Guilin: 3-Day Tour with Li River Cruise & Yangshuo

Traveling through China offers countless stunning sights, but few experiences match the tranquil beauty of Guilin and Yangshuo. This 3-day tour promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural shows, and authentic local flavors. We’ve reviewed the details to help you understand if it fits your travel style.

What we love most about this experience are the full Li River views, the chance to cycle among rural landscapes, and the opportunity to see local traditions like fishing fires and bamboo rafting. The upscale accommodations along West Street add comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

One point to consider—this tour is quite packed and involves a lot of moving parts, so if you prefer slow-paced days or have mobility concerns, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Guilin and Yangshuo’s natural beauty and cultural highlights—especially those who appreciate a balance of guided activities and free time.

Good To Know

• Authentic Scenic Experiences: From Li River cruises to Yulong River rafting, you’ll get a genuine taste of China’s rural beauty.
• Value for Money: With three meals per day, upscale hotels, and multiple activities included, the overall cost offers solid value.
• Cultural Shows: Nighttime performances like Impression Liu Sanjie or Romance of the Song Dynasty add entertainment and local flavor.
• Active Exploration: Cycling, bamboo rafting, and walking tours ensure you stay engaged and get off the beaten path.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Upscale hotels in Yangshuo and optional free time provide a good mix of guided and independent exploration.
• Limitations: The busy schedule might feel rushed, and certain activities are not suitable for all, especially travelers with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Offers

This 3-day package immerses you in the natural and cultural scenery of southern China, centered around Guilin’s stunning karst mountains and the lively streets of Yangshuo. It offers a well-rounded itinerary with a mix of cruising, cultural shows, active pursuits, and leisure.

The tour begins in Guilin, where you’ll board a three-star Li River cruise. Expect about four hours of cruising on a comfortable boat that offers panoramic views of limestone cliffs and lush greenery. The cruise is a highlight, giving you classic imagery of China’s iconic landscape, as many reviews describe it as “breathtaking” and “a must-see.”

After the cruise, you’ll stop at Yinziyan Scenic Spot and enjoy a dance show—either Impression Liu Sanjie or Guilin Romance of the Song Dynasty. These performances are designed to showcase local culture with impressive staging and costumes, adding a lively contrast to the peaceful scenery.

The second day is packed with outdoor activities. You’ll explore Ten-Mile Gallery—a scenic cycling route along rural roads lined with rice paddies and mountains—where travelers often find themselves stopping for “perfect Instagram shots.” The Yulong River bamboo rafting, with its dam-rushing section, is a fun, less commercial way to experience the countryside, although it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

Evenings are flexible, with free time at Yangshuo West Street—a lively hub of shops, cafes, and street performers, giving you space to soak in local life. For dinner, you’ll enjoy Yangshuo’s famous beer fish, a signature dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Day three takes you to Peach Blossom Land via a river cruise, offering another picturesque perspective of the landscape. Then, a visit to iconic spots like Elephant Trunk Hill and Diecai Hill completes your Guilin experience with panoramic city views and photo opportunities.

Detailed Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

Guilin and the Li River Cruise

The journey starts with a three-star cruise boat—not the most luxurious, but comfortable and well-organized, with real-name ticketing ensuring accountability. Expect a four-hour cruise, where the boat glides past towering limestone formations and verdant hills—a classic image of China that’s often praised for its peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Guests mention the cruise as “very scenic,” with some appreciating the smooth ride and friendly staff. The boat’s design emphasizes panoramic views, so bring your camera. Although the cruise is relatively short in duration, the scenery makes it feel like a step into a traditional Chinese painting.

Yinziyan Scenic Spot and Cultural Shows

Post-cruise, you’ll visit Yinziyan, a scenic area where guided tours explore the geological formations and cultural significance of the region, usually lasting around an hour. Reviews note the informative guides and the stunning rock formations that resemble different shapes and figures.

In the evening, the Impression Liu Sanjie or Guilin Romance of the Song Dynasty show provide a lively immersion into local performing arts. The shows are staged outdoors or in theaters with impressive lighting and costumes, and the review mentions they are “visually spectacular,” blending song, dance, and storytelling.

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Yangshuo and Outdoor Activities

The second day is dedicated to experiencing Yangshuo’s natural beauty firsthand. The Ten-Mile Gallery cycling tour is often highlighted as a highlight—many travelers find it more memorable than just sightseeing. You’ll pedal along rural roads, crossing small bridges and passing through villages, with some reviews mentioning the slow pace and relaxed atmosphere.

The Yulong River bamboo rafting offers a unique perspective of the countryside, with some reviews noting it as “refreshing and fun,” especially for those who enjoy gentle adventure. Be aware of the activity restrictions—it’s not suitable for pregnant women, seniors over 70, or those with mobility issues. The dam-rushing experience is a fun, slightly adrenaline-pumping section, but it’s brief.

Lunch at Yangshuo’s beer fish restaurant is a culinary highlight—many reviewers praise the high standard of cuisine and the generous portions. It’s a good way to fuel up before more exploration.

Free Time and Additional Sights

Afternoons include optional free activities—like riding e-scooters or bicycles—for those wanting to explore at their own pace. Many reviewers appreciate the flexibility, with some using the time to wander West Street, full of quirky shops and local eateries. The Li River fishing fire photo opportunity during sunset is often mentioned as particularly Instagram-worthy.

Day Three: Guilin Landmarks

The final day features a river cruise to Peach Blossom Land, a scenic area filled with peach blossoms and rural vistas. Lunch at Macau Restaurant offers a taste of local flavors, with some reviews calling it a “solid, tasty meal.”

Guilin’s Elephant Trunk Hill and Diecai Hill provide panoramic city views and photo ops, with guides offering insights into their significance. The tour wraps up with a visit to Shiwai Taoyuan, a scenic spot for panoramic shots of the city and mountains.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for money is a recurring theme in reviews. The inclusion of multiple meals, upscale hotel stays, and diverse activities like cycling, bamboo rafting, and river cruises makes it a comprehensive package. The upscale hotels in Yangshuo’s West Street area ensure comfort, especially after a busy day outdoors.

The cultural shows are a thoughtful addition, providing entertainment and local storytelling that enhances the experience without extra cost. The free bonus activities, such as cycling amid scenic landscapes and the fishing fire photo, add a personalized touch—many travelers find these moments among their most memorable.

However, the packed schedule means you’ll need to keep pace with the group, which might not suit those seeking a leisurely, unstructured trip. Also, activity restrictions should be considered if traveling with seniors or those with health concerns.

Transportation and Practicalities

Transportation is organized, with group transfers from designated assembly points near major hotels. The timing is quite tight, so punctuality is essential. Tours operate mainly in Chinese, but guides do their best to explain key points. The group sizes are manageable, allowing for some personal space and interaction.

The cost—¥4050 for the full experience—includes meals, activities, and hotel stays. When considering the high quality of food, the scenic variety, and cultural shows, it offers good value for travelers looking for an all-in-one Guilin and Yangshuo experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour fits well for active travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a short time. It gives a solid introduction to Guilin’s natural beauty and Yangshuo’s lively culture, making it ideal for first-timers or those with limited travel days.

It’s also a good choice for families or couples who want a mix of guided activities and free time, especially with the comfortable accommodations and diverse sightseeing options. However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or seniors over 70 should review the activity restrictions carefully.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Guilin and Yangshuo tour offers a rich blend of scenic cruises, cultural performances, outdoor activities, and comfortable stays—all carefully curated for travelers who want depth and variety. The value for money, especially considering the included meals and hotel stays, makes it a compelling option for travelers eager to experience China’s picturesque landscapes without the hassle of organizing each element independently.

While the schedule is busy, the diversity of sights and activities guarantees you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments and stunning photos. If balanced adventure and culture are your priorities, this tour is worth considering.

Is transportation provided between Guilin and Yangshuo?
Yes, the tour includes organized transfers, with the assembly point near major hotels. After that, activities are within the region, with local transport arranged as part of the itinerary.

Can I switch the evening show from Impression Liu Sanjie to Romance of the Song Dynasty?
Yes, you can switch the show with advance notice, but last-minute changes aren’t available. The default is Impression Liu Sanjie.

What meals are included?
You’ll receive two breakfasts and three lunches or dinners, all served at high catering standards, including local specialties like beer fish.

Is the Yulong River bamboo rafting suitable for elderly travelers?
No, it’s not accessible for those over 70, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions. On-site refunds are available if activity restrictions apply.

How long is the Li River cruise?
The cruise lasts about four hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and photography opportunities.

What are the main sights on Day 3?
You’ll visit Peach Blossom Land via river cruise, Elephant Trunk Hill, Diecai Hill, and Shiwai Taoyuan for city views.

Are there optional activities during free time?
Yes, you may use e-scooters or bicycles, depending on arrangements, to explore West Street or nearby landscapes.

Will I need to pay extra for activities like cycling or rafting?
Most activities are included, but certain activities might have surcharges if exceeding group limits or for special requests.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, spring and autumn generally offer ideal weather—mild temperatures and clear skies—for outdoor exploration.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the group setting fosters social interaction, and organized transfers make it convenient for solo adventurers.

Final Words

Choosing this Guilin and Yangshuo tour means investing in a well-rounded experience that combines iconic scenery, cultural highlights, and active pursuits. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a structured yet flexible itinerary with quality included meals and comfortable accommodations. For those eager to see China’s countryside and enjoy lively local performances, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of the region’s natural charm and cultural richness.

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