Best of Guilin Li River Xianggong Hill and Yulong River

Guilin , China

Best of Guilin Li River Xianggong Hill and Yulong River

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(6 reviews)

11h - 12h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the peace and tranquility of the Li River as you glide from Yangdi to Xingping on an electric boat, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature.

From the summit of Xianggong Hill, you’ll be amazed by the stunning panoramic view of the Li River, surrounded by towering karst peaks.

The Yulong River, one of Yangshuo’s most scenic waterways, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Sit back on a bamboo raft and gently float along its clean, clear waters, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

In the evening, don’t miss the chance to watch Impression Sanjie Liu, China’s first outdoor riverside night show, a mesmerizing performance that brings the river to life.

Available options

Pricing for 1 Traveler

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Private driver guide

Detailed itinerary

Your driver-guide will pick you up at 9:00 am or at a time of your choice from the lobby of your hotel, Guilin Railway Station, Guilin Airport, Guilin city center, or any other designated location.

Stop 2

Yangdi Village, located in the southern part of Guilin, is home to approximately 3,000 residents. The most stunning and unique karst peaks can be found along the Li River between Yangdi and Xingping Village. In fact, most photos featured in guidebooks or online are taken along this stretch of the river.

We will take a Eectric boat from Yangdi to Nine Horse Hill, a scenic cruise lasting about 1 hour. These smaller boats offer a more authentic experience, allowing you to get closer to the natural beauty of the area. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks in various shapes, crystal-clear waters, lush green hills, bamboo groves, and more.

Note: Each boat accommodates four passengers, and you will share the cruise with other tourists.

We will drive to Xianggong Hill, a perfect destination for those who want to experience the karst scenery up close. Climbing Xianggong Hill is a wise choice, as it offers one of the most stunning views in the region. The hike to the top takes about 20 minutes, and once there, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Li River and its towering karst peaks. This is truly one of China’s most spectacular sights and a must-see for any visitor.

Stop 4

The Yulong River offers a peaceful bamboo boat rafting experience, where you can sit comfortably on a raft and gently float along its clean, clear waters. This serene and idyllic ride is often the highlight of any trip to Yangshuo, providing a completely different experience compared to the larger boat cruises on the Li River. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of the Yulong River leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Note: Each bamboo boat accommodates two passengers, and you will share the rafting experience with other tourists.

Stop 5

Optional Tour:

"Impression Liu Sanjie" is a spectacular musical production directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou. Set on the world's largest natural stage, the performance spans a 2-kilometer stretch of the Li River and incorporates 12 majestic peaks as its backdrop. Centered around the legendary figure Liu Sanjie, the show seamlessly blends her timeless folk songs with rich cultural traditions. Featuring a cast of 600 performers, along with traditional bamboo boats and cormorant birds, this 70-minute spectacle is truly unforgettable.

Alternatively, you can experience the "Guilin Romance Park" show, which vividly brings to life the historical culture and folk traditions of Guilin. This must-see attraction offers a variety of performing arts and high-tech presentations that are so captivating, you'll find it hard to leave.

After the show, we will provide transportation back to your hotel in either Guilin or Yangshuo.

What's not included

Xianggong Hill, 60 Yuan per person

Yangdi to Nine Horses Hill by Electric boat, 160 Yuan per person

Yulong River Bamboo boat, 100 Yuan per person

Optional tour: Liu sanjie Light show or Guilin Ramce Show: 350 Yuan per person

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Kid below 1.0 meter is not availble for bamboo boat.

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