9-Day Guilin and Yunnan Discovery: Landscapes, Ethnic Groups and UNESCO Sites

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Guilin

   Welcome to Guilin! The city is known for the saying, “Guilin’s scenery is the best in the world.”

   Meet your private driver and head to the hotel for check-in. For the rest of the day, enjoy your time exploring the city freely.

   Optional activity in the evening:

   It is recommended to take a night cruise on the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area. Along the way, appreciate the karst peaks illuminated by colorful lights on both banks, pass over 20 uniquely designed bridges and enjoy the reflections of golden and silver Sun and Moon Twin Towers. Besides, you will also see antique architecture and dazzling light shows.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Guilin
2. Day 2: Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
   Embark on a Li River Cruise and Explore the Rural Scenery and West Street in Yangshuo

   Your Guilin adventure starts with a scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo.

   While the boat goes down the stream, it passes many iconic attractions, like Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal.

   The landscape printed on the back of the CNY 20 note is the Yellow Cloth Shoal. It is popular to take photos here with the note.

   If lucky, you may encounter local fishermen catching fish with cormorants, a traditional activity unique to the region.

   Lunch is served on board around noon. It will be an enjoyment to order the freshly caught river fish and shrimp and pair it with a glass of cold beer.

   After about 4 hours, disembark at Yangshuo. Check into the hotel and follow the guide to Ten-Mile Gallery.

   This scenic route is famous for its karst landform, rice fields and rural scenery. Sightseeing buses, bikes and electric scooters are all available for you to get around.

   Moon Hill is one of the unmissable highlights and one of the most iconic scenic spots in Yangshuo. After climbing to the top, you can embrace a full view of the Yangshuo countryside.

   Enjoy your free time to explore West Street in the evening. Since the 1970s, it has been a popular gathering place for international travelers. Lined with cafes, restaurants and shops, it is the most lively pedestrian street in Yangshuo.

   Optional activities:

   • Watch the Impression Liu Sanjie, a large-scale live performance set against the natural landscapes of Li River and showing the traditional local life.
   • If you want to enrich your travel experience in the afternoon, we can also arrange a cooking class, rock climbing or a farming experience.

   

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   4-star hotel in Yangshuo
3. Day 3: Yangshuo Back to Guilin by Private Vehicle
   Drift Along the Yulong River and Explore Yangshuo’s Countryside

   Yulong River, a tributary of the Li River, stretches about 43.5 km. It attracts plenty of travelers with its idyllic scenery and diverse outdoor activities.

   Bamboo rafting is the preferred way to take in the picturesque landscapes along the river. You can also explore the surrounding areas and pay a visit to a local village by bike.

   At lunchtime, taste the most famous local speciality, Beer Fish. The fresh fish from Li River is stewed with Liquan Beer, green and red peppers, and tomatoes, endowing the tender fish meat with a subtle beer aroma and a hint of spice.

   Return to the hotel in Guilin for a rest.

   Notes:

   For safety reasons, children under 1 meter in height and seniors over 70 years old are not advised to experience the bamboo rafting.

   

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   4-star hotel in Guilin
4. Day 4: Guilin to Lijiang by Flight
   Enjoy a Full-day Exploration in Lijiang Old Town

   Bid farewell to Guilin and take the flight to Lijiang. The guide will take you to check in at the hotel for a short rest.

   Begin your exploration at Lijiang Old Town, a world cultural heritage site. This unique town is built without city walls and situated against mountains and along the waterways. At Sifang Street, a strong life atmosphere can be experienced. There are elderly Naxi people basking in the sun at daytime and a joyous bonfire party at nighttime (weather permitting).

   Follow the stone pathways to Lion Hill for a sweeping view of the old town at Wanggu Pavilion. On a clear day, you may even have a distant view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

   Take your time to browse the handicraft shops or listen to the folk songs in a bar. Experience the leisurely local lifestyle and the unique blend of Naxi and Han culture during the exploration.

   Optional activities:

   • Visit Mufu Palace, known as the “Forbidden City of Lijiang”. Once the residence of the Naxi rulers, it features grand architecture. If interested, your guide can assist with ticket purchasing and introduce its history to you.
   • In the evening, sample a variety of local snacks in Zhongyi Market, such as grilled rice cakes, grilled dairy fan, and fermented "Baojiang" Tofu.

   Night view of Lijiang Old Town

   

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   4-star hotel in Lijiang
5. Day 5: Lijiang Exploration
   Discover Ancient Naxi Villages, Dongba Culture and Black Dragon Pool Park

   The first stop today is the Yuhu Village, an ancient Naxi village located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The houses here are built with glacier rocks, so the village is also called “Stone Village”.

   On the north of the village lies a natural lake, which reflects the entire Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on sunny days. There is also a famous lonely tree and meadows by the lake, making it the best photography spot.

   Continue to Baisha Village, the ancient birthplace of the Naxi ethnic group. It offers a more tranquil and primitive atmosphere than Lijiang Old Town.

   Discover the amazing Baisha Murals in the village. Painted hundreds of years ago, these artworks integrate the elements of Buddhism, Taoism and the Dongba Religion, and their colors are well-preserved till now.

   Move on to Shuhe Ancient Town, a historic stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Here, the stone streets have been worn smooth by centuries of footsteps and horses. Have a relaxing time at a riverside cafe while listening to the historic stories that happened here.

   Head to Dongba Culture Museum for an in-depth cultural exploration through the exhibitions, such as the Dongba pictographs, traditional costumes and ceremonial objects.

   Finish the day with a visit to Black Dragon Pool Park, one of Lijiang’s most scenic attractions. During the dry season from October to May, there is a higher possibility of capturing the stunning scene of “Golden Mountain at Sunrise” on clear days. Suocui Bridge is the best photography spot, allowing you to frame Moon Tower, Five-Arch Bridge and snow mountain together.

   

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   4-star hotel in Lijiang
6. Day 6: Lijiang to Shangri-La by Private Vehicle
   Marvel at the First Bend of the Yangtze River and Hike Tiger Leaping Gorge

   On the way to Shangri-La, stop over at the First Bend of the Yangtze River. Here, the Yangtze River, known locally as Jinsha River, forms a spectacular V-shaped bend, presenting a magnificent natural sight.

   The next stop is the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest gorges. Take a light hike along the gentle trail of the upper section.

   From the viewing platform, admire the roaring Jinsha River below and feel the raw power of nature.

   After the hike, continue driving to Shangri-La and check into your hotel.

   Good to Know:

   • From June to September, Tiger Leaping Gorge is at its most spectacular during the high-water season. But water may splash onto the viewing platform, so please keep a safe distance and be cautious of slipping.
   • Shangri-La sits at an average altitude of 3,300 meters. Some tourists may suffer from altitude sickness. It is advised to prepare or take some anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance.
   • Most hotels in Shangri-La offer oxygen-equipped rooms. If needed, we can book for you.

   

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   4-star hotel in Shangri-La
7. Day 7: Shangri-La Full Day Discovery
   Explore Tibetan Culture in Songzanlin Monastery and Enjoy Alpine Scenery in Pudacuo Park

   Dive into the Tibetan culture in Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Gelug Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. Its design combines the diverse ethnic elements of Tibetan, Han and Naxi.

   Reputed as “Little Potala Palace”, it is characterized by exquisite golden roofs and colorful curtains. It also houses many valuable religious treasures, like palm-leaf scriptures and Thangkas.

   For a panoramic view of the architectural complex, head to the hillside at the entrance.

   Follow the guide to Pudacuo National Park, located on a plateau with an altitude of 3,500 meters. Feast your eyes on the pristine alpine lakes, wetlands and forests here.

   Focus on Shudu Lake and Bita Lake today. At Shudu Lake, wander along the flat boardwalk and appreciate the reflection of fir forests in the water. If lucky, you may also spot the yaks.

   The open boardwalk at Bita Lake is relatively short. Just slow down your pace and lose yourself in the peaceful lake and lush meadow scenery.

   Warm tips:

   • When entering the halls of Songzanlin Monastery, please do not wear a hat and sunglasses and do not take photos. Your clothing should cover your shoulders and ankles.
   • It is easy to experience altitude sickness in Pudacuo National Park. Avoid strenuous activities like running and jumping during the visit.

   

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   4-star hotel in Shangri-La
8. Day 8: Shangri-La to Kunming by Flight
   Admire Taoist Grottoes and Enjoy a Panoramic View of Dianchi Lake from West Hill

   Take a flight to Kunming. Upon arrival, the local guide will pick you up and assist you with hotel check-in.

   Start your Kunming tour from West Hills, which is like a “sleeping beauty” by Dianchi Lake.

   Hike to the summit for a visit to Dragon Gate. More than a normal sightseeing trail, it is a Taoist grotto complex carved directly into the cliff by craftsmen in the Qing Dynasty.

   Walk through the narrow stone passage and get close to the Buddhist statues and stone carvings on the cliffs. The path finally leads to Tian’ge Pavilion. At a height of 2,350 meters, it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Dianchi Lake and the city skyline.

   Head back to the hotel after the tour.

   Travel tips:

   The cable car is closed for renovation now. To save time and energy, you can take an electric vehicle to the summit.

   

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   4-star hotel in Kunming
9. Day 9: Kunming Departure
   Gaze in Awe at the Unique Stone Peaks in Stone Forest

   Today, lose yourself in the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

   It formed from limestone that originated on an ancient seabed 270 million years ago. Here, there are no actual trees. Instead, countless grey-black stone peaks and stone pillars rise from the ground.

   Greater Stone Forest and Lesser Stone Forest are the two main scenic areas. In the Greater Stone Forest, the towering stone peaks are shaped like swords and create a large natural maze. In the Lesser Stone Forest, the guide will show you the most famous Ashima Stone, which resembles a Yi ethnic girl carrying a basket on her back.

   Discover unique photography angles from the crevices or caves, or climb to the viewing pavilion for a bird’s-eye view of the Stone Forest.

   After the visit, take the private vehicle to the airport for departure. Your 9-day Guilin and Yunnan Discovery tour draws to an end.

   Free time ideas:

   If your flight departs after 16:00, the guide will lead you to Green Lake Park located in the city center.

   From November to March, thousands of red-billed gulls fly from Siberia and spend the winter here. Try to feed them with small pieces of bread. Or take a leisurely walk along the bank and watch the locals dancing and playing chess to experience the local lifestyle.

   

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