Half Day Self-Guided Yangshuo Xianggong hill Sunrise and Yulong Bamboo Boat Tour

Experience the magic of a sunrise over Xianggong Hill and the tranquil waters of Yulong River on this thoughtfully crafted half-day tour in Guilin and Yangshuo. For just $85 per person, you get a chance to see some of China’s most iconic landscapes without a full-day commitment. The tour includes hotel pickups, a private vehicle, and a chance to capture your own stunning photos of the sea of clouds, karst peaks, and the gentle flow of bamboo boats on the Yulong River.

What we love most about this experience is its intimate approach—it’s a small group, early morning adventure that offers both spectacular vistas and authentic moments. The sunrise at Xianggong Hill is truly a highlight, especially for those who love photography or simply want to see the landscape in its most magical light. Plus, the bamboo rafting on Yulong River allows you to drift quietly past dramatic limestone formations and quaint bridges, giving a real taste of local life.

A possible drawback is the early start—at 4:30 am, you’ll need to be prepared for a very early awakening, which might not suit everyone, especially light sleepers or those traveling with small children. Also, since the price excludes tickets for Xianggong Hill (60 CNY) and bamboo boats (200 CNY), you’ll want to budget a bit extra.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and a good value for a half-day outing. It’s ideal for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see Guilin’s countryside in a more personal, less touristy way.

Key Points

• Spectacular Sunrise Views: Capture the stunning light and cloud formations at Xianggong Hill.
• Authentic Bamboo Rafting: Glide along Yulong River’s smooth waters, surrounded by iconic karst landscapes.
• Private and Small Group: Enjoy personalized service and fewer crowds.
• Flexible Booking and Cancellation: Book with confidence, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Cost Breakdown: Tour price is $85, but expect to pay extra for entrance and activity tickets.
• Early Start: Prepare for a 4:30 am pickup for the best sunrise experience.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Early for the Best Views

This tour kicks off with an early pickup, either at 4:00 am from Guilin or 4:30 am from Yangshuo. The reason for this early start is to reach Xianggong Mountain in time for sunrise—arguably the most picturesque part of the trip. As the driver smoothly navigates the quiet roads, you get a chance to relax and adjust to the anticipation of witnessing some of the most celebrated views in the region.

Xianggong Mountain: A Photographer’s Dream

The drive from Yangshuo takes about 50 minutes, placing you on the west bank of the Lijiang River, close to Huangbu Shoal and Nine-Horse Mural Hill. Once there, you’ll ascend roughly 400 steps or take about 10-15 minutes to reach the summit. The climb is manageable for most visitors with moderate physical fitness, and the payoff is well worth the effort.

From the top, we loved the way the morning light bathes the peaks and the river below, creating a sea of clouds and a glowing landscape that has drawn photographers from around the world. The story about a local photographer winning a medal at an international exhibition underscores the quality of this scene. As one reviewer put it, “The sunrise is a must do,” which we wholeheartedly agree with.

While the ticket for Xianggong Hill costs 60 CNY per person, this is a small price for such a panoramic shot of the winding Lijiang River and jagged limestone karsts. Expect about an hour here—perfect for capturing images or simply soaking in the scenery.

Yulong River: Bamboo Rafting through Tranquil Waters

After descending from Xianggong, the tour continues to the Yulong River—sometimes called “the Little Li River” because of its scenic similarity. The drive here takes about 30 minutes, offering another chance to enjoy the lush countryside.

The highlight at Yulong is the bamboo boat ride, which lasts about 90 minutes. Each boat holds two people, allowing for a relaxed, intimate experience. The river winds through dramatic karst formations, ancient bridges, and peaceful waters, making it a popular spot for both photography and peaceful contemplation.

This part of the tour costs 200 CNY per boat, and while the cost may seem high, the experience of drifting along quiet waters framed by towering limestone peaks is quite special. One traveler noted, “It was a very beautiful day accompanied by a caring driver,” emphasizing the relaxed, personal nature of the experience.

It’s worth mentioning that children under 5 and adults over 70 are not permitted on the bamboo boats, so keep that in mind if traveling with family members.

End of the Journey and Comfortable Return

After the bamboo rafting, your private driver will take you back to your Guilin or Yangshuo hotel, concluding the half-day adventure comfortably. The total tour duration is about 5 hours, making it a manageable morning outing without feeling rushed.

Additional Considerations

Since entrance tickets are not included in the tour price, budget around 60 CNY for Xianggong Hill and 200 CNY for the bamboo boat. This makes the overall cost slightly higher, but it allows you to tailor how much you wish to spend.

The tour’s early start requires some physical readiness and a willingness to wake up before dawn. But many travelers find that the tranquility and beauty of the landscape at sunrise make the effort worthwhile.

Authentic and Well-Organized

Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and smooth organization. One reviewer mentioned: “My guide Andy had organized this day very well, everything went smoothly. The sunrise is a must do.” This highlights the value of having a caring, knowledgeable driver, especially given the early hours and the logistical complexities of the trip.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for photographers and scenery lovers wanting to capture China’s iconic landscapes at dawn. It’s also great for those who prefer a small, private tour over large group excursions, offering flexibility and a more personal touch. Travelers who enjoy quiet mornings and scenic tranquility will find this tour especially rewarding.

However, if you’re not an early riser or traveling with very young children or seniors over 70, you might want to consider a later or different tour. Also, budget-conscious travelers should account for the additional ticket costs.

Final Thoughts

This half-day tour gives you a taste of some of the most striking scenery around Guilin and Yangshuo, all while maintaining a relaxed pace. The early morning start might seem daunting, but the spectacular sunrise at Xianggong Hill and the serene bamboo rafting experience on Yulong River make it worthwhile. The private nature of the tour, coupled with a caring guide, ensures you get a personalized and memorable experience.

For those who love authentic landscapes, quiet mornings, and beautiful vistas, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially fitting for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to see the classic Guilin scenery without committing to a full-day tour.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get a private car, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a private English-speaking driver. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included at your Guilin or Yangshuo hotel.

Are tickets for Xianggong Hill and bamboo boat rides included?
No, tickets cost 60 CNY for Xianggong Hill and 200 CNY for the bamboo boat, which you’ll need to purchase separately.

What is the best time to do this tour?
The tour is scheduled early in the morning, starting around 4:30 am, to catch the sunrise. It’s ideal if you want the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 or shorter than 90cm, and adults over 70, cannot participate in the bamboo boat ride. The climb to Xianggong Hill is manageable for most with moderate fitness.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and return to your hotel.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing for early morning, comfortable shoes for climbing Xianggong Hill, and your camera for photos.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personal experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

How scenic are Xianggong Hill and Yulong River?
Absolutely stunning — the landscapes feature towering limestone peaks, tranquil waters, and early morning light that’s perfect for photography or quiet reflection.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic way to see Guilin’s famous scenery without a full day commitment or large crowds.

To sum it up, this tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of spectacular views, authentic local experiences, and personalized service. It’s particularly suited for those who want to wake early for the best light, enjoy peaceful bamboo rafting, and capture memorable photos. With careful planning—especially for ticket costs and physical readiness—you’ll come away with some of the most iconic images of Guilin’s landscapes and a story to tell for years to come.