1-Day Li River Cruise and Yangshuo Highlights Tour
An Absolutely Memorable Li River Cruise Tour
If—let me clarify, if—you find yourself in the enchanting city of Guilin for just a single day and seek my advice on how to maximize your experience, I can assure you that I would wholeheartedly recommend this exquisite travel route! It will enable you to genuinely savor the profound essence and enchanting spirit of Guilin's breathtaking landscapes. The remarkable artistry of nature has fashioned a one-of-a-kind Guilin, a gem that exists nowhere else on Earth.
The most widely publicized story is that in 1998, then-President of the United States Bill Clinton and his wife were extended a special invitation to explore the Li River during their official visit to China, where they expressed continuous admiration for its stunning landscapes.
Embarking on a boat tour along the Li River, you will encounter distinctive karst landform and stunning scenery where peaks and Li River complement each other harmoniously. Furthermore, as you stroll through the hills and fields of Yangshuo, you will find yourself fully immersed in the landscapes previously observed from the boat.
Itinerary List
| Day | Place | Itinerary | Transportation | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 - am | Guilin | Hotel to the wharf | Private Vehicle | |
| Day 1 - noon | Li River | Li River | Boat | |
| Day 1 - pm | YangShuo | YangShuo countryside | Private Vehicle |
Itinerary Overview
This is a classical Guilin tourism rout,and here is a suggested itinerary.
Day 1 07:30-08:30 Meet Your Guide and Transfer to the Dock
On the evening before your trip, your private guide will call you to confirm the departure time for the boat and the time you will leave the hotel. Generally, it is advisable to arrive as early as possible.
Your exclusive guide will meet you at your hotel at the agreed-upon time and take you by private vehicle to the boat dock.
08:30-11:00 Board the Cruise and Enjoy the Picturesque Scenery
Your guide will accompany you on board the cruise boat to begin your tour of the Li River. The boat ride from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely a journey full of surprises. As the boat moves along the winding river, you will always find something interesting to look at.
11:00-12:00 Lunch Time
A lavish buffet is usually served on the yacht at this time, allowing you to enjoy your lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the cool breeze.
13:00-14:00 Disembark in YangShuo
The disembarkation in Yangshuo is scheduled for this time period, with an approximate duration of 4.5 hours for the entire cruise journey. The Li River's water level and velocity exhibit seasonal variations, resulting in slight discrepancies in the cruising speeds.
14:00-15:00 Rest Break
Numerous cafes can be found along Yangshuo West Street and in the nearby areas, providing an excellent opportunity for us to enjoy a cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage while taking a break. If the weather is warm, opting for an iced drink would be particularly delightful.
15:00-17:00 Start Yangshuo Countryside Walk
You have the option to rent either a bicycle or an electric motorcycle to immerse yourself in the rural ambiance of southern China, set against the stunning karst landscape of Yangshuo. Numerous bike rental services are available in Yangshuo, making it convenient to secure a rental at very reasonable prices.
17:30-19:30 Return to Hotel by Private Vehicle
Following the countryside tour, your guide will escort you back to your hotel in Guilin or Yangshuo using a private vehicle.
Tour Highlights
Enjoy the highlights of Guilin scenery on the Li River Cruise
Take a boat ride along the clear Li River, passing through the limestone karst peaks covered in green vegetation. Every section reveals a different scenery, with towering, solitary stone mountains forming imaginative landscapes.
On a clear morning, you are likely to see the beautiful sight of misty mountains. In the rainy spring, if you are lucky enough, you may encounter the picturesque Li River with its misty rain, resembling Chinese ink paintings...
Take a leisurely stroll or cycling through the picturesque countryside of YangShuo.
The countryside around Yangshuo is picturesque, with small streams meandering through the fields and houses scattered among the mountains and fields, forming a picture of the original lifestyle of local people in Guilin.
After disembarking from the cruise, now switch to a different mode, cycling or walking, to experience the natural beauty and local life of Guilin up close.
