Travel to Gubei Water Town from Beijing: Prices & Time by Shuttle Bus, Train, Taxi

Written by Catherine | Updated March 09,2026

Gubei Water Town is backed by the Simatai Great Wall and has become known as a “starry sky town” at the foot of the Great Wall. The scenic area integrates the ancient town charm in northern China and the water town charm in southern China. Now, it has become a popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways from Beijing.

To travel to Gubei Water Town from downtown Beijing, several transportation options are available, including shuttle buses, public buses, trains, and taxis. The distance is about 140 km and takes about 2 – 3 hours to get there. If you are planning to visit there during the Beijing tour, this guide should be a great help. Continue reading to find the detailed information of transportation and the experience inside the scenic area.

Content Preview

• Getting to Gubei Water Town from Beijing: Transportation Comparison
• How to Visit the Guwei Water Town
• How to Visit the Simatai Great Wall？
• Can I Visit Gubei Water Town & Simatai in One Day?
• Practical Travel Information & Tips for Gubei Water Town
• Plan a Beijing Great Wall Tour with China Xian Tour

Getting to Gubei Water Town from Beijing: Transportation Comparison

Transportation Comparison (Bus vs. Train vs. Private Car)

For first–timers, the three shuttle buses are the most recommended options to get to Gubei Water Town from Beijing. With no transfer and a consistent ticket price, this is the most worry-free and convenient public transportation option. All are near Dongzhimen and offer a similar experience. You can choose any route as you like.

The suburban train is an ideal alternative choice. After getting off the train, there are shuttle buses taking you to the town directly. Although it takes longer, it is more cost-effective.

Public bus is suitable for backpackers with a tight budget and abundant time. Tourists with ample budget can take a taxi/private car.

Shuttle Bus from Dongzhimen – Tongyou Line 22

• Operating hours: from Dongzhimen: 09:00, 13:00; from Gubei Water Town: 12:00, 17:00
• Travel Time: about 2 hours
• Ticket Price: CNY 48
• How to buy the ticket: download any of the Beijing Gongjiao Yikatong, Beijing Gongjiao or Yitongxing app to scan the code; or use cash directly, but no change will be given back.

To get to the bus stop, you can take the Metro Line 2, 13 or the airport line to Dongzhimen metro station first. Leave from exit E and walk straight for 200 meters, then turn left and continue walking for 500 meters, you will find the stop, called Dongzhimenwai (东直门外). It is recommended to get to the bus stop 30 minutes earlier.

Tourist Bus from CYTS Building

• Location: No. 5, South Dongzhimen Street, Dongcheng District
• Operating hours: from CYTS Building: 10:00, 15:00; from Gubei Water Town: 11:00, 14:00
• Travel Time: about 2 hours
• Ticket Price: CNY 48
• How to buy the ticket: book through the Wechat mini-program of Gubei Water Town

This shuttle bus is an alternative option to Dongzhimen Shuttle Bus. The bus will stop at the north of the west gate of the building. To get there, you also need to take the metro to Dongzhimen Station first. But the exit is different. Leave from exit D and walk straight for about 400 meters.

Tourist Bus from Beitucheng Metro Station

• Operating hours: from Beitucheng Metro Station: 08:00; from Gubei Water Town: 16:30 (operated only on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Travel Time: about 100 minutes
• Ticket Price: CNY 48
• How to buy the ticket: book through the Wechat mini-program of Caihong Baishi H2O

This bus is easier to find – just outside Exit F of Beitucheng Metro Station. To get to the metro station, both Metro Lines 8 and 10 are accessible.

Train from Beijing North/Qinghe Train Station + Shuttle Bus

• Operating hours:

Train: From Beijing North: 06:55, 14:19; From Qinghe: 07:10, 14:34; From Gubeikou: 09:49, 17:20;

Shuttle Bus: From Gubeikou: 09:40, 17:10; from Gibei Water Town: 08:40, 15:50

• Total Travel Time: about 3 hours
• Total Ticket Price: CNY 16

This train is actually a suburban train, and it has two departures every day, S501 and S503. Both trains leave from Beijing North Railway Station and stop at Qinghe midway. Though it is not the fastest way, its ticket is much cheaper. The train and shuttle bus have achieved seamless connection. You can also enjoy the scenery along the way.

Taxi / Private Car

• Travel Time: about 2 hours
• Cost: CNY 900 – 1800

Taking a taxi or hiring a private car is very flexible, you can depart at any time you like. But it also costs the most. For a group of tourists with over 3 – 4 persons and enough budget, this way is more comfortable and convenient.

Public Bus and Transfer: Bus Line 980 + Bus Line Mi53/Mi 51

• Operating hours: bus line 980:06:00 – 20:00; Bus Line Mi53: 10:10, 16:50; Bus Line Mi 51: 05:00 – 17:40
• Travel Time: over 3 hours
• Ticket Price: CNY 2

This way costs less, but requires a transfer and takes a longer time. Also, it requires tourists to arrive at Dongzhimen metro station exit F first. Then walk to Dongzhimen Hub Station bus stop and take bus line 980 to Miyun West Bridge, passing by 7 stops. Finally, transfer to bus line Mi53 or Mi 51 to Gubei Water Town.

How to Visit the Guwei Water Town

Top Things to Do

• Explore Simatai Great Wall: the only Great Wall in China that retains its original appearance from the Ming Dynasty. The night tour is more recommended. Ascending the Great Wall, you can overlook the dazzling night view of the entire water town.
• Enjoy night performance: every night, there are several large-scale outdoor performances from 19:20 to 21:25 in Wangjing Street, such as drone sky lantern show, juggling, martial arts, puppet show, etc. Combining with music, lights, fountains, and fire, the scenes are very surprising. They are also the soul of the night view. You can not miss it when travelling to Gubei Water Town from Beijing.
• Experience tie-dyeing: in the Yongshun Dying Workshop, tourists can dye a kerchief, scarf or T-shirt by themselves under the guidance of a local master. This will be an unforgettable and meaningful experience. The cost ranges from CNY 70 – 280. There are also multicolored dyed cloths hanging in the courtyard, an excellent background for photos.
• Learn about wine-making technology: in Simao Distillery, you can not only learn about the traditional brewing technique of the local wine, but also taste the wine lees food and kaoliang spirit. A nice place to experience the wine culture of Old Beijing.
• Take a boat: it is relaxing to travel along the Tanghe River by sculling boat to enjoy the poetic scenery of the water town. It operates from 8:00 – 21:30 on Sunday to Thursday and from 8:00 – 22:00 on Friday and Saturday.
• Overlook the ancient town: The mountain-top church is the highest point of the town, allowing you to overlook both the water town and the Simatai Great Wall. It is extremely charming at sunset and in the evening.
• Taste local food: Qiaotou Cake, Radish Cake, Gubei Roasted Pear, Fried Tofu and Miyun Roast Pork are all must-try local snacks. Riyue Island Square is the gathering place of restaurants and snack bars.

Tickets & Opening Hours

• Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 – 22:30, Friday and Saturday: 9:00 – 23:00.
• Tickets:

How to Book the Ticket?

• Official channel: Wechat account of Gubei Water Town Tourism or Gubei Water Town Mall, or the official website of Gubei Water Town.
• Third platforms: com, Klook, Meituan, etc. This way is more friendly to international travelers. And sometimes, there are discounts on these platforms.

It is recommended to book the ticket at least one day in advance. Please note that the Simatai Great Wall is separately charged. When purchasing the “Water Town + Great Wall” combined ticket, please be sure to confirm the reservation requirements for the Great Wall.

How to Get around?

There are three main ways: walking, taking the sightseeing bus and taking a sculling boat.

Walking is the best way to experience the charm of the water town. Stroll along the bluestone road, and explore the lanes, bridges and buildings freely. For tourists who plan an in-depth tour or have enough time and good strength, it is the best choice. To cover most scenic spots, it will take about 4 – 6 hours.

The route of the sightseeing bus is Tourist Service Center – Shanshui City – Riyue Island Square – Wangjing Street. This route connects the entrance of the scenic area, the service area and the main landscapes, making it convenient for tourists to quickly reach the popular areas. It is recommended for tourists who want to save time or travel with elders and kids.

The sculling boat offers a different view of the water town. The section from Yangui Port to the Yuanyang Lake Port is the most beautiful. It traverses the core area of the water town. Along the way, you will enjoy the classic landscapes of bridges, water, ancient architectures and lanterns, with the Simati Great Wall as the background. When the lights on both banks are on at night, you will feel like travelling along a light corridor.

Recommended Visiting Route

The following route is the most popular route and covers most scenic spots. Tourists can feel the history and culture of Gubei Water Town. You can also include handicraft experience if interested.

Tourist Center – Sima Distillery – Yongshun Dying Workshop – Yuelao Temple – Yinghua Academy – Yang Wudi’s Shrine – Zhengyuan Escort – Eight Banners Guild Hall – Mountain-top Church – Simatai Great Wall

Accommodation in Gubei Water Town

If you plan to stay overnight when travelling to Gubei Water Town from Beijing, the information below will be helpful to you. Inside the scenic area, there are a total of 7 themed hotels, 10 boutique hotels and 28 characteristic homestays. The price varies from CNY 500 – 2,000. All official hotels offer free unlimited rides on the shuttle bus, discounted tickets and discounts on some items.

The themed hotels usually cover a larger area and offer the most complete facilities, such as swimming pool, children’s playground, gym, etc. Families and tourists seeking convenience can choose it. The most reputed hotels are Beijing Wtown Hotspring Resort and Watertown Hotel, each has 319 rooms and 421 rooms, respectively.

The boutique hotels basically focus more on design and privacy. Though there are fewer rooms, these hotels provide a refined and tranquil living environment along with high-quality personalized services. Couples will love it. William Edgar Hotel and Yushe Boutique Hotel are highly recommended.

Homestays are the most cost-effective choice. Most are transformed from the original residences and the decorations have special themes, such as Biaoju Inn and Liyuan Inn. It is suitable for budget travelers and those who want to experience the local culture deeply.

How to Visit the Simatai Great Wall？

How to Get to Simatai Great Wall from Gubei Water Town

Walking: from the tourist center of Gubei Water Town to the entrance of the Great Wall, there is a wooden plank road. It is about 1 km long. Tourists can walk along the road for about 20 minutes to the Great Wall directly.

Shuttle bus: Next to the ticket office at the parking lot at the entrance of the water town, you can take the shuttle bus to the entrance of the Great Wall. The bus operates from 09:00 – 16:30. Tourists with a ticket of Simatai can take it for free.

Features of Simatai Great Wall

Simatai Great Wall is renowned as the original Great Wall, because it has preserved its original appearance to the greatest extent. The walls, watchtowers and even bullet holes are all clearly visible. And it is the only section that provides a night tour, which has attracted many tourists who are planning a Great Wall tour.

Perilousness is the most outstanding feature. The Great Wall is built on the steep ridges, with some sections nearly vertical. The Sky Ladder and Sky Bridge connecting Xiannv Tower and Wangjing Tower are the most perilous sections. The “Sky Ladder” has a slope of 85 degrees and is only wide enough for feet; The “sky bridge” is 100 meters long and only 30 centimeters wide, with abysses on both sides.

It also has dense towers. There is one watchtower every 140 meters, and the densest part is only a few dozen meters. In addition, almost all the architectural forms of the Great Wall are concentrated here.

Night Tour

• Opening hours: May – October: 17:30 – 21:30; November – April: 17:30 – 20:30

Night tour is the essence of the Simatai Great Wall. The lighting outlines the meandering contours of the Great Wall, creating a contrast of warm and cool tones with the myriad lights of the Gubei Water Town at the foot of the mountain. In summer, tourists can also take an ancient-style lantern when visiting the Great Wall at night.

For the sake of safety, tourists are only allowed to take the cable car to go up and down the Great Wall, and only the section around Watchtower No. 5 and No. 6 is open. This section is equipped with lights and handrails. Though the area is small, it offers the best night view of Gubei Water Town. To enjoy both sunset and night scenery, it is better to get there at 16:30.

Can I Visit Gubei Water Town & Simatai in One Day?

It is feasible, but the schedule will be tight. One day is enough to cover the core attractions of both Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall. But for an in-depth tour, we recommend the 2-day itinerary more. We will list both itineraries, you can choose based on your plan.

One-day Route:

07:30 – 12:00: get to the scenic area by shuttle bus, go sightseeing following the route of Sima Distillery – Yongshun Dying Workshop – Zhengyuan Escort – Eight Banners Guild Hall.

12:00 – 13:00: enjoy lunch

13:00 – 16:30: Simatai Great Wall by round-trip cable car

17:00: return to Beijing by the Dongzhimen Shuttle Bus

With only one-day available, you’ll need to start early and miss the unique night tour experience on the Great Wall. If you want to enjoy the night tour, the best way is to hire a private car or join a tour group. Most one-day tour groups will return around 20:00 to 20:30.

Two-day Route:

For a 2-day tour, just slow down your pace and experience traditional Chinese clothes.

Day 1: after arrival, check in. In the afternoon, explore the scenic spots you are interested in. In the evening, visit the Simatai Great Wall and enjoy the night performances.

Day 2: at dusk, enjoy the tranquil water town, and take pictures of arch bridges and bluestone roads shrouded in the morning mist. Then try dyeing in the workshop or climb up to the Mountain-top Church to overlook the water town. If your physical strength permits, you can also enjoy another day tour of the Simatai Great Wall. After lunch, return to Beijing.

Recommended tour

Group Tour

Beijing Group Tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall-No Shopping

Explore This Tour

Practical Travel Information & Tips for Gubei Water Town

• To avoid traffic jams, it is recommended to leave Beijing before 08:00 and return from Gubei Water Town before 15:00.
• Due to the bluestone road, arch bridges and plenty of steps inside the water town, it is not advised to use a regular stroller if travelling with kids. Baby sling or baby waist stool are better choices.
• For solo travelers, the best way to save money is to take a train or a shuttle bus. And bring some food in advance or try more snacks instead of having a big meal.
• The temperature in Gubei Water Town is 5°lower than that in the urban area. It starts to get cold after the sun sets. So it is better to take a thick coat and bring hot water.
• The schedule of performances and shuttle buses may be adjusted during bad weather or public holidays. Check the latest schedule on the departure day.
• Remember to wear anti-slippery and comfortable shoes, since there are many bluestone paths and arched bridges.

Plan a Beijing Great Wall Tour with China Xian Tour

Want to escape from the hassle of booking transportation and accommodation when planning a Gubei Water Town tour from Beijing? China Xian Tour is glad to help you. Our professional travel consultant will offer 1-to-1 planning for you. We are devoted to personalized private tours, so you do not need to follow the pace of the tour group. The itinerary will be adjusted flexibly based on your needs and interests. If you want to experience the tie-dyeing, we can also include it. Just contact us to enjoy a perfect tour.