My Little Princess and Prince: 16 Jun 2025 - PEK Day 3: Exploring Gubei Watertown (古北水镇)

Nestled at the base of the Simatai Great Wall in Miyun District, Beijing, Gubei Watertown (古北水镇) is a stunningly recreated canal town that blends the charm of ancient Chinese architecture with the convenience of modern travel. Built in the style of a traditional northern water town, Gubei has quickly become one of the most picturesque destinations near Beijing, combining culture, history, and natural beauty.

Walking in Gubei felt like stepping into another era. The town is crisscrossed by waterways and stone bridges, with grey-tiled roofs and wooden courtyards that reflect Ming and Qing dynasty styles.

As we walked along its narrow lanes, the scent of street food mixed with the sound of water lapping against gondolas, creating a uniquely serene atmosphere.

Zhenyuan Escort Agency (镇远镖局) is one of the signature attractions in Gubei Watertown. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, escort agencies (known as biaojü 镖局) played a vital role in safeguarding merchants, valuables, and even government documents along China’s trade routes. Gubei’s Zhenyuan Escort Agency recreates this fascinating slice of history.

We explored the courtyard-style compound, complete with stables, training grounds, and displays of traditional weapons like broadswords, spears, and crossbows.

Informational exhibits explain how armed escorts, known as biaoshi (镖师), trained in martial arts and risked their lives protecting caravans on dangerous mountain roads. The agency also serves as a cultural storytelling spot, showing how law, order, and security were maintained in a world without modern police or transportation systems.

I had read about Zhenyuan Escort Agency (镇远镖局) in quite a number of Chinese Martial Arts Novels and could relate to many settings here.

One of Gubei’s biggest draws is its wide selection of hot spring resorts and boutique hotels. Many feature traditional courtyard designs and natural spring water baths which are perfect for soaking tired legs after climbing the Great Wall.

The network of canals is the heart of Gubei. Traditional sculling boats, rowed by skilled gondoliers with a single oar, glide silently under stone bridges.

The town is dotted with beautiful plazas and picturesque stone bridges. Highlights include the Tangshi Street, where lanterns and shops line the cobblestones, and Zhenyuan Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in town.

At the heart of Gubei Watertown lies a spacious central square, which often serves as the stage for festive cultural performances.

The square hosts martial arts demonstrations, where performers showcase traditional kung fu routines, staff spinning, and choreographed sparring.

In addition, the square came alive with the rhythmic beat of drums and the dazzling movements of a lion dance troupe.

We had a nice view of Simatai Great Wall at the square.

At this point, we felt a bit hungry and decided to have some dumplings at Yuanbaolou (元宝楼). The menu featured a mix of northern Chinese specialties and local dishes.

We continued to explore the rest of the town after dinner.

Sima Liquor Distillery (司马小烧酒坊) is another attraction in Gubei Watertown.

At this working distillery, we learned about the traditional process of brewing Chinese spirits. The scent of fermenting grains filled the air, and tastings were available for those who want to sample a bold sip of local liquor.

Gubei is filled with artisan shops selling local crafts, calligraphy, wood carvings, and teas.

Gubei Watertown is more than just a stopover for the Great Wall. It’s a destination that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether we are cruising its canals, exploring its dye houses and distilleries, or soaking in its hot springs, the town offered an enchanting escape from Beijing’s bustle. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where ancient traditions meet modern comforts, and where every lantern-lit bridge felt like a step into a living painting.