Gubei Water Town Night Great Wall & Jinshanling Weekend

A weekend self-drive to northeast Beijing, staying in Gubei Water Town, climbing Simatai at night, and visiting Jinshanling the next day.

A well-established weekend getaway from Beijing. Explore the water town in the afternoon, climb Simatai at night, and stay inside the town to avoid driving back in the dark. The next day, head to the neighboring Jinshanling to hike a section of the Great Wall in daylight before returning to Beijing. This route includes a less-restored section of the wall compared to just visiting the water town, involving many steps, and is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

The opening hours of the night Great Wall vary by season, and the Jinshanling cable car may suspend operations during the low season.

Day by day

Day 1 · Water Town Stroll & Simatai Night Climb

Beijing（Gubei Water Town、Simatai Great Wall）

Drive along the Jingcheng Expressway in the morning to the Simatai Great Wall exit (approx. 2–2.5 hours). In the evening, take the shuttle bus and cable car from the water town up to the Great Wall.

You must enter Gubei Water Town first to access the Great Wall. Purchase night tickets in advance and confirm your entry time slot.

Stay: Gubei Water Town

Day 2 · Jinshanling Great Wall & Return to Beijing

Chengde Urban Area（Jinshanling Great Wall）

Drive to the adjacent Jinshanling scenic area in the morning, and take the Jingcheng Expressway back to Beijing in the afternoon (approx. 2–2.5 hours).

Jinshanling has three entrances; confirm which entrance you are heading to before setting your navigation.

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