3-Day Private Guilin Highlights Tour from Chongqing by Bullet Train

This 3-Day Private Guilin Highlights Tour from Chongqing offers a comprehensive look at one of China’s most breathtaking regions, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides. Traveling by bullet train makes the journey efficient and exciting, giving you a taste of modern China along with timeless landscapes. What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexibility—it’s designed to be tailored to your preferences, whether you want to focus on natural beauty, cultural sites, or a mix of both.

One standout feature is the inclusion of the Li River cruise, which is often cited as a highlight by travelers. The leisurely boat ride through iconic karst peaks offers some of the most memorable scenery in China. On the flip side, the trip’s packed itinerary could feel a bit rushed for those wanting a more relaxed pace, especially with multiple stops each day. That said, it’s well-suited for travelers who crave a rich, immersive experience in a short span without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Guilin’s top sights efficiently, with the bonus of a private guide to personalize the experience. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and a taste of local life—all wrapped into an organized, value-packed package.

Key Points

Convenient Bullet Train Travel: Fast, comfortable, and efficient, making the journey from Chongqing to Guilin seamless.
Private, Customizable Experience: Guides help tailor the itinerary according to your interests, avoiding cookie-cutter tours.
In-Depth Sightseeing: From Elephant Trunk Hill to Reed Flute Cave, the tour covers major landmarks with historical and natural significance.
Unique River and Mountain Views: The Li River cruise and Longji Rice Terraces showcase Guilin’s most iconic landscapes.
Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, lunch, cruise tickets, and optional accommodation are included, making it easier to budget.
Authentic Local Encounters: Explore traditional villages, learn about minority cultures, and enjoy a relaxed pace in scenic spots like Yangshuo and Ping’an Village.

A Deep Dive Into the 3-Day Guilin Tour

Day 1: From Chongqing to Guilin and City Highlights

Your adventure begins bright and early at Chongqing Railway Station, where a driver will meet you with a sign bearing your name. The 4.5-hour bullet train ride whisks you through China’s mountainous landscapes, giving you a glimpse of the country’s modern rail capabilities. The train’s high speed makes the journey surprisingly comfortable, and many travelers appreciate how smooth and efficient it is—saving time and energy for sightseeing.

Upon arrival in Guilin, your tour guide will be waiting with a warm welcome and a private air-conditioned vehicle. This personal touch is what sets this experience apart. Instead of following a rigid schedule, you get to discuss your interests and adjust the itinerary accordingly. This flexibility is a big plus for travelers who prefer a more personalized approach.

Elephant Trunk Hill is the first stop, and it’s easy to see why it’s the symbol of Guilin. The hill’s shape, reminiscent of an elephant drinking from the river, has been a beloved sight since the Tang Dynasty. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views of the city, Li River, and surrounding karst peaks. The nearby Puxian Tower adds a historical layer, offering insights into Ming Dynasty architecture.

Next, you’ll explore Yunfeng Temple, a site steeped in spiritual history. Known for housing Monk Jianzhen, who helped spread Buddhism to Japan, the temple’s peaceful atmosphere provides a quiet contrast to the bustling city. It’s a quick stop but adds depth to your understanding of Guilin’s spiritual landscape.

Fubo Hill combines natural beauty with historical carvings. Its cliffs are etched with Buddha sculptures from the Tang and Song Dynasties, giving you a window into ancient religious art. You’ll also hear legendary stories connected to the Sword-Testing Rock, which adds a dash of local folklore.

The Reed Flute Cave completes the day with its surreal stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations, illuminated to showcase their beauty. The cave walls are covered with Tang Dynasty inscriptions and poems, providing a poetic ambiance to this natural wonder.

Lunch is included at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of Guilin cuisine—often featuring fresh river fish and local vegetables. Afterward, your tour continues in the Seven Star Park, home to elegant mountains, a stone forest, and the venerable Flower Bridge from the Song Dynasty. The park’s mix of scenic beauty and cultural relics makes it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy Guilin’s natural charm.

Finally, a visit to Putuo Mountain offers a spiritual retreat with caves, pavilions, and ancient tablets. Climbing here is optional, but the views from the mountain top are worth the effort.

Day 2: The Iconic Li River and Yangshuo

Your second day kicks off with a cruise on the Li River, recognized worldwide as a hallmark of Chinese landscape art. Departing from Zhujiang Pier around 8 am, you’ll glide past towering karst peaks and lush farmland. The boat ride typically lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours—relaxing, scenic, and full of opportunities to snap stunning photos.

Along the way, your guide will share legendary stories about the peaks and villages, adding a layer of storytelling to the natural sights. Keep your camera ready for the famous scenery of Xingping, a spot so picturesque it appears in many traditional Chinese paintings. The scenery here is so iconic that it even features on the back of the 20 RMB note.

Lunch is served onboard, allowing you to enjoy the view while sampling local dishes. Arriving in Yangshuo, you’ll stroll through West Street, a lively hub of shops, cafes, and art studios. This area offers a lively, authentic feel that’s perfect for wandering and soaking in the local vibe.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic stretch lined with rolling hills, fields, and traditional villages. The walk here feels like traversing a living painting—peaceful yet vibrant. Along the way, stop at Butterfly Spring Park for waterfalls, bubbling springs, and panoramic vistas of the landscape.

Your last stop is the Big Banyan Tree, over 1,400 years old, and associated with local legends about love and wishes. If time permits, a quick visit to Moon Hill is recommended for more photo ops.

Day 3: Longji Rice Terraces and Minority Villages

The final day takes you to the Longji Rice Terraces, starting early with a 2-hour drive. These terraces, built over hundreds of years, are some of the most stunning in the world. Two main viewing areas—Ping’an Village and Jinkeng—offer different perspectives on the intricate landscape. The terraces are especially beautiful during planting or harvest seasons when the reflections and colors create incredible scenes.

You can choose to visit Huangluo Long Hair Village first, famous for the Yao women with their iconic long hair, which they keep for generations as a symbol of good luck. The villagers often perform traditional hair-grooming ceremonies, giving you a glimpse into their cultural practices.

After lunch in Huangluo, your options include exploring Dazhai or Ping’an Village, both offering their unique views. At Dazhai, a cable car ride climbs to Golden Buddha Peak, revealing sweeping vistas of the terraces. Alternatively, a hike around Ping’an Village provides an intimate experience with the landscape, as you wind through rice paddies and meet local farmers.

Your journey may end in Longsheng, Guilin, Yangshuo, or even return directly to Chongqing—depending on your preference.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The combination of bullet train travel, private guides, entrance fees, and guided excursions makes this a convenient and comprehensive package. The inclusion of lunch, cruise tickets, and optional accommodation simplifies planning, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and culture. While the price of around $760 per person might seem high at first glance, it reflects the convenience, comfort, and depth of experience packed into the three days.

Many travelers emphasize the knowledgeable guides—who are typically fluent in English—and their ability to make complex historical and cultural stories accessible. The scenic landscapes, from the Li River to the rice terraces, are undeniably breathtaking and worth the premium for most travelers seeking a well-rounded Guilin overview.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, personalized exploration of Guilin without missing its most iconic sights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty, cultural insights, and comfortable transportation. The private nature of the tour means it works well for couples, families, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more free time in each destination, the itinerary might feel a bit full. Also, those not comfortable with a lot of movement and multiple stops might want to consider a more relaxed option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized pacing and itinerary adjustments.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes English-speaking guide, entrance fees, lunch, cruise tickets, train tickets, private transportation, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Optional accommodation upgrades are available.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible, so you can discuss your interests with your guide and adjust stops accordingly.

What are the transportation arrangements?
Travel between Chongqing and Guilin is by second-class bullet train. Within each city, you’ll travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Are accommodations included?
Optional 4-star accommodation with daily breakfast can be booked as part of the package, but it’s not included if you opt only for the tour.

What about the timing of the boat cruise?
The Li River cruise departs around 8 am and lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour’s moderate pacing and private arrangements make it accessible for families and older travelers, but be prepared for some walking and optional climbs.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Day Guilin Highlights Tour from Chongqing blends modern travel convenience with the region’s most stunning sights, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. The private guide ensures you see what interests you most, while the included transportation and tickets keep logistics straightforward.

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Guilin’s natural beauty—from the iconic limestone peaks and river scenery to the intricate rice terraces. The tour also offers authentic moments in villages and cultural sites, providing a well-rounded look at this enchanting region.

Perfect for first-timers or those short on time, this tour balances sightseeing, comfort, and cultural insight beautifully. It’s a strong choice if you value a thoughtfully curated journey with all the essentials taken care of—so you can focus on soaking up the stunning landscapes and local charm.