6-Day Guilin tour to Yangshuo,Longji and Guilin

Traveling through China’s famous karst landscape doesn’t have to be a fleeting snapshot—this 6-day private tour promises an immersive experience with a balanced mix of scenic vistas, cultural sites, and leisurely downtime. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or someone craving authentic local encounters, this itinerary packs plenty of value.

What we particularly love about this tour? First, the diverse array of landscapes — from the lush rice terraces of Longji to the curving Li River. Second, the well-organized logistics, with private transport and convenient pickups. Lastly, the opportunity to experience local life through village visits and indigenous crafts. That said, a potential drawback is the high season crowds during Chinese holidays, which could affect accommodation costs and availability.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured but flexible way to see southern China’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who appreciate comfortable transport, a touch of cultural insight, and stunning, Instagram-worthy views.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transportation makes moving between sites smooth and stress-free.
• Diverse scenery includes rice terraces, rivers, villages, and city landmarks.
• Flexible options like optional night shows and extra days enhance the experience.
• Cultural insights are woven into visits to villages and local crafts.
• Good value for the price, considering entrance fees, guide service, and hotel stays.
• Travel timing during peak Chinese holidays may incur extra costs or limited availability.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Guilin Tour

The Introduction – Seamless Arrival and First Impressions

The journey begins at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, where a local guide welcomes you with a personalized sign. This small gesture immediately sets the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. From there, it’s about a 70-minute drive to Yangshuo, a town famed for its picturesque scenery and laid-back vibe. The hotel options—like the Bamboo Leaf Hotel—are thoughtfully chosen, blending comfort with local charm.

Reviewers like David praised the tour’s responsiveness, noting Andy from Yangshuo Private Tours responded quickly and helped customize their itinerary, even adding an extra day. The included hotel stays also provide a restful base after long days of sightseeing.

Day 1 & 2 – Yangshuo’s Breathtaking Countryside and River Adventures

Starting in Yangshuo, the highlight is the Yulong River bicycle or E-bike ride — a peaceful way to soak in the fields dotted with wildflowers and traditional log cabins. It truly feels like stepping into a painting. The guide assists in making this experience enjoyable, and the included admission means no surprises here.

Later, the trip takes you to Fuli Ancient Town for a quick look at traditional crafts, followed by the iconic Li River cruise from Xingping Dock. The boat ride, included in the package, offers panoramic views of the limestone peaks and waterway. Based on a review, the boat trip with a traditional raft is a simple but memorable way to see the river’s beauty, and the authenticity of the experience shines through.

In the evening, the optional Impression Sanjie Liu show adds a cultural touch—a stunning performance staged above and around the water, transforming the landscape into a natural theater. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking for an immersive local spectacle.

Day 3 – Exploring More of Yangshuo’s Natural Wonders

The next day features another Yulong River bamboo boat ride, a peaceful, slow-moving journey perfect for photography. The highlight is Xianggong Hill, where a 15-minute climb offers sweeping views of the surrounding karst peaks and rice paddies. Reviewers loved how this vantage point captures the essence of Guilin’s scenery, making it a must-do for landscape lovers.

Day 4 – Longji Rice Terraces and Zhuang Villages

A long but scenic drive brings you to the Longji Rice Terraces, often called the “Dragon’s Backbone.” Visiting Ping’an Village, you’ll walk along terraced steps carved into the mountains—an extraordinary feat of agriculture and local engineering. The walk up takes roughly 40 minutes, but the views make it worthwhile.

The visit to Dazhai Village via the cable car offers a different perspective of the terraces, with lush greenery stretching into the horizon. The tour’s inclusion of the Dazhai cable car saves time and energy, and reviewers mention the experience offers great photo ops.

Day 5 – Guilin City Highlights and Natural Landmarks

Back in Guilin, the Reed Flute Cave reveals a magical underground world filled with stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated in colorful lights. One reviewer pointed out that the cave is about 240 meters deep and 500 meters long, making it an impressive natural spectacle.

Following this, Elephant Trunk Hill stands as Guilin’s iconic landmark—its natural shape resembling an elephant dipping its trunk into the river. It’s a quick stop but one that offers wonderful photo opportunities and a sense of the city’s unique landscape.

Day 6 – Departure and Reflection

On the final day, the driver will escort you from your hotel to the airport or train station. The service is straightforward and efficient, wrapping up your trip on a good note.

The Experience: What We Love and What to Consider

Value for money is a key strength of this tour. Considering the entrance fees, private guide, transportation, and hotel stays, $900 per person offers a comprehensive, comfortable way to explore Guilin and its surroundings. The tour’s inclusion of various scenic spots and cultural sites means you won’t be paying extra for entry or transport, which adds to its overall value.

Transport logistics are thoughtfully handled, with air-conditioned vehicles and a private guide making each transfer smooth. The timing—most days starting around 9 am—gives you ample daylight for sightseeing, and the private setup allows flexibility should you want to linger at certain spots or skip optional activities.

Authentic experiences shine through in visits to actual villages and interaction with local crafts. The guide’s knowledge, as appreciated by travelers, enriches the visit, offering insights into local life beyond just the scenery.

Stunning views are the tour’s hallmark. From the panoramic vistas atop Xianggong Hill to the tranquil river scenes, photography opportunities abound. Reviewers particularly enjoyed the peaceful bamboo boat rides—they’re slow-paced but offer a genuine connection to nature.

The downside? During Chinese national holidays, prices spike, and accommodation availability diminishes, so planning ahead and considering off-peak travel might be wise. Also, while the tour is quite comprehensive, those with mobility issues should note the moderate hikes involved.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort without doing all the planning themselves. It’s great for first-timers eager to see Guilin’s top sights or seasoned travelers seeking a hassle-free, well-organized experience.

People who love photography will appreciate the countless picture-perfect moments, while those interested in local traditions will enjoy visiting villages and crafts. It’s also ideal for those who prefer private, guided tours rather than group excursions, offering personalized attention.

FAQs

Is pickup offered at the start of the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Guilin hotel, airport, or train station.

What’s included in the tour price? The package covers hotel stays with breakfast, private transport, a private guide, entrance tickets, and the Dazhai cable car ticket.

Are meals included? No, lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll need to plan these yourself.

Can I add extra days? Yes, the tour can be extended if you wish to spend more time exploring local sights or relaxing.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, children under 5 and adults over 69 are not suitable for bamboo boat rides.

What should I bring? Small luggage for just a night at Ping’an Village, comfortable shoes for walking, and a camera for the stunning scenery.

Is there a show option? Yes, the Impression Sanjie Liu night show is available as an optional extra in Yangshuo.

Are the sites crowded during peak season? Likely, especially during Chinese holiday periods, which may affect availability and prices.

How flexible is the itinerary? The tour is private, so there’s room for customization and flexibility based on your preferences.

This 6-day Guilin tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see China’s iconic landscapes and cultural sights with minimal fuss. Its combination of comfortable transport, thoughtful itineraries, and stunning natural scenes makes it a solid choice for travelers who prioritize value and authenticity.

Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a stress-free yet immersive adventure, this tour captures the essence of Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longji’s remarkable scenery. A little planning ahead—especially outside peak periods—will ensure you get the most out of this scenic journey.

Whether you’re marveling at terraced mountains or drifting down the Li River in a bamboo boat, this trip promises memories of some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes, delivered with convenience and care.