Struggling to find a trip to Great wall and Gubei water town

Question

As title. Looking to go to Gubei water town and a nearby section of Great Wall. But I'm struggling to find any trips running. Some have availability, but as going as solo traveller is double the price as paying for min of 2 and I want to be with others not a private trip.

Have looked on trip advisor, get your guide, viator and looking to go early January.

Is town shut? I'm a bit baffled any help appreciated thanks

Answer

Gubei Water Town and the nearby Simatai section of the Great Wall are popular day-trip destinations from Beijing, but traveling there in early January can present some unique challenges. The town itself is open year-round, including winter, but the combination of cold weather, lower tourist numbers, and some seasonal closures may affect organized tour availability.

1. Availability of Tours in January

Early January is winter in Beijing, which means temperatures are often below freezing. While Gubei Water Town is open, some tours reduce frequency during this low season, especially shared group tours. Many operators prefer private bookings during winter, which is why solo travelers often see higher prices — the minimum number of participants for a private tour is usually two, so the cost is split differently than in summer.

Shared group tours are limited in winter; many online platforms show “no availability” or require private booking.
Some operators temporarily suspend shuttle services or combine tours only if there are enough participants.
Peak seasons like spring, summer, and autumn have more group tours running daily.

2. Status of Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

The town itself remains open, though some attractions, shops, and restaurants may have shorter hours or be temporarily closed due to winter maintenance. The Simatai section of the Great Wall is partially accessible in winter, but certain steep sections may be closed for safety due to ice or snow. Walking conditions can be slippery, so it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear and dress warmly.

Gubei Water Town: Open year-round, with winter hours slightly shorter.
Simatai Great Wall: Mostly open but check for icy or closed sections; cable cars may operate with limited hours.
Restaurants and shops: Some may be closed in low season; plan food and water accordingly.

3. Options for Solo Travelers

If you prefer not to pay for a private tour solo, you can consider:

Booking a shared shuttle or day tour that runs during winter, which may require checking multiple operators or contacting them directly rather than relying solely on major booking platforms.
Joining a small group via local travel agencies in Beijing; some in-person agencies can match solo travelers to existing groups.
Using public transportation: Take a bus or train to Miyun or Gubei Water Town and explore independently. This is cheaper but requires navigating winter schedules and cold weather.

4. Tips for Visiting in Early January

Dress warmly in layers, including gloves, hat, and waterproof boots for icy conditions.
Check the weather forecast and tour operator updates before departure; some days may have heavy snow or icy roads affecting access.
Consider starting early in the day to maximize daylight and avoid icy evening conditions.
Bring snacks or water as some shops may have limited winter opening hours.

In summary, Gubei Water Town is not shut in January, but winter reduces the availability of shared group tours, which is why solo travelers often encounter higher prices or the need for private bookings. Independent travel is possible but requires careful planning and preparation for cold weather and potentially icy paths. If your priority is joining other travelers, contacting local Beijing tour agencies directly may yield the best options for shared trips during early January.

Struggling to find a trip to Great wall and Gubei water town

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