Explore Yangshuo’s natural beauty with a half-day tour that takes you from lush tea plantations to breathtaking viewpoints over the Li River valley. For $107 per person, this roughly six-hour experience offers a chance to understand China’s tea culture firsthand and soak in some of the most spectacular scenery. Led by knowledgeable guides like Daniel and David, you’ll visit the Seven Fairies Peak Tea Plantation and climb Xianggong Hill, with options to pick your own tea leaves and enjoy traditional tea ceremonies.

What we especially love about this tour are the hands-on nature of the tea experience and the panoramic views from Xianggong Hill—both give you a genuine, immersive taste of local life and landscape. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group experience means more personal attention and less crowding.

That said, one potential consideration is the timing—this is a half-day trip, so if you’re after a deeper dive into the area’s culture or a longer exploration, you might want to look for full-day options. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and learning about local traditions without spending a full day on the road.

Key Points

Authentic Tea Experience – Pick your own tea leaves, wear a traditional reed hat, and participate in a tea-making ceremony.
Stunning Panoramas – Climb Xianggong Hill for views that stretch across the Li River with clouds, shadows, and possibly rainbows.
Personalized Service – Guided by friendly experts like Daniel and David, with private transportation included.
Cultural Insight – Learn about Chinese tea customs and the significance of tea in local culture.
Flexible Schedule – Two daily departures allow you to choose a morning or afternoon slot.
Value for Money – All fees, entrance tickets, and a traditional tea service are included, making this a straightforward, hassle-free experience.

A Practical Guide to the Yangshuo Tea & Xianggong Hill Tour

While in Yangshuo, here are other experiences we've covered

Private Half-Day Bike and Bamboo Raft Tour in Yangshuo

An overview of what to expect and why it matters

This half-day tour begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in downtown Yangshuo, where your guide warmly greets you and introduces you to the day’s adventure. From there, you’ll head to the Seven Fairies Peak Tea Plantation, the largest tea plantation in the area. This site is not just scenic but also a window into China’s rich tea-making traditions.

At the plantation, you’ll get to try on a traditional Chinese reed hat—a fun, photo-worthy moment—and carry a small bamboo basket as you stroll through the neatly arranged rows of tea plants. Your guide will encourage you to pick your own tea leaves if in season, giving an authentic hands-on experience that many visitors treasure. If you’re visiting during harvest time, you’ll also have the chance to pick kumquat, a local specialty fruit, adding a sweet touch to your morning or afternoon.

Back at the lodge, you’ll participate in a traditional tea ceremony, where you’ll learn how tea is made and served in China. This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the customs and significance of tea in Chinese culture—a small but meaningful window into local life.

Next, your journey takes you to Xianggong Hill, a famous viewpoint that offers sweeping views over the Li River and the surrounding peaks. Walking up to the summit is a highlight, especially if you’re lucky enough to see a rainbow or catch the play of sunlight and clouds. The scenery here is so iconic that many visitors say it’s one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

The drive and scenery

The drive to Xianggong Hill and the tea plantation showcases Yangshuo’s rural charm—quiet villages, orchards, and the dramatic limestone peaks that define the region. Along the way, guides like Daniel share insights about the local area, making the journey itself a pleasant introduction to rural China.

The beauty of Xianggong Hill

Once at Xianggong Hill, you’ll ascend on foot or via a manageable path to the top. From there, the vistas are breathtaking—an expansive view of the river winding through jagged peaks, clouds drifting overhead, and if luck is on your side, a rainbow arching across the sky. Many reviewers have praised the panoramic views, describing the experience as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.”

Practicalities and value

All transportation, entrance fees, and the traditional tea service are included in the price, simplifying what might otherwise be logistics-heavy. The small-group format (max 15 travelers) ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. Plus, the flexible morning or afternoon departures let you tailor the experience to your schedule.

While you're exploring Yangshuo, here are other experiences we've looked into

What reviews tell us

Reviewers consistently highlight the expert guides—like Daniel and David—whose deep knowledge and friendly manner make the experience all the more enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the guide “provided lots of useful information about the area and tea,” which adds educational value.

Many comments focus on the spectacular scenery—”views are spectacular,” “amazing,” and “the tea plantation view was amazing as well and delicious.” The hands-on aspect—picking tea, wearing traditional hats—resonates especially with travelers seeking authentic cultural exchanges.

Who this tour suits best

If you love scenic viewpoints and genuine local experiences, you’ll enjoy the climb up Xianggong Hill and the tea picking. It’s perfect for those who appreciate cultural insights, beautiful landscapes, and small-group environments. However, if you prefer a full-day itinerary or more intensive culture, this might feel brief.

Pricing and value

At $107, this tour offers a lot of value—covering transportation, guide, entrance fees, and a cultural experience in a half-day format. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a concise, well-organized taste of Yangshuo’s countryside without committing a whole day.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

This half-day experience is an excellent option for travelers craving authentic Chinese countryside scenes combined with a hands-on cultural activity. The focus on tea culture and spectacular views delivers both educational and visual rewards. Small-group size and friendly guides ensure a personal touch, making it ideal for those who enjoy learning and exploring at a relaxed pace.

It’s particularly strong if you’re interested in local traditions, scenic photography, or simply want a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. The inclusion of traditional tea-making and picking your own leaves makes this a memorable, meaningful outing—something you’ll likely remember well beyond your trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What are the departure times?
There are two departures daily—one in the morning and one in the afternoon—so you can choose based on your schedule.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private transportation is included, with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Yangshuo.

Are entrance fees included?
All fees and taxes are covered, including the entrance ticket to the tea plantation and Xianggong Hill.

Can I pick kumquat fruit?
Yes, if it’s harvest season, you’ll have the opportunity to pick kumquat, a local specialty fruit.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, but please consider physical mobility for the hill climb and outdoor activities.

In all, this tour blends natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and expert guidance, making it a delightful way to experience Yangshuo’s scenic countryside. If you’re after an insightful, scenic, and hands-on half-day escape, it’s well worth considering.