From Guilin: 6-Day Yangtze River Cruise with Excursions

Exploring China’s Heartland: A 6-Day Yangtze River Cruise from Guilin to Chongqing

Imagine sailing through landscapes straight out of a Chinese ink painting—limestone hills, lush rice paddies, and dramatic gorges. This 6-day tour offers a thoughtfully designed journey from the scenic city of Guilin to the bustling metropolis of Chongqing, combining the best of natural beauty, cultural sites, and iconic river views. At $1,299 per person, it’s a decent investment for an experience that blends leisurely cruising with active exploration.

What draws us in? First, the cruise on the Li River, which promises some of China’s prettiest waterway scenery, and the shore excursions to Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam—a mix of cultural insight and engineering marvels. Second, the bike ride along the Yulong River, offering a peaceful, authentic glimpse into rural life in Guangxi. These highlights show that this trip isn’t just about seeing sights but truly experiencing daily life in southern China.

One thing to keep in mind: the itinerary is quite packed, especially with train transfers and multiple sightseeing stops. It’s perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s also ideal for those who want a blend of scenery, history, and cultural storytelling, delivered by guides who are generally praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

This tour best suits individuals or couples who love nature, enjoy cultural sites, and appreciate well-organized itineraries that cover a lot in a short span. Travelers comfortable with a bit of physical activity—like biking and walking—will find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery on the Li River and from Xianggong Hill.
• Cultural insights at Fengdu Ghost City and along the river.
• Active exploration with bike rides and shore excursions.
• Efficient logistics with included train tickets and transfers.
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
• Variety of experiences from natural landscapes to engineering marvels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: What You’ll Experience

Guilin’s Natural Charm and Limestone Caves

Starting in Guilin, you’re greeted by a city famous for its karst limestone formations. Your guide, likely a local who knows the ins and outs of the area, will meet you at the airport. The afternoon’s highlight? Visiting a limestone cave where stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millions of years, create otherworldly formations. It’s a fun way to grasp how nature’s patience paid off in these unique caves.

You’ll also get a quick photo of Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of Guilin, with its natural shape resembling an elephant drinking from the river. This iconic landmark offers a perfect starting point and a memorable shot to kick off your adventure.

The Li River Cruise: A Painter’s Perspective

The next morning, you’ll take a 4-hour cruise on the Li River to Yangshuo. Here’s where the experience becomes picture-perfect. As you glide past limestone peaks, bamboo groves, and fishermen on traditional rafts, it’s easy to understand why this stretch of water is often called the most beautiful in China.

Many travelers comment on how surreal and peaceful the cruise feels. One reviewer said, “It felt like sailing through a living Chinese scroll painting,” emphasizing how this part of the trip strikes a balance between relaxation and awe.

Exploring Yangshuo by Bike and Yulong River

Once in Yangshuo, the pace slows down a bit. The hotel is situated in the peaceful countryside, perfect for unwinding after the morning cruise. Here, your guide will take you on a bike tour along the Yulong River and rice paddies. The ride is gentle and scenic, allowing you to appreciate rural life—water buffalos grazing, farmers tending fields, and villagers going about their day.

Travelers love this part for its authenticity. One comment reads, “Cycling along the river felt like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting—quiet, beautiful, and authentic.” It’s a rare opportunity to see local life away from the tourist crowds.

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From Guilin to Chongqing: Xianggong Hill and Bullet Train

The journey continues with a drive back to Guilin, where you’ll stop at Xianggong Hill. The panoramic views here are described as “mind-blowing,” with peaks resembling sea dragons rising from the earth. It’s a favorite photo stop, offering sweeping vistas of the Li River winding through the mountains.

In the afternoon, you’ll hop on a bullet train to Chongqing—a smooth, efficient transfer that saves time and adds a modern touch to your trip. The local guide in Chongqing will meet you at the station and help you board your river cruise ship, setting the stage for the next leg of your journey.

The Yangtze River: From Gorges to Culture

Your cruise begins in earnest as you set sail through the famous Three Gorges. The Qutang Gorge, with its towering cliffs, is a highlight at noon, offering spectacular views of one of China’s most iconic natural features. Many find the scenery awe-inspiring, and the guided commentary enriches the experience.

Along With the natural beauty, you’ll visit Fengdu Ghost City, where traditional Chinese geomancy influences the architecture and statues. It’s an intriguing, slightly eerie stop—worth seeing if you’re interested in Chinese beliefs about the afterlife.

As you cruise further, you can opt for extra excursions like White Emperor City or Shennv Stream—a narrow tributary with crystal-clear waters and deep gorges. The crew’s talent shows and cabarets in the evening add entertainment, making the cruise lively.

The Magnificent Three Gorges Dam and Final Disembarkation

On your last day, the Three Gorges Dam provides a dramatic conclusion to your journey. Standing on the viewing platform, you’ll see firsthand the scale of this engineering feat. Your guide will explain why it’s considered one of the world’s largest hydroelectric projects.

Disembarking in Yichang, you’ll be transferred to the airport or train station, ending a trip packed with visual splendors, cultural insights, and active moments.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour offers excellent value, considering the included items: a 4-hour Li River cruise, train tickets to Chongqing, and several shore excursions—from the Fengdu Ghost City to the Three Gorges Dam. Accommodation in Guilin and Yangshuo, along with a bike tour and admission to Xianggong Hill and the limestone cave, are all part of the package.

However, meals are not included outside specified activities, so budgeting for food is advisable. Personal expenses are also separate, and travelers should prepare for some physical activity, such as walking and biking.

The group size is private, with guides speaking English and Traditional Chinese, ensuring a personalized experience. This makes the trip manageable for those who prefer smaller groups and more direct interaction with guides.

Practical tips

• Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera—these will make outdoor activities more enjoyable.
• Weather can vary, so dress appropriately.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, due to the physical nature of some excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 6-day tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of China’s natural and cultural treasures—those who are comfortable with active days and looking for a mix of scenic cruising, cultural sites, and outdoor exploration. It’s especially good for first-time visitors eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

If you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and passionate, along with stunning views that look like paintings, you’ll find this trip rewarding. The combination of natural beauty, cultural insight, and efficient logistics makes it a compelling choice for a comprehensive China experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Li River cruise?
The cruise on the Li River lasts about four hours and offers some of the most picturesque scenery in China.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes stays in Guilin and Yangshuo, providing comfortable options in scenic locations.

What transportation is used during the tour?
You’ll be picked up at the airport, travel by private guide, and take a bullet train to Chongqing. Transfers between sites are arranged for convenience.

Is this tour suitable for active travelers?
Yes, it involves some walking and biking, so travelers should be comfortable with light physical activity.

What cultural sites are visited?
You’ll see Fengdu Ghost City, Xianggong Hill, and the Three Gorges Dam, giving you insight into Chinese beliefs, history, and engineering.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and offers flexibility with reservation and payment plans.

This Guilin to Chongqing journey combines natural splendors, cultural charm, and modern engineering—making it a well-balanced adventure for those eager to see China’s scenic and historic highlights without feeling rushed. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’re likely to come away with unforgettable memories of the landscapes that have inspired artists and poets for centuries.

You can check availability for your dates here: