Located right next to Gubei Water Town, the Simatai Great Wall - or 司马台长城 (Sīmǎtái Chángchéng) in Chinese - is a must-visit destination if you have already set foot here.
Unlike sections of the Great Wall that have been magnificently restored, Simatai is famous for retaining its original features (野长城) from the Ming Dynasty. It is recognized by UNESCO as a "pristine Great Wall" with a wild, ancient, and somewhat rugged beauty.
A few top experiences you must try:
Take the cable car up the mountain, then enjoy a leisurely 30-40 minute stroll to the watchtowers. From the cable car station, there is a fork in the road: going straight leads to watchtower No. 5, which is gentle and easy to walk, while going upward leads to watchtower No. 8, which is steeper but offers a superb panoramic view.
Experience the Great Wall at night (夜游长城): This is the only section of the Great Wall open to visitors at night. When shimmering lights illuminate the entire winding path along the mountain ridge, the scene is truly spectacular.
Looking down from the top of the watchtower, you will take in the entire dreamy landscape of Gubei Water Town, glowing with lights below.
If you have visited Gubei Water Town, remember to spare some time to climb up here; the feeling of standing amidst the windy mountains overlooking this thousand-year-old structure is truly worth it!
