6-Day Guilin tour to Yangshuo,Longji and Guilin

Setting out on a 6-day journey through Guilin, China, offers a tapestry of stunning scenery, rich cultural encounters, and memorable adventures. This private tour, priced at around $900 per person, promises a well-rounded experience that balances iconic sights with authentic moments. From bamboo boat rides on the Li River to trekking ancient rice terraces, this itinerary is tailored for travelers eager to see the best of Guilin and its surrounding areas.

What we love about this tour is its blend of scenic boat rides, countryside cycling, and visits to traditional villages—each offering a different perspective on life in this lush region. The guide’s local knowledge and the opportunity to explore both natural wonders and cultural sites make it a thoughtful package. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full, so packing light and being prepared for some walking and sightseeing is advisable.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a combination of scenic beauty, culture, and comfortable logistics. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a structured yet flexible experience, with private guides and transportation ensuring a smooth adventure. Let’s dive into what makes this 6-day tour a compelling option for your Guilin trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Guilin, Yangshuo, Longji Rice Terraces, and key scenic spots.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes bamboo boat rides, cycling, and visits to traditional villages.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their local expertise and friendly attitude.
• Scenic Diversity: From river cruises to mountain views, each day offers captivating landscapes.
• Value for Money: Includes entrance fees, private transport, and hotel accommodations with breakfast.
• Considerations: It’s a busy schedule, and additional costs may apply during Chinese holidays.

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Guilin Tour

Day 1: From Guilin Airport to Yangshuo

The journey begins with a warm welcome from your guide at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. You’ll immediately feel the tour’s personal touch as they hold a sign with your name—no generic group welcome here. The drive to Yangshuo takes about 70 minutes, giving you a first glimpse of Guilin’s lush karst landscape.

Once in Yangshuo, you’ll check into a cozy bamboo leaf hotel or similar. Here, the relaxed atmosphere invites some free time to wander around the town, known for its vibrant streets, local cafes, and markets. This initial day is a gentle introduction, giving you time to settle in after your arrival and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Yangshuo’s Countryside & Li River

Day 2 is packed with outdoor activities. Your guide will pick you up at 9 am for a morning tour through Yangshuo’s countryside. The highlight? A bicycle or e-bike ride along the Yulong River, which takes roughly 2-3 hours. Expect to see farmers plowing fields with oxen, multicolored wildflowers, and rustic log cabins—perfect scenes for photography and quiet reflection. Reviewers repeatedly mention how this peaceful ride offers a chance to see the “authentic rural life of Guangxi.”

After a quick lunch, the day shifts to Fuli Ancient Town, renowned for its painted fans—a charming stop where you might even purchase some local crafts. Then, the Li River cruise kicks off from Xingping Dock, a must-do for visitors. The traditional motorized raft offers a wide view of the scenery, including the Yellow Cloth Shoal, which appears on the CNY20 banknote, and Murals Hill, famous for its carved images of horses.

Traveling on a traditional raft, usually sitting four people, grants an unfiltered view of Guilin’s dramatic limestone formations. As one reviewer noted, “The raft ride provides the best vantage point to appreciate the landscape’s grandeur.” Keep in mind, due to safety, children under 1 meter and those over 70 are not permitted on the boat, so plan accordingly.

The night can be capped with the ‘Impression Sanjie Liu’ show—an outdoor performance set against the hills and Li River. While tickets aren’t included in the base price, your guide can handle reservations. This show is known for its immersive staging and local singing, a captivating end to the day.

Day 3: Scenic Yulong River & Xianggong Hill

Day 3 continues the exploration of Yangshuo’s verdant scenery. Starting with a bamboo boat ride on the Yulong River, you’ll enjoy a traditional way to glide past small villages and farmland. Reviewers often highlight the calming atmosphere: “Sitting on the bamboo raft, I felt like I was part of the landscape itself.”

Next, a visit to Xianggong Hill offers arguably the most iconic view of the Li River—its famous 180-degree bend. Climbing about 15 minutes to the viewpoint, you’ll get panoramic vistas that are postcard-perfect. Photographers especially appreciate this spot, with some reviews mentioning it as “the best place to capture the classic Guilin scenery.”

The afternoon winds down with more strolling around Yangshuo, giving you free time to explore or relax before heading back to your hotel. This day showcases the region’s best natural photo opportunities and offers a calming contrast to the busier days.

Day 4: Longji Rice Terraces and Ping’an Village

Day 4 is dedicated to one of Guilin’s most celebrated sights—the Longji Rice Terraces. The 2-hour drive takes you into the mountains, where the terraces have been cultivated for over 650 years. The visit begins at Ping’an Village, famous for its dramatic terraced fields and wooden stilt houses.

Here, you’ll take a moderate trek up steps to reach the village and walk around to appreciate the intricate terrace patterns. The views are spectacular, especially at the No.2 Viewing Platform, offering a bird’s-eye view of the terraces winding down the mountain slopes. The walk involves some gentle uphill effort, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

After lunch in the village, you’ll explore Dazhai Village via a cable car—an experience that many find both fun and scenic. The terraces here are slightly less crowded and offer a different perspective on traditional farming life. Reviewers often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see local Zhuang people’s homes and customs.

Day 5: Guilin’s Natural and Cultural Highlights

Your last full day starts with a visit to the Reed Flute Cave, often called the “Palace of Natural Art” due to its stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in vibrant colors. The cave runs about 240 meters deep and 500 meters long, with formations dating back some 180 million years. Visitors often describe it as a fairy-tale setting, with some noting it as “a must-see for natural marvels.”

Next, a stop at Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s emblem, offers both cultural and scenic insights. The hill’s distinctive shape, resembling an elephant drinking from the river, makes it a favorite photo op. Many reviewers appreciate how the area combines natural beauty with cultural significance.

The day finishes with a check-in at the Guilin Aroma Tea House hotel, giving you some free time to relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere before your departure.

Day 6: Departure and Return

On your final day, your driver will take you from the hotel to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport or train station. The tour concludes here, leaving you with memories of stunning landscapes, engaging cultural sites, and a deeper appreciation of this beautiful region.

Overall Value and Practical Considerations

At $900.53 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—covering transportation, guided sightseeing, entrance fees, and accommodations with breakfast. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who seem to enhance the experience with their insights and friendliness. The private aspect adds flexibility, allowing the group to move at a comfortable pace and ask questions freely.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, making long drives more comfortable, and the itinerary balances busy sightseeing with opportunities to relax. The tour is perfectly suited for travelers wanting an immersive, well-organized exploration of Guilin’s scenic spots and cultural highlights.

However, the schedule is quite full, and some might find it slightly rushed, especially with multiple activities in a single day. Also, during Chinese holidays like National Day or Chinese New Year, additional charges and limited availability could be factors to consider.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Guilin tour is a thoughtfully curated experience designed for travelers eager to see the region’s most iconic landscapes and cultural sites without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The combination of boat rides, countryside cycling, mountain views, and traditional villages offers a well-rounded immersion into Guilin’s natural beauty and local life. The knowledgeable guides and private transport contribute to a smooth, comfortable journey, making it suitable for those who value a structured but flexible itinerary.

While the schedule is busy, the variety of activities means you’ll leave with a comprehensive understanding of Guilin’s diverse scenery and cultural heritage. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors who want a hassle-free, in-depth tour that hits all the highlights and provides authentic experiences along the way.

If you’re looking for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight all wrapped in one package, this tour could be your ideal Guilin adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 1 meter and those over 70 years old are not allowed on the Li River raft for safety reasons. The walking involved in some activities might also be a consideration for very young or elderly travelers.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. You’ll want to budget separately for meals, although breakfast is included at your hotels.

What should I bring for outdoor activities?
Comfortable shoes for walking and trekking, sun protection, and a small bag for essentials are recommended. Since you’ll be on boats and cycling, lightweight, weather-appropriate clothing is advisable.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, additional days can be added if you want more time exploring Guilin or nearby areas. Contact the tour provider for customization options.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, most entrance tickets, including those for Longji Rice Terraces, Reed Flute Cave, Dazhai Village, and Xianggong Hill, are covered in the package.

Is there a guide available throughout?
Yes, a private guide accompanies you for the entire tour, ensuring personalized attention and local insights.

Will I need to pay extra during holidays?
Yes, during Chinese National Day (October 1-7) and Chinese New Year (around late January to mid-February), extra charges may apply due to hotel costs and limited availability.

How is transportation arranged?
All transportation is via private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort and efficiency for the long drives and transfers.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While the tour is available year-round, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

In summary, this 6-day Guilin tour combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and comfortable logistics for a memorable journey. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an all-encompassing experience with knowledgeable guides and seamless transportation—making it a fantastic choice for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.