Guilin: 1-Day Iconic Landmarks & Cultural Tour

Planning a trip to Guilin and eager to see its most famous sights while soaking up local culture? This 1-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s top landmarks, ancient towns, and traditional fishing methods, all in a comfortable, guided package. From the instantly recognizable Elephant Trunk Hill to the historic streets of Daxu Ancient Town, this experience balances nature, history, and authentic regional traditions.

What makes this tour stand out? We love its focus on iconic landmarks, the opportunity to climb for panoramic city views, and the chance to witness the ancient cormorant fishing tradition—an extraordinary glimpse into local life. Plus, the included private guide and transport make getting around hassle-free. That said, one consideration is the entrance fee, which isn’t included and totals around CNY 520 per person, so budget accordingly.

Ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive day that packs in some of Guilin’s most photogenic and culturally rich spots, this tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those short on time but eager to make the most of their visit.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Guilin’s iconic hill, ancient town, and traditional fishing show
• Expert guide and private transport ensure a smooth, personalized experience
• Stunning views from Solitary Beauty Peak and Elephant Trunk Hill
• Authentic cultural experience at Daxu Ancient Town and cormorant fishing
• Good value for money considering the transportation, guides, and access to top landmarks
• Flexibility with options to reserve now and pay later, plus cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Guilin’s Natural Wonders

Elephant Trunk Hill is often the first image people associate with Guilin—and for good reason. Resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River, this natural sculpture is not only photogenic but steeped in local legend. It’s the kind of spot that makes you want to pull out your camera at every angle, and it’s also a window into the stories that locals cherish. As one reviewer noted, the guide was attentive to ensuring visitors understood the legend behind the landmark, adding a layer of cultural richness to the visit.

Just a short walk from Elephant Trunk Hill, you’ll find Solitary Beauty Peak, which offers sweeping views after an energetic climb of 306 stone steps. Standing at 66 meters, it provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the city and the nearby Li River. Expect a steady ascent, but the payoff is worth it—viewers will love the chance to see Guilin’s lush cityscape and river below, especially if they’re into photography or simply want a quiet moment with a view. Reviewers have appreciated the guides’ knowledge and helpful advice, with one praising their guide’s insights into the city’s landmarks.

A Walk Through History at Daxu Ancient Town

After the natural sights, the tour takes you roughly an hour southeast to Daxu Ancient Town, a location that feels like stepping back in time. With over 1,000 years of history, Daxu was once among the four most prominent towns in Guangxi Province. Its bluestone streets and well-preserved buildings make it a highlight for those interested in regional history and architecture.

Walking along the two-kilometer-long bluestone street, you’ll encounter traditional Ming and Qing structures, including temples, assembly halls, and the notable Gaozu Temple. The Longevity Bridge, a Ming Dynasty stone arch, is praised for its natural beauty and simplicity—an excellent spot for photos and quiet reflection. Reviewers mention that the town’s atmosphere feels authentic and not overly touristy, making it an excellent place to appreciate the slow pace of traditional life.

Witnessing a Century-Old Tradition: Cormorant Fishing

The evening activity at Xingping Town offers a captivating look at cormorant fishing, a practice dating back over 1,000 years. The sight of trained birds diving into the river to catch fish is mesmerizing. Many reviewers highlighted the performance as a highlight, noting how skillfully fishermen guide the birds, blending human ingenuity with nature.

This show is more than just entertainment; it’s a window into traditional regional livelihood, preserved despite modern changes. It’s a peaceful, almost poetic way to end your day of exploration, with the nighttime setting adding to the magic. After, your driver will transfer you back to Guilin, ensuring a comfortable, hassle-free return.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $159 per group (up to 2 people) offers solid value for a full day, especially with private transport and guides included. Since entrance fees are about CNY 520 per person, it’s worth budgeting for this extra expense, but remember that all transportation and guiding services are covered, which can save you a lot of stress and time.

The tour is designed for flexibility—your start time is confirmed the day before, allowing you to plan accordingly. Language support is in English, making it accessible for international travelers. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the locations and some climbing involved.

From reviews, it seems the guides go beyond just guiding—they offer valuable insights, local tips, and help with tickets, which enhances the overall experience. One guest mentioned a guide named Mo Li as particularly caring and professional, which adds comfort especially for first-time visitors.

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What We Love (and a Few Considerations)

Pros:

• The balance of natural beauty, history, and culture makes this tour quite comprehensive.
• Guides like Mo Li and Blues Lee are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness, which elevates the experience.
• The panoramic views from Solitary Beauty Peak are stunning and well worth the climb.
• Visiting Daxu Ancient Town offers an authentic taste of regional life, away from the busy tourist spots.
• The cormorant fishing performance is an extraordinary tradition that few visitors get to see elsewhere.

Possible considerations:

• The entrance fee isn’t included, so be prepared to spend additional money at the sites.
• The tour involves some walking and climbing, which might be tiring for those with mobility issues or very young children.
• It runs over a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed itinerary without needing much downtime.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culture seekers who want a full, authentic day in Guilin without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s great for those who appreciate guided insights and local traditions. The mix of landmarks and cultural experiences makes it suitable for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a meaningful, value-packed day.

Travelers with a keen interest in traditional fishing methods or ancient towns will find this especially rewarding. It’s also a perfect choice if you’re short on time but want to cover a lot of ground comfortably.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation with an English-speaking guide is included, making it easy to move between sites without worry.

How much are entrance fees?
Entrance fees are approximately CNY 520 per person and are paid separately on the day of the tour.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now with flexible payment options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It involves walking and climbing, especially at Solitary Beauty Peak, so may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting in the morning and concluding in the evening after the cormorant fishing performance.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but your guide can recommend local restaurants or snacks if asked.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and climbing, some cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

This Guilin 1-Day Iconic Landmarks & Cultural Tour offers a well-rounded journey through some of the city’s most beloved sights and traditions. It balances natural beauty, historical charm, and authentic local culture, all with the convenience of private transport and expert guiding. Perfect for travelers who want a value-packed, immersive experience without the stress of self-organizing.

If you’re eager to see Guilin’s most famous spots, learn about its legends, and witness traditional fishing, this tour delivers a memorable day that captures the essence of the region. It’s especially suited for those keen on history, photography, and cultural heritage—a perfect way to make the most of a short stay in this scenic city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby