Visiting the Li River in Guilin | Scenic Landscapes & Cruises

Nestled in southern China’s Guangxi region, the Li River (Lí Jiāng) offers a karst masterpiece rivaling Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay and the Philippines’ Puerto Princesa. Its towering limestone peaks, emerald waters, and mist-cloaked vistas form a UNESCO World Heritage Site and China’s iconic “landscape gallery.” Unlike other karst destinations, Li River’s harmony of natural grandeur and cultural lore—immortalized on the 20 RMB banknote—makes it irreplaceable.

Location & Accessibility
Nearest major city: Guilin (40 mins by road from Guilin Liangjiang International Airport).
Key access points:
- Zhujiang Pier (1 hr from Guilin Railway Station)
- Yangshuo Town (1.5 hrs from Guilin)

Formed over 300 million years, this 83-km river stretches from Guilin to Yangshuo. Its National 5A-rated scenery has inspired poets and painters since the Tang Dynasty.

Core Landscapes
- Nine Horses Fresco Hill (Jiǔmǎ Huàshān): A cliff resembling nine galloping horses, best viewed by cruise. Local lore claims spotting all nine brings luck.
- Yellow Cloth Shoal (Huángbù Dǎoyǐng): Crystal-clear waters mirroring karst peaks—the image featured on China’s currency.
- Xingping Ancient Town (Xīngpíng Gǔzhèn): A 1,300-year-old riverside village offering bamboo rafting and cormorant fishing demonstrations.

Unique Experiences
- Bamboo rafting from Xingping to Fish Village.
- Yangshuo Countryside Cycling through rice paddies and karst valleys.
- Liu Sanjie Light Show (directed by Zhang Yimou), blending folklore with riverfront staging.

Seasonal Tips
Best time: April–October.
- Spring (Mar–May): Misty mornings create ethereal vistas.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Crisp air enhances visibility for photography.
- Avoid July–August crowds; winter offers serene but chilly cruises.

Getting There
From Guilin Liangjiang Airport:
- Taxi to Zhujiang Pier (40 mins, ~150 RMB).
- Shuttle buses to Yangshuo (2 hrs, 50 RMB).
From Guilin Railway Station:
- Public bus #100 to pier (1 hr, 2 RMB).

Itinerary Suggestions
- Half-Day Cruise: Guilin to Yangshuo (4–5 hrs).
- Full-Day Exploration: Add cycling in Yangshuo or a Xingping hiking trail.

Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Carry cash for rural vendors.
- Wear non-slip shoes for bamboo rafting.
- Respect local customs: Avoid touching ritual offerings in riverside villages.

A Journey Through Timelessness
Drifting down the Li River feels like gliding into a classical Chinese scroll. Fishermen’s bamboo hats dot the horizon, while water buffalo graze lazily along banks. As dusk falls, the peaks dissolve into silhouettes—a reminder that nature’s artistry transcends eras.

Q&A
Q: What’s the best way to avoid crowds?
A: Arrive at Zhujiang Pier before 8 AM or opt for a sunset cruise.
Q: Is the Li River suitable for families?
A: Yes! Gentle cruises and short bike routes appeal to all ages.
Q: Can I swim in the river?
A: Swimming is restricted for safety; enjoy water activities via organized tours.

Float through a living painting. The Li River isn’t just a destination—it’s a dialogue between earth and sky.