Guilin to Yangshuo Li River Cruise Private Day Trip

Guilin , China

Guilin to Yangshuo Li River Cruise Private Day Trip

Active

6h - 7h

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 best of Guilin’s breathtaking landscapes and Yangshuo’s countryside charm on this private full-day Li River and Yangshuo tour. Cruise along the world-famous Li River, where misty karst peaks and shimmering waters create one of China’s most iconic views. Explore the lively West Street in Yangshuo, filled with local cafés, shops, and the relaxed rhythm of village life. Then journey through the scenic Ten-Mile Gallery, a countryside road framed by emerald hills and rice fields, before stopping at the tranquil Fuli Bridge, a centuries-old stone arch nestled in nature.

With private transport, an English-speaking guide, and a flexible schedule, this immersive tour blends natural beauty, culture, and comfort — offering you the perfect Guilin experience in just one day.

Available options

Guilin to Yangshuo Li River Cruise Private Day Trip

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel pickup and drop-off

English speaking Guide

3 stars boat

Air-conditioned vehicle

at boat

Detailed itinerary

Your professional English-speaking guide and private driver will pick you up from your Guilin hotel and escort you to the pier to begin your Li River journey.

Stop 2

Embark on a mesmerizing Li River Cruise, one of China’s most celebrated journeys. As your boat glides gently downstream, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking karst mountains, lush bamboo groves, and tranquil riverside villages that seem to emerge straight from a Chinese ink painting. The changing scenery—misty peaks, grazing water buffalo, and fishermen on bamboo rafts—creates a living postcard of Guilin’s natural beauty.

Along the way, you’ll pass by world-famous sights such as Nine Horse Fresco Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal, and countless poetic landscapes immortalized in Chinese art and literature. Enjoy the serenity of the slow-flowing river, listen to your guide’s fascinating stories about local legends, and capture unforgettable photos of this masterpiece of nature.

Your cruise ends at Yangshuo, a charming riverside town where the mountains meet the water in perfect harmony.

Stop 3

After arriving in Yangshuo, step into the vibrant heart of the town — West Street, the oldest and most famous street in Yangshuo. Blending traditional Chinese charm with a lively international vibe, this pedestrian street is lined with quaint cafés, boutique shops, local handicrafts, and global restaurants. The mix of ancient architecture and colorful lights creates an enchanting atmosphere, especially in the evening.

Here, you can sample authentic local snacks, shop for handmade souvenirs, or simply relax with a drink while watching the world go by. Whether you’re capturing the street’s dynamic energy or soaking in its cultural rhythm.

Stop 4

Leaving West Street, enjoy a scenic drive through Yangshuo’s famous Ten-Mile Gallery, often called a “natural landscape corridor.” This route showcases some of Yangshuo’s most breathtaking countryside, where endless karst peaks, rice paddies, and riverside villages unfold like a living Chinese painting. As you drive along the Yulong River Valley, you’ll pass through postcard-perfect scenes of farmers tending their fields, bamboo rafts drifting lazily downstream, and locals cycling through the misty paths — a peaceful glimpse of authentic rural life.

We’ll stop at select viewpoints along the way so you can take photos and fully appreciate the tranquil beauty of this region, one of the most picturesque corners of Guilin.

Stop 5

Next, we’ll visit the ancient Fuli Bridge, one of Yangshuo’s oldest and most photogenic stone arch bridges, gracefully spanning the Yulong River. Surrounded by lush greenery and reflected perfectly in the calm water below, this 600-year-old bridge offers a timeless, serene beauty that embodies the spirit of traditional Chinese landscape art. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and travelers seeking that perfect reflection shot — a moment of stillness and natural harmony before we begin our return journey to Guilin.

After a relaxing countryside adventure, we’ll drive back to Guilin in the evening. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to unwind or reflect on your unforgettable day exploring the Li River and Yangshuo countryside. You’ll arrive back at your Guilin hotel around 7 PM, concluding a truly scenic and immersive experience with Ascend China Travel.

What's not included

Gratuities

the bus tickets to west street-CNY15 per person( paid on site )

Yulong River Bamboo raft-CNY200 per raft( paid on site )

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

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

Meeting point

infront of hotel, or nearby at the hotel

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