5 Days Guilin Food and Sightseeing Tour

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Guilin Arrival, Guilin Highlight
   Admire the Unique Nature Landscapes in Guilin City

   Upon arrival at the airport or train station, the local Guilin tour guide and the driver will pick you up and then escort you to the hotel for check-in.

   After a short rest, start today’s Guilin city exploration first at Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of Guilin. The mountain looks like a giant elephant standing by the river, drinking water. Climb up to the viewing platform to admire the panoramic views of Guilin city and sparkling Li River, forming a beautiful picture.

   Then drive for 20 minutes to reach the Reed Flute Cave, known as the “Palace of Underground Art”. There are many strangely shaped stalagmites, stalactites, and stone pillars, creating a peculiar cave view. Discover stone landscapes with colorful light to marvel at the wonders of nature.

   At the end of the day, visit a local food street to enjoy Guilin’s famous dishes like rice noodles, braised pork with taro, stuffed Li River snails, and Guilin sticky rice dumplings.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Guilin

   

2. Day 2: Drive from Guilin to Longsheng
   Marvel at Views of Rice Terrace and Learn about Zhuang culture

   After breakfast, drive to the Longji Rice Terrace. The terraces are at least 2,300 years old and have been honored as a globally important agricultural cultural heritage. In the spring, farmers begin to irrigate the terraces to make the place a vibrant scene. In the fall, the rice grains ripen and the area turns golden. You can hike in the terraces to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take many beautiful photos.

   Then visit the unique Huangluo Yao Village, known for Yao women’s long flowing hair. Learn about their customs and watch traditional performances to gain insight into the cultural heritage of the area.

   Later head to Pingan Zhuang village, one of the oldest and largest villages in the region. The village maintains traditional wooden buildings, which are typical of the high-footed type of architecture. And the residents here still retain the traditional costumes and lifestyles of the Zhuang people. Stroll through the village to interact with friendly locals and appreciate the wooden architecture.

   Also, explore the beauty of the terraced fields around the Zhuang village. Hike along cobbled paths among the terraces, reaching notable sites like Seven Stars with Moon and Nine Dragons and Five Tigers.

   Pingan Zhuang Village also provides complete tourist facilities. You will stay overnight here to experience the Zhuang traditional dwelling and taste delicious Zhuang cuisine.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: Pingan Village

   

3. Day 3: Longsheng Nature Landscapes
   Watch the Stunning Sunrise over the Rice Terrace

   Today continue your Longji Rice Terrace tour. Wake up early to witness the magnificent sunrise over the beautiful terraces. The sunlight reflects on the terraced fields, indulging in the spectacular view. For one of the best sunrise views, head to the West Hill Music platform near the village of Dazhai.

   After breakfast, it’s free for you to explore. Take a hike to capture the beauty of the rice terraces. Or explore the nearby villages to experience more culture of ethnic minorities, such as Jinkeng Rice Terraces, Dazhai Village, and Tiantouzhai Village.

   Choose to take the cable car to the Jinkeng Rice Terraces to enjoy the magnificent picture formed by the vast terraces and the sea of clouds (optional).

   After the tour, transfer back to Guilin.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Guilin

   

4. Day 4: Guilin to Yangshuo by Li River Cruise
   Immerse in the Beauty of Li River and Explore the Vibrant Local Life

   After breakfast, take a Li River cruise from Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo. Along the Li River, witness the various views of the Li River and the karst landform. The journey lasts about 3-4 hours, with beautiful scenery such as Nine Horses Mountain Scenic Spot and Yellow Cloth Reflection on the way. Have lunch on board while admiring the picturesque landscapes of the verdant hills and clear river.

   The cruise will arrive at the dock in Yangshuo. The local guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel. After a short rest, your guide will take you to explore the countryside. Opt for biking or hiking to visit attractions like the Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill and Fuli Bridge (optional). You can observe the life and culture of the local people in depth.

   In the evening, wander along West Street to experience the lively nightlife of Yangshuo. The buildings are a blend of ancient styles and modern elements. There are many shops on both sides of the street, like craft stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. Buy some nice handicrafts and try local food like beer fish, stuffed tofu, and rice noodles.

   Recommended Evening Activity: Watch the Impression Sanjie Liu show, an outdoor show set against the backdrop of the Li River, which features colorful lights, music, and folklore (optional).

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Yangshuo

   

5. Day 5: Yangshuo to Guilin Departure
   Explore Yangshuo on Your Own

   In the morning, continue the sightseeing in Yangshuo. There are many activities for you to choose from:

   Biking to Big Banyan Tree—The tree is now more than 1,500 years old, with a circumference of 7 meters and a height of 17 meters.

   Climbing the Moon Hill—There is a natural boulder on the hill shaped like a moon. And the shape changes from different angles.

   Visiting Local Family—Talk with the locals to learn more about their lifestyle and customs.

   Joining a Cooking Class—Participating in a cooking class at a local restaurant and learning how to make typical Yangshuo dishes.

   The 5 days Guilin food and scenery tour ends here. After lunch, the guide and the driver will escort you to the airport or train station to your next destination.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: N/A