1-Day Tour:Yangshuo Yulong Bamboo Boat and Ruyi Peak Cable Car from Guilin Hotel

If you’re eager to experience the heart of Chinese landscape beauty, this 1-day tour from Guilin to Yangshuo offers a taste of some of the most iconic sights and tranquil moments in this region. For around $162, you’ll enjoy a private trip that covers bamboo boat rides, Ruyi Peak & cable car, and several scenic stops.

What we love most? First, the chance to glide along the Yulong River on a bamboo raft—a peaceful way to see the countryside that feels authentic and slow-paced. Second, the Ruyi Peak cable car ride provides sweeping views that are truly unforgettable.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so planning ahead or bringing snacks might be helpful. Also, the tour’s timing and structure are designed to avoid crowds, making early mornings on the raft especially appealing.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural charm—especially those who appreciate stunning views but prefer a relaxed, private experience rather than large group tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Enjoy traditional bamboo rafting along the Yulong River, avoiding crowded motorized boats.
• Spectacular Views: The Ruyi Peak cable car offers panoramic vistas of Guilin’s karst mountains.
• Diverse Attractions: From mountain crafting mirrors to cliff dwellings, the tour offers a variety of photo-worthy stops.
• Flexible & Private: The private guide and vehicle make for a personalized, flexible day.
• Timing Matters: Starting early helps beat the crowds, especially for popular activities like the bamboo boat.
• Value for Money: All major attractions and transportation are included, making it a good value for an 8-hour experience.

The Tour in Detail: What to Expect and Why It Matters

This private day trip from Guilin to Yangshuo packs a lot into roughly 8 hours, but the pace is relaxed enough to truly enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, your guide and driver are there to ensure a seamless experience—no stress about logistics or transportation.

Starting at Guilin and Ruyi Peak

Your day begins with a short transfer to Ruyi Peak, near the famous Moon Hill. This spot offers breathtaking views and is a great warm-up for the day ahead. The admission is free, but the highlight here is the Ruyi Peak Ropeway, which uses French-made POMA equipment. This gondola lift covers 2.3 km with an elevation difference of 242 meters, providing a smooth, scenic journey up the mountain.

Along the way, you’ll encounter attractions like the glass-bottom skywalk, a love-ring bridge, and cliff dwellings—each offering unique photo angles and a sense of adventure. The advanced equipment ensures comfort, and the capacity of 2000 people per hour means you’ll wait less and see more.

Yulong River Bamboo Boat Ride

Next, the highlight for many travelers: the bamboo raft on the Yulong River. This tributary of the Li River is a peaceful, slow-moving waterway lined with limestone mountains and traditional village life. The non-motorized raft is steered by a gondolier, giving you a true sense of local life and a gentle glide past mud-brick villages and farmland.

This experience, which lasts around 40 minutes, is praised for its tranquility and the natural beauty it reveals. One guest described it as “sitting and enjoying the peaceful countryside,” which perfectly captures the leisurely vibe. Starting early means you beat the crowds, making this a serene experience.

Exploring Xingping Town

The final stop is Xingping, a charming town known for its picturesque scenery. Here, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, completing the circle of a diverse day. The free admission allows you to stroll and soak in the atmosphere or plan further exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

All major transportation costs—the private car, guide, and entrance tickets—are covered, adding convenience and value. The round-trip cable car to Ruyi Peak is included, which is a significant part of the scenic experience. Keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in Yangshuo is advisable.

This trip is tailored for those who prefer a private, flexible experience rather than crowded group tours. The itinerary is designed to maximize scenic beauty and authentic moments while avoiding the large crowds that can diminish the enjoyment of popular sites.

Why This Tour Works

The balance of scenic attractions and cultural sights makes this tour appealing. The mountain crafting mirror and cliff dwellings provide interesting photo opportunities and a sense of local craftsmanship. The Yulong Bamboo Boat Ride is praised in reviews as “the most awesome” way to start a day, especially when timed early to avoid crowds.

Guests have commented on the timing and execution—with one saying, “Andy’s timing was immaculate,” which indicates good organization and attention to detail. The stunning views across the limestone karsts and river landscapes are a consistent highlight, making this a memorable day for nature lovers and photographers alike.

While some travelers note that lunch isn’t included, the overall value is good considering the all-inclusive entry tickets, private guide, and transportation. The experience offers a peaceful, scenic journey that balances adventure with relaxation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience of Yangshuo’s highlights, especially those who value authenticity and scenic beauty over large crowds. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, or quiet adventurers who want to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re traveling with family, the limited age restrictions on bamboo boats make it accessible for most children, provided they are accompanied by adults. However, very young children under 5 or older travelers over 70 might need to reconsider, as some activities like the bamboo boat are limited for these age groups.

In short, if your goal is to experience Yangshuo’s stunning scenery comfortably and privately, this tour covers the essentials and more, all in one well-organized package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate in most activities, especially the bamboo raft, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that children under 5 and over 70 may not be able to take part in the bamboo boat ride.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Yangshuo after the activities.

How long is the bamboo boat ride?
The bamboo raft on the Yulong River lasts approximately 40 minutes and offers a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery.

What’s the transportation like?
The tour uses an air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which adds to the relaxed, personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—no hassles if your plans change.

What are the main attractions?
Highlights include the Ruyi Peak & cable car, Yulong bamboo boat, mountain crafting mirrors, cliff dwellings, and scenic views of Guilin’s famous karst landscapes.

How does timing affect the experience?
Starting early helps you avoid crowds, especially on the bamboo raft, enhancing the peacefulness and overall enjoyment.

What is the overall rating?
This tour maintains a perfect 5-star review based on traveler feedback, mainly praising the well-organized itinerary and stunning views.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic, and authentic Yangshuo experience in a private setting will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This 1-day private tour from Guilin to Yangshuo offers a well-rounded experience that marries stunning landscapes, cultural sights, and relaxing moments. The inclusion of bamboo boat rides, mountain cable cars, and scenic stops makes it an excellent choice for those who want a serious dose of natural beauty without the hassle of large tour groups or complicated logistics.

The value for the cost is clear, especially considering the private guide and all entrance fees. The tour strikes a good balance between adventure and leisure, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from photography enthusiasts to families seeking peaceful countryside moments.

If you’re after a day that captures the essence of Yangshuo’s breathtaking scenery, with comfort and flexibility, this tour delivers. Pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and prepare to see one of China’s most picturesque regions in style.