Simatai Great Wall: The Most Authentic Great Wall Experience
Standing atop the steep ridges of Simatai Great Wall, you witness history in its most authentic form. Unlike heavily restored sections, Simatai Great Wall is the only section of the Great Wall of China that preserved its original appearance dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and has been designated as the “Original Great Wall” by UNESCO. This rugged section offers adventurous travelers an unfiltered glimpse into China’s defensive heritage.
As experienced China travel specialists, we’ve guided hundreds of visitors through this remarkable section. Our firsthand knowledge reveals why Simatai consistently ranks among the most rewarding Great Wall experiences. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need for an unforgettable visit.
Quick Facts
Location: Gubei Water Town, Miyun District, Beijing
Built: Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
UNESCO Status: UNESCO has designated Simatai Great Wall as one of the World Cultural Heritage Sites as part of the Great Wall World Heritage Site
Length: 5.4 kilometers
Watchtowers: 35 beacon towers (some sources mention 39 watchtowers total)
Highest Point: Tower 16 (986 meters above sea level)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging hiking
Best Feature: Original Ming Dynasty architecture
The wall stretches across dramatic mountain terrain. Simatai Great Wall is separated by a valley into eastern and western parts. The western part is gently sloped with 20 well-preserved watchtowers dotting along the wall. The eastern section presents more challenging terrain with steeper gradients.
Table of Contents
History and Cultural Significance
Ming Dynasty Origins
Simatai’s construction began during the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-577) and was rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty under the Hongwu Emperor’s reign. The section was later renovated by the famous General Qi Jiguang around 1373. The wall served as a crucial northern defense system with sophisticated watchtowers and communication networks.
The section served as a crucial northern defense line. Strategic positioning allowed soldiers to monitor vast territories from elevated watchtowers. Each tower communicated through smoke signals during daylight and fire beacons at night.
UNESCO Recognition
In 1987, Simatai Great Wall was listed as World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO as part of the Great Wall World Heritage Site. Simatai is designated as the “Primitive Great Wall” by UNESCO, being the only ancient architectural site in China that retains the original appearance of the Ming Dynasty and has never been restored.
Architecture expert Luo Zhewen famously declared Simatai “unmatched among all sections of the Great Wall.” A very smart person who knows a lot about old buildings, Luo Zhewen, said Simatai is the best part of the Great Wall.
Cultural Impact
The wall represents more than military defense. It embodies Chinese engineering brilliance, architectural innovation, and cultural persistence. Simatai demonstrates how ancient builders adapted construction techniques to extreme terrain challenges.
Local communities developed around the wall’s protection. Villages flourished under its defensive umbrella. Today, these communities preserve traditional customs while welcoming international visitors.
Why Simatai Great Wall is Worth Visiting
Authentic Historical Experience
Most Great Wall sections underwent extensive restoration. Simatai remains largely untouched. If you want to meet the Great Wall without refurbishment, you should visit Simatai. You may see the collapsed sidewalls and bumpy ground, but this is the charm of Simatai Great Wall—it went through more than 600 years until now.
Weathered stones tell stories of centuries past. Crumbling sections reveal construction techniques. Original Ming bricks showcase ancient craftsmanship.
Spectacular Natural Setting
Erected on a ridge as sharp as if carved by knives and axes, it is renowned for its dramatic landscape integration. Mountains rise sharply on both sides. Valleys stretch endlessly below.
The wall follows natural contours perfectly. Ancient engineers maximized defensive advantages while creating stunning visual compositions. Every vantage point offers breathtaking panoramas.
Unique Night Illumination
Simatai pioneered Great Wall night tourism. LED lighting systems illuminate the wall after sunset. This creates magical evening experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Night visits reveal different perspectives. Illuminated towers glow against star-filled skies. The experience transforms historical sites into romantic destinations.
Less Crowded Experience
While Badaling attracts massive crowds, Simatai maintains manageable visitor numbers. Advance reservations limit daily visitors. This ensures peaceful exploration opportunities.
Quieter environments enhance historical contemplation. Photography becomes easier without crowd interference. Intimate experiences feel more authentic.
Highlights and Must-See Features
Tower 16: The Wangjing Tower
Tower 16, known as Wangjing Tower (“Looking at Beijing Tower”), represents Simatai’s highest point at 986 meters elevation. This tower is considered the highest beacon tower in Simatai Great Wall and offers commanding views. On clear nights with good visibility, it’s said you can see the lights of Beijing from this vantage point.
The tower’s strategic importance remains evident today. Multiple arrow slits face different directions. Thick walls provided maximum protection. Interior chambers housed garrison supplies.
From this elevation, you understand the wall’s defensive genius. Enemy movements became visible kilometers away. Signal fires could reach distant reinforcements quickly.
Tower 14: Fairy Maiden Tower
Tower 14 earned its poetic name from graceful architectural proportions. Despite weathering, elegant details survive. Curved rooflines demonstrate Ming aesthetic sensibilities.
This tower showcases advanced engineering. Multiple levels provided different defensive functions. Upper chambers stored weapons and supplies. Lower levels housed soldier quarters.
Photography enthusiasts particularly appreciate this tower. Golden hour lighting creates stunning silhouettes. Surrounding mountain landscapes provide perfect backdrops.
The Suspension Bridge
A modern suspension bridge connects eastern and western sections. This engineering marvel spans the valley gap created by Yuanyang Lake.
The bridge experience itself thrills visitors. Crossing high above the lake provides unique perspectives. Both wall sections become visible simultaneously.
Safety features ensure comfortable crossing. Strong cables support the walkway. Protective barriers prevent accidental falls.
Yuanyang Lake
Simatai Pass is now submerged by a reservoir that was built in the 1960s. The Great Wall is divided into eastern and western sections by the reservoir, which is now known as Yuanyang Lake. Due to the underground hot springs, Yuanyang Lake is made up of hot springs with a year-round water temperature variation.
The lake creates stunning reflections. Wall images mirror perfectly in calm waters. Seasonal changes produce different color palettes.
Boat tours explore the submerged section. Underwater wall remains become visible during low water periods. This unique feature distinguishes Simatai from other sections.
Original Ming Dynasty Architecture
The Simatai Great Wall incorporates a variety of styles of other parts of the China Wall, but also display some unique features. This section of the wall is always describes as: perilous, dense, diverse, ingenuous and architecturally sophisticated.
Construction techniques showcase ancient innovation. No mortar binds many stones. Precise fitting creates structural stability. Weight distribution follows engineering principles.
Watchtower designs vary significantly. Each adapted to specific terrain challenges. Some feature single chambers. Others include multiple rooms and storage areas.
Practical Travel Tips
Physical Preparation
Simatai requires moderate fitness levels. Steep sections challenge casual walkers. Uneven surfaces demand careful footing.
Proper footwear prevents slips and falls. Hiking boots provide best grip. Athletic shoes work for careful walkers. Avoid dress shoes entirely.
Bring sufficient water supplies. Mountain air increases dehydration risks. Energy snacks sustain longer explorations.
Safety Considerations
Weather conditions change rapidly. Mountain storms develop quickly. Check forecasts before departure.
Stay on designated pathways. Original wall sections can be unstable. Unmarked areas may present hidden dangers.
Carry basic first-aid supplies. Remote locations limit emergency access. Cell phone coverage varies throughout the area.
Photography Guidelines
Golden hour provides optimal lighting. Early morning and late afternoon create warm tones. Midday sun produces harsh shadows.
Wide-angle lenses capture sweeping vistas. Telephoto lenses isolate architectural details. Macro lenses reveal construction intricacies.
Respect photography restrictions. Some areas prohibit commercial photography. Night illumination creates special opportunities.
What to Bring
Essential items include:
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Weather-appropriate clothing layers
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Plenty of water and energy snacks
- Camera with extra batteries
- Small backpack for supplies
- Cash for tickets and refreshments
Best Time to Visit Simatai Great Wall
Optimal Seasons
The best times to visit the Simatai Great Wall are April to June (late spring) and September to November (autumn). You can enjoy moderately warm weather in late spring and cool breezes in the fall, which is comfortable for hiking tours.
Spring months (April-June) offer comfortable temperatures. Wildflowers bloom across mountain slopes. Clear skies provide excellent visibility.
Autumn (September-November) delivers ideal hiking conditions. Colorful foliage enhances scenic beauty. Crisp air improves distant views.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring Benefits:
- Comfortable hiking temperatures (15-25°C)
- Clear mountain air
- Blooming vegetation
- Moderate tourist numbers
Summer Challenges:
- Hot, humid conditions (25-35°C)
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Peak tourist season
- Higher accommodation prices
Autumn Advantages:
- Perfect hiking weather (10-22°C)
- Stunning fall colors
- Excellent visibility
- Comfortable evening temperatures
Winter Limitations:
- Cold temperatures (-5 to 5°C)
- Reduced daylight hours
- Potential ice hazards
- Limited night tour availability
Daily Timing
Morning visits offer several advantages. Cooler temperatures ease hiking efforts. Better lighting conditions enhance photography. Fewer crowds allow peaceful exploration.
Afternoon visits provide different perspectives. Western light creates dramatic shadows. Warmer temperatures suit some visitors better.
Evening visits during illumination seasons offer magical experiences. Night lighting transforms the wall’s appearance. Romantic atmosphere appeals to couples.
Special Experiences at Simatai
Night Illumination Tours
Simatai pioneered Great Wall night tourism. night time from November to April, 17:30 – 20:40 on weekends and 17:30 – 20:10 on weekdays; from May to October, 17:30 – 21:40 on weekends and 17:30 – 21:10 on weekdays during illumination seasons.
LED lighting systems highlight architectural features. Strategic placement emphasizes structural elements. Color variations create dramatic effects.
Night photography opportunities multiply. Long exposures capture light trails. Star trails combine with illuminated walls. Unique compositions become possible.
Gubei Water Town Integration
Simatai connects seamlessly with Gubei Water Town. This recreated Ming-Qing village provides accommodation and dining options. Traditional architecture complements the wall experience.
Water town exploration adds cultural dimensions. Traditional shops sell local crafts. Restaurants serve regional specialties. Hotels offer convenient overnight stays.
Evening entertainment includes cultural performances. Traditional music and dance programs celebrate local heritage. These activities extend visit durations naturally.
Photography Workshops
Professional photographers conduct specialized workshops. Participants learn optimal shooting techniques. Expert guidance maximizes creative potential.
Workshop topics include:
- Landscape composition principles
- Historical architecture photography
- Night illumination techniques
- Weather condition adaptations
- Equipment selection advice
Cultural Immersion Programs
Local guides share historical narratives. Personal stories bring ancient events to life. Cultural context enhances appreciation levels.
Traditional craft demonstrations occur regularly. Visitors observe ancient construction techniques. Interactive experiences deepen understanding.
Local cuisine tastings introduce regional flavors. Traditional recipes reflect historical periods. Food culture connects past and present.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
From Beijing City Center: Multiple transportation options connect Beijing to Simatai. Direct buses provide convenient access. Private vehicle rental offers flexibility.
Bus Service: Take the free shuttle bus from the Entrance of the Gubei Water Town to Simatai Great Wall, which departs at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 and 15:00 and returns at 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 and 16:30.
Tourist buses depart from central Beijing locations. Journey time averages 2.5 hours depending on traffic. Advanced booking ensures seat availability.
Private Transportation: Car rental provides maximum flexibility. GPS navigation systems include Simatai directions. Parking facilities accommodate private vehicles.
Taxi services reach Simatai but cost significantly more. Ride-sharing apps operate in the region. Return transportation requires advance arrangement.
Tour Packages: Professional tour companies offer comprehensive packages. Transportation, admission, and guide services combine conveniently. Group discounts reduce individual costs.
Opening Hours and Tickets
Regular Operating Hours: Great Wall Opening Hours: 9:00 – 17:00 Great Wall Site Admission Hours: 9:00 – 16:10 Cable Car Service Hours: Uphill: 9:00-16:10; Downhill: 9:00-17:00
Night Illumination Hours: Opening time: Day time from 09:00 am–05:pm; night time from November to April, 17:30 – 20:40 on weekends and 17:30 – 20:10 on weekdays; from May to October, 17:30 – 21:40 on weekends and 17:30 – 21:10 on weekdays
Ticket Purchasing: Online reservation systems provide convenient booking. Official websites offer secure payment processing. Mobile apps enable last-minute arrangements.
On-site ticket purchases face availability limitations. Popular periods sell out completely. Advanced booking prevents disappointment.
Pricing Structure:
- Simatai Great Wall Daytime Ticket (09:00–17:00): ¥40
- Simatai Great Wall + One-Way Cable Car: ¥70
- Simatai Great Wall + Round-Trip Cable Car: ¥110
- Simatai Great Wall + One-Way Cable Car (Duplicate Listing): ¥150
- Simatai Great Wall + Round-Trip Cable Car (Duplicate Listing): ¥220
- Night Tour of the Great Wall (West Section Stargazing Experience + Photos) (20:00–21:00): ¥288
- Gubei Water Town Ticket: ¥80 (From May 30 to August 31, 2025: Purchase a Gubei Water Town ticket and receive a complimentary Simatai Great Wall ticket worth ¥40)
- Gubei Water Town + Night Tour of the Great Wall + Round-Trip Cable Car: ¥160
- Gubei Water Town + Daytime Tour of the Great Wall + One-Way Cable Car: ¥260
Group rates reduce individual ticket costs. Minimum participant numbers apply. Educational groups receive additional discounts.
Accommodation Options
Gubei Water Town Hotels: Luxury resorts provide premium accommodations. Traditional architecture creates authentic atmospheres. Modern amenities ensure comfortable stays.
Boutique hotels offer personalized services. Unique room designs reflect historical periods. Central locations enable easy Great Wall access.
Budget guesthouses accommodate economical travelers. Basic facilities meet essential needs. Shared areas encourage social interactions.
Beijing City Hotels: International chain hotels guarantee familiar standards. Business districts offer convenient locations. Public transportation connects to Simatai easily.
Historic hutong hotels provide cultural immersion. Traditional courtyard designs showcase Beijing architecture. Local neighborhoods reveal authentic lifestyles.
Camping Options: Designated camping areas exist near Simatai. Basic facilities support overnight stays. Mountain camping requires proper equipment.
Glamping sites combine outdoor experiences with comfort amenities. Pre-installed tents eliminate equipment needs. Professional services ensure safety.
Local Services
Guide Services: Professional guides enhance historical understanding. Multilingual options accommodate international visitors. Expert knowledge reveals hidden details.
Self-guided options include audio tours. Mobile apps provide historical commentary. Interactive maps highlight important features.
Equipment Rental: Hiking gear rental services operate nearby. Professional equipment ensures safety. Quality items support comfortable exploration.
Emergency Services: Medical facilities exist within Gubei Water Town. Emergency response teams patrol Great Wall areas. Communication systems enable rapid assistance.
Shopping Opportunities: Souvenir shops sell Great Wall memorabilia. Traditional crafts showcase local artisan skills. Authentic products support community economies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is hiking Simatai Great Wall?
Simatai presents moderate to challenging hiking conditions. The western section offers gentler slopes suitable for most fitness levels. Eastern sections require good physical conditioning due to steeper terrain.
Uneven stone surfaces demand careful footing. Original construction creates irregular steps. Some sections include significant elevation changes.
Average hiking time ranges from 2-4 hours depending on distance covered. Most visitors explore 2-3 kilometers comfortably. Complete section traversal requires full day commitment.
Do I need advance reservations?
Yes, advance reservations are mandatory for Simatai Great Wall visits. Visitors must reserve tickets at least one day and maximum ten days in advance through the official website. A Chinese mobile phone number is required to receive confirmation texts. Real name registration is required for all bookings.
Reservations limit daily visitor numbers. This ensures manageable crowd levels. Popular seasons require booking several days ahead.
Night illumination tours have separate reservation systems. No reservation needed, so if you miss out on Simatai during the day, you can fight for a spot at night. Note that tickets are sold at the Simatai entrance, so you will have to go there after 17:30 to buy a ticket.
What’s included in ticket prices?
Basic admission includes Great Wall access only. There are 2 separate admission tickets: Gubei Water Town; the Simatai Great Wall. Additional cost is applied for cable car and other facilities.
Cable car service requires separate payment. This optional service reduces hiking requirements. Round-trip tickets cost additional fees.
Gubei Water Town requires separate admission. Combined tickets offer slight discounts. Photography fees may apply for commercial use.
Can children visit Simatai safely?
Children above 8 years generally handle Simatai hiking well. Uneven surfaces require adult supervision. Steep sections need extra caution.
Stroller access is impossible due to terrain conditions. Baby carriers work better for younger children. Rest areas provide break opportunities.
Family-friendly sections include the western portion. These areas offer easier walking conditions. Shorter distances accommodate limited attention spans.
What dining options are available?
Limited dining exists directly at Simatai. Basic snack vendors sell drinks and simple foods. Quality varies significantly.
Gubei Water Town offers extensive dining choices. Traditional restaurants serve regional specialties. International options accommodate diverse preferences.
Packing lunch ensures convenient meal access. Designated picnic areas allow comfortable eating. Waste disposal facilities maintain cleanliness.
Is photography permitted everywhere?
Personal photography is generally permitted throughout Simatai. Professional equipment may require special permissions. Commercial usage needs advance approval.
Drone photography faces strict restrictions. Aviation regulations prohibit unauthorized flights. Professional drone operators need special licenses.
Dig Ddeeper:
Night illumination provides unique photography opportunities. Tripods help stabilize long exposures. Flash photography may disturb other visitors.
Conclusion
Simatai Great Wall represents China’s most authentic historical experience. Simatai Great Wall is the only section of the Great Wall of China that preserved its original appearance dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and has been designated as the “Original Great Wall” by UNESCO.
This remarkable section combines historical authenticity with natural beauty. Challenging terrain rewards adventurous visitors with spectacular views. Original Ming Dynasty architecture provides unfiltered glimpses into ancient engineering brilliance.
Unlike heavily restored sections, Simatai maintains its weathered character. Crumbling stones and uneven pathways tell stories of 600 years. This authenticity creates profound connections between past and present.
Night illumination programs offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere. LED lighting transforms ancient stones into magical spectacles. Romantic atmospheres attract couples seeking memorable moments.
Integration with Gubei Water Town provides comprehensive cultural immersion. Traditional accommodations extend visit possibilities. Regional cuisine and entertainment complete the historical journey.
Advance planning ensures optimal experiences. Seasonal timing affects weather conditions and crowd levels. Physical preparation enables comfortable hiking across challenging terrain.
Professional guidance enhances appreciation levels. Expert knowledge reveals hidden historical details. Cultural context transforms simple sightseeing into educational adventures.
Photography opportunities multiply throughout Simatai. Dramatic landscapes combine with ancient architecture. Golden hour lighting creates stunning visual compositions.
Conservation efforts protect this irreplaceable heritage site. UNESCO recognition emphasizes global significance. Responsible tourism supports preservation initiatives while providing economic benefits to local communities.
A Personal Note from Our Team
After guiding thousands of visitors through China’s diverse attractions, Simatai Great Wall consistently ranks among our most rewarding destinations. The combination of historical authenticity, natural beauty, and manageable accessibility creates perfect touring conditions.
Our team’s extensive experience reveals optimal timing and preparation strategies. We understand which seasons provide ideal weather conditions. Our knowledge of local services ensures smooth logistics for every visitor.
Personal relationships with local guides enhance every tour experience. These partnerships provide insider knowledge unavailable through standard tourism channels. Cultural insights transform simple visits into meaningful cultural exchanges.
Years of exploring Simatai’s various sections enable customized recommendations. We match visitor interests with appropriate wall segments. Physical capabilities determine suitable hiking routes and duration recommendations.
Professional photography expertise helps visitors capture memorable images. Technical guidance maximizes equipment potential. Composition advice creates lasting visual memories.
Safety remains our paramount concern throughout every tour. Our comprehensive risk assessment procedures identify potential hazards. Emergency response protocols ensure rapid assistance when needed.
Environmental responsibility guides all our tourism practices. We promote sustainable visiting patterns that minimize ecological impact. Educational components raise awareness about conservation needs.
Client satisfaction drives continuous service improvements. Feedback analysis reveals enhancement opportunities. Evolving visitor expectations shape our service development priorities.
Cultural sensitivity training ensures respectful interactions with local communities. We understand how tourism affects traditional lifestyles. Balanced approaches benefit both visitors and residents.
Our commitment to authentic experiences distinguishes Travel China With Me from conventional tour operators. We prioritize meaningful cultural connections over superficial sightseeing. Educational value enhances entertainment aspects naturally.
This comprehensive Simatai Great Wall guide reflects our dedication to visitor success. Every recommendation stems from practical experience and proven results. Our expertise transforms potentially challenging adventures into comfortable, rewarding journeys.
Contact our team for personalized Simatai Great Wall tour planning. Professional consultation ensures optimal experiences tailored to individual preferences. Let our expertise transform your Great Wall dreams into unforgettable reality.
