Wall (25 km away) and the Gubeikou Great Wall (10 km away) [4].