Overview
Drift the Yulong River by hand-poled bamboo raft, cycle the Ten-Mile Gallery, and hike the most scenic stretch of the legendary Li River past the 20-yuan banknote landscape.
About This Tour
Guilin's karst scenery is some of the most iconic in the world, immortalized on the Chinese 20-yuan note. This relaxed 2-day private tour bases you in Yangshuo, a riverside town surrounded by emerald limestone peaks, rice paddies and meandering rivers. You will glide down the gentle Yulong River on a traditional hand-poled bamboo raft, far quieter and more authentic than the motorized boats, then cycle the famous Ten-Mile Gallery to reach hidden corners most visitors never see. On day two, you walk a flat, easy 10 km along the Li River, considered one of China's ten classic trekking routes, passing Nine Horses Fresco Hill and the celebrated Yellow Cloth Reflection before arriving in the old fishing town of Xingping. With your own English-speaking guide and private vehicle, the pace is yours alone. Best enjoyed spring through autumn, this trip suits families, couples and first-time visitors who want world-class scenery without strenuous effort. Itinerary may adjust based on weather, road and local regulations. Good to know: • Best season: March to November; the rivers and karst hills are greenest in spring and summer • Fitness level: easy; the Li River trek is a flat 10 km on good paths • Bamboo rafting is hand-poled and weather dependent; bring sun protection • Casual outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes recommended
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Yangshuo | Yulong River Rafting & Cormorant Light Show
Meet your guide at Yangshuo high-speed rail station around 10:45 and transfer roughly one hour to the countryside, stopping for a local lunch recommended by your guide. In the afternoon you board a traditional bamboo raft on the Yulong River, two people per raft, for a tranquil 2.5 km drift of about 30 minutes. Because the rafts are hand-poled rather than motorized, the experience is far more peaceful and authentic. You then rent a bicycle or e-bike to cycle the scenic Ten-Mile Gallery and the back lanes of the Yulong valley, a secret route that escapes the crowds and reveals why locals say the finest of Guilin's scenery is found in Yangshuo. In the evening you gather at the official viewing point for the cormorant fishermen light show before returning to your hotel. Meals: L. Overnight in Yangshuo.
2
Day 2: Li River Hike | Nine Horses Hill & Xingping Old Town
After breakfast, transfer to the trailhead around 09:00 to walk the most beautiful section of the Li River, one of China's ten classic trekking routes. The roughly 10 km path is flat and undemanding, hugging the riverbank beneath towering karst peaks. You pass Nine Horses Fresco Hill, where legend says you can count the hidden horses in the cliff face, and the famous Yellow Cloth Reflection that appears on the 20-yuan banknote. A simple farmhouse lunch is taken en route. The trail ends at the photogenic old fishing town of Xingping; the energetic can add a 1 to 1.5 hour climb up Old Village Hill for a panorama of the river. Around 16:00 you transfer to Yangshuo station for your onward train. Meals: B, L. Trip ends.
What's Included
✓ Included
English-speaking guide Private vehicle & transfers 1 night hotel accommodation Yulong River bamboo rafting (2 per raft) Bicycle/e-bike rental along the Ten-Mile Gallery Li River hiking permits/entrance fees as listed
✕ Not included
International & domestic flights and trains China visa Travel insurance Most meals (guide recommends local restaurants) Personal expenses Tips Optional Old Village Hill climb
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available on most tours up to 24 hours before the start time. The exact cancellation terms for this tour are shown during booking.
Traveler Reviews
4.9★★★★★Based on 43 reviews
David U.🇦🇺 Australia★★★★★2025-12
A genuine highlight: the Li River cruise, done right, with care, knowledge and a personal touch.
Hannah W.🇨🇦 Canada★★★★★2024-12
Excellent value to experience the Li River cruise with a private English-speaking guide.
Ben Q.🇦🇹 Austria★★★★★2025-11
Visiting the Li River cruise was the absolute highlight of our time in Guilin — our guide brought the history to life.
Mia S.🇮🇹 Italy★★★★☆2024-11
Our visit to the Li River cruise exceeded every expectation. A brilliantly organised private day out.
James L.🇸🇪 Sweden★★★★★2025-09
Seeing the Yangshuo countryside was even better than the photos, and everything was well planned and stress-free.