Guilin: Xianggong Hill, Li River Cruise and Show Tour

If you’re dreaming of sweeping mountain vistas, tranquil river scenes, and vibrant cultural performances, this tour promises a full day of those sights in Yangshuo and Guilin. It’s designed for travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, authentic experiences, and a touch of local culture—all without feeling rushed.

We’re especially fond of the breathtaking panoramic views from Xianggong Hill, the chance to cruise along the Li River or drift on Yulong River, and the lively Dong Kings Night Banquet with its colorful traditional costumes and music. What we appreciate most is how the tour balances scenic moments with culture, offering both picture-perfect landscapes and opportunities to connect with local traditions.

One thing to consider is that some activities, like the boat cruises or bamboo raft rides, are optional and cost extra. This flexibility means you can tailor your day based on your interests and budget, but it’s worth noting that the full experience requires additional purchase. This tour suits travelers eager to see the region’s natural charms while enjoying a taste of local culture, especially those who appreciate comfortable pacing and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: From Xianggong Hill’s panoramic outlook to scenic river cruises.
• Flexible Activities: Choose between Li River cruise or Yulong River bamboo raft.
• Authentic Cultural Show: Experience the lively Dong Kings Night Banquet.
• Active and Relaxing: Mix of hiking, biking, and scenic boat rides.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most ages, but not for pregnant women or mobility-impaired travelers.
• Optional Extras: Water activities and show tickets are an add-on, offering flexibility on costs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning: Rising with the Mountains at Xianggong Hill

The day begins with a hike up Xianggong Hill, one of the most admired viewpoints in the Yangshuo area. As you ascend, you’ll notice the gradual transition from lush farmland to jagged limestone peaks that seem to unfold endlessly in the distance. Reaching the summit, you’ll stand amid a spectacle where the Li River winds through towering karst formations, their shapes echoing ink paintings.

Guests familiar with the area say that “standing atop Xianggong Hill is like looking over a traditional Chinese scroll,” and this spot offers some of the finest photography opportunities you’ll find. When fog rolls in, the peaks take on a mysterious, ethereal quality, perfect for capturing that “poetic light” painters dream of.

Mid-Morning: Qianli Jiangshan Scenic Spot

Next, you’ll visit the Qianli Jiangshan Scenic Spot in Putao Town, famed for its resemblance to a classic Northern Song painting. The 360-degree observation deck allows you to take in the sprawling landscape—emerald mountains, scattered villages, and winding rivers. Reviewers mention that this spot offers “breathtaking views that make you feel like you’re stepping into a traditional scroll painting,” making it ideal for slow, contemplative sightseeing.

Lunch and Rest at Tianlai Butterfly Spring

After soaking in the views, you’ll head to Tianlai Butterfly Spring Scenic Area for a rest and refreshment. It’s a good spot for a quick snack or simply to recharge before the afternoon activities.

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Afternoon: Water and Land Adventures

Here’s where your choice comes into play. You can opt for a Li River cruise on the Three-Star Boat, which takes you along the tranquil Yangshuo-Fuli section. This cruise offers opportunities to spot fishermen at work, egrets gliding across the water, and folk stories shared by guides. The boat is usually described as comfortable, with large windows to maximize your scenic viewing.

Alternatively, the Yulong River bamboo raft offers a quieter, more traditional experience. Moving slowly on a bamboo raft, gently poled by a local boatman, you’ll glide past rice paddies, farmhouses, and playful dam drops. Reviewers often mention the “slow pace and reflection the raft offers” as a highlight, providing a sense of peaceful escape.

Late Afternoon: Cycling the Ten-Mile Gallery

After the boat ride, you’ll hop onto bikes for the Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic cycling route connecting landmarks like Moon Hill and the Giant Banyan Tree. Expect a cool breeze, lush greenery, and stunning vistas at every turn. Many find this part of the tour to be the most relaxing—“riding through the countryside with the wind in your hair felt like a slice of heaven,” as one reviewer put it.

Along the way, you can stop to admire the distinctive arch of Moon Hill or hear stories about Liu Sanjie beneath the grand Banyan Tree. The ride is generally self-paced, and private transfers are available if fatigue hits.

Evening: Cultural Festivities at Dong King’s Night Banquet

As the day winds down, you’ll gather at Tianlai Butterfly Spring Scenic Area for the highlight—the Dong King’s Night Banquet and Bonfire Show. Photographers will love the dazzling lighting effects on the stage, which showcase traditional music, folk songs, and fire-worshipping rituals.

The performers wear vibrant costumes, and the atmosphere is lively and warm. You might also join in with the antiphonal singing or dance around the lit bonfire, embracing the bold spirit of this ethnic community. With many reviewers noting the “colorful costumes and soulful music,” this experience offers a fun, spirited end to your day.

Return: Wrapping Up the Day

After the show, you’ll be transported back to your Yangshuo hotel, tired but filled with incredible memories. The flexibility of the tour allows for optional activities, but even if you choose to skip extras, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for the area’s natural beauty and rich culture.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing & Duration: This is a full-day tour, typically starting in the morning and returning in the evening. Check availability for specific start times.
• Transportation: Comfortable private transport is included, making the long day manageable and stress-free.
• Pricing & Extras: While the core tour offers a lot, the Xianggong Mountain ticket, boat rides, bike rentals, and show entrance fees are optional and paid separately. This allows you to customize your experience based on budget.
• What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your passport or ID for entry tickets.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, babies under 1 year, or travelers over 70.
• Language & Guides: The guide speaks both English and Chinese, and reviews mention knowledgeable, friendly guides who add context and stories to enhance your experience.

What We Love About This Tour

Breathtaking Views: The panoramic vistas from Xianggong Hill and the observation deck at Qianli Jiangshan are genuinely stunning, perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The way the mist plays over the peaks adds a mystical touch that many travelers find unforgettable.

Balance of Active and Relaxing: From hiking and biking to boat rides, the day offers a varied pace that keeps things interesting without becoming overwhelming. The option to choose between water activities lets you tailor the experience.

Cultural Connection: The Dong Kings Night Banquet is more than just a performance; it’s a lively peek into local traditions, complete with costumes, music, and dance. Many reviewers felt it was a highlight and a chance to feel the warmth of the community.

Authentic Scenic Experience: Whether on the bamboo raft or the Li River cruise, you’ll enjoy close-up views of rural life, fishermen, and lush landscapes that are often missed in larger, less personal tours.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of natural beauty, culture, and active exploration. It’s suited for those who want to see classic Guilin landscapes with the flexibility to customize their day—perfect for photography lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike.

While not designed for travelers with mobility challenges or pregnant women, families with older children or active adults will find plenty to enjoy. The optional extras give you control over how much you spend and how many activities you include, making it adaptable to different budgets.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a well-rounded look at the stunning scenery and vibrant culture of Yangshuo and Guilin. The highlights—Xianggong Hill’s sweeping views, the peaceful river cruises, and the lively ethnic show—offer memorable moments for every traveler.

Thanks to experienced guides, flexible options, and a thoughtfully-paced itinerary, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for this region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a full-day, immersive experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

If you’re craving picture-perfect landscapes, authentic local performances, and the chance to step into a landscape that feels like a living, breathing Chinese painting, this tour is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The core experience covers transportation, a guided itinerary, and visits to key scenic spots. Water activities like the Li River cruise or bamboo raft, bike rental, and the show entrance are optional extras purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans approximately one day, with pickup in the morning and return in the evening, depending on your specific schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or travelers over 70. Active families with older children will enjoy the mix of scenery and cultural activities.

Do I need to book activities like the boat cruise or show in advance?
Activities are optional and paid separately. You can choose to include them during booking or decide on the day, depending on your interest and budget.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are essential. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for outdoor activities, and don’t forget your passport or ID for ticket purchases.

Are the activities wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some terrain might be challenging depending on individual mobility.

What’s the best time of day to do Xianggong Hill?
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography and enjoying the scenery.

How steep is Xianggong Hill?
The hike involves some incline, but it is manageable for most. If you’re concerned about fatigue, private transfers to the summit are available.

Can I skip certain parts of the tour?
Yes, since activities like the boat cruise or show are optional, you can customize your day accordingly.

This detailed, authentic review hopefully helps you decide if this tour fits your ideal trip to the Guilin and Yangshuo region—full of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: