Guilin: Xingping&Yangshuo, Boat Ride, Cycling and Show Tour

Traveling through China’s famous karst landscape? This full-day tour from Guilin offers a genuine taste of the region’s natural beauty and cultural charm. From ancient towns and scenic river cruises to lively street markets and folk performances, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances stunning sights with authentic local flavor.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its variety of activities—a peaceful boat ride, a scenic bicycle journey, and a lively cultural show—each providing different perspectives of the landscape and local life. Plus, it’s all arranged as a private group, which means more flexibility and personal attention.

However, keep in mind that some activities, like the Li River cruise and cultural show, involve optional costs. If you’re on a tight budget, you can enjoy many highlights without splurging, but those extras really elevate the experience. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging day that combines nature, history, and local culture, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity like cycling.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: From ancient towns and river cruises to cycling and lively street markets.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking views of karst peaks, river reflections, and cultural landmarks.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy local farmhouse cuisine, including specialties like beer fish and stuffed snails.
• Optional Extras: Activities like bamboo rafting and the folk show are available for an extra fee.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Private Group: Guided by bilingual hosts, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour

If you’re looking to get a full flavor of Guilin’s stunning landscape and vibrant culture in just one day, this tour might be just the ticket. You won’t just see pretty pictures—you’ll get to walk through history, glide along a famous river, and even dance around a bonfire under the stars, all in one seamless package.

What’s great about this experience is its balance of activities. We love how it combines the serenity of ancient Xingping with the lively buzz of West Street, giving you both tranquil escapes and bustling local scenes. The scenic boat rides highlight China’s iconic karst formations, while cycling offers a close-up view of rural life and the lush Yulong River valley. Plus, the Night Bonfire Show adds a fun, celebratory touch that makes the trip feel truly immersive.

One thing to consider is the activity level—cycling and walking mean a bit of effort, and the day’s pace can be quite full. But if you’re up for it, the variety of experiences more than compensates. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging snapshot of Guilin’s highlights without it feeling rushed or superficial.

Exploring Xingping Ancient Town

The journey begins early from Guilin, winding through the countryside to reach Xingping, a place often called the “pearl of the Li River.” This town isn’t just picturesque; it’s layered with history. Its millennium-old streets, paved with blue stone, are perfect for wandering and soaking in the slow-paced charm. Old houses and folk residences line the streets, giving you a sense of life here through the ages.

One of the biggest draws is that Xingping’s landscape was used as the backdrop for the famous 20-yuan RMB note. Visitors love to snap photos here, aiming to capture the iconic scene of the Nine-Horse Painting Hill reflected in the river. As one traveler pointed out, “You can really feel the timeless vibe here—like stepping into a painting.”

Expect to spend around 1.5 hours exploring, which is enough time for a relaxed stroll, some photo ops, and perhaps a quick chat with local shop owners. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great starting point for the day’s adventures, setting a tone of calm before the scenic activities to come.

Scenic Boat Ride on the Li River

After Xingping, the tour continues with a boat cruise or bamboo rafting on the Li River. This is the highlight for many, as it offers close-up views of the region’s iconic karst peaks, often reflected perfectly in the water. The electric bamboo raft or sightseeing boat takes you through areas like Huangbu Reflection and Nine-Horse Painting Hill, places that often leave visitors awestruck.

The reviews highlight how peaceful the ride is, with some describing it as “a poetic experience,” thanks to the gentle waters and dramatic landscape. The boat ride lasts around 1.5 hours, and many praise its serenity and photographic opportunities. However, some note that the boat tickets are an optional extra, so if you’re looking to save, you can enjoy the scenery from the shore or opt for a less expensive sightseeing option.

Expect to see the Huangbu Reflection, often called “the mirror of the sky,” which is a favorite photo spot. The Nine-Horse Painting Hill also provides a memorable backdrop. These scenes showcase why this river cruise is considered one of China’s most scenic waterways.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

Post-cruise, the tour includes a lunch break at a local restaurant or farmhouse. Many travelers rave about the opportunity to try authentic farmhouse dishes like beer fish and stuffed snails. These meals are often served in family-run eateries, giving you a taste of rural hospitality and traditional flavors.

One reviewer mentioned, “The food was simple but delicious—you really feel like you’re eating what locals eat.” Whether you prefer to dine in a rustic setting or a cozy restaurant near West Street, the focus on regional specialties makes this a gastronomic highlight.

If you’re a foodie or simply enjoy authentic flavors, this is a satisfying part of the day, especially after a morning of sightseeing. Plus, the meal offers a chance to relax and re-energize before the afternoon adventures.

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Cycling through the Yulong River Valley

After lunch, it’s time for some active exploration. Renting an e-bike or bicycle at the scenic area allows you to glide through lush farmland and beside dramatic karst peaks. The cycling route along the Yulong River is popular for its serene views and photo-worthy spots like Gongnong Bridge and Moon-Viewing Platform.

Cycling here is often described as “a gentle yet exhilarating way to see the countryside,” with many reviews noting how accessible and enjoyable the ride is, even for beginners. You can stop wherever you like—whether to take photos, relax by the river, or just soak in the scenery.

The Ten-mile Gallery, a stretch renowned for its stunning landscape, is a highlight. Traveling at your own pace means you get to linger at favorite spots or explore lesser-known corners. This part of the tour turns a sightseeing trip into a personalized adventure.

West Street Exploration

Next, the tour leads you to West Street in Yangshuo, a lively hub blending Chinese and Western cultures. It’s lined with shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks, making it impossible not to browse or pick up a unique gift.

The street’s atmosphere, as one visitor described, is “buzzing but charming,” with street performers, cafes, and a vibrant market scene. It’s a great place to soak in the local vibe and perhaps enjoy a coffee or a quick snack. For many, this 2-hour stop is a fun contrast to the peaceful river and countryside, adding a cosmopolitan touch to the day.

In the evening, you might choose to dine at a farmhouse or a Western-style café, depending on your mood. It’s also the base for the Dong King’s Night Banquet Bonfire Show.

The Night Show and Bonfire Experience

The cultural highlight of the evening is the Dong King’s Night Banquet Bonfire Show. This lively performance features Dong Grand Songs, folk dances, and rituals, giving you a glimpse into ethnic traditions. The show’s energetic atmosphere, combined with the flickering bonfire, creates a memorable scene.

Many reviewers appreciate how interactive the experience is, with opportunities to dance and share stories around the fire. The performances are lively, colorful, and full of local spirit, making it a fitting end to your day. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy the folk traditions under the starlit sky.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation is arranged from Guilin, with the entire day structured to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed. The tour is private, guided by bilingual hosts who can provide context and answer questions.

Some activities, like the boat cruise and the folk show, involve optional costs, so be prepared for additional expenses if you wish to participate. The Li River cruise ticket, bike rental, and entrance to the show are extra, but many travelers find these add-ons well worth the enhanced experience.

The tour is suitable for those who enjoy moderate physical activity—cycling, walking, and standing for periods. It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or babies under 1 year, as some walking and cycling are involved.

Be sure to bring your passport or ID, a change of clothes, and a hat or sunscreen for outdoor parts of the day. Weather can be variable, so check the forecast and pack accordingly.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Guilin region, combining stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and authentic local flavors. Its variety of activities keeps the day engaging, while the private group setup ensures a personalized experience. The highlight remains the breathtaking views of the karst landscape and Li River, which make for memorable photos and lasting impressions.

Perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and culture without overloading their schedule, this tour balances active pursuits with relaxed sightseeing. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone eager to enjoy lively street scenes, this experience delivers.

While optional extras add to the cost, they significantly enhance the trip’s richness. For those seeking a flexible, guided day out that showcases the best of Guilin and Yangshuo, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with cycling and walking. Seniors with mobility issues or very young children under 1 year might find it challenging due to the physical activities involved.

How long are the boat cruise and cycling segments?
The boat cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery. Cycling through the Yulong River area takes about 2 hours, with stops at scenic points along the way.

Are the Li River cruise tickets and activities included in the price?
No, they are optional extras. You can choose to join the boat ride, bike rental, and show for an additional fee.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, along with a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps rain gear if the weather calls for it.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but since it’s private, guides can offer some flexibility within the day, such as longer stops at favorite spots.

Is there free time at West Street?
Yes, you’ll have about 2 hours to explore, browse shops, grab snacks, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere before heading to the evening show.

This tour combines natural beauty with authentic cultural experiences, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the best of Guilin in one day. It balances active pursuits with relaxed moments, all guided by knowledgeable hosts who want to give you a genuine taste of this iconic region.

You can check availability for your dates here: