Yangshuo is a place that begs to be explored at a relaxed pace, and what better way than on a full-day tour? With its stunning karst mountains, lush farmland, and charming villages, Yangshuo offers a variety of ways to see and experience its natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in cycling through rice paddies, floating along the Yulong River, or hiking to panoramic viewpoints, there’s a tour that fits your style. We particularly appreciate options that combine active exploration with cultural insights—like the Full-Day Private Biking Activity or the Longji Rice Terraces & Minority Villages. These tours offer immersive experiences, not just sightseeing.
Yangshuo’s full-day tours stand out for their variety: outdoor adventures that include biking, rafting, hiking, and even cultural tastings. They are perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into the landscape and local life. Here’s a look at some of the best options, each with its own flavor and focus.
1. Full-Day Private Biking Activity in Yangshuo
This tour emphasizes cycling through the countryside. You’ll spend about 6 hours riding on mountain roads and village paths, exploring rice fields, crossing a 400-year-old bridge, and enjoying the slow pace of rural Yangshuo. The experience is tailored, with the private setup allowing you to customize stops and pacing.
What makes this tour special is the chance to truly slow down and observe the landscape—think bamboo groves, ancient bridges, and bamboo rafts on the Yulong River. It’s suited for those who want a personalized adventure and don’t mind moderate physical activity. The guide shares insights into local life, adding context to the scenery. With a perfect 5-star rating from four reviews, it’s clear this tour leaves visitors satisfied.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cycling enthusiasts or anyone wanting an intimate, relaxed way to discover Yangshuo’s natural beauty. Cost is $99 per person, and the tour runs around 6 hours.
2. Full-day Tour: Cycling, Rafting & SanjieLiu Outdoor Water Theatre
This multi-part adventure offers cycling, bamboo rafting, and a mesmerizing outdoor water show. It’s a longer, more comprehensive day, lasting approximately 8-10 hours, and is perfect for those who want a mix of outdoor action and entertainment.
The cycling leads you through villages and scenic spots, including Moon Hill, a symbol of Yangshuo with its iconic moon-shaped cave and panoramic views. The bamboo raft on the Yulong River provides a relaxing float among limestone peaks and lush greenery. Lunch is served at a local farmer’s house, offering a taste of locally grown produce. The grand finale is the “Landscape Live Performance”, where sound and light create a truly stunning show.
This tour is especially appealing for those who appreciate a step-by-step immersion—from gentle paddling to cultural spectacle. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the rich experience, with comments like, “David enthusiastically gave me a tour of Yangshuo, his hometown.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full day combining activity, scenic beauty, and cultural entertainment for $128 per person.
3. Full-day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces & Minority Villages
This 11.5-hour tour takes you far beyond Yangshuo into Guilin’s famed Longji Rice Terraces and ethnic minority villages. The highlight is walking through Ping’an Village, home to the Zhuang minority, with views of the “Nine Dragons and Five Tigers” terraces at altitudes from 380 to 880 meters.
On this trip, you’ll visit Long Sheng’s Dragon Spine Terraces, explore local homes, and learn about agriculture and local crafts. The terraces are a marvel, carved into mountain slopes over hundreds of years, and the villages provide insight into Yao and Zhuang cultures. The guide shares stories about the families living there and their traditional lifestyles.
Guests love this tour for its comprehensive itinerary and authentic cultural encounters. One reviewer noted, “This was a wonderful tour that I did one-on-one with my guide, Daniel,” highlighting the personalized experience.
Bottom Line: The best choice for those interested in agriculture, culture, and breathtaking views, at $146 per person.
4. Half/Full-Day Yangshuo Countryside Moderate Cycling and Sightseeing Private Tour
For a shorter, more relaxed cycling experience, this private tour offers about 3.5 hours of gentle riding through Yangshuo’s karst scenery and villages. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll explore Yulong River, famous for its toothy limestone hills and traditional farming scenes.
The route includes visits to Jiuxian Ancient Village, with its old houses and narrow streets. The private setup means you can focus on what interests you most, whether it’s snapping photos of bamboo groves or chatting with farmers. The tour has a perfect 5-star rating from one review, emphasizing the personal touch and local insights.
Bottom Line: Tailored for travelers who want a relaxed cycling experience with personalized attention, costing $60 per person.
$60.00 per person
5. Yangshuo Full Day Tour: Cooking Class, River Boat, Light Show
This full-day adventure blends culinary skills, scenic boat rides, and a spectacular outdoor show. Starting at 9 am, you’ll visit Xingping Town to learn how to cook Chinese dishes with a local chef—then sample your own creations.
Next, you’ll climb Xianggong Mountain for spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Li River. Afterward, a boat ride along the Li River takes you past famous peaks like Nine Horse Hill. The day culminates with the Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show, set against the limestone backdrop.
Guests highlight the interactive cooking class and the stunning scenery. One traveler praised the tour for its well-organized itinerary and engaging experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for food lovers and those wanting a blend of scenic and cultural experiences in a single day for $259 per person.
$259.00 per person
6. Yangshuo: Full-Day Hiking Tour w/ Local Guide
If you prefer exploring on foot, this 7-hour hiking tour offers an immersive way to see Yangshuo’s mountains and fields. Led by a local guide, you’ll walk along country paths, crossing farms and scenic viewpoints.
The tour includes a visit to the Giant Buddha Statue on Mt. Hongguangshan, offering panoramic views. Along the way, you’ll interact with local farmers, gaining insights into regional agriculture and rural life. The route is designed for moderate fitness levels and includes stunning vistas at every turn.
Guests appreciate the personalized narration and the chance to experience authentic rural culture. One review notes, “Talking with farmers en route made the hike special,” making it perfect for active travelers seeking cultural depth.
Bottom Line: Great for hikers and cultural explorers alike, priced at $119.
$119 per person
7. Guilin Yangshuo: Full-Day with Silver Cave & Bamboo Rafting
This private day trip offers exploring Guangxi’s largest karst cave, bamboo rafting on the Li River, and walking through Yangshuo’s West Street. It’s a structured 8-hour day with hotel pickup and a private driver.
The Silver Cave dazzles with stalactites and stalagmites, while the bamboo raft provides a gentle glide past iconic peaks like Nine Horse Hill. The historic West Street is the perfect spot for local crafts, snacks, and atmosphere. Additional highlights include a visit to the Xingping old town for lunch.
This tour is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive experience with minimal effort, thanks to the hassle-free logistics. It’s ideal for travelers who want a luxury experience with personalized service.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking an all-in-one day of natural wonders and cultural sights, at $230 for up to two people.
$230 per group up to 2
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Yangshuo
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you love active outdoor exploration, the biking and hiking tours are excellent picks. For those looking to combine nature and culture without too much physical effort, the Longji Rice Terraces or the Silver Cave & Bamboo Rafting trips are ideal. If you’re after a full sensory experience—culinary, scenic, and entertainment—the Cooking Class and Light Show offers a well-rounded day.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons in spring and autumn, when Yangshuo’s popularity surges.
In summary, Yangshuo offers a rich variety of full-day tours that cater to adventurers, culture seekers, and relaxers alike. For a quiet, scenic bike ride, go for the Full-Day Private Biking Activity. If your interest lies in terraced fields and minority villages, the Longji Rice Terraces trip will not disappoint. Travelers wanting a blend of adventure and entertainment should consider the Yangshuo Cooking and Light Show.
No matter which you choose, booking early will guarantee a spot in these enriching experiences. Yangshuo’s landscapes and local culture promise memorable days, so pick the tour that best fits your style and go explore!