Guilin: 3-Day Yangshuo Cruise & Bamboo Raft Tour

Planning a trip to southern China often means dreaming of picturesque landscapes, dramatic karst mountains, and serene waterways. This 3-day Guilin experience promises just that — with a mix of leisurely cruises, charming bamboo rafting, and vibrant local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure for lovers of nature and slow travel.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on stunning scenery, the inclusion of luxury accommodations, and the opportunity to really connect with Guangxi’s famous landscapes. The full-day river cruise and Yulong River bamboo raft stand out as highlights, promising peaceful moments amid breathtaking views. One thing to consider might be the group size, which is limited to just 8 people, so it’s more intimate but also requires early booking.

This tour suits travelers who want a balance of comfort, culture, and scenic beauty. If you’re after a relaxed pace, natural wonders, and a taste of local Guilin and Yangshuo life, this experience is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: The tour showcases Guilin’s iconic mountains and waters, plus Yangshuo’s scenic countryside.
• Luxury and comfort: Staying in four- and five-star hotels ensures a restful base after busy days.
• Authentic experiences: Bamboo rafting and the river cruise allow you to see the area from a local, leisurely perspective.
• Guided with care: Small groups with experienced bilingual guides provide personalized insights.
• Cultural entertainment: Optional performances like “Impression Liu Sanjie” and “Eternal Love” add a cultural touch.
• Value for money: Combining multiple activities, scenic views, and upscale stays, the tour offers a good balance of cost and experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Guilin & Yangshuo Highlights

Day 1: Guilin to Yangshuo via the Li River Cruise

We start our journey in Guilin, where a private pickup takes us to Zhujiang Pier. The 4.5-hour VIP boat cruise along the Li River is the first highlight. That panoramic view of the jewel-like karst peaks rising sharply from the water is the kind of scene you’ll see featured on travel posters — and it truly lives up to the hype.

The cruise includes scenic stops like Jiuma Huashan and Huangbu Reflection, both known for their mirror-like waters and dramatic limestone formations. The observation deck offers a stunning vantage point, perfect for photos. The onboard lunch, often praised for being plentiful and tasty, is a nice break during this relaxed journey.

One review mentions the boat’s four-star VIP setting, which is a step above most river cruises, offering comfortable seating and a more exclusive feel. The scenery is described as “breathtaking,” with many guests remarking on how the landscapes evoke classic Chinese paintings.

Day 2: Yangshuo’s Nature & Culture

After arriving in Yangshuo, the day is dedicated to exploring its enchanting Yulong River with a bamboo raft. This peaceful ride, lasting about 40 minutes, offers a dam crossing experience that visitors find both quaint and memorable. Some travelers note that if you’re not comfortable riding or prefer a more relaxed option, you can walk along the riverside instead of cycling or rafting.

The early morning cycling along the Ten Mile Gallery is another favorite activity. The local guide often includes a drone aerial photography session, capturing your group amidst lush rice paddies and golden fields. Guests love this for its “once-in-a-lifetime” scenic shots, which they eagerly share afterward.

In the afternoon, the Ludiyan Scenic Area’s caves offer a cool escape into the underground. The caves are described as “wondrous,” with interesting rock formations and underground waterways. Later, we head back to Guilin to visit Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of the city, and enjoy a relaxing night cruise on the Two Rivers and Four Lakes.

Day 3: Guilin’s Cultural Touches & Departure

On the final day, you can sleep in until you wake naturally — a rare treat when traveling. The tour provides Guihai Qinglan tickets as a gift for the day, allowing for spontaneous exploration or last-minute sightseeing in Guilin. Since transport on this day is self-managed, it’s a chance to revisit favorite spots or relax before heading home.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Cruises & Natural Beauty

The Li River cruise is often described as the centerpiece of the experience. The panoramic views of towering peaks reflecting on still waters are truly captivating. The cruise’s luxury setting and detailed scenic stops elevate this beyond just another boat ride. Travelers mention the “breathtaking” scenery and the “peaceful” atmosphere as major highlights.

Similarly, the Yulong River bamboo raft offers a slow-paced, intimate view of the countryside. The dam crossing — a unique feature — adds a dash of local charm, making this a memorable, authentic activity. Guests appreciate the small group size, which enhances the feeling of being on a personalized adventure.

Authentic Cultural Experiences

The optional performance tickets like “Impression Liu Sanjie” and “Eternal Love” are often praised for their spectacular staging and cultural richness. The “Eternal Love” show, crafted by Songcheng Performing Arts, provides a large-scale depiction of Guilin’s tales through song and dance, blending history with artistry. Meanwhile, Zhang Yimou’s “Liu Sanjie” performance offers a visionary landscape spectacle that fuses ethnicity, artistry, and stunning visuals.

Comfortable Accommodations

Staying in a Yangshuo 4-Diamond Hotel and a Guilin 5-Diamond Luxury Hotel is a real perk, ensuring rest after busy days of sightseeing. Travelers often mention the convenience of such upscale lodgings, which contribute to the overall value of the package.

Small Group and Guided Service

With a limit of only 8 participants, the small group setting promises more personalized attention and interaction. The bilingual guide service means you’ll get insights into local culture, history, and scenery — valuable for a richer experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation & Timing

The tour includes pickup from Guilin hotels, making logistics simple. The boat cruise lasts about 4.5 hours, providing a relaxed pace with plenty of time to soak in the views. The bamboo rafting and cycling are timed to fit comfortably within the day, with options for those who prefer more relaxed sightseeing.

Price & Value

Given the luxury accommodations, multiple activities, and guided service, the tour’s price can be considered a good value for those seeking a comprehensive Guilin experience. The inclusion of dining experiences and optional performances** adds extra enjoyment without additional hassle.

What to Bring

We recommend packing comfortable shoes and clothes, a raincoat just in case, and essentials like passport, cash, and a charged phone. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but always check specific needs in advance.

Limitations & Considerations

• The tour isn’t suitable for those over 95 years old.
• Participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities like cycling or walking if they choose not to ride the bamboo raft.
• It’s best to book early due to the small group size and popular activities.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This 3-day Guilin adventure offers a well-rounded look at one of China’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of luxury cruises, cultural shows, and authentic village experiences makes it a memorable, immersive trip. Its focus on scenic beauty, combined with comfortable accommodations and small-group intimacy, provides good value for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and discovery.

If your ideal trip involves peaceful river views, wonderful local performances, and comfortable hotels to unwind in, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Guilin’s natural grandeur without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is the boat cruise on the Li River included in the tour?
Yes, the cruise on the Li River with a four-star VIP boat is a core part of the itinerary, lasting about 4.5 hours with scenic stops and onboard lunch.

Are the accommodations upscale?
Absolutely. You’ll stay at a 4-Diamond hotel in Yangshuo and a 5-Diamond luxury hotel in Guilin, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing rest after busy days.

What activities are available on the second day?
You can enjoy bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, cycling along the scenic Ten Mile Gallery, and exploring the Ludiyan caves in the afternoon.

Can I explore Guilin on my own on the last day?
Yes. The tour provides Guihai Qinglan tickets as a gift, allowing you to explore freely. You are responsible for your own transportation afterward.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to just 8 people, which fosters a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Are performances included?
You can opt for tickets to “Impression Liu Sanjie” or “Eternal Love,” which are highly recommended for cultural insight and visual spectacle.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, clothes, rain gear, passport or ID, cash, charged smartphone, and personal medications are essential.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check specific needs in advance.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking scenic landscapes, luxury comfort, cultural performances, and small-group intimacy will find this tour ideal.

Final Thoughts

This Guilin 3-day tour offers a carefully curated mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and luxurious rest. From the iconic Li River cruise to the peaceful bamboo rafting, every element is designed to showcase Guilin’s stunning scenery and authentic local life.

It’s a perfect fit for those who want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this experience promises memorable moments amid some of China’s most famous landscapes.

In short, if you’re looking for a visually spectacular, thoughtfully organized, and culturally enriching trip — this Guilin experience delivers, with plenty of room for discovery and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: