Guilin & Yangshuo Slow Travel
12-Day Guilin & Yangshuo Leisure Journey
Guilin, a major city in Guangxi, is famed for its breathtaking karst landscapes, the Li River, and iconic sites like Elephant Trunk Hill and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes. As one of China’s historic cultural cities, it connects southwest China with the coastal region. Yangshuo, a county under Guilin, is known for its classic Li River scenery, including Nine-Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Reflection, plus the Yulong River and the vibrant West Street. Together they form one of China’s most beautiful travel destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Guilin
Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, where a private transfer will escort you to your five-star hotel (Shangri-La Guilin / Wanda Vista Guilin / Lijiang Waterfall Hotel). After settling in, stroll through Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and the historic Dongxi Lane, lively areas filled with shops, cafés, and local culture. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Guilin cuisine at restaurants such as Guilin Zhou Cheng or Laobiaoji.
Day 2: Elephant Trunk Hill & Jingjiang Prince Palace
Sleep in and start the day leisurely. Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the iconic landmark resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River. Enjoy lunch in the city or back at the hotel.
In the afternoon, explore the Jingjiang Prince Palace from the Ming Dynasty and climb Solitary Beauty Peak for panoramic views of Guilin. After dinner, enjoy a magical Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise, where the illuminated city, bridges, and karst peaks create a dreamlike scene.
Day 3: Longji Rice Terraces
Take a private car to the world-famous Longji Rice Terraces (2.5–3 hours). Ride the cable car up to Golden Buddha Peak for breathtaking views of the layered terraces. Enjoy lunch at a Yao minority restaurant, featuring dishes such as bamboo-tube rice and local free-range chicken. Return to Guilin in the evening, have dinner at the hotel, and rest well after a rewarding day.
Day 4: Luxury Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Enjoy a relaxed morning or visit Seven Star Park before departing. After lunch, board a five-star Li River cruise from Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo. This unforgettable 4-hour journey along the Li River showcases iconic scenery such as Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection.
Upon arrival, transfer to your Yangshuo hotel. Have dinner at a quiet restaurant away from the bustling West Street.
Day 5: Relaxation & West Street
Start the day slowly, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and take time to discover your hotel’s facilities (spa, pools, gardens).
In the afternoon, take a relaxed walk through Yangshuo West Street, filled with cafés, boutique shops, and international vibes.
In the evening, watch the grand outdoor show Impression Liu Sanjie, directed by Zhang Yimou, using Yangshuo’s karst mountains as the natural stage.
Day 6: Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
Head to the Yulong River for a peaceful bamboo-raft ride from Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian—the perfect contrast to the grandeur of the Li River. After lunch near Jiuxian Village, rent an e-bike or bicycle and ride along the riverside countryside paths lined with rice paddies and karst peaks.
Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Xianggong Mountain & Silver Cave
In the morning, hike up Xianggong Mountain, one of the best photography spots for panoramic views of the Li River bends.
In the afternoon, explore Silver Cave, famous for its stunning stalactites and crystal-like formations illuminated in vibrant colors.
Dinner tonight can be a Western-style meal on West Street for a change of flavor.
Day 8: Ten-Mile Gallery Scenic Drive
Spend the day leisurely driving through the Ten-Mile Gallery, one of Yangshuo’s most picturesque routes. Stop at scenic spots such as Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill, or Butterfly Spring—choose only the ones that interest you.
In the evening, return to your hotel for a rejuvenating spa session.
Day 9: Xingping Ancient Town & CNY 20 Viewpoint
Take a private transfer to Xingping Ancient Town, a charming riverside village with centuries of history. Enjoy lunch in the old town.
In the afternoon, walk to the famous 20 RMB banknote viewpoint, where the landscape featured on China’s currency comes to life. If you have the energy, take a short hike along the most beautiful section of the Li River. Return to Yangshuo in the evening.
Day 10: Culture / Outdoors / Adventure Day
Choose your preferred activity:
Option A – Culture: Join a cooking class to learn how to make Guilin rice noodles or beer fish.
Option B – Outdoor: Enjoy a guided countryside hike through hidden trails.
Option C – Adventure: Experience paragliding or a hot air balloon ride over Yangshuo’s karst landscape.
Day 11: Shangri-La Park & Hidden Villages
Visit the Shiwai Taoyuan Scenic Area, inspired by the classic tale Peach Blossom Spring. After passing through a cave by boat, you’ll be greeted with idyllic countryside views.
In the afternoon, explore lesser-known ancient villages such as Jiuxian Village or Jima Village, where you can observe authentic local life.
Day 12: Free Day & Departure
Enjoy a slow, unplanned day—sit by the Yulong River, wait for sunset on a quiet hill, or chat with a café owner on West Street. The beauty of “wandering travel” lies in these unplanned surprises.
According to your flight time, a private transfer will take you to Guilin Liangjiang Airport (about 1.5 hours), marking the end of your poetic journey through Guilin and Yangshuo.
