A 3-Day Guilin & Yangshuo Tour Featuring Top Night Tours, Light Shows & Scenic Cruises

Day1 Guilin

Your journey to Guilin will begin with a warm welcome as you arrive in this beautiful city, renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival, your guide will be waiting at the airport or train station, holding a sign with "Your Way Holiday," making it easy for you to locate them. They will assist you with your luggage and provide a brief introduction to Guilin, sharing fascinating stories and insider tips about the city. After a comfortable transfer to your hotel, you will check in and have some time to relax before embarking on your first adventure. Your guide will ensure a smooth check-in process and offer recommendations for anything you may need. This short rest will help you recharge before stepping out to explore the mesmerizing sights and flavors that await you. If time permits, you may take a short walk around your hotel to get a feel for the city’s atmosphere, noticing the unique blend of modern convenience and ancient charm that defines Guilin.

In the afternoon, you will head to one of Guilin’s most iconic landmarks: Elephant Trunk Hill. This famous rock formation, shaped like an elephant drinking from the Li River, has been a symbol of the city for centuries. As you walk along the scenic park surrounding the hill, you will admire the lush greenery, tranquil waters, and historic inscriptions etched into the rocks. Your guide will provide insightful explanations about the legends and history behind Elephant Trunk Hill, adding depth to your visit. You may choose to climb to the Puxian Pagoda at the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the river and surrounding landscape. Along the way, you might encounter local artists painting traditional Guilin landscape scrolls, capturing the beauty of the scenery in intricate brush strokes. This picturesque setting is perfect for photography, and your guide will gladly help you capture memorable moments. As you take in the breathtaking views, you will begin to understand why Guilin has inspired poets and artists for generations.

As night falls, you will embark on the spectacular Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise, a journey that showcases the dazzling beauty of Guilin’s illuminated waterways. Drifting along the Li and Taohua Rivers, you will glide past the interconnected lakes of Rong, Shan, Gui, and Mulong, each offering a unique blend of traditional bridges, pagodas, and lush gardens. The shimmering reflections of the ancient and modern architecture create an enchanting atmosphere. Your guide will point out key landmarks and share stories about the significance of this waterway network, which has been an integral part of Guilin’s history for over a thousand years. You will also witness live cormorant fishing demonstrations, a traditional method used by local fishermen for generations. The serene boat ride, combined with the twinkling lights and cultural performances along the route, will make for an unforgettable experience. As the cruise continues, you will notice how each bridge has its own unique lighting design, from golden hues reflecting classical Chinese aesthetics to vibrant colors that change dynamically, creating an immersive visual feast.

After the cruise, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Guilin’s vibrant Night Market scene. The city's night markets are filled with stalls selling a wide variety of local delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You will wander through the bustling lanes of the Zhengyang Pedestrian Street or the Xicheng Night Market, where the enticing aroma of street food fills the air. You can sample Guilin’s famous rice noodles, grilled seafood, sticky rice cakes, and other local specialties. Your guide will introduce you to some of the must-try dishes, explaining their cultural significance and helping you navigate the best food stalls. The lively atmosphere, colorful displays, and delicious flavors will provide a perfect ending to your first day in Guilin, leaving you excited for the culinary and cultural adventures to come.

Day2 Guilin-Yangshuo by Boat

Your second day in Guilin will begin with an unforgettable Li River Cruise to the charming town of Yangshuo. After an early breakfast, your guide will escort you to the Guilin pier, where you will board a comfortable riverboat for a scenic journey down the Li River. As the boat glides through the water, you will be surrounded by breathtaking karst landscapes, misty peaks, and lush greenery that seem straight out of a traditional Chinese painting. Your guide will point out famous landmarks along the way, such as the Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal, sharing fascinating stories and historical insights about these stunning formations. The tranquil waters, occasional sightings of fishermen using traditional bamboo rafts, and the reflection of the towering mountains will create a surreal atmosphere. You will have ample time to relax on deck, take photos, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the river. The smooth ride and ever-changing scenery will make this cruise one of the highlights of your trip, providing an immersive experience of nature at its finest.

Around midday, you will enjoy a simple yet satisfying lunch on board, consisting of local-style dishes prepared fresh on the boat. Watching as the towering karst peaks give way to serene villages and rice paddies, you will start to notice the shift from dramatic landscapes to the more tranquil countryside of Yangshuo. Upon arriving at the dock, your guide will lead you on a delightful Countryside Tour, where you will get a glimpse of the rural lifestyle in southern China. You will visit picturesque villages surrounded by green fields, bamboo groves, and winding rivers, offering a stark contrast to the bustling city life of Guilin. The area is known for its traditional farming practices, and you might even witness locals harvesting crops or tending to water buffalo. If you wish, you may choose to explore the area on a bike or electric cart, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance. Your guide will introduce you to local farmers and artisans, giving you the chance to learn about traditional crafts and agricultural practices unique to this region.

Next, you will head to the heart of Yangshuo to explore West Street, the town's most famous and vibrant pedestrian area. This lively street, lined with traditional buildings, trendy cafes, and unique souvenir shops, is a melting pot of cultures where East meets West. As you stroll through the bustling lanes, you will see an array of shops selling handcrafted jewelry, calligraphy art, and local snacks. Your guide will recommend some of the best food stalls to try specialties like Guilin rice noodles, osmanthus cakes, and fresh fruit smoothies. The rich aroma of freshly brewed tea and sizzling skewers will fill the air, tempting you to sample different local delicacies. If you are interested in shopping, they can help you negotiate prices or find authentic local products. You may also stumble upon street performances, including traditional Chinese music or even Western-style bands, which add to the unique and lively charm of the area. The mix of Chinese and Western influences, along with the laid-back atmosphere, will make for an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon, allowing you to soak in the artistic and cultural essence of Yangshuo.

As night falls, you will witness the spectacular Liu Sanjie Impression Show, a large-scale outdoor performance set against the dramatic backdrop of the Li River and karst mountains. Directed by the famous filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this breathtaking show features hundreds of performers using the river as their stage, blending light, music, and folklore to create a mesmerizing experience. Your guide will ensure you have the best seats for optimal viewing and explain the cultural significance behind the performance. As the show unfolds, you will be captivated by the stunning choreography and storytelling that brings to life the legend of Liu Sanjie, the iconic folk singer of Guangxi. The interplay of lights reflecting off the water, combined with the harmonious voices of the performers, will create a dreamlike spectacle you will never forget. The grand scale of the production, with its use of natural scenery as a backdrop, makes it one of the most unique performances in China. After the show, you will be comfortably transported back to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, reminiscing about the flavors, sights, and cultural encounters that made this journey so memorable.

Day3 Yangshuo-Guilin

Your final day in Guilin will begin with a relaxing morning in Yangshuo, allowing you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere before your journey back to Guilin. You will have time to take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the town, where you can browse local markets, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed osmanthus tea, or capture the morning light reflecting on the Li River. The town’s tranquil setting, with misty mountains in the background, will offer the perfect chance to reflect on the memorable experiences of your trip. Your guide will be there to suggest hidden gems, whether it’s a quiet tea house or a scenic spot for one last photo. By mid-morning, you will board a private vehicle for your return to Guilin, a comfortable journey that will take you through the picturesque countryside, passing traditional villages and lush fields along the way.

Upon arriving back in Guilin, you will head straight to one of the city’s most famous natural wonders, the Reed Flute Cave. This spectacular limestone cave, known for its intricate rock formations, illuminated stalactites, and ancient inscriptions, will provide a mystical and awe-inspiring experience. Your guide will lead you through the cave, sharing fascinating stories about its history and folklore, as well as pointing out unique formations that resemble mythical creatures, cascading waterfalls, and towering pagodas. The colorful lighting inside the cave will enhance the surreal beauty of the natural rock formations, creating an otherworldly experience. As you wander through the caverns, you will have plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos of this underground wonder. The cool, quiet atmosphere of the cave will be a welcome contrast to the vibrant sights and sounds of the past days, offering a serene and reflective conclusion to your exploration of Guilin’s landscapes.

For your final meal in Guilin, your guide will take you to a renowned local restaurant where you will enjoy a last taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage. You might savor dishes such as beer fish, taro braised pork, or silky tofu in a flavorful broth, all crafted using fresh local ingredients. This farewell meal will be a fitting end to your journey, allowing you to appreciate the depth and variety of Guilin’s cuisine one last time. After lunch, your guide will assist you with your departure arrangements, whether you are heading to the airport or the train station. As you leave Guilin, you will carry with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and delicious flavors, making this food and culture journey one that will stay with you for years to come.

Price Per Person in US Dollars