Best of Guilin Li River Xianggong Hill and Yulong River

Travelers seeking a rich snapshot of Guilin’s natural beauty often find themselves enchanted by its iconic karst peaks and tranquil waterways. This tour offers a carefully curated experience that hits the highlights—without the rush or crowds. It promises a day filled with spectacular vistas, peaceful boat rides, and cultural highlights, making it a favorite for those who want a taste of Guilin’s most photogenic spots.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to glide effortlessly along the Li River on an electric boat really captures the essence of Guilin’s serenity. Second, the panoramic views from Xianggong Hill are simply breathtaking, giving you an unbeatable perspective on the towering karst formations. Third, the Yulong River bamboo raft ride offers a quiet, authentic moment away from the busier tourist spots. The only caveat? With so much packed into one day, it’s a long, full schedule that might feel rushed for some visitors.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic exploration that balances natural beauty with cultural highlights, this tour suits travelers who appreciate thoughtful planning and local insights. It’s especially ideal if you want a flexible, private experience at a reasonable price, with options to add evening entertainment.

Good To Know

• Remarkably scenic views from Xianggong Hill and along the Li River
• Serene boat and bamboo raft trips offering peaceful moments amid nature
• Expert guides and well-organized logistics ensure smooth transitions between sites
• Affordable value at $89, with options for extra paid activities
• Flexible pickup and private group setup enhances comfort and convenience
• Evening show adds a memorable cultural touch to the day

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins early, with pickup at around 9:00 am from your hotel, Guilin Railway Station, or another convenient location. From the outset, everything is designed to maximize your comfort and convenience. The private vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide means you get personalized insights and flexibility that larger group tours may lack.

First Stop: Guilin
Your journey kicks off with a quick, 10-minute stop in Guilin itself, mostly to get your bearings or handle any last-minute preparations. It’s a brief but necessary start, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Second Stop: Xingping Town
Traveling along the Li River, you’ll visit Xingping, a quaint town with around 3,000 residents. It’s famous for some of the most striking karst peaks along the river. While the admission is not included, this stop offers a chance to appreciate the rural charm and take some fantastic photos of the scenery. Reviewers loved how the tour included an exploration of the unique peaks between Yangdi and Xingping, describing it as “the most stunning and unique” part of their trip.

Third Stop: Xianggong Hill
Climbing to Xianggong Hill is a highlight—offering perhaps the most iconic view of the tour. From this vantage point, you’ll see the river snaking through jagged peaks that seem to defy gravity. While the admission fee (around 60 Yuan) isn’t included, many find the view worth every Yuan. Visitors describe it as “one of the most stunning views,” and note that it’s a perfect photo opportunity. The hike is manageable and well-worth the effort for the panoramic payoff.

Fourth Stop: Yulong River Bamboo Raft
A peaceful bamboo raft trip on the Yulong River is often a favorite part of the day. Sitting comfortably on the raft, you’ll float along the crystal-clear waters while soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The review quotes highlight how “Leo, the guide, knew exactly where to take us for the best views,” and that the experience was “serene and idyllic.” The bamboo boat ride is a relaxing contrast to the more active sightseeing, and it’s a genuine taste of local life.

Fifth Stop: Impression Sanjie Liu
The evening entertainment, “Impression Sanjie Liu,” is an outdoor, riverside musical directed by Zhang Yimou. Set over a 2-kilometer stretch of natural stage, it’s a mesmerizing spectacle blending light, sound, and natural scenery. While the ticket (around 350 Yuan) isn’t included, reviews describe it as “spectacular,” with breathtaking visuals and an immersive atmosphere. It’s an optional addition, but one that many travelers find memorable after a day of sightseeing.

Return to Guilin
After the show, transportation is provided back to your hotel or accommodation, marking the end of a full, yet smoothly coordinated, day.

What You’ll Love About the Experience

Scenic Vistas from Xianggong Hill and Along the River
Travelers consistently rave about the views from Xianggong Hill, with its sweeping panoramic vistas of the karst peaks. The electric boat ride along the Li River, described as “stress-free,” allows you to enjoy the landscape slowly, without the crowds and noise. Many reviews mention how the peaceful boat ride was a highlight—”a calm, scenic glide” through some of the most famous scenery in China.

Authentic and Relaxed Floating on the Yulong River
The bamboo raft ride isn’t just a sightseeing activity; it’s an authentic experience that feels almost meditative. Reviewers appreciated the “serene atmosphere,” and how it offered a break from more commercialized parts of China’s tourist circuit. It’s an ideal opportunity to relax, reflect, and take in the natural beauty at a gentle pace.

Knowledgeable, Friendly Guides
Multiple reviews praise Leo, the guide, for his local knowledge and friendly demeanor. Guests mention how he shared interesting stories, simplified ticket purchases, and made everyone feel at ease. One reviewer noted how Leo “offered great insight into the local area,” enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Well-Organized, Private Experience
This is a private tour, meaning your group isn’t mixed with strangers. The smooth logistics—timed pickups and drop-offs—mean you’re not wasting time or feeling rushed. The private vehicle with air conditioning keeps things comfortable, even on the longer drive between stops.

Cultural Touch with the Night Show
The outdoor performance of “Impression Sanjie Liu” adds a layer of culture. Many reviewers found it “spectacular,” with the natural stage offering a unique backdrop to the show. It wraps up the day in a truly memorable way, giving you a deeper appreciation of local artistry.

Considerations and Practical Insights

While the tour does include many highlights, be prepared for a long day—around 11 to 12 hours. It’s packed with activities, so if you’re a slow mover or prefer more leisure, you might find it a bit intense. The entrance fees for Xianggong Hill and the boat rides aren’t included in the $89 price, adding extra costs, though they are generally reasonable. The optional night show is a highlight, but also an additional expense.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging, particularly climbing Xianggong Hill. Kids under 1 meter tall can’t participate in the bamboo boat, which is worth noting for families.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $89, this tour packs in several of Guilin’s top sights, guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. The cost is quite reasonable considering the private transportation, the variety of activities, and the flexibility offered. When you factor in the inclusion of personalized service, scenic boat rides, and the optional cultural show, it’s a good deal for a full day of quality experiences.

Travelers rave about how well-organized and thoughtful the itinerary is. The reviews praising Leo as a guide and the smooth logistics suggest this is a well-run operation. The added value of expert local insights, combined with the stunning scenery, makes it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Guilin’s natural beauty. It suits those appreciating scenic vistas, peaceful boat rides, and authentic local experiences. It’s especially suitable if you value personalized service and a private setting over crowded group tours.

Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will find the views from Xianggong Hill and the river trips particularly rewarding. Cultural explorers will enjoy the outdoor night show, which offers a vibrant glimpse into Chinese artistic traditions. And busy travelers will appreciate a well-organized day that covers multiple highlights efficiently.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an authentic, scenic slice of Guilin’s most famous landscapes, combined with thoughtful logistics and expert guidance. The blend of boat rides, hilltop vistas, and cultural entertainment ensures a balanced experience that appeals to many kinds of travelers.

It’s a flexible, private option that delivers value with incredible views and memorable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Guilin for the first time, this tour provides a wonderful way to see some of China’s most iconic scenery without feeling overwhelmed.

If you’re after a day that mixes natural beauty, cultural elements, and комфорт, this tour is a dependable choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickups are generally scheduled for 9:00 am, but you can select a different time if needed when booking.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the tour price does not cover Xianggong Hill (60 Yuan), boat rides (140 Yuan), or bamboo raft (100 Yuan). These are paid on-site.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 11 to 12 hours, making it a full-day activity.

Can children participate?
Children under 1 meter tall cannot join the bamboo boat ride, but otherwise, most kids can participate.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Climbing Xianggong Hill might be challenging for some. Consider your mobility before booking.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, spring and autumn usually offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities in Guilin.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, so your group will be the only participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.

In summary, this tour offers a beautifully balanced day exploring Guilin’s stunning landscapes, with a focus on comfort, authenticity, and value. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, scenic experience with the flexibility and insight of a local guide.