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 stop is Xingping Town, a charming and ancient riverside town famous for its well-preserved architecture and its role in capturing the most iconic views of the Li River. As you stroll through the narrow stone-paved streets, your guide brings history to life, sharing stories of how Xingping was once a bustling trading hub and how it continues to embody the spirit of old China. You’ll pass traditional Qing Dynasty-era buildings, local handicraft shops, and small teahouses that offer a peek into the town’s timeless charm. The highlight of Xingping is its scenic riverbend, which appears on the back of China’s 20-yuan banknote. Your guide will lead you to the perfect vantage point for capturing this iconic scene, explaining the significance of the karst mountains that frame the river’s gentle curves.

From Xingping, the journey continues to Xianggong Mountain, a must-visit location for panoramic views of the Li River. As you approach the mountain, the landscape transforms into a dramatic display of towering karst peaks, their limestone formations rising majestically above the winding river below. Upon arrival, your guide provides insight into the area's geological history, explaining how millions of years of erosion have sculpted these breathtaking formations. The ascent to the mountain's peak is a moderate climb, with well-maintained stone steps leading up through dense bamboo groves. Along the way, your guide points out unique rock formations and local flora, sharing interesting anecdotes about the region’s biodiversity. Once at the summit, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Li River valley—a sight that has made Xianggong Mountain a favorite among photographers. Your guide helps you find the best spots for photos, ensuring you capture the essence of this stunning landscape. As you take in the scene, your guide shares stories of how local fishermen navigate these waters and how the ever-changing light creates different moods throughout the day, making every visit unique.

At lunchtime, your guide takes you to a local countryside restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a selection of Guilin’s signature dishes. As the dishes are served, your guide introduces their origins and cultural significance, explaining how oil tea is a daily staple among local ethnic groups and how Lipu taro braised pork balances rich flavors with tender textures. You’ll also learn about the preparation of stir-fried river snails, a dish infused with lemongrass and chili, and the tradition of Guilin rice noodles, a must-try regional favorite. This introduction adds depth to your meal, making it not just a dining experience but also a cultural journey.

The journey continues to the tranquil Yulong River, often referred to as the "Little Li River" due to its serene beauty and picturesque surroundings. Unlike the more well-known Li River, the Yulong River is untouched by motorized boats, making it an incredibly peaceful destination. Upon arrival, your guide introduces you to the area's history and natural significance, pointing out the 600-year-old Yulong Stone Bridge, an ancient structure that has stood the test of time. You have the option to take a relaxing bamboo raft ride, gently drifting along the river as you pass through lush rice fields, quaint villages, and towering karst peaks that seem to rise straight from the water. Your guide shares interesting details about the local way of life, explaining how farmers still cultivate their land using traditional methods and how water buffalo roam freely along the riverbanks. If you prefer a more active experience, your guide can arrange a bicycle ride along the scenic countryside paths, offering an alternative way to admire the breathtaking landscape. Whether floating on a bamboo raft or cycling along the riverside, you’ll be immersed in one of Guilin’s most peaceful and picturesque settings.

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 charming streets of Xingping, the breathtaking views from Xianggong Mountain, or the tranquil beauty of the Yulong River, 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