Yangshuo Highlights Li River Cruise and Biking Along Yulong River
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8h
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About this experience
Li River Scenic Cruise & Countryside Cycling Adventure
Feast your eyes on Guilin's picture-perfect landscapes during a leisurely Li River cruise. Marvel at the stunning karst mountains and serene riverside views as you glide along the crystal-clear waters.
After your cruise, embark on a cycling adventure through the picturesque Yulong River valley. Pedal along idyllic paths flanked by dramatic karst peaks, lush rice paddies, and quaint riverside villages, immersing yourself in the region's breathtaking natural beauty.
Enjoy the convenience of personalized door-to-door service, including hotel pick-up and drop-off in Yangshuo. During your cruise, savor a delicious authentic Chinese lunch served on board to enhance your journey.
Available options
Yangshuo Highlights Li River Cruise and Biking Along Yulong River
Pickup included
What's included
English-speaking driver guide
Bikes rental
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Li River Cruise Itinerary
Your driver-guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby at around 8:00 AM. The drive to the pier takes approximately 50 minutes, where your guide will collect the boat tickets for you.
The Li River cruise lasts about 4 hours, arriving in Yangshuo by 1:30 PM. Along the way, you’ll pass countless towering karst peaks, creating a stunning natural panorama. The river winds like an emerald ribbon through the landscape, while the limestone mountains rise like bamboo shoots, forming a breathtaking open-air gallery of nature.
As you cruise downstream, you’ll be mesmerized by the reflections of the fantastically shaped peaks in the crystal-clear water, along with lush green hills, bamboo groves, and rural scenery. One of the highlights is passing Xingping Town, where you’ll see the iconic landscape featured on the 20 Yuan banknote.
Note: You will be on the boat independently during the cruise. Your driver guide will meet you at the Yangshuo dock upon arrival.
2
West Street is the oldest street in Yangshuo, with a history of over 1,000 years. Located in the heart of Yangshuo, it gained popularity in the 1980s and remains a charming destination today. The street retains its old-world countryside charm, featuring traditional architecture alongside a lively mix of Western-style bars, cafés, restaurants, Chinese art shops, tea houses, and clothing stalls.
3
Stop 3
Then, we will drive to the Yulong River, a tributary of the Li River, which flows through some of the most stunning limestone landscapes in Yangshuo. We will ride along the most classic, scenic, and tranquil path beside the river, passing through countryside scenery—rice paddies, villages, towering peaks, bamboo groves, farmers working in the fields, and ducks swimming in the water. The peaceful atmosphere will leave you feeling relaxed and joyful.
After the biking tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Guilin or Yangshuo.
What's not included
Boat tickets: 3 star boat 245 Yuan per person with lunch box, 4 star boat 360 yuan with buffet lunch
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Meeting point
The driver or guide that will pick up travelers is holding a board with the lead traveler's name.
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
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