Guilin is a place where natural beauty meets authentic culture, and it’s perfect for those who want to make the most of a full day exploring. From the spectacular Longji Rice Terraces to the scenic Li River cruises, this region offers a variety of experiences that showcase its stunning landscapes and colorful minorities. If you’re after a day filled with unforgettable sights, you might just fall for the Longji Rice Terraces or the Li River boat cruise, both of which are popular for their panoramic views and cultural insights. For a more relaxed city experience, the Guilin city tour with Fubo Hill offers a good balance of natural wonders and local culture. Whether you prefer hiking, cruising, or city strolling, Guilin has a full-day adventure waiting for you.
Quick Overview
Our list covers seven different types of full-day tours in Guilin. You can choose a private tour to Longji rice terraces for a deep dive into minority culture (see tour), enjoy a luxurious Li River cruise (see tour), or opt for an adventurous countryside hike (see tour). There are city tours, scenic river cruises with VIP options, and even activities like ATV rides in Yangshuo. Each offers a different way to experience Guilin’s remarkable landscape and culture.
1. Longji Rice Terraces: Full-Day Private Tour from Guilin
At number one, this private tour is a favorite for its comprehensive experience of Longsheng’s spectacular rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. Starting from Guilin, the tour takes you directly to the Longji Rice Terraces, one of the largest and most photogenic rice terrace systems in the world, dating back to the Yuan dynasty. You will visit the village of Ping’an, where traditional wooden houses and local customs await. The tour includes a guided walk through the terraces (about 2.5 hours at Ping’an), offering insight into local minority cultures like the Zhuang and Yao. Many reviews highlight how scenic and peaceful the terraces are, with short treks that won’t exhaust you. The tour drops you back in Guilin or Yangshuo, depending on your choice. Priced at $94 per person, it’s a great value for such an immersive experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for culture lovers and photographers alike, this tour offers a personal guide and flexible options. Expect stunning vistas and cultural stories that stay with you long after.
2. Guilin: Private Full-Day Li River Cruise and Liusanjie Show
Number two on our list combines scenic river cruising with a spectacular cultural show. Starting with a cruise along the Li River, this tour showcases Guilin’s famous Karst peaks that line the riverbanks—an iconic Chinese landscape. The 4-hour boat ride offers plenty of photo stops, while the Liusanjie Show adds a musical and visual feast, featuring colorful costumes and local minority music. This tour is ideal if you’re after both nature and entertainment in one day, covering two highlights in Guilin and Yangshuo. The guide and driver’s help ensures a smooth experience, with many reviewers praising how well-organized it is. At $188 per person, it’s priced higher but includes the luxury of a private guide and a luxurious boat.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a mix of scenery and cultural spectacle—a full immersion into Guilin’s natural beauty with an entertaining twist.
3. Longji Rice Terraces Hiking Tour Full Day Adventure
For around $89, this hiking-focused tour takes you deep into the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, allowing you to experience village life and landscape intimately. Starting early from Guilin, you’ll drive approximately two hours to the terraces, then trek for about 3 hours through the sculpted landscape. The tour emphasizes active exploration—you’ll learn about Zhuang culture, sample local bamboo rice and smoked pork, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the terraces. Many reviews highlight the well-informed guide Leo, who made the hike memorable with his knowledge. It’s perfect for adventurers who enjoy outdoor activity but want a culturally rich experience.
Bottom line: If you like hiking and discovering authentic village life, this tour offers great value and personal insight into the terraces’ beauty.
4. Guilin: Private Full-Day City Tour with Fubo Hill
This city-focused tour at $60 per person covers Guilin’s key sights in about 7 hours. Highlights include the Reed Flute Cave, known as the “Palace of Natural Arts,” with its vibrant stalactites and stalagmites, and Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s symbol, offering scenic views of the Li River. The tour also includes a visit to Fubo Hill, home to over 200 Tang Dynasty Buddha statues, making it a cultural and natural highlight. Many reviews mention how informative the guide Tom was, helping visitors understand the significance of each site. This tour is suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive city experience without venturing far outside Guilin.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a compact city tour with cultural depth and great photo opportunities.
5. Gullin: Li River Full-Day Cruise by Boat with Lunch
Enjoy a full-day cruise along the Li River, including a lunch on board, for about $181. The boat, with several seating options, glides past Karst peaks, bamboo groves, and rural scenes. You’ll appreciate the quiet beauty of the river, far from city noise. Many reviews highlight the professional organization and the delicious meal provided. It’s perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and spectacular scenery on a comfortable boat. The tour ends in Yangshuo, giving you free time to explore the charming town afterward.
Bottom line: For scenic lovers wanting a smooth, relaxing cruise with good food and memorable views, this tour is a top choice.
6. Yangshuo: Full-Day Private Countryside Hiking Tour
At number six, this private hiking tour offers a chance to explore Yangshuo’s mountains and rivers. You can hike from Yangdi to Xingping or along the Yulong River, with distances from 4 to 15 km. The focus is on authentic rural landscapes and local scenery, with the chance to relax in the laid-back town of Yangshuo afterward. Many guests appreciate the flexibility—the guide helps tailor the route and pace. The trip costs $101 per person and is best suited for active travelers who want an offbeat experience outside the city.
Bottom line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a personalized, scenic hike with cultural richness.
7. Full-Day Guilin Li-River Cruise and Yangshuo Xianggong hill Private Day Tour
This all-encompassing day tour is tailored for travelers who want scenery, culture, and a bit of adventure. Starting with a Li River cruise in a luxurious 4-star boat with a VIP room, the trip includes panoramic views from Xianggong Hill and a visit to Yangshuo’s old town. The highlight is the magnificent scenery and the easy pace of the day, plus a delicious lunch. The tour costs $204 and is ideal for those who want a luxury experience combined with sightseeing. Many reviews praise the well-organized itinerary and friendly guides.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers seeking a premium full-day experience with scenic cruises and cultural exploration.
How to Choose Your Perfect Guilin Full-Day Tour
Deciding which tour fits best depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. For a cultural deep-dive into rice terraces, the Longji private tour offers both scenery and storytelling. If you want a relaxing yet scenic experience, the Li River cruise with lunch or luxury VIP cruise may suit you better. Active travelers should consider the hiking tour, while city explorers will appreciate the Guilin city highlights. Budget-conscious visitors will find the city tour or local life tour offer excellent value.
Remember to check availability and book early, especially during peak season. Tailoring your choice to your interests will make your Guilin day truly memorable.
Guilin’s full-day tours cover everything from breathtaking landscapes to immersive cultural encounters. Whether you prefer the quiet grandeur of rice terraces, the lively energy of river cruises, or exploring city streets, there’s a trip suited for you. The Longji Rice Terraces and Li River cruises remain top favorites, offering iconic views and authentic experiences. For travelers looking for a mix, a private guided tour balances comfort with personalized insights. For those with limited time, city highlights tours encapsulate Guilin’s essence efficiently.
No matter your style, booking early guarantees you’ll secure the best options and avoid missing out on these unforgettable experiences. Now, it’s time to pick your adventure and get ready for a fantastic day in Guilin.