6-Day China Highlights Private Tour from Guilin with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a comprehensive trip through some of China’s most iconic sights, this 6-day private tour from Guilin to Xi’an offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant local life. Priced at around $1,580 per person, it promises a detailed itinerary that takes you from the famous Longji Rice Terraces to the legendary Terracotta Warriors, with plenty of scenic and cultural stops along the way. What stands out immediately is the tour’s thoughtful design: private transportation, expert guides, and carefully selected attractions.

One thing we particularly like is the seamless flow of activities—every day is packed but not rushed, allowing for genuine appreciation rather than hurried sightseeing. Plus, the inclusion of authentic experiences like riding a bamboo raft on the Yulong River and exploring minority villages adds depth beyond the typical tourist spots. However, the tour involves several long travel days, including flights and driving, which might be tiring for some travelers. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a rich, curated experience that balances guided tours with moments of personal discovery. It suits travelers who value in-depth cultural insights and picturesque landscapes, especially if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines natural wonders, cultural sites, and scenic villages, offering a well-rounded glimpse of China.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to minority villages, bamboo rafting, and viewing platforms for spectacular photos.
• Expert Guides and Private Transport: Ensures personalized attention and smooth transitions between busy stops.
• Value for Money: The tour covers a lot—entrance fees, internal flights, and some meals—making it a convenient package.
• Long Travel Days: Expect some lengthy drives and a flight, which might be tiring but are necessary to cover the diverse locations.
• Ideal for Curious Explorers: Best suited for those eager to enjoy local culture and stunning landscapes, with a flexible attitude towards a packed schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day China Highlights Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of China’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness, all within a manageable six days. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer a private, guided experience that minimizes logistics stress and maximizes sightseeing.

Day 1: Entering the Enchanting World of Guilin’s Caves and Rice Terraces

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Guilin hotel, setting a relaxed tone for the days ahead. The first major highlight is the Reed Flute Cave, a marvel of natural rock formations illuminated with colorful lighting. The guide’s storytelling adds charm, turning stalagmites and stalactites into shapes of bamboo, stone lions, and miniature forests. It’s an underground spectacle that’s both surreal and photo-worthy.

Next, you’ll venture to the Longji Rice Terraces, often called the “Dragon’s Backbone,” with stunning layered hills that ripple across the landscape. The drive from Guilin is around two hours, giving you time to relax and prepare for the next scenic walks. At Ping’an Village, you’ll trek around 40 minutes uphill, rewarded with views of the terraces and traditional Zhuang wooden houses. Here, a simple but delicious lunch is served in the village, giving you a taste of local flavors amidst the panoramic backdrop.

After lunch, the guide takes you to the Seven Star with the Moon viewing platform, a perfect spot for photos of the terraces from above, plus the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers platform, which offers a flatter walk and more vistas. The day ends with check-in at a local hotel, leaving you free to relax or explore a little on your own.

Day 2: Cultural Insights in Sanjiang and Scenic Drives to Yangshuo

Day two begins with a journey into the Dong minority village at Sanjiang, renowned for its well-preserved traditional houses and natural beauty. This part of the tour emphasizes cultural discovery—learning about the Wind and Rain Bridge, a stunning wooden structure that is both a shelter and a social hub, and the Dong Drum Tower, a symbol of community life.

Post-visit, you’ll travel approximately three hours to Yangshuo for some rest and relaxation. This long drive is a great chance to enjoy the changing scenery—mountains, rivers, and small villages whiz past as you contemplate the next day’s adventures.

Day 3: The Picturesque Countryside and Li River by Raft

In Yangshuo, the morning is spent exploring the countryside, with a bicycle or e-bike ride along the Yulong River. The slower pace here reveals the quiet beauty of farm life, wildflowers, and rustic log cabins. It’s a favorite among travelers for its peaceful vibe and classic landscape shots.

Later, you’ll visit Fuli Ancient Town, a quaint spot famous for painted fans and traditional crafts, before heading to the Xingping Dock for the highlight—a Li River raft ride. This hour-long boat journey offers unbeatable views of the famous Yellow Cloth Shoal, featured on Chinese currency, and Murals Hill, where clusters of verdant plants mimic images of horses. The guide notes that people over 70 or children under 1 meter aren’t permitted on the raft for safety reasons, so plan accordingly.

In the evening, optional tickets for the Impression Sanjie Liu show can be arranged—an outdoor spectacle staged above the river that combines singing, dancing, and stunning visuals.

Day 4: Yulong River Bamboo Boating and Xianggong Hill Views

The day begins with a bamboo boat ride on the Yulong River, a serene experience that offers a different perspective of the karst landscape. Sitting quietly on a traditional bamboo raft, you’ll see village life unfold along the riverbanks, making for a calming start.

Following this, a visit to Xianggong Hill grants panoramic views of the Li River’s famous bend, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting that classic Guilin shot. The climb is moderate, and the vistas are worth the 15-minute ascent.

In the late afternoon, you’ll transfer to Guilin airport for a short flight to Xi’an, a move that saves hours of driving and keeps the schedule tight yet manageable.

Day 5: Exploring Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City

Once in Xi’an, the day is dedicated to history. The Terracotta Warriors Museum is the star, featuring three pits filled with thousands of life-sized soldiers and horses, each with distinct facial expressions and postures. Your guide helps you understand their purpose and craftsmanship, making the visit much more engaging.

Next, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda offers a glimpse into Tang Dynasty Buddhism, with its serene atmosphere and ancient architecture. Afterwards, you’ll walk or cycle along the Xi’an City Wall, one of the best-preserved defensive structures in China, giving you a sense of medieval military ingenuity.

Concluding the day, you’ll stroll through the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant market filled with local snacks, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for dinner and soaking in local life.

Day 6: Final Cultural and Historic Highlights in Xi’an

Your last full day involves visiting Hanyangling, the tomb of Emperor Liu Qi, an elaborate underground site with glass floors and advanced visuals showcasing Han Dynasty scenes. It’s a fascinating blend of history and modern presentation.

Finally, the Shaanxi History Museum displays over a million years of Chinese history through its extensive collection, giving context to everything you’ve seen. The day wraps up with a quick stop at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Buddhism in China.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of natural landscapes and culture is what truly sets this experience apart. From the visually stunning Longji Rice Terraces to the intricate Dong minority architecture, each stop offers a unique window into China’s diverse environment and traditions. The inclusion of scenic river rides, minority villages, and panoramic viewpoints creates a layered experience that appeals to travelers seeking authenticity and picture-perfect moments.

The expert guides are repeatedly praised for their deep knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned their guide’s storytelling was so engaging that it “added a layer of local culture I couldn’t find in books.” The private transport ensures flexibility and comfort, especially on days with longer drives like Guilin to Yangshuo or Xi’an airport transfers.

Value for money is another plus. The price covers entrance fees, flights, and some meals—simplifying planning and reducing surprises. This all-inclusive approach means you’re more focused on enjoying the sights than worrying about extra costs.

The scenic variety is impressive: caves, rice terraces, minority villages, rivers, and ancient city walls—each offering a different kind of beauty and history. For those who love photography, the viewpoints from No.2 and Xianggong Hill are particularly praised for their breathtaking views.

Things to Consider

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it’s not without some challenges. The schedule is quite packed, with some days involving multiple long drives—up to three hours or more. If travelling with small children or someone who prefers a slower pace, this might be taxing.

The flight between Guilin and Xi’an is included but adds a layer of complexity. Travelers must be comfortable with air travel within China and the logistics of airport transfers.

Plus, the tour involves moderate trekking at places like Ping’an Village and Xianggong Hill, which could be difficult for those with mobility issues. The overnight accommodations are not included in the price, so travelers will need to arrange their own hotels, which could influence the overall budget.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see a broad slice of China—from karst landscapes to ancient relics. Food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to sample local dishes in villages, while history buffs will enjoy the in-depth visits to the Terracotta Warriors and Shaanxi Museum.

It’s especially suited for those who like a curated experience with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind traveling on a busy schedule. The private aspect makes it flexible enough for some downtime, but overall, it caters to travelers ready to explore actively.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day private tour from Guilin to Xi’an offers a well-thought-out journey through some of China’s most iconic and picturesque sites. It balances natural beauty with cultural depth, providing a comprehensive snapshot of what makes China so fascinating. The inclusion of scenic river adventures, minority villages, historic monuments, and stunning vistas makes it especially appealing for those seeking a varied and authentic experience.

The value is evident in the seamless logistics, expert guides, and diverse destinations packed into just a few days. While the schedule is ambitious, it’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights with ease and comfort.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated China trip that combines scenic wonders, cultural insights, and expert guidance, this tour could be a great fit. Just be prepared for some early mornings, long drives, and active days—it’s a whirlwind but a memorable one.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides private car transfers, including airport pickups, hotel drops, and travel between destinations, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance tickets are included, covering key sites like Reed Flute Cave, Longji Rice Terraces, Dong Village, and the Terracotta Warriors Museum.

Does the tour include flights?
Yes, the tour price covers the flight from Guilin to Xi’an in economy class, making logistics smoother.

Will I need to arrange my hotel?
Hotels are not included, so you will need to book your own accommodations. The tour ends at the Xi’an hotel, where the guide will drop you off.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so customization is possible. You can discuss additional days or specific interests with the provider.

What physical activity should I expect?
Expect walking and some moderate trekking, especially in villages and scenic viewpoints. Be prepared for some steps and uneven surfaces.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide whether this immersive China adventure fits your travel style. With stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and expert guiding, it promises a memorable journey—just pack your camera and sense of adventure.