As fireworks prep to paint February skies, Gubei Water Town emerges as Beijing’s must-visit destination for Lunar New Year celebrations. Nestled beneath the rugged Simatai Great Wall, this cultural gem blends ancient charm with modern vibes – think lantern-lit canals straight out of a period drama, but with Instagram-worthy backdrops. 📸
Where History Meets Holiday Cheer
This Year of the Horse celebration (2026 alert! 🐴) serves up:
- Dazzling lantern installations reflecting both traditional motifs and contemporary designs
- Folk art performances that’ll make your TikTok feed pop
- Steaming street food stalls offering jiaozi dumplings and sweet rice cakes
Pro tip: Time your visit for sunset when the Great Wall’s silhouette frames the glowing water town – it’s like China’s past and present high-fiving through architecture. ✨
Why Young Travelers Are Obsessed
Beyond the cultural immersion, visitors can:
- Snap #WinterWonderland content along frozen canals
- Join DIY workshops making traditional paper-cuts
- Warm up with local hawthorn berry tea between explorations
With 78% of last year’s visitors aged 18-35, this spot proves ancient traditions can slay in the digital age. 🎉
Reference(s):
Live: Touring Beijing's Gubei Water Town at the foot of the Great Wall
cgtn.com






