Guilin City & Li River Tour: Explore Guilin’s Best Attractions in 2 Days

D1 Guilin

The day begins with a smooth pick-up from your hotel. As you step into the hotel lobby, you’re greeted by your friendly guide, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign, ready to embark on a memorable day of exploration. After a warm welcome, the journey begins as you head towards Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan), one of the most iconic landmarks in Guilin. The hill’s name derives from its resemblance to an elephant drinking water from the Li River, a striking sight that has captivated travelers for centuries. Your guide will offer fascinating insights into the hill’s history, including its significance in Chinese folklore and the legends that surround it. As you walk along the picturesque pathways leading to the hill, your guide will point out various scenic spots, sharing stories about the area’s cultural importance. The climb to the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with the Li River winding like a ribbon through the lush green scenery. As you take in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings, your guide will explain the natural features of the region, including the karst formations that make this area so unique.

Next, your adventure continues with a visit to the Reed Flute Cave, a must-see natural wonder that showcases some of the most stunning limestone formations in Guilin. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you into the cave, where the air is cool and the walls are lined with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is often referred to as the "Palace of Natural Art" because of its striking formations, which are illuminated by colorful lighting, creating an ethereal atmosphere. As you wander through the cave’s chambers, your guide will explain the geological processes that shaped the cave over millions of years, making the experience both educational and visually captivating. Your guide will also share interesting anecdotes about the cave's history and its significance to local culture. The more you explore, the more you’ll be amazed by the grandeur of the stalagmites, stone pillars, and crystal-clear underground pools. It’s easy to see why Reed Flute Cave has become a symbol of Guilin’s natural beauty. Your guide’s explanations add depth to the experience, allowing you to appreciate the cave not just for its beauty, but also for its geological and cultural importance.

After a morning of exploring the natural wonders of Guilin, it’s time for a well-deserved lunch. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant known for serving authentic regional cuisine, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes that capture the flavors of the area. The meal typically includes specialties such as Guilin Rice Noodles, Luo Bo (pickled radish), and freshly prepared Li River fish. While you dine, your guide will share more about the local food culture, explaining the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the way Guilin's cuisine reflects its geography. You’ll learn how the culinary traditions of the region have evolved over the centuries and how they are influenced by the natural environment. The relaxed atmosphere during lunch offers a perfect opportunity to ask your guide any questions you might have about the places you’ve visited or the rest of your itinerary. This is also the time to recharge before continuing your exploration of Guilin.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park, home to the famous Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas that rise majestically over Shan Lake. These iconic pagodas are an important symbol of Guilin and provide a stunning sight, especially as the sun sets and the pagodas are illuminated by soft, golden lights. Your guide will lead you around the park, explaining the history behind these pagodas, which were built in the Song Dynasty and have become a symbol of the harmonious relationship between nature and culture. As you walk around the tranquil lake, your guide will point out the beautifully landscaped gardens, traditional pavilions, and the impressive reflections of the pagodas in the water. The peaceful atmosphere of the park makes it an ideal place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area. Your guide will also share stories about the significance of the sun and moon in Chinese philosophy and how they are represented in the design of the pagodas. The afternoon is the perfect time to reflect on the day’s experiences, as the peaceful surroundings and beautiful views offer a sense of tranquility and connection to the landscape.

As the tour comes to an end, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring that the day concludes as smoothly as it began. On the drive back, you’ll have time to reflect on the sights you’ve seen and the fascinating stories your guide has shared. The journey back is comfortable and relaxing, giving you the opportunity to unwind after a full day of exploration. Whether it was the majestic Elephant Trunk Hill, the otherworldly Reed Flute Cave, or the serene beauty of the Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park, you’ll have experienced some of the best sights that Guilin has to offer. Your guide will ensure you have everything you need before you return to your hotel, providing any final recommendations or tips for the rest of your trip. By the time you arrive back, you’ll have cherished memories of a day filled with natural beauty, history, and culture.

D2 Yangshuo

The day begins with a smooth pick-up from your hotel, where your friendly guide awaits you in the lobby, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign. Your first experience of the day is a Li River cruise, one of the most scenic boat journeys in China, offering uninterrupted views of the region’s famous karst landscapes. As your guide leads you to the pier, they share the background of the Li River’s cultural significance and how it has inspired poets and painters for centuries. As you glide down the river, you’ll see iconic limestone peaks, traditional fishing boats, and water buffalo grazing along the banks. Your guide will point out notable landmarks such as the Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the Apple Hill, explaining the legends behind their names. With every bend of the river revealing a new postcard-perfect scene, the cruise offers a serene yet awe-inspiring introduction to Guilin’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to bring your camera—your guide will help you capture the best angles and lighting as you cruise along this picturesque waterway.

You will enjoy a simple lunch onboard the cruise as you drift along the scenic Li River, surrounded by stunning karst landscapes. After disembarking from the cruise, your journey will continue to West Street in Yangshuo, a lively and historic pedestrian thoroughfare that will perfectly blend old-world charm with modern-day energy. If you would still like to try more local specialties after the cruise, your guide will take you to a countryside restaurant where you will enjoy a selection of Guilin’s signature dishes.

In the afternoon, you will continue your exploration of West Street in Yangshuo, a lively and historic pedestrian thoroughfare that will perfectly blend old-world charm with modern-day energy. Your guide will share how the street has transformed from a quiet riverside lane into a vibrant hub for both locals and travelers. As you stroll through the bustling alleyways, you will notice a unique mix of traditional architecture, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and street food vendors. The buildings will retain their centuries-old exteriors, while inside, many will house art galleries, craft stores, and teahouses. Your guide will point out hidden gems and explain the stories behind popular snacks and souvenirs you may want to try. Whether it’s sampling local delicacies like beer fish or browsing through handcrafted silver jewelry, West Street will provide a sensory experience steeped in local flavor. It will also be a great spot to interact with locals and observe the dynamic blend of cultures that define this corner of Yangshuo.

As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the karst peaks, it's time to conclude the day's journey. Your guide ensures a smooth and comfortable transfer back to your hotel, allowing you to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day. During the ride, your guide is happy to answer any remaining questions, offer recommendations for further exploration, or simply share more stories about the region’s rich history and traditions. Whether it was the breathtaking Li River cruise, the bustling scenes of West Street, or the immersive biking through Yangshuo’s countryside, today’s tour has offered an intimate glimpse into the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Guilin. As you arrive at your hotel, your guide bids you farewell, ensuring that your experience has been both enriching and seamless. With stunning memories captured and a deeper appreciation for Guilin’s landscapes, you conclude the day with a newfound love for this extraordinary region.

Price Per Person in US Dollars