From Guilin: 6-Day Yangtze River Cruise with Excursions

Imagine floating through a landscape straight out of a Chinese ink painting—limestone peaks, lush rice paddies, and winding rivers. This 6-day tour from Guilin to Chongqing promises just that, blending natural beauty with cultural highlights along one of China’s most iconic waterways. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this experience offers a fantastic mix of scenery, history, and local flavor.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances relaxing river cruising with hands-on excursions like biking through the countryside and exploring historic sites. The inclusion of visits like Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam adds layers of cultural and engineering interest. A potential consideration? The trip involves quite a bit of travel time, especially with the train journey to Chongqing—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with longer days and moving parts.

This tour caters well to those who love scenic landscapes, want an immersive look at China’s natural and cultural treasures, and appreciate guided experiences that bring history and nature alive. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to combine relaxation with discovery.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Cruise through famous gorges and see limestone peaks like Xianggong Hill.
• Cultural depth: Visit Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam for a glimpse into Chinese traditions and engineering marvels.
• Authentic experiences: Bike along the Yulong River and explore rice paddies to get an intimate feel for rural life.
• Comfort and convenience: Included transportation, accommodations, and guided tours help streamline the trip.
• Value for price: At $1,299, it offers a comprehensive experience with many highlights included.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines scenic cruising, excursions, and cultural visits for a well-rounded adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Tour

This tour is crafted for travelers who want a taste of China’s cinematic landscapes while also exploring its rich cultural tapestry. The entire trip is anchored by the Yangtze River cruise, a highlight that offers a unique perspective on the country’s natural grandeur.

Day 1: Arrival and Guilin’s Limestone Caves

Arriving in Guilin, most travelers will find the airport transfer from the guide smooth and welcoming. The afternoon’s visit to a limestone cave is a classic highlight, with stalactites and stalagmites forming shapes that seem almost artificial. It’s a well-preserved natural wonder that offers excellent photo opportunities. The iconic Elephant Trunk Hill provides a postcard-perfect backdrop and marks the beginning of your journey.

Day 2: Guilin to Yangshuo — The Li River and Biking

The 4-hour cruise on the Li River is what many travelers come to China for, and it lives up to expectations. The scenery of towering limestone karsts, bamboo groves, water buffalos, and traditional fishermen on bamboo rafts seems to unfold right before your eyes. It’s like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting, and many reviews mention how “the view is almost surreal in its quiet beauty.”

In Yangshuo, you’ll stay in a peaceful countryside setting, a welcome change from city bustle. The self-guided bike tour along the Yulong River and among rice paddies lets you soak in the rural charm. The ease of cycling through lush fields and small villages makes this a real highlight, especially for those who enjoy nature and local life.

Day 3: Xianggong Hill and the Journey to Chongqing

Returning to Guilin, a visit to Xianggong Hill offers some of the best panoramic views of the river and the iconic peaks that surround it. The views are often described as “breathtaking,” providing a perfect photo op.

The afternoon bullet train ride to Chongqing takes around 5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the landscapes you’ve seen so far. While it’s a longer travel day, many reviewers note that the train ride is comfortable, and the scenery from the train window adds to the adventure.

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Day 4: Fengdu Ghost City and the Yangtze Cruise

Fengdu Ghost City is a fascinating stop, especially for those interested in Chinese folklore and beliefs about the afterlife. The buildings and statues reflect vivid imaginations of the afterworld, and many find it both eerie and culturally enriching.

In the afternoon, you’ll board your cruise ship. The War Fires of the Three Kingdoms night show (optional) is a lively way to unwind after a day of exploration, offering insight into Chinese storytelling and performing arts.

Day 5: Exploring the Gorges and Cultural Sites

Cruising through the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge at noon is a major highlight. The sheer cliffs and narrow passageways make for stellar vistas. Many visitors comment on how the gorges’ rugged beauty creates a dramatic backdrop that’s unforgettable.

The optional visit to White Emperor City can be a real treat if you’re into calligraphy and history, with inscriptions and scenic views that have inspired artists for centuries. In the afternoon, a boat ride on Shennv Stream reveals a quieter, pristine tributary with deep gorges and clear waters—perfect for nature lovers.

Evening entertainment like the Crew Cabaret and talent shows add a dash of fun to the cruise experience, providing a lively finish to each day.

Day 6: The Three Gorges Dam and Yichang Departure

Disembarking at Yichang, you’ll visit the Three Gorges Dam, China’s marvel of engineering. The platform offers sweeping views of this colossal hydroelectric project, and many travelers find it awe-inspiring. It’s a fitting way to conclude the journey, combining natural scenery with modern achievement.

From there, transportation is arranged to the airport or train station, making onward travel straightforward.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Logistics

The trip combines river cruising, train travel, and private transfers, making it a smoothly coordinated experience. The bullet train from Guilin to Chongqing is comfortable and efficient, cutting down travel time while also adding a bit of authentic Chinese rail travel to your adventure.

Accommodations

Stays in Guilin and Yangshuo are in hotels that are described as comfortable and well-located, often near scenic spots or lakes. These are included in the price, ensuring you won’t need to hunt for lodging during the trip.

Guided Experience

A live English-speaking guide accompanies the trip, providing insights and helping with logistics. Local guides lead excursions like the Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience.

Activities and Excursions

Expect a mix of relaxing cruises, cultural visits, and adventure-style bike riding. The excursions are well-chosen to demonstrate both natural beauty and cultural significance. The optional activities, like White Emperor City, allow for some customization based on your interests.

Cost and Value

At $1,299, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering accommodations, many guided excursions, and transportation are included. While it’s a comprehensive experience, it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with the pace and the number of travel days packed into a short window.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and want an immersive experience that combines nature, culture, and modern engineering. It’s ideal for those comfortable with longer days of travel and looking for a mix of guided tours and free time. If you’re curious about Chinese folklore, love picturesque riverscapes, and want to see one of the country’s most famous gorges, this cruise is a solid choice.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer more leisurely, less structured trips. The itinerary involves some walking, outdoor exploration, and bus/train transfers, so being reasonably active will help you get the most out of it.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Guilin to Chongqing cruise offers a compelling way to see some of China’s most iconic sights, blending stunning river vistas with cultural insights. The cruise through the Three Gorges and the stops at Fengdu Ghost City give a well-rounded view of China’s natural and cultural landscape. The guided bike rides, panoramic viewpoints, and impressive engineering marvels provide variety and depth.

For travelers looking for a trip that combines relaxation with adventure, this tour offers genuine value. You’ll return with a collection of memorable views, stories, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of China’s landscape and history.

If you love scenic journeys and cultural exploration, this experience is worth considering—just make sure you’re prepared for the travel pace and outdoor activities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally aimed at adult travelers, children comfortable with outdoor activities and longer travel days might enjoy it. However, it’s best to check specific age restrictions with the provider.

Are vegetarian meal options available?
Meals are not detailed in the info provided, so it’s best to inquire directly with FUN CHINA TOURS if you have specific dietary needs.

What should I pack for this trip?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Weather-appropriate clothing can help, especially if you plan outdoor activities.

Is the tour group size private?
Yes, this is a private group experience, which allows for a more tailored and flexible schedule.

How long are the cruise and excursions?
The Li River cruise lasts about 4 hours; other excursions vary, but the itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with travel time.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, based on the provided details.

What language is used on the tour?
The tour offers guides in English and Traditional Chinese, making it accessible for international travelers.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect from this scenic and cultural journey along China’s mighty Yangtze and picturesque Li River. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, cultural insights, or both, this tour offers a well-balanced experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: