Guilin Li River Day Tour: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture

Tour Itinerary

Your day begins early in the morning as you depart from your hotel in Guilin. After a short drive, you will arrive at your first destination, Xianggong Hill, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the region. As you ascend the hill, your guide will provide insight into the history and geology of the area, explaining how the stunning karst formations were shaped over millions of years. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Li River winding through lush green valleys, surrounded by towering limestone peaks. The view is nothing short of spectacular, offering a perfect opportunity for you to capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera. Your guide will help you frame the best shots, and you’ll have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings, feeling the tranquility of nature as you take in the awe-inspiring scenery. As the sunlight begins to bathe the landscape, you’ll witness how the changing light creates dramatic shifts in the scenery, adding another layer of magic to the already incredible view.

After taking in the incredible views at Xianggong Hill, you’ll descend back to the base of the hill and head towards a local restaurant for lunch. Here, your guide will recommend a variety of traditional dishes, with a particular focus on the local fish, which is a specialty of the region. The fish is often caught fresh from the Li River and cooked in a variety of ways, offering you a taste of authentic Yangshuo flavors. As you dine, your guide will continue to share stories about the culture and history of the region, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life. The peaceful atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the delicious flavors of the meal, will provide a perfect moment to relax and recharge before continuing your exploration of the area. After lunch, you’ll be ready for the next leg of your journey, feeling satisfied and eager for what’s ahead.

After taking in the incredible views at Xianggong Hill, you’ll descend back to the base of the hill and head towards a local restaurant for lunch. Here, your guide will recommend a variety of traditional dishes, with a particular focus on the local fish, which is a specialty of the region. The fish is often caught fresh from the Li River and cooked in a variety of ways, offering you a taste of authentic Yangshuo flavors. As you dine, your guide will continue to share stories about the culture and history of the region, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life. The peaceful atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the delicious flavors of the meal, will provide a perfect moment to relax and recharge before continuing your exploration of the area. After lunch, you’ll be ready for the next leg of your journey, feeling satisfied and eager for what’s ahead.

In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to the Historic Town of Xingping. This ancient town, known for its rich cultural heritage and peaceful atmosphere, is one of the most charming spots in the region. Your guide will take you on a leisurely walk through the town’s narrow streets, where you’ll admire the traditional architecture, ancient stone houses, and quiet alleyways that date back over a thousand years. As you explore, you’ll come across fascinating historical sites and monuments, each telling a story of the town’s past. The peaceful ambiance of Xingping offers a sharp contrast to the bustling city life, allowing you to step back in time and experience a slower, more serene pace of life. Your guide will share insights into the town’s history, from its role as a trading hub to its connection with local cultural traditions. You’ll also have time to wander through the surrounding countryside, where the lush fields and picturesque views offer a glimpse of rural life in the region.

Next, you’ll embark on a Bamboo Raft Ride along the Li River, one of the most popular and unforgettable experiences in the area. Your guide will explain how the bamboo rafts have been used for centuries by local fishermen to navigate the river. As you glide through the water, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the stunning karst landscape, seeing the towering limestone peaks and lush greenery from a different perspective. The peaceful river and the quiet hum of nature create a serene atmosphere, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense bamboo forests, ancient stone bridges, and vibrant fields, each offering a unique and picturesque scene. One of the highlights of the ride is when the raft passes through small dams, creating a thrilling moment as you feel the rush of the water. Your guide will ensure your safety while sharing fascinating details about the flora, fauna, and geography of the area, making this experience both relaxing and educational.

As the day transitions into evening, you’ll witness one of the most spectacular sights of the Li River, the Cormorant Fisherman Demonstration. This traditional fishing method, where fishermen use trained cormorants to catch fish, is still practiced in the region today. As the sun sets and the sky turns golden, the fishermen set out in their bamboo rafts, lighting lanterns and accompanied by their cormorants, to demonstrate this ancient technique. The sight of the fishermen drifting across the river with their lanterns, surrounded by misty mountains and glowing waters, creates an unforgettable scene. Your guide will explain the history and techniques of cormorant fishing, offering you a deeper appreciation for this unique cultural tradition. You’ll have the opportunity to take photos and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere, as the cormorants dive into the river to catch fish, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of the setting sun.

Finally, after a full day of exploration and unforgettable experiences, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the memories of the day. The peaceful journey back offers a moment to unwind after an eventful day, and your guide will be happy to answer any final questions you may have about the region. You’ll return to your hotel feeling enriched by the beauty, history, and culture of Guilin and Yangshuo, having experienced some of the most scenic and memorable moments the area has to offer.

Price Per Person in US Dollars