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

This 3-day private Guilin highlights tour from Guangzhou offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience some of China’s most iconic landscapes and cultural gems. With the convenience of high-speed rail and private transport, you’re set for a smooth, flexible adventure that combines scenic beauty, local history, and authentic encounters. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to deepen your understanding of Guilin’s allure, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed.

What we love most is the blend of guided expert insights and personalized options—you can tailor your experience around your interests, from scenic cruises to rice terraces and temples. Plus, the inclusion of a luxury cruise down the Li River really elevates the scenery, allowing you to soak up Guilin’s legendary karst peaks at a relaxed pace. One possible consideration? The itinerary is quite packed, so travelers should be prepared for some long days. But if you’re eager to see a lot without sacrificing comfort, this is a strong pick for active, curious travelers.

This tour suits those who crave authentic sights, comfortable transportation, and a flexible schedule. It’s ideal if you prefer private guides and tailored experiences over cookie-cutter packages, and if you want to see Guilin’s highlights from a local’s perspective. Families, photographers, or cultural enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, especially with options to extend or customize certain stops.

Key Points

• Flexible, private itinerary allows you to focus on your interests with a knowledgeable guide.
• Scenic highlights include Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Li River cruise, and Longji Rice Terraces.
• All-in-one experience with entrance fees, cruise tickets, and transportation included.
• Authentic local experiences like visiting Huangluo Long Hair Village and exploring Yangshuo’s West Street.
• Comfortable logistics with door-to-door transfers and optional 4-star accommodation.
• Long days with diverse activities, so expect a busy but rewarding trip.

The First Day: From Guangzhou to Guilin’s Iconic Landmarks

Starting in Guangzhou, your journey kicks off with a 2.5-hour bullet train ride—a modern, speedy way to transition into the Guilin region. The train ride itself is smooth and offers great views of the countryside without the hassle of airport check-ins. Once you arrive, your guide will meet you at the station, and the sightseeing begins.

Our favorite stop on Day 1 is Elephant Trunk Hill. This landmark is more than just a pretty sight; it’s steeped in history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The hill’s resemblance to a giant elephant drinking from the Li River makes for fantastic photos, and climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views of Guilin city, the river, and surrounding hills. The Ming Dynasty Puxian Tower adds a cultural touch, as you learn about its role in worship and history.

Next, you’ll visit Yunfeng Temple, a peaceful pause that was home to Monk Jianzhen, a revered figure in Buddhist history. Strolling around the temple grounds and the exhibition gallery offers a glimpse into religious life and ancient architecture. It’s a quieter, contemplative moment amid the busy day.

Exploring Fubo Hill is another highlight. Known for its natural beauty and historic carvings, the hill features ancient Buddha etchings from the Song and Tang Dynasties, and legends like Sword-Testing Rock. The natural formations here are striking, and the stories behind them add layers to what might otherwise seem just scenic views.

A taste of natural wonder comes with the visit to Reed Flute Cave. Over millions of years, mineral deposits have formed spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated to showcase their shapes and colors. Interestingly, the walls are inscribed with Tang Dynasty poetry and travelogues, adding a literary dimension to the natural spectacle.

In the late afternoon, a relaxed stroll through Seven Star Park introduces you to Guilin’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Crossing the ancient Flower Bridge and wandering through serene valleys, you’ll see ancient relics and lush landscapes. The park’s diverse scenery and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect wind-down after a busy morning.

Finally, exploring Putuo Mountain offers a spiritual finale to the day. Worshiping Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, the mountain is scattered with caves, pavilions, and tablets. You can choose how far to hike—whether just enjoying the views or exploring deeper into the sacred sites.

Day Two: The Iconic Li River and Yangshuo’s Charm

Day 2 revolves around the famous Li River cruise, widely regarded as the highlight of any Guilin trip. Boarding at Zhujiang Pier, you’ll glide along the river, surrounded by karst peaks and lush countryside. The boat ride lasts around 3.5 to 4 hours, giving you ample time to relax and take in the scenery. Many reviews mention how the views seem to change with every bend—peaks with classic shapes, quaint villages tucked into the hills, and lush farmlands.

A particularly admired stop is Xingping Fishing Village. This small town is celebrated for its stunning scenery, which has inspired countless Chinese landscape paintings. The fact that the new 20 RMB note features the scenery really speaks to its popularity. Travelers often remark on how picturesque and “like a painting” the views are from every angle.

After lunch on the boat, you arrive at Yangshuo, a lively town with a laid-back vibe. Your first stop here is West Street, a bustling pedestrian area filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, pick up souvenirs, or just people-watch.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic stretch of countryside lined with rolling hills, fields, and small villages. It’s a perfect backdrop for photos and a peaceful walk. Along the way, stops like Butterfly Spring Park and the Big Banyan Tree add cultural and natural interest—plus, the story of Liusanjie at the banyan tree is a charming local legend.

Your visit ends with an optional stop at Moon Hill, one of Yangshuo’s most photogenic spots. If you’re feeling energetic, a quick hike or photo session here caps off your day beautifully.

Day Three: Rice Terraces and Village Life

The final day takes you north to the Longji Rice Terraces, a marvel of human ingenuity and natural beauty. The 2-hour drive is scenic, with views that prepare you for the engineering marvels ahead. The terraces, started during the Yuan Dynasty, stretch across mountainsides in intricate patterns that shimmer in different lights.

You can choose between two main areas: Ping’an Village or Dazhai. Both offer stunning vistas, but Dazhai is particularly famous for its cable car ride to Golden Buddha Peak. The cable car provides unbeatable views of the terraces and the surrounding valleys—perfect for photos or just appreciating the scope of the landscape.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely hike, Ping’an Village offers a walk along the “Dragon’s Spine,” with viewpoints like West Hill and the Thousand-Layer Terraces. Reviewers note how small but beautiful Ping’an is, with its narrow alleys and traditional Yao and Zhuang architecture.

A highlight of this day is visiting Huangluo Long Hair Village, where Yao women display their legendary long hair, kept for generations as a symbol of good luck and beauty. Watching the long-hair show and wandering the village gives genuine insight into local customs.

The tour also includes Dazhai Rice Terrace and the opportunity to take a cable car to Golden Buddha Peak, which many find offers breathtaking panoramic views.

If you opt to finish your trip in Longsheng, you’ll get to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, or you can choose to return to Guilin or Yangshuo for onward travel.

What We Think Overall

While this tour is packed, it offers excellent value considering the inclusions—entrance fees, cruise tickets, private transport, knowledgeable guides, and optional accommodations. The ability to customize some parts makes it flexible for different interests, whether you want more cultural sites or scenic vistas.

Transport-wise, the bullet train is a highlight, offering speed and comfort, and the private vehicle ensures door-to-door convenience. The itinerary balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and leisurely moments, making it suitable for curious travelers who want a comprehensive perspective on Guilin’s highlights.

The guides appear to be well-trained and passionate, as feedback highlights their knowledge and helpfulness. The inclusion of local experiences, like visiting Huangluo Village or exploring the Ten-Mile Gallery, adds a layer of authenticity often missing from more generic tours.

However, be prepared for long days, especially on Day 3, with a fair amount of walking and scenic stops. The tour’s cost, at around $726 per person, might seem high, but when you factor in the private transport, train tickets, entrance fees, and cruises, it offers solid value for those wanting a stress-free, all-in-one experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is especially good for independent-minded travelers who appreciate flexibility and personalized attention. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the hassle of planning individual transport and tickets. Photographers will love the scenic stops and opportunities for stunning shots. Cultural enthusiasts will find the mix of temples, villages, and local stories compelling. And if you’re traveling with a group or family, the private nature and flexible options make it easier to tailor the day to your pace.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a very relaxed or slow-paced trip, given the full schedule and travel distances. Those with mobility issues might want to consider the amount of walking and stair-climbing involved at some sites.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Guilin tour from Guangzhou offers a well-rounded, culturally rich, and scenically stunning experience. With private guides, smooth transportation, and a focus on authentic local sights, it’s a strong choice for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the surface. The inclusion of high-quality cruise, train tickets, and entrance fees provides good value for those looking for a comprehensive package that balances convenience with adventure.

If your goal is to see Guilin’s best-known sights without the stress of logistics and with tailored guidance, this tour meets those needs well. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor—all in a manageable, three-day format.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle is included, along with train tickets and cruise tickets, making the logistics straightforward.

Can I choose to end the tour at Guilin or Longsheng instead of returning to Guangzhou?
Yes, the tour offers the option to end in Longsheng or return directly to Guangzhou, providing flexibility based on your travel plans.

Does the tour include accommodation?
Accommodation can be booked with the tour at a 4-star hotel with daily breakfast, or you can opt for the tour only without overnight stays.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the listed sites are included in the package.

How long is the Li River cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, offering ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What options are available for exploring Longji Rice Terraces?
You can select either a visit to Dazhai with cable car access or explore Ping’an Village on foot, depending on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the private and customizable nature makes it suitable for families, especially those who enjoy active sightseeing and nature.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and bring layers if visiting in cooler months, as some sites involve outdoor walking.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves some walking uphill and stairs, especially at sites like Elephant Trunk Hill, Longji Rice Terraces, and villages.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While designed to be flexible, some modifications can be discussed with your guide, especially regarding the order of sites or additional interests.

This detailed review aims to equip you with a clear picture of what to expect from this Guilin tour, helping you decide if it fits your travel style and interests.