After arriving in Guilin, enjoy a relaxing first day to settle in. On Day 2, cruise down the breathtaking Li River aboard a deluxe Four-Star cruise to Yangshuo, followed by a traditional paper fan painting experience in Fuli Ancient Town, a recognized form of intangible cultural heritage. Day 3 features a cycling tour through the scenic Ten-Mile Gallery and a two-person bamboo rafting experience on the Yulong River, followed by an evening performance of Impression Liu Sanjie, Zhang Yimou's world-famous outdoor river show. On Day 4, visit the idyllic Shangri-La (Paradise) scenic area before exploring Dongli Ancient Village, where you can experience traditional handicrafts such as batik dyeing. On the final day, stroll through Guihai Qinglan and the Two Rivers & Four Lakes Scenic Area before your private transfer to the airport.
This relaxed 5-day, 4-night itinerary combines Guilin's spectacular landscapes with the rich intangible cultural heritage of northern Guangxi, offering an immersive and unhurried travel experience.
Tour Highlights
Li River Cruise & Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience Enjoy a deluxe Four-Star cruise along the breathtaking Li River, followed by a traditional hand-painted paper fan workshop in Fuli Ancient Town, where you can create your own unique souvenir inspired by Guilin's stunning landscapes.
Immersive Nature & Spectacular Night Show Experience the tranquil beauty of the Yulong River on a two-person bamboo raft before watching Impression Liu Sanjie, Zhang Yimou's internationally acclaimed outdoor performance that combines dramatic lighting, music, and the natural landscape.
Ancient Village & Traditional Batik Workshop Visit the authentic Dongli Ancient Village and take part in a traditional batik dyeing workshop. Learn from local artisans while discovering the rich cultural heritage of northern Guangxi.
Relax at Guihai Qinglan Conclude your journey at Guihai Qinglan, Guilin's newest scenic landmark, where expansive green lawns and dramatic karst peaks create the perfect setting for a relaxing finale before your private airport transfer.
Day 1 – Arrival in Guilin
Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport and transfer to your hotel by private vehicle.
After check-in, enjoy free time exploring East-West Alley, where historic Ming and Qing architecture blends with modern cafés and boutiques. You may also try Guilin's famous rice noodles for your first taste of local cuisine.
Day 2 – Li River Cruise & Traditional Painted Fan Workshop
After breakfast, board a deluxe Four-Star Li River Cruise and admire iconic scenery including Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection.
Later, visit Fuli Ancient Town to experience the traditional art of hand-painted paper fan making, an important form of intangible cultural heritage. Create your own fan inspired by Guilin's breathtaking landscapes.
Day 3 – Yulong River Bamboo Rafting & Impression Liu Sanjie
Travel to Yangshuo and enjoy a peaceful two-person bamboo rafting experience on the Yulong River. Surrounded by limestone peaks and picturesque countryside, this is one of the best ways to appreciate Guilin's natural beauty.
Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic Ten-Mile Gallery at your own pace.
In the evening, watch Impression Liu Sanjie, Zhang Yimou's world-renowned outdoor performance set against the spectacular Li River and karst mountains.
Day 4 – Shangri-La & Batik Workshop
Visit the idyllic Shangri-La Scenic Area, where you will cruise across Yanzi Lake and admire traditional villages, stone bridges, and beautiful rural scenery.
Continue to Dongli Ancient Village to experience traditional batik dyeing, an important local intangible cultural heritage. Under the guidance of local artisans, create your own handcrafted souvenir using traditional wax-resist techniques.
Day 5 – Guihai Qinglan & Departure
After breakfast, visit Guihai Qinglan, one of Guilin's newest scenic attractions, surrounded by more than 200 karst peaks, lush green lawns, and crystal-clear spring-fed lakes. Relax with a leisurely stroll, feed the black swans, or enjoy an optional hot-air balloon experience.
After sightseeing, transfer to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, bringing home unforgettable memories of Guilin's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Li River cruise tickets are issued under a real-name registration system. Please provide your full name exactly as shown on your passport, passport number, and a copy of your passport when booking. Any losses or additional costs resulting from incorrect information will be the traveler's responsibility. This tour operates with a minimum of 2 participants. Local Tour Operator: Guilin Branch of Shanghai Spring Tour Co., Ltd.
Travel Information & Important Notes
Some scenic attractions and hotels have their own shops or shopping areas for visitors' convenience. These are not designated shopping stops arranged by our company. We are not responsible for any disputes arising from purchases made there. During your free time, please shop carefully, compare prices and quality, and always request a receipt. We recommend purchasing local specialties such as Monk Fruit, Dried Longan, Osmanthus Perfume, Guilin's Three Treasures (Chili Sauce, Fermented Bean Curd, Sanhua Liquor), Ginkgo Nuts, and Osmanthus Cakes from reputable supermarkets.
In the event of force majeure, such as severe weather, natural disasters, or transportation disruptions, the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly. Refunds for attractions that cannot be visited due to force majeure will be made based on the contracted rate. Complimentary items are non-refundable.
If a traveler leaves the tour voluntarily or chooses not to participate in any scheduled service (including accommodation, meals, or sightseeing), no refund will be provided for unused services. The tour operator will no longer provide accommodation or transfer services after departure from the group. The traveler assumes full responsibility for any consequences during this period.
Li River cruise tickets are issued under a real-name registration system. Please provide your full name exactly as shown in your passport, your passport number, and a copy of your passport when booking. Any losses caused by incorrect information shall be borne by the traveler.
Admission fees included in the itinerary cover only the main entrance tickets. Shuttle buses, electric carts, and optional attractions within the scenic areas are not included unless otherwise specified.
Guilin has a humid climate, and roads or public areas may be slippery. Please walk carefully and watch your step to avoid slipping or falling.
Unauthorized tour guides may approach visitors near railway stations, restaurants, or tourist attractions, offering sightseeing tours at unusually low prices. Please be cautious, as these often lead to scams or additional charges. Always follow the licensed local guide arranged by our company.
To support environmental sustainability, some hotels do not automatically replace bed linens and pillowcases daily for guests staying multiple nights. If you require this service, please contact the hotel reception. Guangxi Travel Tips (Part 1)
Guangxi has a subtropical climate, and mosquitoes are common during the summer. Please bring insect repellent for your comfort. Guangxi is also home to many ethnic minority groups, so visitors are kindly asked to respect local customs, traditions, and religious beliefs.
Wear comfortable clothing and well-broken-in walking shoes during the tour. Avoid wearing new or stiff leather shoes, as they may cause blisters. As the summer sun can be intense, we recommend bringing a hat, sun umbrella, and sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke.
When visiting ethnic minority communities, please respect local customs, traditions, religious beliefs, and cultural practices. Being considerate of local residents will help ensure an enjoyable travel experience for everyone.
Guangxi cuisine is generally known for its sour and spicy flavors. If you are not accustomed to this style of cooking, please be prepared for a different culinary experience.
Some attractions offer rafting or other adventure activities. Please consider your physical condition carefully before participating. Travelers with heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, lung conditions, or other medical concerns should exercise caution and avoid activities that may pose health risks.
If you enjoy photography or hiking, please bring your own equipment and suitable outdoor clothing. When taking photographs of local people, please ask for their permission whenever possible as a sign of courtesy and respect.
The floors inside limestone caves may be uneven, wet, and slippery. Young children should be carried by an adult whenever possible. The cave lighting system may temporarily switch off as visitors move between sections, so please stay close to your tour guide and do not linger behind. If you become separated from the group, remain where you are and call for your guide or a staff member instead of trying to find your way in the dark.
Guilin has a humid climate throughout the year, and roads or public areas may become slippery. Please watch your step at all times and take extra care to avoid slips and falls.