The Simatai section of the Great Wall is known for being one of the most rugged, wild, and well-preserved parts of the Wall, offering an adventurous and authentic experience.
Located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Beijing, Simatai is famous for its steep climbs, original architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This section is a great choice for visitors looking for a more challenging and less crowded Great Wall experience.
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History of the Simatai section
Simatai retains much of its original structure, built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Unlike more tourist-friendly sections like Badaling and Mutianyu, Simatai has been left in a semi-restored state, giving visitors an authentic feel of what the Wall looked like centuries ago.
Like other sections of the Great Wall, Simatai is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing. It is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and architecturally unique sections, featuring 35 watchtowers across its 5.4 kilometers (3.4 miles).
Why choose Simatai?
Simatai is one of the steepest sections of the Great Wall, with narrow paths, sharp inclines, and dramatic drops.
Some parts of the Wall here are incredibly narrow and can only accommodate one person at a time, adding to the thrill of the experience. The steepness and rugged nature of Simatai make it a great choice for adventurous hikers.
Simatai is the only section of the Great Wall that allows night visits, offering a magical experience with the Wall lit up against the starry sky. Night tours give visitors a unique opportunity to see the Wall in a quieter, more mystical setting.
At the base of the Simatai Great Wall is Gubei Water Town, a picturesque ancient-style town with canals, traditional architecture, and hotels. It’s a great place to explore before or after visiting the Wall, with shops, restaurants, and a chance to experience China’s traditional water town culture.
Simatai is far less crowded than sections like Badaling and Mutianyu. The quieter atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a more peaceful and less touristy visit.
What to expect during your visit
The hike at Simatai can be tough, especially in the steeper sections. It’s recommended to bring good hiking shoes, plenty of water, and sun protection if visiting during the day.
The cable car takes you near Watchtower 5, so if you’re looking for a shorter hike, this is a convenient option. From there, you can hike further up the Wall towards Watchtower 12, which offers incredible views.
The views from Simatai are some of the best along the Great Wall, with the structure snaking across mountain ridges and dramatic cliffs. Photographers will love this section for its stunning vistas and fewer crowds.
How to visit Simatai
How to get to Simatai
There are several ways to reach Simatai from Beijing, but it’s slightly farther than the more popular sections, so planning is key.
- By Bus:
You can take the Dongzhimen Bus or a direct tourist bus from Dongzhimen Wai Bus Station to Gubei Water Town. The bus ride takes about 2 hours.
Once at Gubei Water Town, you can walk to the entrance of Simatai Great Wall or take a shuttle provided by the water town.
- By Car:
Driving to Simatai from Beijing takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Hiring a private car or taxi is a convenient option, especially if you plan to stay overnight at Gubei Water Town.
You can arrange a driver for the day or hire a car with a guide through travel agencies.
- By Tour Group:
Many tour companies offer day trips or overnight trips to Simatai and Gubei Water Town. These usually include transportation, entrance tickets, and sometimes a guide.
Entrance and Tickets to Simatai
- Entrance Fee for Simatai Great Wall: ¥40 (CNY) for daytime entry and ¥160 (CNY) for night tours.
- Gubei Water Town Entry Fee: If you’re visiting Gubei Water Town before or after the Wall, entry to the town costs ¥150 (CNY). Combo tickets for the Wall and the town are available for around ¥220 (CNY).
- Cable Car: Simatai also offers a cable car for visitors who don’t want to hike the steepest parts. A round-trip ticket costs ¥160 (CNY), while a one-way ticket is ¥90 (CNY).
- Night Tour Tickets: For the night tour, only Watchtowers 5 and 6 are open, and visitors are required to use the cable car.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Summer can be quite hot, and although the greenery is lush, the heat and humidity make the steep climbs more challenging.
Winter offers a quieter experience and stunning views of the Wall covered in snow, though it can be cold, and some paths may be icy.
Additional Tips
- Physical Fitness: Simatai is one of the most challenging sections of the Great Wall, so it’s important to be in good physical condition if you plan on hiking to the higher watchtowers. The terrain can be rough, and some parts are quite steep.
- Stay Overnight at Gubei Water Town: If you want to explore both Simatai and Gubei Water Town fully, consider staying overnight in one of the hotels within the water town. It’s a charming place to relax after a long day of hiking.
- Dress Appropriately: Bring comfortable shoes with good grip, especially if you plan to hike the Wall instead of using the cable car. The uneven terrain can be tough, particularly on steeper sections.
- Bring Snacks and Water: While there are some amenities near Gubei Water Town, it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks if you’re planning to hike the Wall for an extended time.
Nearby Attractions
Gubei Water Town: This ancient-style water town is a great addition to your visit. It’s built to resemble traditional Chinese water towns and offers a peaceful retreat, complete with shops, restaurants, and cultural performances.
Simatai Reservoir: The reservoir adds to the beauty of the area and offers great photo opportunities, especially with the Wall reflected in the water.
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