2-Day Guilin Tour Including the 4 Star Boat, Xianggong hill and Liusanjie show

Guilin and Yangshuo 2-Day Tour Review: A Balance of Scenic Beauty and Cultural Charm

Exploring Guilin and nearby Yangshuo can be a highlight of any China trip, especially with this well-rounded 2-day tour that packs in some of the region’s most iconic sights. From cruising along the famous Li River to hiking Xianggong Hill for panoramic views, and finishing with a spectacular outdoor show, it offers a comprehensive experience for travelers craving authentic scenery and local culture. With a price tag of around $500, it’s an investment in unforgettable vistas and cultural highlights, all with the convenience of private transport and guided commentary.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its seamless combination of natural beauty and cultural entertainment. The 4-star Li River cruise stands out as the true star—looking at the landscape through a comfortable boat while soaking in the iconic Karst peaks. However, a potential consideration is the packed schedule, especially on the second day, which requires stamina and an interest in diverse attractions. Suitable for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and storytelling, this tour caters well to those who prefer structured days with top sights included.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The Li River cruise offers some of China’s most famous landscapes, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
• Expert Guides: Guests often praise knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with local insights and practical tips.
• Cultural Highlights: Visiting Daxu Old Town, Elephant Trunk Hill, and the Sun and Moon Pagodas adds historical and cultural context.
• Entertainment: The Liusanjie show provides a memorable outdoor performance that’s unique to the region’s natural scenery.
• Value for Money: The tour includes entrance tickets, boat rides, and a traditional lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Physical Consideration: Moderate fitness level recommended due to walking and climbing involved at various sites.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Guilin Tour

This tour offers a structured yet flexible itinerary, designed to give you a taste of Guilin’s most famed scenery and cultural sites. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transports—everything is arranged for you, from transfers to entrances.

Day 1: The Iconic Li River and Vibrant Yangshuo

Li River Cruise
The journey kicks off early, with a pickup at 7:40AM from your hotel. The approximately four-hour cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is what many consider the centerpiece of the trip. Traveling aboard a 4-star cruise boat, you’ll glide past towering, limestone Karst peaks that seem to rise straight out of the water. This stretch of the river is famous for its artistic landscapes, often depicted on Chinese paintings, and it’s easy to see why—each bend offers a fresh, postcard-worthy view.

During the cruise, you’ll spot water buffalo sprawling in rice paddies, local farmers working their fields, children playing, and fishermen floating by on bamboo rafts. These scenes make it clear that life here is shaped by the landscape. One review mentioned that the views of Xingping Ancient Town are so picturesque that they appear painted, and the pattern on the back of the 20 yuan note is taken from this very town.

Yangshuo’s West Street
Post-cruise, the tour includes a visit to West Street—an energetic hub of shops, cafes, and street vendors. It’s perfect for those who love browsing local crafts or just want to soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s a lively area, and many travelers find it a great place for a quick snack or souvenir hunt. One tourist remarked, “West Street is a maze of interesting shops and street performers—there’s always something happening.”

Xianggong Hill
A scenic 40-minute drive takes us to Xianggong Hill, perched along the river. Climbing to the top takes around 10-15 minutes and rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of the Li River winding through the lush landscape. The spot is often called the “most beautiful mountain along the Li River,” and many guests appreciate the opportunity to snap photos of the river and Karst formations from above.

Impression Sanjie Liu Show
The evening’s highlight is the outdoor water and hill scenery performance—a mesmerizing 70-minute show that uses the Li River and surrounding hills as a natural stage. The show’s outdoor setting—integrating water, hills, and the night sky—creates an immersive experience. Reviewers have described it as unforgettable, praising the artistry and the way the natural scenery enhances the performance. The show runs from 19:30 to 20:40, and transportation back to Guilin is arranged around 22:30.

Day 2: Caves, Landmarks, and Old Towns

Reed Flute Cave
Starting at 9AM, your guide will take you to Reed Flute Cave, known as the “Palace of Natural Art.” It’s a 240-meter-long cavern filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and stone formations that have been forming for about 180 million years. Visitors often comment on the intricate shapes and the lighting that accentuates the natural sculptures. It’s a bit of a cool reprieve from the outdoor heat and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and marveling at nature’s artistry.

Elephant Trunk Hill
Next, the guide takes you to Elephant Trunk Hill, the iconic symbol of Guilin. This natural formation resembles an elephant drinking from the river, and the area offers lovely views of the city and river merging. It’s a popular spot for quick photos and enjoying the natural landscape intertwined with cultural symbols.

Daxu Ancient Town
A short drive (around 20 km) southeast brings us to Daxu Old Town. This peaceful village boasts well-preserved ancient buildings, stone streets, and traditional architecture. It’s less commercialized than other tourist spots, making it ideal for those interested in authentic local culture. One reviewer appreciated the “worn bluestone streets and old temples,” describing the town as a “quiet, charming place full of history.”

Sun and Moon Pagodas
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Sun and Moon Pagodas, located near a scenic lake. This is a great spot for a leisurely walk after lunch, and you can admire the unique architecture of the pagodas that are lit up beautifully at night. It’s a peaceful setting to wind down and reflect on your trip.

Drop-off and Reflection
The tour wraps up with a relaxed transfer back to your hotel or transport station. This final part offers a chance to chat with your guide about your favorite moments and get tips for exploring Guilin or Yangshuo further.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation and Guides
The tour includes private air-conditioned vehicles, which make moving between sites comfortable and efficient. Having a knowledgeable guide really enhances the experience—guides reportedly share interesting stories and local insights that you wouldn’t find in guidebooks. The group size is private, so it feels personalized without the chaos of large tours.

Tickets and Meals
All entrance fees are included, covering boats, parks, and shows. A traditional lunch is optional but recommended, providing a chance to sample local cuisine. This all-in-one approach helps travelers avoid the hassle of booking individual tickets or navigating public transportation.

Timing and Pacing
The schedule is quite full, with early mornings and packed afternoons. This suits travelers who want to maximize their time but might be tiring for those preferring a slower pace. The 4-hour cruise, in particular, benefits from being a comfortable, scenic experience—not rushed at all.

Price and Value
At around $500, this tour offers good value considering the number of attractions, entrance fees, and transportation included. It’s a comprehensive package designed for those who want a curated experience without the stress of planning every detail. For travelers who enjoy a structured but flexible itinerary, this provides a balance of sightseeing and culture.

Who Would Benefit Most from This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Guilin and Yangshuo who want an efficient, well-organized experience covering the region’s highlights. It’s particularly suited for those with a moderate fitness level, comfortable with some walking and climbing. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and culture buffs will find plenty to love here. Since the tour includes outdoor performances and scenic sites, travelers who appreciate visual spectacles and authentic landscapes will be especially pleased.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Guilin tour offers a carefully curated blend of scenery, history, and entertainment. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the Li River cruise, with its unforgettable views of the Karst peaks—something that truly captures the essence of Guilin’s landscape. The mix of outdoor exploration, cultural landmarks, and the impressive Sanjie Liu show makes it a memorable experience, especially for those who want to see the best without fussing over logistics.

The tour’s strength lies in its ability to combine natural beauty with cultural storytelling, making it a well-rounded choice for diverse travelers. The inclusion of tickets, transportation, and a guide makes it a convenient, value-packed option, especially when you consider how much it covers in just two days.

If you’re after a structured, scenic journey that balances sightseeing with authentic cultural moments, this Guilin tour will serve you well. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of this stunning region, leaving you with photos, stories, and memories to cherish.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Guilin or Yangshuo hotel and drops you off at your hotel, airport, or train station at the end of the trip.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
Absolutely. All tickets for the cruise, Xianggong Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, and the Liusanjie show are included.

Can I opt out of the optional lunch?
Yes, lunch is optional. If you prefer to explore local eateries on your own or want to save time, you can skip it.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While generally suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, consider the walking and climbing involved, especially at Xianggong Hill and Daxu Old Town.

How long is the Li River cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour is suitable year-round, but the outdoor performances and scenic views are most spectacular in good weather—spring and autumn are ideal.

Are there group discounts available?
Yes, group discounts are offered, making it an excellent choice for friends or families traveling together.

This detailed guide should help you decide whether this 2-day Guilin tour fits your travel style. It offers a balanced, immersive experience that showcases the best of the region, perfect for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable adventure.