Li River Xingping Yulong River Xianggong Hill Light Show Tour

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of capturing the essence of China’s famous karst landscapes, this Guilin-based tour promises a full day of natural beauty and cultural charm. While we haven’t personally joined this exact adventure, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that truly showcases the area’s most iconic sights.

What stands out? The chance to glide along the Li River on a quiet electric boat, enjoy breathtaking views from Xianggong Hill, float along the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, and finish with a mesmerizing outdoor light show — all in one day. The tour’s flexibility, guided insight, and authentic experiences are definite highlights. However, travelers should note that some attractions, like the light show, are paid extras, and the full cost can add up depending on your preferences.

Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip that combines gentle adventure, scenic vistas, and cultural entertainment, this tour suits those wanting a balance of nature and spectacle without the hassle of organizing multiple activities on their own.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transport, guides, and multiple scenic stops
• Authentic boat rides along Li River, Yulong River, and bamboo rafting experience
• Stunning panoramic views from Xianggong Hill, one of China’s most scenic overlooks
• Cultural highlight with the Impression Sanjie Liu outdoor light show
• Flexible options for booking, with private transportation and group discounts
• Consideration: Additional costs for some attractions and show tickets

What to Expect from This Tour

This full-day adventure offers a well-balanced mix of scenic exploration, cultural insight, and leisurely activities, all within approximately 11 to 12 hours. Designed as a private tour with a dedicated guide and air-conditioned transport, it ensures a comfortable and personalized experience for your group.

Starting Point: Guilin

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel, Guilin Railway Station, or other central locations around 9:00 am. This early start is perfect for making the most of the daylight hours and avoiding the afternoon crowds at some popular spots. With a private driver-guide at your side, you’ll set off towards the first stops with ease.

Xingping Town and the Li River

The journey from Guilin to Xingping takes about an hour, passing through lush landscapes dotted with limestone peaks. Xingping is renowned for its stunning scenery, often pictured on postcards and travel blogs. The area features some of the most iconic karst peaks, including Nine Horses Hill and Langshi scenery, which are highlighted during the boat trip from Yangdi to Xingping.

The boat ride, lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours, is a highlight — small motorized boats bring you close to the cliffs and allow for better photo opportunities. Reviewers like Celia_H appreciated the authentic feel, noting that the smaller boat size creates a more immersive experience, although it might be less stable than larger vessels.

Xianggong Hill: The Panoramic Marvel

A short drive takes you to Xianggong Hill, where a 20-minute hike leads to one of the region’s best viewpoints. From here, you’ll take in a sweeping vista of the Li River winding through a sea of towering karsts. Many travelers mention that the view from Xianggong Hill is a must-see, with one reviewer emphasizing it as “truly one of China’s most spectacular sights.” The photo opportunities are abundant, and the scenery is often described as postcard-perfect.

Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

Next, you’ll float along the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, which provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling boat rides. The calm, crystal-clear waters and the slow pace make this a relaxing highlight, especially appreciated by those who enjoy calm, scenic moments. The raft ride lasts about an hour, with shared boats accommodating two passengers. As reviewed by Liane_M, this experience offers a serene escape into nature, distinct from the larger Li River cruise.

The Evening Light Show: Impression Sanjie Liu

As evening approaches, the tour culminates with the famous Impression Sanjie Liu outdoor performance. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the show uses the natural landscape of 12 towering peaks as a backdrop, creating a stunning visual setting. With a cast of 600 performers, traditional folk songs, bamboo boats, and even cormorant birds, this 70-minute spectacle is a favorite among visitors.

While the ticket for this show costs around 328 Yuan, many reviewers suggest it’s worth the extra expense for the artistry and scale. For those who prefer, an alternative is the Guilin Romance Park show, which also offers cultural insights, though it’s a different experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Guilin Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour kicks off with a pickup around 9:00 am, offering flexibility to suit your schedule. The private driver-guide ensures a smooth start, and most guests appreciate the ease of being transported in air-conditioned comfort. The proximity of pickup locations, including hotels, the airport, and the railway station, makes this a convenient option for travelers arriving from different parts of Guilin.

Xingping and the Li River Cruise

Traveling south from Guilin, the boat ride from Yangdi to Xingping is a major highlight. As the boat glides through the waters, you’ll have countless chances to marvel at scenes that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a painting. Reviewers like Celia_H appreciated the authenticity of the smaller boats, which bring travelers closer to the cliffs and scenery.

Expect to see the famous Nine Horses Hill, which is often featured in photos and postcards. The journey offers a chance to photograph the distinctive limestone formations, which are both dramatic and delicate, shaped over millions of years.

Xianggong Hill

The drive to Xianggong Hill is quick, and the hike up the hill is manageable even for casual walkers. From the summit, you’ll witness a panoramic view stretching over the Li River valley, with the sun or clouds often adding dynamic lighting to the scene. The view is very popular on social media, and many visitors find it well worth the effort.

Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

This segment provides a tranquil break from the more active sightseeing. Sitting on a bamboo raft, drifting gently along the river, you’ll experience a different kind of natural beauty. The clean, quiet waters and lush banks make this a peaceful highlight, especially appreciated by those wanting to slow down and soak in the scenery.

Evening Spectacle: Impression Sanjie Liu

The outdoor performance takes place on a natural stage formed by the river and surrounding peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop. Watching hundreds of performers singing, dancing, and orchestrating the show on floating bamboo boats is truly captivating. Reviewers like LIANE_M called it “a fascinating day,” emphasizing the spectacle’s high production quality and the opportunity to see China’s folk culture brought to life.

Return to Guilin or Yangshuo

The tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel around 8:00-9:00 pm, wrapping up a full day of discovery.

What Travelers Have Said

Reviewers consistently mention Leo, the guide, as a standout, praising his quick responses, fluent English, and friendly attitude. Celia_H appreciated how he “knew exactly what to do” to enhance the experience. The small group or private nature of the tour means you can ask questions freely and customize your pace.

The views along the river and from Xianggong Hill have been described as “outstanding” and “spectacular,” making it clear why this trip is a favorite. Many guests also noted the value of combining scenic boat rides with cultural shows, creating a rounded experience of Guilin’s landscape and traditions.

A few considerations include the additional costs: ticket prices for Xianggong Hill (60 Yuan), boat rides, bamboo rafting, and the light show can add up. Planning ahead to budget for these extras will ensure you enjoy everything this tour offers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour delivers a well-rounded view of Guilin’s most iconic sights, making it ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the region’s famous landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of boat rides, mountain views, and cultural entertainment makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, hassle-free day out.

The personalized guidance and flexible stops are especially valuable, and the scenic stops are truly photogenic. The inclusion of the outdoor light show adds a special touch, elevating the experience into a memorable night-time spectacle. If you enjoy nature, culture, and scenic views, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, be mindful of the extra costs for attractions and shows, and consider whether you want a private or group experience. If you’re comfortable with some additional expenses, this tour offers solid value for the quality and variety of experiences packed into one day.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, Guilin Railway Station, Guilin Airport, or other central locations, usually around 9:00 am.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are the boat rides included in the price?
Some boat rides, like the Yangdi to Xingping cruise, are not included and cost around 160 Yuan per person, while bamboo rafting on the Yulong River costs about 100 Yuan.

Can I participate if I am traveling alone?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are the attractions suitable for children?
Most parts are suitable, but children below 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) are not able to join the bamboo boat rides.

What should I budget for extras?
Expect to pay approximately 60 Yuan for Xianggong Hill, around 328 Yuan for the light show, and additional fees for boat rides and bamboo rafting.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The panoramic vistas from Xianggong Hill and the scenic river views make incredible photo opportunities, especially with clear weather.

Final Verdict

This Li River Xingping Yulong River Xianggong Hill Light Show Tour offers an impressive mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and memorable entertainment. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a flexible schedule, it’s a fantastic way to experience Guilin’s highlights in one day. While it does involve some extra costs, many travelers find the price justified by the quality and diversity of experiences.

If you’re after a hassle-free, scenic, and culturally rich day, this tour is a worthy choice. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, it promises a full immersion into the enchanting landscapes of Guangxi Province.