6-Day Private tour to Yangshuo,Guilin,Ziyuan,Longji and Sanjiang

Exploring China’s Scenic South: A Deep Dive into the 6-Day Private Tour to Yangshuo, Guilin, Ziyuan, Longji, and Sanjiang

Traveling through China’s southern landscape offers a tapestry of natural beauty, ancient towns, and vibrant cultures. This 6-day private tour promises a thorough immersion into some of the region’s most iconic sights, combining scenic boat rides, lush rice terraces, mysterious caves, and historic villages—all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides.

What we love about this experience? The blend of diverse landscapes—from the river-carved karsts of Yangshuo to the colorful Danxia landforms of Ziyuan—creates a visual feast. Plus, the option for personalized guidance means you get tailored insights into each location.

One thing to consider: The itinerary is packed, which is fantastic for exploration but can be tiring if you prefer more relaxed pacing or are traveling with very young children or older seniors, especially since some activities involve walking or climbing.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Guangxi’s natural and cultural highlights. If you’re keen on scenic boat rides, stunning viewpoints, and small-town charm, this adventure offers a great mix of each.

Key Points

• Diverse Scenic Highlights: From river cruises to mountain viewpoints, the tour showcases some of China’s most photogenic spots.
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance each experience with rich insights and logistical ease.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance fees, transportation, and some meals are covered, offering good value for the price.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visits to ancient towns and traditional villages provide genuine glimpses into local life.
• Flexible Options: Night show tickets and additional experiences can be arranged, adding personalized touches.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Expect walking, climbing, and some boat rides—best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

Starting with Yangshuo’s Enchanting Countryside

Your adventure kicks off in Yangshuo, a town renowned for its hauntingly beautiful karst landscape. The morning begins with a visit to Yangshuo County, which immediately sets the tone—picturesque, peaceful, and full of countryside charm. The highlight here is the Yulong River, where you’ll spend 2-3 hours cycling or E-biking along its banks. We loved how the guide described the scenery as “vast farmlands dotted with wildflowers and log cabins,” evoking a rustic tranquility perfect for photography or just soaking in the pastoral vibe.

The gentle glide past oxen plowing fields adds a layer of authenticity, making it a favorite among travelers who enjoy rural scenes that seem straight out of a Chinese watercolor. This activity is completely free in terms of admission, though it’s a great way to start your day with a relaxed pace.

Next, after a local lunch, you’ll visit Fuli Ancient Town, famed for painted fans and traditional crafts, which makes a lovely short stop. The highlight of the afternoon is the Li River raft ride from Xingping Dock. As the traditional wooden raft gently cruises along the river, you’ll be treated to views of Yellow Cloth Shoal and Murals Hill—scenes so stunning they’ve been featured on Chinese currency. The one-hour boat ride is a true highlight, offering panoramic vistas that are best appreciated from the traditional raft, which seats just four people for a more intimate experience.

The guide mentions that people over 70 or children under 1 meter cannot join the raft ride, so if traveling with elderly family members or very young children, this is something to keep in mind. Afterward, wandering Xingping’s old streets adds a charming, historical touch before heading back to Yangshuo.

In the evening, the optional ‘Impression Sanjie Liu’ show offers a spectacular performance performed above and on the Li River. With towering hills as the backdrop, the show’s use of natural scenery and traditional singing make it a memorable experience, especially if you love cultural performances.

Day Two: Scenic River, Mountain Views, and Guilin’s Charm

The second day offers a slower pace with a focus on scenic vistas and iconic landmarks. Starting with a bamboo boat tour on the Yulong River, you’ll glide through peaceful waters, passing small villages and agricultural scenery, which the guide describes as “a non-motorized, relaxing way to enjoy the landscape.” The 50-minute ride is a quiet, contemplative experience—ideal for photography or just soaking in the calm environment.

Post-boat, the visit to Xianggong Mountain is a real treat—an easy 15-minute climb rewards you with sweeping views of the Li River’s famous bend. We appreciated how the guide emphasized this spot as “one of the greatest viewing platforms,” perfect for capturing those iconic river vistas that make Guilin and Yangshuo photographers’ favorites.

In Guilin city, the Elephant Trunk Hill provides an immediate sense of place—its shape resembling an elephant drinking from the river makes it a must-see landmark. After a leisurely walk around the Four Lakes, you’ll have free time to explore or relax.

Day Three: Caves, Mountains, and Ancient Towns

This day is packed with natural and historical marvels. The Reed Flute Cave is a true wonder—featuring stalagmites and stalactites illuminated with colorful lights that create a surreal, cathedral-like atmosphere. It’s about 240 meters long and dates back 180 million years, giving it a sense of ancient grandeur.

Following the cave, a ride up Yao Mountain via cable car offers panoramic views of Guilin’s cityscape and surrounding countryside. The view from the top is described as “excellent,” with the potential for great photos of Guilin’s skyline and river systems.

The afternoon takes you to Daxu Ancient Town, a well-preserved example of traditional Chinese architecture and local market life. The historic market, active since the Ming Dynasty, provides a genuine glimpse into local commerce and craftsmanship. Some reviews note that wandering the worn blue-stone streets feels like stepping back in time.

Day Four: Geological Wonders and Rice Terraces

Moving further afield, your day begins at Guangxi Ziyuan Geological Park, home to some of China’s most striking Danxia landforms—characterized by red, cliff-like formations that seem to defy gravity. The park, featured as “the soul of Danxia landform,” is a highlight for geology lovers and photographers alike. You can climb to Yuntai Peak via stone steps to enjoy views of the surrounding red mountains shrouded in clouds—an otherworldly scene.

After lunch, the journey continues to the Longji Rice Terraces, where the landscape transforms into a lush, layered mosaic of fields carved into mountain sides. The overnight options in Longsheng include staying in Ping’an Village or nearby Dazhai, both offering authentic local ambiance.

Day Five: Village Life and Mountain Walks

The morning features a trek to Ping’an Village, famous for its Zhuang wooden stilt houses. The walk up takes about 40 minutes but is manageable with some breaks. Once there, you’re free to wander and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The Seven Star with the Moon platform offers a bird’s-eye view of the terraces—ideal for photos—and the nearby Nine Dragons and Five Tigers spot is perfect for taking in the landscape from a different angle.

Later, a cable car ride to Dazhai Village in the Longji Terraces area provides sweeping views of the terraced fields, which are especially impressive when bathed in the soft glow of sunset or early morning light.

Day Six: Final Cultural Stop and Departure

Your last day takes you to the Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, an extraordinary Dong-style piece of architecture built from wood and brick. It functions both as a bridge and a covered walkway, showcasing the craftsmanship and practical ingenuity of the Dong people. The nearby village features traditional houses and tranquil scenery, making it a perfect last stop for those interested in local architecture and rural life.

After exploring the village, your guide will transfer you to Sanjiang or Guilin airport, marking the end of this scenic journey. The service is seamless, and the flexibility of the private guide ensures a smooth departure.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour perfect for?

This 6-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience for travelers eager to explore Guangxi’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The itinerary balances scenic boat rides, mountain vistas, ancient towns, and ethnic villages, making it ideal for those who love active sightseeing with plenty of photo opportunities. The private guide and transportation make the experience comfortable and flexible, especially for those who prefer a personalized, hassle-free trip.

However, the itinerary is quite full, and some activities involve walking, climbing, or boat rides, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re traveling with very young children or elderly family members, you might want to discuss pacing or specific activities beforehand.

In terms of value, the tour covers entrance fees, transportation, and some meals, which simplifies budgeting. The guides’ knowledge and local insights add richness to the experience, making the price a reasonable package for a comprehensive exploration of this stunning part of China.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? The activities involve some walking and climbing, and the boat rides have age restrictions—people over 70 or children under 1 meter cannot participate in the Li River raft. For other activities, it’s best to check with the tour provider.

Are meals included? The tour includes optional lunches, but dinner is not covered. You’ll have time to explore local restaurants in Yangshuo, Guilin, and Longsheng.

How is transportation arranged? You’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle, which ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the trip. This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

Can I extend or customize this tour? Yes, the tour provider mentions that additional days can be added, and some activities, like night shows, can be arranged upon request.

What is the cost, and is it worth it? At around $1,071.80 per person, the price includes entrance fees, private transport, and a knowledgeable guide. Given the diversity of sights and smooth logistics, it offers good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, the private nature of the tour makes it ideal for solo explorers seeking a personalized journey, though the price is per person.

Final Verdict

This 6-day private tour offers a detailed and authentic look at some of southern China’s most striking landscapes and cultural sites. With expert guides, private transport, and a well-balanced itinerary, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a hassle-free yet immersive experience. While the schedule is busy, it’s perfect for those who want a thorough exploration without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Ideal for active travelers with a curiosity for nature, history, and local traditions, this tour promises a memorable journey through the scenic heart of Guangxi. The combination of scenic boat rides, mountain viewpoints, and ancient towns offers something for every photography lover and culture seeker alike.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history enthusiast, or someone simply eager to see China’s stunning landscapes, this tour provides the right mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. Just be prepared for some physical activity and a full schedule—your memories will be worth it.