3-Day Private Guilin Tour:City Highlights,Longji Rice Terrace,Cruise to Yangshuo

Guilin’s Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage in Just 3 Days

If you’re dreaming of China’s iconic karst peaks, ancient temples, and the peaceful flow of the Li River, this 3-day private Guilin tour offers a fantastic way to see it all at your own pace. For around $563 per person, you’ll explore highlights like Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and the Longji Rice Terraces, with an experienced guide managing logistics and local insights. The tour includes private transport, entrance fees, some meals, and a cruise to Yangshuo, where the scenery transforms into a living painting.

What we love most about this tour is its tailor-made approach—you’re free to choose which sites to focus on, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. Plus, the comprehensive itinerary allows you to experience Guilin’s most photogenic spots in a relaxed, well-organized manner. Another highlight is the cruise along the Li River, providing awe-inspiring views of the towering peaks and lush countryside that make Guilin famous.

A possible consideration is the full schedule—with so many stops packed into just three days, some might find the pace a little brisk, especially if they prefer slow, contemplative visits. However, the flexibility to customize your experience means you can skip certain sites or spend more time where you’re most interested.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of Guilin’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It’s perfect for those eager to see key attractions, enjoy scenic boat rides, and indulge in authentic local experiences without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Flexible & Private: Customizable itinerary with door-to-door pickup and private transport.
• Highlights Galore: From Elephant Trunk Hill to Longji Rice Terraces, the tour covers Guilin’s top sights.
• Scenic Cruise: Li River cruise to Yangshuo offers stunning views and memorable photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the historical and cultural significance of each site.
• Cultural & Natural: Mix of natural landscapes, historic temples, and traditional villages.
• Value for Money: Price includes entrance fees, meals, cruise, and private transport—good value for a 3-day guided experience.

In-Depth Review of the 3-Day Guilin Tour

Day 1: Exploring Guilin’s Cultural & Natural Landmarks

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Guilin, where your guide—friendly and knowledgeable—sets the tone for a personalized experience. First on the list is Elephant Trunk Hill, arguably Guilin’s most iconic symbol. We loved how our guide explained the legend behind the shape—supposedly a trunk of an elephant drinking from the river—and the views from different angles. The admission is included, making it easy to enjoy without extra hassle.

Next, a brisk walk takes you to Xiangbi Mountain Puxian Tower, where climbing the Ming Dynasty structure rewards you with sweeping panoramic views over Guilin. We appreciated the vigor of the hike and the chance to learn about the tower’s religious significance. The short stop at Yunfeng Temple offers a glimpse into religious life from the Tang Dynasty, with its historical monk Jianzhen connecting China and Japan.

The natural beauty continues at Fubo Hill, a limestone formation with both scenic views and historic carvings. Here, your guide makes the story behind the art come alive, adding depth to your visit. Afterwards, the Reed Flute Cave becomes a highlight, with its intricate stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in vibrant colors. It’s a bit of a tourist magnet, but the natural formations are genuinely impressive.

The day winds down in Seven Star Park, which is more than just a park—it’s a showcase of Guilin’s natural and cultural charm, with lakes, caves, and a stone forest. The highlight for many is Putuo Mountain, where tall pavilions and sacred caves offer a peaceful retreat and insight into local spiritual traditions.

Day 2: Cruising the Li River and Discovering Yangshuo

The second day kicks off early, with a private transfer to Zhujiang Pier where you board a boat to cruise down the Li River. The scenery here is what many travelers come for—towering karst peaks, lush green fields, and charming villages. The guide points out notable sights along the way, and the relaxed pace allows you to snap plenty of photos from different angles.

Arriving in Yangshuo around 1:30 pm, you’re free to explore West Street, which buzzes with shops, cafes, and local art. Our guide helped us navigate the bustling market and recommended some local snacks, which added to the authentic feel. The Ten-Mile Gallery, a scenic country road, is a must-see—its peaceful landscapes feel like walking through a traditional Chinese painting.

Other optional stops include the Butterfly Spring Park, with waterfalls, peaks, and springs—perfect for nature lovers—and the Big Banyan Tree, a centuries-old marvel with a touching love story attached. The flexibility to choose these sites based on your interests is a big plus.

Day 3: Longji Rice Terraces & Local Villages

Your final day begins with a scenic drive to the Longji Rice Terraces, constructed over centuries and often called one of the most beautiful in the world. The terraces look like giant, shimmering steps carved into the mountains, and your guide shares stories about their construction during the Yuan Dynasty. The terraces are especially stunning in the morning light, and you can choose to explore Dazhai or Ping’an Village, both offering different perspectives and hiking opportunities.

In Huangluo Long Hair Village, we loved the chance to see the traditional Yao women with their long, flowing hair—truly a living tradition. The dancing show and village walk highlighted the authentic rural life and rich cultural heritage here.

After lunch, you’ll explore more terraces and scenic viewpoints, with options to hike or relax, depending on your energy level. The tour concludes with a return to Guilin or onward to Longsheng, depending on your plans.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice

• The personalized approach means your guide adapts to your interests, allowing you to maximize your time.
• The combination of natural beauty and cultural sites offers a well-rounded experience of Guilin and its surroundings.
• The cruise along the Li River is a standout, providing some of the best scenery in China—perfect for landscape lovers and photographers.
• The inclusion of entrance fees, meals, and private transport simplifies logistics and offers good value, especially given the convenience.

A Few Considerations

While the itinerary is packed, some travelers may find the schedule a bit rushed, especially if they prefer to linger at each site. Also, the optional activities like cable cars and hikes can extend the day, so consider your energy levels. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, selecting fewer stops or skipping some optional activities might be advisable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private tour suits travelers eager for a comprehensive yet flexible experience of Guilin’s key sights. It’s perfect if you want the comfort of private transport and guides, have limited time, and enjoy scenic boat rides and cultural visits. It’s also a good pick for families or small groups who appreciate the personalized touch and value the ability to customize the day.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day private Guilin tour strikes a commendable balance between natural splendor, cultural richness, and logistical ease. We loved how the itinerary combines iconic landmarks with authentic villages, all led by guides who bring history and local stories to life. The scenic Li River cruise remains a highlight, offering breathtaking views that stick with you long after the trip ends.

While the schedule can feel busy, the option to tailor stops and activities ensures you get the experience you want. Whether you’re snapping photos, exploring ancient temples, or wandering rice terraces, this tour packs a lot into three days without feeling overwhelming—if you pace yourself.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Guilin’s highlights in comfort and style. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value guided insights, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity, making it a memorable addition to any China itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable with some walking, hiking, and boat rides. The itinerary is flexible, so you can skip activities if needed.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides three lunches and two breakfasts, giving you a taste of local cuisine without extra planning.

Can I customize the sites I visit?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide and adjust the stops, especially on Day 2 and Day 3.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the hikes and temple visits. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a hat or umbrella if needed.

Is the cruise on the Li River included in the price?
Yes, the cruise ticket is included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without additional costs.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a few days ahead ensures availability, especially if you want to include accommodation options or specific activities.

This detailed review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect from this Guilin adventure. It’s a well-rounded, flexible way to experience one of China’s most stunning regions, with plenty of opportunities for authentic, memorable moments.