Li River Cruise and Yangshuo Private Day Tour from Guilin
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private tour leads you to experience the classic and unforgettable cruise along Li River for 4 hours. It is one of the must-do highlights in Guilin. English driver cum guide service and Self-guided on a cruise. This is the perfect chance to enjoy the picturesque view along Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo. A private transfer no matter you stay in Yangshuo or come back to Guilin.
Available options
3Star Boat+Lunch Box
3 Star Boat for Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, Self-guided and lunch box is served at around 12:00 on board.<br/>Pickup included
4Star Boat + Buffet Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch box on board
Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Guilin/Yangshuo
Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
An English-speaking driver cum guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will be met at your hotel lobby between 8:00am to 8:30am. Join in a group tour to the pier. Embark on a deluxe cruise and enjoy the picturesque scenery along Li River for about 4 hours.
2
Stop 2
Chinese lunch will be served on board around noon. Just enjoy the delicious food while being amazed by the beautiful natural scene. The cruise will pass by Xingping Old Town at 1:00pm and reach Yangshuo Pier at 1:30pm. Yangshuo is a historical Chinese town of over 1,000 years with Western influences.
3
Upon arrival, you will have some free time to explore Yangshuo on your own. Your local guide will let you know the pickup time and location. You could choose to stroll along the West Street.
When the tour is concluded, if you choose to stay in Yangshuo, your guide can provide direction to your hotel in Yangshuo. If you are going back to Guilin, you will be picked up at the designated location and transferred back to Guilin. Estimated time of arrival at 6:30 pm.
4
Stop 4
You are suggested to ride a bicycle to visit the country area along Yulong River or you may choose to take the Bamboo rafting in Yulong River.
5
Stop 5
You are also suggested to enjoy the Impression Show of Liushanjie in the evening in Yangshuo.
What's not included
Gratuities
Optional Tour in Yangshuo
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
5 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.1
50 reviews
5★
27
4★
13
3★
2
2★
5
1★
3
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Hotel pickup is at around 8:00am according to the boat's departure time
• If you choose to stay in Yangshuo after the cruise, please remember to bring your luggage with you.
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
About Guilin
Guilin is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, with the Li River meandering through picturesque peaks and lush greenery. This city offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination in southern China.
Top Attractions
Li River Cruise
A scenic cruise along the Li River, offering breathtaking views of karst peaks, lush greenery, and traditional villages. The cruise typically starts from Guilin and ends in Yangshuo, covering a distance of about 83 kilometers.
Nature
4-5 hours for the full cruise
Moderate (¥150-300 depending on the type of cruise)
Elephant Trunk Hill
A famous landmark in Guilin, shaped like an elephant drinking water from the Li River. The hill offers hiking trails, a scenic cave, and panoramic views of the city and river.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥30-50)
Reed Flute Cave
A stunning limestone cave with a history of over 1,800 years. The cave is known for its intricate rock formations, colorful lighting, and ancient inscriptions.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥80-100)
Longji Terraced Fields
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Nature
Full day trip
Moderate (¥100-200 for transportation and entrance fees)
Yangshuo
A picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. Yangshuo is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day trip
Budget to Moderate (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)
A local specialty made from rice, served with various toppings and broths. The noodles are thin, chewy, and often served with ingredients like pickled vegetables, peanuts, and meat.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu)
A local delicacy featuring fish marinated in beer and deep-fried, served with a spicy sauce. The dish is known for its crispy texture and unique flavor.
Dinner
Contains fish and gluten (beer)
Liangpi (Cold Noodles)
A refreshing and light dish made from rice flour, served cold with a variety of toppings and sauces. It is a popular street food and a great option for hot summer days.
Snack/Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Bing)
A traditional sweet made from glutinous rice flour, osmanthus flowers, and sugar. The cake has a unique fragrance and a soft, chewy texture.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Rafting and kayaking
Hiking
Li River cruise
Tea house visits
Spa and wellness
Visiting ethnic minority villages
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lush greenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Cantonese, Zhuang (local dialect)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Guilin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Bargain for souvenirs and street food, and be cautious of overpriced or fake goods
Getting there
By air
- Guilin Liangjiang International Airport • 27 km from city center
By train
Guilin Railway Station, Guilin West Railway Station
By bus
Guilin Long-Distance Bus Station, Guilin South Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with routes covering most of the city and connecting to popular tourist spots.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Zhengyang District
Xiangshan District
Qixing District
Day trips
Yangshuo
65 km from Guilin • Half day to full day trip
Yangshuo is a picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a variety of adventures, from biking and rock climbing to rafting and kayaking.
Longji Terraced Fields
70 km from Guilin • Full day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Xingping Ancient Town
25 km from Guilin • Half day trip
A well-preserved ancient town along the Li River, known for its traditional architecture, historic sites, and scenic views. The town is famous for its appearance on the back of the 20 RMB note.
Festivals
Li River Festival • September
Guilin Tea Culture Festival • March
Zhuang Ethnic Minority Festival • Varies (usually in spring or autumn)
Pro tips
- Take a Li River cruise at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages or historic sites
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture
- Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors, tips, and small purchases
- Use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenient and affordable transportation, but ensure you have a local SIM card or eSIM
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
