Gubei Water Town

Arrive in Beijing and check into your accommodation, preferably in the city center. Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Beijing's most iconic landmarks. Explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Imperial Vault of Heaven, learning about the history and significance of this ancient religious complex. Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Beijing cuisine specialties such as Peking duck, dumplings, and stir-fried noodles. Take a leisurely stroll around Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and admire the illuminated monuments and buildings.

Take a scenic drive from Beijing to Gubei Water Town, located approximately 2.5 hours away. Afternoon: Arrive in Gubei Water Town and check into your accommodation, preferably a traditional courtyard hotel or guesthouse. Explore the water town's ancient streets, stone bridges, and riverside alleys, admiring the Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and picturesque scenery. Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Gubei Water Town, sampling regional specialties such as freshwater fish, lotus root soup, and steamed buns. Take a boat ride on the river or enjoy a traditional Chinese opera performance at the town's theater.

Visit the Simatai Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Hike along the ancient fortifications, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Afternoon: Explore Gubei Water Town further, visiting attractions such as the Wenchang Tower, the Five-arch Bridge, and the Wuzhen Hall. Take a guided tour of the town's historic landmarks, learning about their architectural features and cultural significance. Evening: Attend a traditional Chinese lantern festival in Gubei Water Town, featuring colorful lantern displays, folk performances, and cultural activities.

Take a day trip to Chengde, a historic city located approximately 2 hours from Gubei Water Town. Visit the Chengde Mountain Resort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's largest imperial gardens. Explore the palace complex, pavilions, lakes, and temples, and learn about its history as a summer retreat for the Qing emperors. Afternoon: Visit the Putuo Zongcheng Temple, one of the Eight Outer Temples of Chengde and a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist architecture. Explore the temple's halls, courtyards, and pagodas, and admire its intricate carvings, murals, and religious relics. Evening: Return to Gubei Water Town in the evening and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties. Take a leisurely walk around the town's illuminated streets and bridges, enjoying the tranquil ambiance.

Visit the Gubei Water Town Simatai Great Wall Scenic Area for one last stroll around the ancient streets and riverside promenades. Visit the town's souvenir shops to purchase mementos such as local handicrafts, artwork, and traditional snacks. Afternoon: Depart from Gubei Water Town and transfer back to Beijing. Depending on your departure time, visit attractions such as the Summer Palace, the Lama Temple, or the 798 Art District. Evening: Transfer to Beijing Capital International Airport for your departure, taking with you memories of your time exploring Gubei Water Town and the surrounding area.