Overview
What to Expect
Guilin Li River Scenic Area is one of China’s most iconic natural attractions, famous for its breathtaking landscape of limestone karst peaks rising dramatically from the banks of the Li River. Stretching approximately 83 kilometers from Guilin to Yangshuo in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, this scenic area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 as part of the “Karst Landforms of South China.”
The Li River’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding karst mountains, creating picture-perfect views that have inspired Chinese painters and poets for centuries. The most famous section of the river is between Xingping and Yangshuo, where visitors can see iconic landmarks like the “Nine Horses Fresco Hill” and “Yellow Cloth Shoal,” which was featured on the back of the 20-yuan Chinese banknote.
Traveling along the Li River is a quintessential Chinese experience, with options ranging from luxury cruise ships to traditional bamboo rafts. Along the way, visitors can spot local fishermen using cormorant birds to catch fish, traditional Chinese villages nestled among the karst peaks, and lush green vegetation that changes with the seasons.
Yellow Cloth Shoal – Iconic viewpoint featured on the 20-yuan Chinese banknote, with perfect reflections of karst peaks in the river
Nine Horses Fresco Hill – Karst mountain with rock formations resembling nine horses, a classic Li River landmark
Cormorant Fishing – Traditional fishing method using trained cormorant birds, often demonstrated for visitors in the early morning
Xingping Village – Historic riverside village with traditional Chinese architecture and stunning views of the Li River
Sunrise Mist – Magical morning mist that creates a dreamlike atmosphere over the river and karst peaks
Things to Do
- Take a full-day cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo to experience the entire scenic section of the Li River
- Enjoy a shorter bamboo raft tour on the Xingping-Yangshuo section for a more intimate experience
- Visit the Li River Viewing Platform near Guilin for panoramic views of the river and karst mountains
- Watch traditional cormorant fishing demonstrations in the early morning or evening
- Hike to nearby hills like Old Man Mountain for bird’s-eye views of the Li River valley
Suggested Itinerary
Morning: Board a cruise ship at Guilin Port (8:00–9:00 AM) for the journey to Yangshuo, enjoying breakfast on board while taking in the morning mist over the river.
Mid-Morning: Pass iconic landmarks like Elephant Trunk Hill and Ox Gorge, with commentary from the ship’s guide about the history and geology of the area.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch on the cruise ship, then continue through the most scenic section between Xingping and Yangshuo, including the famous Yellow Cloth Shoal.
Evening: Arrive in Yangshuo (2:30–3:30 PM), check into your hotel, then explore Yangshuo West Street and enjoy dinner with views of the surrounding karst mountains.
How to Get to Guilin Li River Scenic Area
- By Air: Fly to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL), take airport shuttle bus Line 1 to Guilin Railway Station, then bus to Li River piers (total 1 hour)
- By Train: Arrive at Guilin Railway Station or Guilin North Railway Station, take bus 3 or 14 to Zhujiang Pier (20 minutes)
- By Cruise: Book cruise tickets in advance through travel agencies; multiple departure times daily from Guilin Port
- By Bamboo Raft: Rafts available at Xingping Wharf; reach Xingping by bus from Yangshuo (30 minutes)
Travel Tips
- Book cruise tickets 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (April–May, October)
- Choose a window seat on the upper deck of the cruise ship for the best views and photography
- Bring a camera with extra batteries – there will be countless photo opportunities throughout the journey
- Pack a light jacket even in summer, as the river breeze can be cool, especially in the morning
- Try local river fish dishes served on the cruise ships – they are fresh and delicious
FAQ
Q: How long is the cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo?
A: The full cruise takes approximately 4.5–5 hours, covering 83 kilometers of the Li River.
Q: What is the difference between a cruise ship and a bamboo raft?
A: Cruise ships offer comfort, meals, and commentary but are larger; bamboo rafts are smaller, more intimate, and operate on shorter sections of the river.
Q: Is the Li River cruise suitable for children and elderly visitors?
A: Yes, modern cruise ships are wheelchair-accessible and offer comfortable seating, making them suitable for all ages.
Q: Can I see cormorant fishing during the cruise?
A: Cormorant fishing is typically done in the early morning or evening, so you may see it from the shore but not usually during daytime cruises.
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