I've heard that Simatai is closed for rebuilding, which now raises and interesting question.

Seeing that you can't go Jinshaling to Simatai, which would be the better way to spend a day. The Jinshanling section only, or the Mutianyu section?

Better being a balance of spectacularness and less people.

I was thinking of jumping a bus-tour (as I'm travelling on my lonesome) rather than a driver. Any reasons why this wouldn't be a good idea (apart from loss of flexibility, which it makes up for with less cost)? Anyone done a day-trip bus tour before and know a company worth recommending?

Thanks^