Short Li-River cruise and Longji Rice Terraces Private Day Tour

A Complete Day in Guilin: Li River and Longji Rice Terraces

Imagine a day filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and personable guides—that’s precisely what this private tour offers. For $136.13 per person, you’ll explore two of Guilin’s most iconic sights: the Li River’s gentle waters and majestic Karst formations, and the Longji Rice Terraces, carved into the hillside for centuries. The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, starting with your pickup from either Guilin or Yangshuo, making it flexible for your travel plans.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the small boat cruise on the Li River is a gentle, intimate way to enjoy the landscape, avoiding the hustle of larger tours. Second, the visit to the Longji Rice Terraces offers a deep dive into China’s agricultural artistry, with opportunities for a traditional lunch amidst terraced fields.

One consideration is the long drive between sites—about 2 hours from the Li River pier to Longji—so if you’re short on patience or prone to motion sickness, this might be a factor. Also, children under 7 or 1.2 meters tall, as well as seniors over 70, are limited from some activities like the small boat ride.

This tour is perfect for travellers who want a well-rounded, authentic glimpse of Guilin’s natural beauty and culture, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and are okay with a bit of travel time.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines two top-rated Guilin sights in a single day, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey more enriching.
• Flexible Pickup and Drop-off: Options to start/end at Guilin or Yangshuo hotels or train stations.
• Value for Money: At $136.13, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including transportation and guide service.
• Limited Small-Boat Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 7 or seniors over 70 due to small boat restrictions.
• Cultural & Scenic Focus: You’ll see stunning river landscapes, rice terraces, and local villages, making it ideal for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Exploring the Day in Detail

The Li River Cruise: A Gentle Introduction

Your day begins early, with pickup between 7:30 and 8:30 am. Depending on your hotel location, you’ll be transferred to either Caoping River Pier (near Guilin) or Xingping River Pier (near Yangshuo). The transfer itself is smooth, with air conditioning and private transport ensuring comfort.

The small boat cruise on the Li River lasts approximately an hour. It’s an intimate experience—fewer boats, less noise—and offers stunning views of the iconic Karst limestone peaks rising sharply from the water. Travelers consistently praise this boat ride as a highlight, with one reviewer noting that the “view of the river views was worth the travel,” despite the long drive between sites.

However, note that children under 7 or less than 1.2 meters tall cannot participate in the small boat, and seniors over 70 might find it unsuitable. The small boat’s limited capacity makes it a more exclusive, quieter way to enjoy the scenery.

Journey to the Longji Rice Terraces

After the boat cruise, the journey continues with a 2-hour transfer to the Longji Rice Terraces, a marvel of agricultural craftsmanship. As you approach, you’ll see terraced fields carved into the mountainside, a visual feast that captures the ingenuity of local farmers.

The tour includes visits to Ping’an and Dazhai terraces, with plenty of time to explore and snap photos. The terraces are especially stunning when lit by the soft glow of late afternoon sunlight. Lunch is typically enjoyed at Ping’an Village, where local dishes are served amid the terraces—an authentic experience you’ll not want to miss.

The Longji Village Experience

In Longji, you’ll visit Long Hair Village and Ping’an Village, both offering insight into minority cultures and traditional lifestyles. The local houses, the terraced fields, and the chance to meet villagers add a human dimension to the landscape. Reviews mention how guides like Andy enhance this experience, providing valuable insights and making sure you see everything.

Cost and Accessibility of Entrance Fees

It’s important to note that admission tickets to the rice terraces are not included in the tour price. Expect to pay around 115 RMB per person for the boat ticket, and similar fees for the terraces. This setup allows travelers to choose whether to explore more independently or stick with the guided itinerary.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

The combination of scenic beauty and culture makes this tour a standout for those seeking a comprehensive day in Guilin. The private guide adds personal attention, answering your questions and tailoring the experience as needed.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and their friendly approach—”Andy was amazing,” says one—and the stunning views that make every hour worthwhile. The value for money is evident, considering the included transportation, guide service, and the chance to see two of Guilin’s most iconic sights in one day.

The timing is well-organized, with morning pickups and a return by late afternoon or early evening, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there are some walking and boat rides involved. It’s ideal for those who want a hassle-free, guided day that covers multiple highlights without the stress of planning transport or entry tickets themselves.

If you’re interested in scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and local culture, you’ll find this tour hits all those notes. The tour is especially well-suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and enjoy learning from guides who can share insights beyond just the scenery.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Guilin looking to see its most iconic sights in a single day, this tour offers excellent value and a hassle-free experience. The small boat ride on the Li River provides quiet, beautiful vistas, while the Longji Rice Terraces reveal a centuries-old farming technique that’s as impressive as it is photogenic.

The personal guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, greatly enhance the experience, especially if you’re eager to learn about local culture. Although the long drive between sites** might test some travelers’ patience, the stunning views and cultural insights make it worthwhile.

In short, this tour is perfect for adventurers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and comfort—especially if you’re short on time but eager to see Guilin’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start?
  The tour begins between 7:30 and 8:30 am, with pickups arranged from your hotel or train station.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned private vehicle throughout the day.

• Are entrance fees included?
  No, the admission tickets for the Li River boat (around 115 RMB) and the Longji Rice Terraces are paid separately.

• Can children participate?
  Children under 7 years old or less than 1.2 meters tall cannot take the small boat.

• Is the tour suitable for seniors?
  Seniors over 70 may find the small boat ride unsuitable, but they can still enjoy the scenic and cultural parts of the tour.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Meals are included or available at the village eateries.

• What happens if it rains?
  The tour generally proceeds rain or shine, but check the weather forecast and communicate with your guide if you have concerns.

This private day trip delivers a balanced dose of natural beauty and culture, with flexible logistics and expert guiding—making it a memorable choice for your Guilin adventure.