Li River Reed Flute Cave Elephant Hill and Daxu Old Town Tour

Guilin , China

Li River Reed Flute Cave Elephant Hill and Daxu Old Town Tour

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(5 reviews)

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Check off three key Guilin attractions without the transport hassles on this time-saving door-to-door private tour. Admire the rock formations within Reed Flute Cave, see Elephant Trunk Hill—named because it looks like an elephant drinking water—and explore scenic Daxu Old Town with your driver-guide.
Along the way, enjoy a Chinese lunch.
Visit Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, Daxu Old Town, and Li River with electric boat.
Ask as many questions as you like of your private driver-guide
Enjoy private door-to-door transportation from your hotel

Available options

Pricing from 1 PAX

Pickup included

What's included

Private English Speaking Driver guide

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 8:00 am or 8:30 am.

Reed Flute Cave is situated in the hillside of the Bright Hill of Northwest Guilin and near the Peach Blossom River, about 7 km to downtown. The cave gets its name from a kind of reed growing near the entrance to the cave makes fine flutes.
It is 800 meters long and takes you about fifty minutes for exploring. The cave opened to public in 1962, it is most tourists' visit-cave in China even in the world and is described as "Art Palace of Nature" .
Inside the cave are a large number of stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, stone curtains, and stone flowers, all glistening in colorful lights which create breathtaking splendor which are really feast of your eyes, they are given names according to what they look like. The Crystal Palace where illuminated stalagmites reflect in the caves natural lake is the most impressive sights of the cave.

Stop 2

stands majestically on the banks of the Li River, resembling an elephant drinking from the water. This natural monument is not only a symbol of the region but also a testament to the power of erosion and the passage of time. The hill's unique shape has made it a must-see for visitors, and it is often captured in photographs as a reminder of the journey along the river. Local folklore adds to its charm, with stories that bring the hill to life and make it an integral part of the cultural landscape.

Stop 3

Daxu old town located in north bank of the Li River, about 30 km southeast to Guilin, built in Ming dynasty with a history of over 1000 years, and it is one of 4 ancient towns of Guangxi.
The town was formed at the beginning of the Song dynasty, The 2 km street in the town is paved with the cobbles, the both sides of the street are the single eave storey old buildings with gray bricks and tiles, These structures are mainly form the Ming and Qing dynasties and are famous for their magnificence, refinement and practicality you can enjoy the narrow street with old style shops, herbs shops, old style buildings, a very nice taste of local style and national features. The people here still keep their easy-going way of life, it was busy trading center in the old time, the town got quite after 1930s as the railways and highways replace the river shipping.

The Li River, flowing through the picturesque landscape of Caoping, offers a serene and breathtaking experience. As you cruise along the river, you'll be treated to views of misty mountains, lush greenery, and traditional water villages. The riverbanks are dotted with fishermen in their conical hats, using cormorants to catch fish, a scene that has changed little over centuries. The water is so clear that the reflections of the surrounding karst peaks create a mirror-like effect, making it a photographer's paradise. The Li River at Caoping is not just a river; it's a living gallery of nature's artistry, a place where time seems to stand still, and the beauty of China's natural heritage is on full display. Take the electric boat for about 50 minutes feast your eyes with the stunning karst limestone hills.

Notes: There are 4 seats with one boat and you will do the cruise with other tourists together.

What's not included

Electric boat 120 Yuan per person

Reed Flute Cave 90 Yuan per person

Personal expenses

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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

Vegetarian option is available

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

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