The Li River, one of Guilin’s most celebrated natural attractions, is a must-visit for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and serene experiences. Stretching 83 kilometers from Guilin to Yangshuo, the route from Yangdi to Xingping offers some of the most picturesque scenery in China, passing iconic landmarks like the Nine Horses Fresco Wall and the Yellow Cloth Shoal, famously depicted on the 20-yuan note. Whether you choose to cruise, hike along the riverbanks, cycle nearby trails, or admire the scenery from mountain viewpoints, the Li River provides a unique perspective at every turn.
Li River Cruises: Comfortable and Scenic
The Ultimate Way to Experience the River
Cruising along the Li River is the preferred option for over 90% of visitors. Modern cruise boats are equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seating, and dining facilities, allowing passengers to enjoy stunning vistas in comfort regardless of weather conditions.
A typical cruise lasts about four hours, giving travelers ample time to soak in the dramatic karst landscapes. Open decks provide 360-degree panoramic views, perfect for photography and capturing reflections on the emerald waters.
Cruises are generally divided into 3-star and 4-star categories based on amenities and pricing. While both have similar capacities, 3-star vessels accommodate around 120 passengers with standard seating, whereas 4-star boats provide plush leather sofas for 75–80 guests. Meal options differ as well, with 3-star cruises offering boxed lunches and 4-star cruises serving buffet-style meals. For a small upgrade fee, the 4-star experience is highly recommended for added comfort and a more memorable journey.
Tips for Cruising the Li River:
- The cruise terminal is approximately 25 kilometers (50 minutes) from Guilin city center, so allow sufficient time to reach the dock.
- Departure times usually range from 9:00 to 10:30 AM. Opting for a 9:00 AM cruise provides softer lighting, ideal for photography.
- After disembarking, explore the countryside by bike or relax with a coffee on West Street. Activities such as stand-up paddleboarding on the Yulong River are also available.
- During peak seasons (summer holidays, Labor Day, National Day, and Spring Festival), cruises sell out quickly. Book at least a month in advance, particularly for 4-star cruises.
Bamboo Rafting: An Intimate River Experience
Glide Along the Emerald Waters
For those seeking a more intimate connection with the Li River, bamboo rafting offers a tranquil alternative to large cruises. Traditional bamboo rafts, piloted by local boatmen, allow passengers to gently drift on the emerald waters, occasionally dipping their feet into the river.
The classic Yangdi to Xingping route takes about 1.5 hours, passing renowned landmarks such as the Nine Horses Fresco Wall and the Yellow Cloth Shoal. Raft operators can pause at prime spots for photography, making the journey highly memorable.
Morning and late afternoon trips are recommended for the best natural lighting and calm river conditions, perfect for capturing photos. During the journey, you may encounter local fishermen paddling their bamboo rafts, providing a picturesque glimpse into daily life along the river.
Safety and Guidelines:
- Each raft accommodates four passengers. Extra seats can be booked for privacy.
- Travel time from Guilin to Yangdi dock is about 1.5 hours, followed by a 1-hour journey from Xingping to Yangshuo.
- Life jackets are mandatory for all passengers.
- Children under seven or 1.2 meters in height and seniors over 70 are not permitted for safety reasons.
- Rafting may be suspended during heavy rainfall (May–June) or high water conditions.
Hiking Along the Li River
Scenic Trails for Every Adventurer
Hiking along the Li River offers an immersive way to enjoy the landscape. Based on experience and field surveys, three recommended routes cater to different fitness levels and interests:
- Quanjiazhou to Xingping – 12 km (4 hours): Ideal for hikers capable of walking 20,000–30,000 steps per day, this route explores river scenery, village life, and surrounding rice paddies.
- Quanjiazhou to Nine Horses Fresco Hill – 6 km (2 hours): Perfect for families or casual hikers who prefer a shorter trek.
- Bamboo Raft + Hike (Yangdi to Nine Horses Fresco via raft, then hike to Xingping – 6 km): Combines rafting and hiking, providing a varied and engaging experience for first-time visitors.
Along the trails, travelers pass ancient villages, colorful farmland, and karst peaks. Guides often share insights into local culture, and hikers may interact with villagers and fishermen. Visiting during harvest season (October) allows you to witness traditional farming practices, such as rice harvesting and peanut collection.
Hiking Tips:
- Wear comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes, as trails include gravel paths and rural roads.
- The best seasons are autumn (September–November) for cool weather and golden fields, and May for moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.
Panoramic Mountain Viewpoints
Capture the Perfect Landscape
Guilin’s karst mountains are relatively low (mostly under 300 meters) and easily accessible, offering stunning views of the Li River and surrounding peaks. Three key viewpoints are highly recommended:
- Caoping Dashawan – Features distant river views with a 20-minute stone stair climb. Best time: 5:00–6:00 PM for sunset.
- Thousand-Mile Landscape Gallery, Yangshuo – Offers tiered peaks fading into the horizon, with the Li River visible in the distance. Requires a moderate 20-minute climb. Best time: 5:00–6:00 PM.
- Xianggong Hill – Provides a direct view of the Li River’s First Bend and Nine Horses Fresco. Requires a steeper 20-minute climb. Best time: 5:00–6:00 AM for sunrise.
Dashawan and the Landscape Gallery primarily showcase mountains with distant river views, while Xianggong Hill provides a closer perspective of the Li River winding below.
Cycling Along the Li River
A Scenic Ride Through Villages
For cycling enthusiasts, the Li River route offers some of Guilin’s most stunning rural scenery. The classic Daxu to Xingping trail spans approximately 47 km (5 hours) on well-maintained roads, passing traditional villages, verdant rice fields, and calm riverbanks.
A shorter option, the Xingping to Yangdi route (30 km, 3 hours), delivers equally beautiful landscapes with less effort, perfect for casual riders or travelers with limited time.
Tour operators provide all cycling equipment, along with water, snacks, and a support vehicle to transport luggage directly to your hotel.
Best Seasons for Cycling:
- Autumn (September–November) for cool and dry weather.
- Spring (March–May) for mild temperatures, though rain is more likely.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer a relaxing cruise, intimate bamboo rafting, invigorating hikes, panoramic mountain views, or scenic cycling adventures, the Li River offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Guilin’s landscapes, with its emerald waters, karst peaks, and traditional villages, provide a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and recreational activities. With carefully planned tours, comfortable arrangements, and knowledgeable guides, exploring the Li River becomes a seamless and immersive journey, leaving travelers with memories that last a lifetime.
