Guilin: Xingping, Fan Painting, Bonfire Party Tour

Exploring Guilin’s stunning landscapes and ancient towns in a single day offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and lively local festivities. This tour promises a well-rounded experience that balances scenic views, traditional crafts, and vibrant folk entertainment.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines immersive outdoor activities—like cruising the Li River or floating on a bamboo raft—with cultural visits to ancient towns and craft workshops. The lively bonfire party at night adds a memorable local touch. A possible consideration is that the day is quite packed, so travelers should be prepared for a full, but rewarding, itinerary.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of Guilin’s best sights, enjoy cultural activities, and don’t mind a day of sightseeing. It’s especially good for those interested in authentic local experiences and scenic photography.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Li River, including famous spots like Huangbu Reflection and Yellow Cloth Reflection.
• Flexible Activities: Choose between a river cruise or bamboo raft, tailoring the experience to your comfort level.
• Cultural Immersion: Explore Fuli Ancient Town, walk old streets, and participate in a traditional fan painting workshop.
• Authentic Dining: Savor local farmhouse cuisine, adding flavor to your cultural journey.
• Evening Entertainment: Experience a lively bonfire party with live performances, folk songs, and dancing.
• All-Inclusive Feel: While activities like the boat cruise and fan workshop are optional extras, the core sightseeing and cultural experiences are well worth the value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

Departure and Journey from Guilin

The tour kicks off with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Guilin to Xingping. During the ride, you’ll pass through lush, pastoral landscapes dotted with karst formations, setting a tranquil tone for the day. The drive itself is a highlight, with travelers often commenting on the peaceful countryside that contrasts sharply with bustling city life.

Xingping Ancient Town and the River Viewpoint

Once in Xingping, you’ll take a leisurely walk along the old streets, which are lined with traditional architecture that has retained its charm over centuries. The highlight here is the riverside viewing platform, where the famous “Huangbu Reflection” scene is best captured—an iconic view of limestone peaks mirrored in the river that has become a must-photograph spot.

Guests have remarked on the serenity of this town: “It’s like stepping back in time,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing its untouched feel. The town’s atmosphere is relaxed, making it an excellent spot for wandering, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the views.

Li River Cruise or Bamboo Raft Ride

Next, you have the choice: hop aboard a sightseeing boat or hop on a bamboo raft. The boat cruise takes you past well-known attractions like Nine-Horse Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection, with panoramic views of the limestone karsts that define Guilin’s scenery. Many travelers find the boat cruise to be tranquil, with a slow pace that lets you fully appreciate the landscape.

Alternatively, the bamboo raft offers a more intimate, poetic experience. Floating gently along the river, you can feel closer to nature and observe the river’s ecosystem up close. Reviewers have appreciated this option, with one saying, “It’s like drifting through a Chinese ink painting,” highlighting how the float feels like stepping into a traditional Chinese scroll.

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Fuli Ancient Town and the Cultural Touch

After the river experience, the group heads to Fuli Ancient Town, accessible by car along the picturesque east bank of the Li River. This town retains its original ecosystem and wharf culture, with old streets that exude authenticity. Visitors often enjoy strolling through, discovering traditional shops, and soaking in the slow-paced village life.

Lunchtime here features delicious farmhouse cuisine, allowing travelers to taste local ingredients and cooking styles. The food offerings are straightforward but hearty, giving a genuine taste of rural Guilin flavors.

The Fan Painting Workshop

A highlight for many is the traditional painted fan workshop, where you can personally try your hand at painting or inscribing on fans. This hands-on craft activity is a genuine culture, and many reviewers praise the instructor-led sessions for being accessible and fun. Creating your own fan leaves you with a one-of-a-kind souvenir that’s both personal and memorable.

Exploring at Your Own Pace

Post-lunch, you can choose whether to continue exploring Fuli Town, stroll along the Li River, or relax by the water. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility—some spend extra time taking photos or exploring side streets, while others enjoy moments of peaceful contemplation by the river.

Tianlai Butterfly Spring and the Bonfire Party

The final part of this tour takes you to Tianlai Butterfly Spring, an area known for its natural beauty and butterfly population. Afterward, the evening culminates in the lively Dong King’s Night Banquet Bonfire Party. Here, you’ll experience traditional performances such as Dong Grand Songs, dances, and folk rituals.

Guests have described the bonfire as a warm, communal experience—people dancing, sharing stories, and celebrating under the starry sky. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s like stepping into a folk festival,” emphasizing the lively and authentic folk atmosphere.

Additional Notes

• The boat cruise, fan workshop, and bonfire show are optional activities, with separate entrance fees. This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your preferences and budget.
• You’ll have free time in Xingping, Fuli Ancient Town, or Tianlai Butterfly Spring if you prefer exploring at your own pace.
• The tour is designed as a private group, ensuring a personalized experience with a guide who can answer questions and share insights.

Practicalities and Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven streets and stairs.
• Bring your passport or ID, as some activities or workshops may require it.
• The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, young children under 1 year, or travelers over 70.
• Reserve in advance and enjoy the flexibility of paying later, especially if you’re unsure about the full day’s plan.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, culture, and local entertainment—all within a single day. Its strength lies in the variety of activities, from peaceful river cruises to hands-on craft workshops, and the opportunity to enjoy Guilin’s quintessential landscapes away from tourist-heavy spots.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-rounded experience that showcases both Guilin’s natural wonders and its rich cultural traditions, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, cultural activities, and lively folk performances.

However, keep in mind the packed schedule if you prefer more relaxed, unhurried days. The optional extras—such as the boat cruise and fan workshop—are worth considering if you want a personalized touch, but the core tour already provides fantastic value.

FAQs

Is the Li River cruise included in the tour price?
The cruise is an optional activity with an additional fee. You can choose to join or enjoy the scenery from the riverside without extra cost.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, your passport or ID, and a camera are recommended. You might also want to bring some water and snacks for the day.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or travelers over 70 years. It’s best suited for active adults or older children who can handle walking and boat rides.

How long is the drive from Guilin to Xingping?
Approximately 1.5 hours, offering a chance to enjoy the countryside scenery en route.

Can I customize the activities?
Yes. The boat cruise, fan workshop, and bonfire show are optional, so you can choose which to participate in based on your interests and budget.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking on uneven streets and some stairs, making it less accessible for those with mobility impairments.

In sum, this Guilin day trip provides a wonderful snapshot of the region’s scenic and cultural richness. With thoughtful planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll come away with lasting memories of China’s iconic landscapes and vibrant folk traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: