Private Day Tour of Yangshuo Xianggong Mountain and Yulong Bamboo Boat

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking views, tranquil rivers, and authentic Chinese countryside, then this private day tour of Yangshuo’s Xianggong Mountain and Yulong Bamboo Boat might be just what you need. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an experience that combines nature, culture, and personalized service beautifully.

What draws us most to this tour are the spectacular panoramic views from Xianggong Mountain, the peaceful float along the Yulong River, and the chance to explore with a guide who is both knowledgeable and attentive. We also appreciate that it offers flexibility, with free time in Yangshuo for lunch or a quick rest, making the day feel balanced rather than rushed.

One thing to consider is the cost, which at around $125.66 per person, offers good value especially considering the private guide and all entrance fees included. However, this is a full-day experience, so travelers should be prepared for roughly 7 hours of exploration. Ideal for those seeking an intimate, scenic adventure away from crowded tourist spots, this tour suits travelers who want personalized attention and authentic moments in the Chinese countryside.

Key Points:

• Custom private experience with your own guide and driver
• Stunning panoramic views from Xianggong Mountain
• Leisurely bamboo raft cruise on Yulong River
• Flexible schedule with free time for lunch or rest
• All entrance fees included for a hassle-free day
• Convenient round-trip transport from Guilin or Yangshuo hotels

Yulong River: The Peaceful Alternative to Li River

Our journey begins with a visit to the Yulong River, often called the “little Li River,” for its similar scenic beauty but with a calmer, more intimate vibe. The river’s landscape is truly captivating, with jagged peaks and lush greenery framing the water. According to reviews, this part of the tour “rivals Li River” in scenery but offers a more peaceful experience—perfect for unwinding and soaking in the views.

You’ll also visit the Yulong Bridge, a historic stone structure from the Ming Dynasty’s Yongle Period. This bridge, stretching 36 meters long and standing 9 meters high, adds a touch of history to the natural beauty. Travelers have commented that the “magnificent feeling” of the bridge and the simple yet strong design make it a worthwhile stop. It’s a quick visit but one that offers both a photo opportunity and a glimpse into ancient Chinese engineering.

Xianggong Mountain: The Panoramic Viewpoint

Next, the highlight for many travelers is the climb up Xianggong Mountain. Located on the west bank of the Li River, this spot is famed for its spectacular bird’s-eye view of the river’s winding course and the surrounding karst peaks. The ascent takes about 40 minutes, but the spectacular vistas at the top make it entirely worth the effort.

Multiple reviewers have praised the guide’s local knowledge, noting guides like Leo who go out of their way to ensure comfort and share interesting insights. One reviewer mentioned how the “fantastic river and mountain views” were made even better by their guide’s attentiveness. It’s also a great chance to snap photos of the dramatic landscape, which features the classic jagged peaks and lush countryside that make this region so iconic.

Bamboo Boat Cruise on Yulong River

The final stop is a relaxing bamboo raft cruise along the Yulong River. Board a traditional bamboo boat, usually designed for two passengers, and drift along the gentle waters. The cruise offers a peaceful float past verdant banks and distinctive limestone formations, giving you a chance to unwind while taking in the scenery from a different perspective.

Reviewers have raved about the “speechless” views, even on a hazy day, and one even mentioned how the calm paddle through the river was a perfect end to an active day. The bamboo boats, with a weight limit of 160KG per boat (additional tickets needed for heavier guests), provide an authentic, tranquil experience that captures the essence of rural China.

Flexibility and Personal Attention

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the personalized service. With a private guide and vehicle, your experience is tailored to your pace and interests. The option to enjoy free time for lunch or a quick rest in Yangshuo adds a layer of flexibility that group tours often lack.

According to reviews, guides like Leo and Paul are praised for their friendliness, patience, and English skills, ensuring you get insights into local culture and history. A reviewer mentioned that their guide was “very cool” and “spoke very good English,” which makes communication smooth and enjoyable.

Logistics and Practical Details

The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a manageable day trip. The round-trip transfer from either Guilin or Yangshuo hotels means you don’t need to worry about transport logistics—just relax and enjoy the ride. The admission tickets for Xianggong Mountain and the bamboo boat are included in the price, simplifying planning and budgeting.

Because it’s a private tour, only your group participates, giving you the flexibility to ask questions and customize your experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including children (accompanied by adults), and most people should be able to participate without issues.

Food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Yangshuo during your free time. The tour’s timing allows for a leisurely pace, so you won’t feel rushed — ideal if you want to savor each view.

Based on reviews, travelers have appreciated the expert guidance and stunning scenery that feel authentic rather than overly commercialized. For example, Joanna from her review emphasized how the guide made the trip “more enjoyable” and filled with excitement and joy. Janet, another traveler, highlighted how guide Leo’s thoughtfulness kept everyone comfortable and engaged.

The inclusion of a historic bridge and the chance to capture ‘the heights’ from Xianggong Mountain offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural insight that many visitors find enriching.

At just over $125 per person, this tour offers a good deal considering private transportation, guide services, and all entrance fees. It’s especially appealing for those who value personalized attention and a flexible itinerary.

While it might be more than a group tour, the benefits of having a dedicated guide, less crowded experiences, and tailored stops often outweigh the slightly higher price point. For travelers eager to experience Yangshuo’s iconic scenery without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour presents a practical and rewarding solution.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s suited for those who value local insights, a relaxed pace, and comfort. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a hassle-free adventure will find this tour particularly appealing.

If you’re a nature lover or someone eager to see the famous karst landscapes from spectacular viewpoints, this trip hits all the marks. However, if you prefer self-guided independence or are on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options.

This private tour of Yangshuo’s Xianggong Mountain and Yulong Bamboo Boat stands out for its personalized service, stunning scenery, and flexible schedule. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the region’s highlights without the crowds and with a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience.

The combination of beautiful mountain vistas, a peaceful river cruise, and a historic bridge creates a well-rounded day that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see Yangshuo’s most iconic sights in comfort and style, with room for spontaneous moments and personal questions.

While the price is slightly higher than group tours, the value lies in the customized experience and hassle-free logistics. For anyone visiting Guilin or Yangshuo and craving a memorable, scenic adventure with a local touch, this tour is an excellent choice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets to Xianggong Mountain and the bamboo boat, and round-trip pickup from hotels in Guilin or Yangshuo.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Can I buy extra bamboo boat tickets if I weigh more than 160KG?
Yes, additional tickets are required for guests over 160KG, as the tour package only includes one bamboo boat ticket per booking.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you can bring snacks or enjoy a meal during your free time in Yangshuo.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 13 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private experience, ensuring only your group participates and you enjoy personalized attention.