6-Day China Highlights Private Plane and Car Tour from Guilin

Traveling through China can sometimes feel overwhelming — with its vast landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural richness. This 6-day private tour from Guilin, covering iconic sights like the Longji Rice Terraces, Sanjiang’s Dong villages, Yangshuo’s stunning scenery, and Chengdu’s pandas, offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty and culture. The tour’s standout feature? Traveling primarily via private plane and exclusive vehicle, ensuring you experience these sights with comfort and flexibility.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the careful combination of transportation modes—flying from Guilin to Chengdu saves hours of travel time, allowing you to maximize sightseeing. Plus, the guides are said to be knowledgeable, offering detailed insights that make each stop more meaningful. But keep in mind, with a packed itinerary, you’ll want to stay flexible and prepared for some walking and moderate hiking, especially around the rice terraces and viewpoints. This trip suits travelers who love scenic landscapes, authentic local villages, and appreciate a touch of luxury in their travel experience.

Key Points

• Efficient travel: Private plane and car transportation minimize long drives, saving time and increasing comfort.
• Authentic cultural insights: Guided visits to Dong villages and minority towns reveal local traditions and architecture.
• Stunning scenery: Expect memorable views of rice terraces, karst caves, and the Li River from multiple viewpoints.
• Well-paced itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing, walking, and downtime, ideal for active travelers.
• Value for money: At around $1,570, the tour packs in diverse experiences, guided insights, and flights—making it a compelling option.
• Authentic experiences: From exploring caves to bamboo rafting, you get more than just typical tourist sights.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Itinerary

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of southern China’s most scenic and culturally significant spots, all paired with comfortable transportation and expert guides.

Day 1: Guilin & Reed Flute Cave to Longji Rice Terraces

Your journey kicks off early, with a pickup from your Guilin hotel around 8:30 am. The first stop is the Reed Flute Cave, renowned for its impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Inside, the cave feels like a subterranean art gallery with formations resembling bamboo shoots, stone lions, and miniature forests, all illuminated to enhance their natural beauty. It’s an excellent introduction to Guilin’s famous karst landscape.

Next, after roughly a 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the Longji Rice Terraces — often called the “Dragon’s Backbone” for their intricate, stepped patterns. The rice terraces at Ping’an Village are among the most stunning in China, shimmering in different shades depending on the season and time of day. The walk up to Ping’an Village involves a moderate 40-minute trek along stone steps, allowing you to soak in the local scenery and architecture.

Once in Ping’an, you’ll stroll through the village, observing Zhuang wooden stilt houses and savoring a local lunch. From the No.2 Viewing Platform, you’ll get a panoramic shot of the terraces — a truly iconic view. The walk continues to the No.1 Viewing Platform, offering more photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Travel tip: The guided commentary here is rich, with stories behind the terraces and village life, making the experience more meaningful.

Day 2: Sanjiang Dong Village & Scenic Attractions

Day two is devoted to exploring the Dong minority culture. Leaving Ping’an early, you’ll head to Sanjiang, about 2 hours away, to visit the Dong Village at the foot of the mountains. Sanjiang is praised for its well-preserved traditional architecture and scenic natural surroundings.

Notably, you’ll see the Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge—a remarkable wooden structure that combines bridge, pavilion, and corridor into one. This bridge, built without nails, embodies Dong craftsmanship and is a favorite photo spot. Also, the Drum Tower in the village serves as a cultural hub where villagers gather when the drum is beaten.

Travel here is smooth, thanks to the private car, and the cultural insights provided by guides deepen your understanding of Dong traditions. The atmosphere is serene, and the natural backdrop of rivers and mountains makes this stop stand out.

Day 3: Yangshuo and the Li River

After a restful night in Yangshuo, your day begins with a bicycle or E-bike ride along the Yulong River, passing fields filled with wildflowers and oxen plowing the land. This slower pace is a delightful way to truly see rural life and enjoy unobstructed views of limestone peaks and traditional farmhouses.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Fuli Ancient Town, famous for hand-painted fans. This short stop is optional but offers a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

The highlight of the day is a motorized raft ride on the Li River from Xingping. This classic activity showcases the famous Yellow Cloth Shoal (featured on Chinese currency) and Murals Hill, where lush vegetation appears to paint images of horses. The raft provides a panoramic perspective of the river’s iconic bends and karst formations, and it’s appreciated for the unobstructed views.

In the evening, optional attendance at the Impression Sanjie Liu show adds a theatrical touch, with performances on water and against hills, blending music, dance, and scenery.

Day 4: More of Yangshuo & Transfer to Chengdu

The morning features a bamboo boat trip on the Yulong River, offering a tranquil experience amid lush scenery. Sitting on a traditional bamboo raft, the gentle sway and peaceful surroundings make for a relaxing start to the day.

Next, you’ll climb Xianggong Hill—a popular vantage point for capturing the Li River’s winding beauty. The 15-minute ascent is well worth it for the breathtaking 180-degree view of the river’s meander.

After lunch, you’ll transfer to Guilin airport for your flight to Chengdu. The flight, included in the package, saves a lot of travel time compared to overland options, and the two-hour journey lands you in Sichuan’s lively capital.

Day 5: Chengdu’s Pandas and Local Life

Day five is dedicated to Chengdu’s most beloved inhabitants—the giant pandas. The Panda Base is home to over 80 pandas, with plenty of opportunities to see them munching bamboo or frolicking. Guides here are known for their knowledge, making the visit both entertaining and educational.

Post-panda visit, you’ll explore Renmin Park, a lively spot where locals enjoy tea, calligraphy, and socializing. This gives you a glimpse of authentic Chengdu leisure life, quite different from the bustling streets.

In the afternoon, a walk along Jinli Pedestrian Street exposes you to traditional Sichuan snacks, local crafts, and folk performances—an ideal way to soak in the city’s relaxed vibe.

Day 6: Leshan Giant Buddha and Departure

The final day involves a scenic drive to Leshan, about 2.5 hours from Chengdu, to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved into the cliffs of Lingyun Shan, this enormous stone statue dates back to the 8th century and is the largest Buddha in the world. Viewing from different angles, especially from the top, offers striking views of the rivers below.

After exploring, you’ll have lunch near the site before heading back to Chengdu for your departure or onward plans.

Practical Details and Travel Insights

This tour covers a good mix of natural landscapes, culture, and iconic sights, all thanks to the private transportation and flight arrangements. The private plane from Guilin to Chengdu is especially valuable, as it cuts down on travel time—saving you hours that can otherwise be spent sightseeing or relaxing.

The guides are generally well-informed, with one reviewer mentioning they could communicate fluently in both French and English, providing a personalized experience. The inclusion of entrance tickets, and the flexible schedule, mean you won’t be caught unprepared for additional costs.

Pricing at around $1,570.69 per person offers solid value considering private transportation, guided tours, entry fees, and flights—all curated for comfort and efficiency. However, keep in mind that accommodations are not included, so budget accordingly.

This tour is a good fit for active travelers who enjoy scenic views, cultural learning, and efficient travel without the hassle of planning each step. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a rundown of China’s highlights with a touch of luxury.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after an immersive, well-organized trip that blends natural beauty, cultural insights, and modern comforts, this tour offers a compelling package. The scenic spots—like the rice terraces and Li River—are undeniably breathtaking, and having knowledgeable guides enhances every experience. The inclusion of air travel makes this a practical choice for those wanting to cover a lot in a short time.

However, travelers who dislike tight schedules or prefer more relaxed, spontaneous exploration might find this tour a bit structured. Also, if your budget is tighter, you may want to look at options that exclude flights or customize the itinerary more.

This tour is especially valuable for first-time visitors to China or those keen to tick off multiple highlights with expert guidance and minimal planning stress. It’s a curated journey that balances discovery and comfort, making it suitable for adventurous, culturally curious travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it is a private tour, solo travelers can participate comfortably and enjoy a personalized experience.

Are hotel accommodations included?
No, the tour price does not include hotels or dinners, so travelers need to arrange their own lodging.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so you could request modifications, but this should be confirmed with the provider beforehand.

What is the best season to take this tour?
While not specified, regions like Guilin and Yangshuo are most scenic in spring and autumn due to mild weather and clear skies.

How is transportation arranged during the tour?
All transportation is private, air-conditioned, and includes a private guide and driver for seamless transfers between stops.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the Guilin to Chengdu flight is part of the package, saving considerable travel time.

What fitness level is required?
Moderate walking and some uphill trekking are involved, particularly at rice terraces and viewpoints, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended.

This 6-day tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich experience—all delivered with comfort and expert guidance. Whether you’re new to China or want a hassle-free way to see its highlights, it promises a memorable journey through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and towns.