Li River Electric Boat, Xianggong Hill, Yulong River Biking Tour

Traveling through Guilin and Yangshuo offers some of China’s most stunning landscapes, and this tour packages them all into a day packed with scenic highlights, outdoor adventure, and culture. Designed for those who love nature, photography, and a touch of physical activity, this experience balances comfort and authenticity in a way that makes it ideal for a wide range of travelers.

One of the standout features of this tour is the combination of electric boat cruising on the Li River—which means a smooth, eco-friendly glide past some of China’s most famous karst peaks—and the jaw-dropping panoramic views from Xianggong Hill. We also love the chance to bike along the tranquil Yulong River, giving you an authentic taste of rural life amidst towering limestone giants. However, keep in mind that this tour involves some physical activity—mainly climbing and biking—so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. Overall, if you’re looking for a well-rounded day that showcases Guilin’s natural beauty without feeling rushed, this could be a perfect pick.

Key Points

• Incredible Scenery: The tour covers some of the most photogenic landscapes of Guilin, from river cruises to mountain-top views.
• Balanced Activities: Combines boat rides, mountain climbing, and biking for a diverse experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup make for a relaxed day.
• Authentic Rural Feel: Cycling through villages and rice paddies offers genuine insight into local life.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible & Private: A private tour that can be tailored to your pace, perfect for intimate groups or families.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to Yangdi Village

Your day kicks off at 8:30 am with a pickup from your Guilin hotel—a plus if you’re staying centrally, as it spares you the hassle of navigating to a meeting point. The private, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away south to Yangdi Village, a quaint spot with just 3,000 residents. This peaceful setting is the gateway to some of the most scenic sections of the Li River.

The Li River Electric Boat Experience

The highlight for many is the 1.5-hour electric boat cruise from Yangdi to Xingping. This ride offers a gentle glide through the river’s crystal-clear waters, passing by lush bamboo groves, towering karst peaks, and traditional villages. The boat’s electric power ensures a quiet journey, allowing you to focus on the stunning vistas.

Travelers often remark on how peaceful and scenic the ride feels, with some noting that the boat ride is an ideal way to relax and photograph the landscape’s unique shapes and structures. The route covers notable sights such as Nine Horses Hill and Langshi scenery, making it a visual feast. While the boat ticket isn’t included in the price, many find it to be well worth the extra cost for the opportunity to see this iconic stretch of the river.

Climbing Xianggong Hill

Next, you’re taken to Xianggong Hill, a must-visit spot for panoramic views. Climbing about 20 minutes to the top is manageable for most, and the effort pays off with sweeping vistas of the Li River snaking through karst peaks. Reviewers highlight that the climb is “worth every step,” and many appreciate the chance to stand above the landscape and capture breathtaking photos.

The views from Xianggong Hill are often described as “surprisingly expansive”, with some noting that it’s a perfect spot for photographers. Remember, the admission fee here isn’t included, but it’s a small price for such an immersive vantage point.

Cycling on Yulong River

After descending from Xianggong, the journey continues to Yulong River for some outdoor activity. The guide prepares bikes for you to explore the river’s tranquil surroundings—an experience many find both relaxing and invigorating. Cycling along the rice paddies, bamboo groves, and traditional villages offers an authentic glimpse into rural life, with farmers tending fields or ducks waddling through the water.

This part of the tour is especially praised for its serenity and beauty. Reviewers mention it’s “the perfect way to unwind,” with the slow pace allowing for plenty of photo stops and natural interactions. The biking portion lasts about two hours, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended but not demanding.

Return and Drop-off

After completing the bike ride, you’ll be transferred back to Guilin or Yangshuo hotels, ending your day around mid-afternoon. The smooth logistics and private transport make the return comfortable, and you’ll be back with plenty of memories and photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

What we love most is how this tour showcases the diversity of Guilin’s scenery—from water to mountain tops to rural countryside—all in one day. The expert guides often enhance the experience with interesting insights about the landscape and local culture, making it more than just sightseeing. The private vehicle and hotel pickup introduce a level of convenience that’s often missing from group tours, especially in a place where traffic can be hectic.

One consideration is that some stops, like Xianggong Hill and the boat ride, require moderate physical effort—climbing hills and biking. While many reviews mention the climbs are manageable, those with mobility issues may want to plan accordingly.

For travelers seeking a full-day adventure that balances relaxation, activity, and picture-perfect scenery, this tour offers great value at $89 per person. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting an authentic taste of rural Guilin life without sacrificing comfort.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 8 to 9 hours, making it a full day but not overly exhausting.
• Price: $89 per person—consider it a fair investment for the comprehensive experience and private transport.
• Included: Private air-conditioned vehicle, guide, bikes, and Yulong River biking.
• Not Included: Lunch, personal expenses, and some entrance fees like Xianggong Hill and the boat.
• Meeting Point: Guilin Bravo Hotel at 8:30 am; end point is your hotel or designated spot.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate, suitable for most travelers comfortable with climbing and biking.
• Additional Info: Confirmation is quick, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

This Guilin tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, outdoor activity, and cultural insight. The combination of a peaceful boat cruise, panoramic mountain views, and rural biking makes it perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Guilin without rushing. The knowledgeable guides and private transport add value and comfort, making it accessible and enjoyable for a variety of travelers.

If you’re after an authentic, picture-worthy experience that balances adventure and relaxation, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, want some gentle physical activity, and prefer a personalized, hassle-free day out.

On the whole, it’s a thoughtfully curated adventure into Guilin’s most iconic scenery—something you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Guilin hotels, starting at 8:30 am, making the day convenient from the start.

How long is the boat cruise?
The electric boat ride from Yangdi to Xingping lasts about 1.5 hours, providing a relaxed window to enjoy the river scenery.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the admission tickets for Xianggong Hill and the boat cruise are not included, and you’ll need to purchase them separately if you wish to visit these spots.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for climbing and biking, plus sturdy shoes are recommended. Sun protection and water are also good ideas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, but consider your child’s physical fitness and comfort with climbing and biking.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to adjust your pace or focus on certain spots—just communicate with your guide.

What is the duration of the biking part?
The bike ride lasts about 2 hours along the Yulong River, so be prepared for a leisurely, scenic ride.

What makes this tour better than others?
The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and private transportation provides a seamless, authentic experience that captures Guilin’s natural beauty at its best.