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Exploring Li River: Guilin to Yangshuo Cruises & Trips

Discover the Li River: A Journey from Guilin to Yangshuo

The Li River, a source of inspiration for Chinese artists for centuries, offers a breathtaking natural landscape that stretches from Guilin to Yangshuo. Its dramatic karst peaks and serene villages along the riverbanks provide a unique glimpse into life in this part of China.

Cruise ship on the Li River

Guilin serves as the primary access point for exploring the Li River, with convenient transportation options like an airport and high-speed trains. Yangshuo, at the end of the 83-kilometer cruise, is renowned for its picturesque scenery, including limestone mountains and bamboo-lined rivers.

Visitors from Hong Kong can easily add Guilin and Yangshuo to their itinerary, thanks to the area's accessibility by train or plane.

Essential Information:

  • Booking a Li River Cruise from Guilin
  • Returning to Guilin or Staying in Yangshuo
  • Li River Cruise Highlights
  • Best Time to Take a Li River Cruise
  • Top 7 Activities in Yangshuo

Booking a Li River Cruise from Guilin

Cruise ship on the Li River

A Li River cruise, lasting 4 to 5 hours, is the best way to experience the region's beauty. Tourists can book cruises through their hotels in Guilin, with departures from a nearby port. Options include regular and VIP seating, with an open top deck available to all passengers for panoramic views.

Returning to Guilin or Staying in Yangshuo

The cruise is one-way, ending in Yangshuo, where visitors can return to Guilin by bus or choose to stay and explore. Yangshuo is a highlight of many China trips, despite the somewhat chaotic ferry dock experience upon arrival.

Mountains along the Li River

Li River Cruise Highlights

Scene from the 20Y note on the Li River

The cruise's most scenic parts include Nine Horse Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal, and the view on the RMB 20 Yuan Note. Xingping Town and Fishing Village are also noteworthy stops.

Best Time to Take a Li River Cruise

September and October offer the best weather for cruising, though the main season runs from April to October. Winter visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures.

7 Best Things to Do in Yangshuo

1. Bamboo Raft Trips

Bamboo raft on the Yulong River

Enjoy a peaceful bamboo raft trip on the Yulong River or a more bustling experience on the Li River.

2. Walk up Moon Hill for the Best Views in Yangshuo

View from Moon Hill

An 800-stair climb leads to Moon Hill's arch, offering stunning panoramic views.

3. Bike in the Countryside

Biking near Camel Crossing the River

Biking along the Yulong River provides a tranquil experience with breathtaking landscapes.

4. Light Show

Liu San Jie Impression Light Show in Yangshuo

The Liu San Jie Impression Light Show is a must-see evening event featuring 600 performers.

5. Cormorant Fishing

Cormorant Fishing

Experience traditional cormorant fishing on a nighttime Li River excursion.

6. Explore Downtown Yangshuo and West Street

Downtown Yangshuo

Discover the bustling West Street and enjoy the town's vibrant atmosphere.

7. Walk the Scholar-Champion Trail

Bridge on Scholar-Champion Trail

Explore the less-traveled Scholar-Champion Trail for a peaceful and scenic walk.