If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and want more than the usual city sights, this 7-day Beijing itinerary with a Gubei Water Town side trip offers the perfect mix of culture, history, and scenic relaxation. Gubei Water Town, with its peaceful canals and easy access to the Simatai Great Wall, is a hidden gem many travelers are now adding to their Beijing travel plan.
Why Visit Gubei Water Town?
Located about 2 hours northeast of Beijing, Gubei Water Town recreates the classic style of southern water towns while blending it with northern courtyard architecture. The town is built around flowing canals and old-fashioned stone streets, making it feel authentic and atmospheric, especially at night under glowing lanterns. Its location next to Simatai Great Wall also makes it easy to combine both attractions in one trip.
7-Day Beijing + Gubei Water Town Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Transfer to hotel
Evening stroll around Wangfujing
Day 2: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square
Explore China’s most famous palace
See Tiananmen Square
Visit Jingshan Park for city views
Day 3: Temple of Heaven & Summer Palace
Learn about imperial rituals
Enjoy lakeside scenery
Day 4: Great Wall of China (Mutianyu)
Visit this well-preserved Great Wall section
Options for hiking or cable car
Day 5: Gubei Water Town
Travel to Gubei
Wander its canals and old-style streets
Try local snacks and see cultural shows
Day 6: Simatai Great Wall & Night Tour
Climb Simatai Great Wall
Enjoy rare night access with illuminated scenery
Soak up Gubei Water Town’s nighttime views
Day 7: Departure
Return to Beijing
Final shopping or sightseeing
Is Gubei Water Town Worth Visiting?
Many visitors ask if Gubei Water Town is too commercial or artificial. While it is partly reconstructed, it offers a genuinely enjoyable experience with its peaceful waterway atmosphere, cultural performances, and convenient connection to Simatai Great Wall. Staying overnight lets you see the town lit by lanterns, which is one of its most beautiful highlights.
Travel Tips for Gubei Water Town
✅ Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for mild weather
✅ Tickets: Combo tickets for water town + Great Wall are good value
✅ Evening visit: Gubei is stunning at night
✅ Stay overnight: More time to explore
✅ Bring cash: Small shops may not accept foreign cards
Final Thoughts
Combining a classic Beijing itinerary with Gubei Water Town creates a balanced, memorable 7-day journey. You’ll see China’s imperial wonders and discover a quiet water town retreat, all in one trip. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, this Beijing + Gubei Water Town itinerary is an unforgettable way to experience the best of northern China.
