Li River 3/4 Star Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo Day Tour+Pick Up

When it comes to iconic Chinese scenery, few sights rival the beauty of the Li River. This 3/4-star cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers travelers a chance to see some of the most photogenic landscapes in China without breaking the bank. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it’s worth including in your Guilin itinerary.

What we love about this experience is its amazing scenery, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the value-packed inclusion of lunch. It’s a straightforward way to soak in China’s famous karst mountains while enjoying a relaxed cruise. However, one thing to consider is that this is a group tour with shared transportation, so it might not be ideal if you’re after a private or highly personalized experience. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a scenic day out, especially those eager to see the landscape that inspired traditional Chinese ink paintings.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery along the Li River with famous spots like Elephant Trunk Hill and Nine Horses Hill.
• Convenient hotel pickup in downtown Guilin makes logistics simple.
• All-inclusive price covers cruise tickets, lunch, and transfer, offering good value.
• Group size of up to 18 travelers keeps the atmosphere lively but manageable.
• No shopping stops—focus purely on the scenery and experience.
• Flexible schedule with a start time around 7:30 am and a 6-hour total duration.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Hotel Pickup and Departure

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel in downtown Guilin between 07:30 and 08:00. This is a real plus—no need to navigate complex transportation through busy streets or hunt down meeting points. The shared car, typically seating five to seven people, offers a hassle-free start, although it’s not a private transfer. As one reviewer mentioned, “The pickup was smooth, and our guide was friendly, making the whole process easy.”

The journey to the cruise departure point at Sheraton Guilin Hotel is short and direct, giving you a comfortable lead-in to the day’s adventure. The timing feels well-suited for maximizing sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Boarding and the Cruise: What to Expect

Boarding begins between 09:30 and 10:00, with the boat leaving soon after. The cruise itself lasts about four hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery from the deck. The boat is rated as a 3/4-star vessel, meaning it offers a comfortable environment but isn’t overly luxurious. Still, the panoramic windows and open-air decks allow for fantastic photo opportunities and unobstructed views of the landscape.

Travelers often comment on the scenery’s visual impact, likening it to scenes from traditional ink paintings. As one guest noted, “The mountains seemed to change shape with every turn; it was like watching a live Chinese painting come to life.” The gentle cruise pace creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for photography, quiet reflection, or just soaking in the view.

Key Scenery Stops Along the Route

The route from Guilin to Yangshuo covers some of China’s most famous landscapes:

Li River: Stretching roughly 83 km, the river is famous for its towering karst formations, clear waters, and poetic scenery. You’ll pass landmarks like Elephant Trunk Hill and Nine Horses Hill, which create unforgettable photo moments. Many travelers say the views are even more stunning in person than in pictures.

Huangbu Reflection: This spot, featured on the back of the 20 RMB note, is a highlight for many. Its calm waters mirror the dramatic peaks, making it a photographer’s paradise. The tranquility of the water enhances the surreal effect, and reviews mention it’s a “must-see” for capturing the essence of Guilin’s landscape.

Ten-Mile Gallery: Located in Yangshuo, this 5 km stretch along the Yulong River is famed for its poetic rock formations and peaceful surroundings. It’s a scenic area where the mountains seem to rise directly from the water, offering more fantastic photo opportunities. Guests often find this part of the tour very relaxing, describing it as a “poetic escape into nature.”

Lunch and Onboard Comfort

Included in the tour is a modest but satisfying lunch, served onboard. It’s typically a set meal offering local flavors, keeping you fueled for the day’s sightseeing. While it’s not gourmet cuisine, reviews highlight the convenience of having lunch included—saving time and additional costs.

The boat has a comfortable, no-frills atmosphere, with ample seating and open decks. Travelers often praise the crew for their efficiency and friendly service, making the journey enjoyable even if you’re not traveling in the most luxurious setting.

Disembarking at Yangshuo and Ending the Tour

The cruise concludes at Yangshuo Longtoushan Wharf. After disembarkation, you’re free to explore Yangshuo or find your own transportation back to Guilin. The tour does not include return transport, so plan accordingly. Many guests comment that this allows for flexible arrangements—some choose to stay longer in Yangshuo, while others head straight back to Guilin.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

The tour’s timing and group size make it suitable for most travelers. It’s designed to fit comfortably into a half-day schedule, and the online booking system is straightforward, with most travelers booking about three weeks in advance. The maximum group size of 18 ensures a friendly atmosphere, though it might feel crowded during peak season.

Weather considerations are important—this tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling. One reviewer mentioned that “the scenery still looked beautiful even on a cloudy day,” but it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise is especially ideal if you’re keen on witnessing the iconic landscapes that define Guilin and Yangshuo. It offers a great value with everything included, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, and the ease of pickup and drop-off adds to its appeal.

If you’re someone who prefers a private experience or wants to customize your day, this might feel a bit too structured. However, for a group tour that emphasizes ease, affordability, and authenticity, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo provides a straightforward yet deeply satisfying way to enjoy some of China’s most famous landscapes. The combination of stunning natural scenery, convenient logistics, and included lunch delivers solid value. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with minimal planning.

It’s particularly well-suited for those eager to capture memorable photos, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and experience the beauty that has inspired countless traditional paintings. If you enjoy outdoor sightseeing with a group and want to leave with lasting impressions of Guilin’s iconic mountains, this tour will definitely meet your expectations.

For travelers craving a more private or tailored experience, or those wanting to explore beyond Guilin’s main sights, it might be worth considering other options. But for a reliable, scenic, and hassle-free day, this cruise is a strong choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers one-way Li River cruise tickets from Guilin to Yangshuo, lunch onboard, and hotel pickup in downtown Guilin. Transportation back to Guilin is not included.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, within a total tour time of about six hours including pickup and drop-off.

Is there a private option available?
No, the tour involves a shared car with 4/5 or 7 seats for group pickup, and the cruise itself is shared with up to 18 travelers.

What are the best times to take this tour?
The tour starts early in the morning, around 7:30 am, which allows you to make the most of daylight for sightseeing and photography.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Sheraton Guilin Hotel and ends at Yangshuo Longtoushan Wharf. After that, you’re free to explore Yangshuo or arrange your transportation.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 18. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic cruises and outdoor photography, but might not be ideal if you prefer private or customized tours.

This scenic cruise offers a balanced mix of ease, stunning views, and cultural charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a chance to see the mesmerizing landscapes that have captured imaginations for centuries.