2-Day Private Tour: Classic Li River Cruise and Longji Terrace Tour

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Guangxi is a dream for many travelers, and this 2-day private tour offers a chance to experience the region’s natural wonders firsthand. From the iconic Longji Rice Terrace Fields to the serene Li River cruise, this all-inclusive tour promises an immersive journey through some of China’s most picturesque destinations. Delving into the vibrant Zhuang and Yao communities and discovering the charming town of Yangshuo only adds to the allure of this carefully curated itinerary. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas or culture, this tour seems poised to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to learn more.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Guilin.

Good To Know

• This 2-day private tour from Guilin allows visitors to explore the picturesque Longji Rice Terrace Fields and take a scenic cruise along the iconic Li River.
• On Day 1, travelers will visit Ping An Zhuang Village to enjoy the local culture and traditions of the Zhuang and Yao communities.
• The Li River cruise on Day 2 showcases the stunning natural landscapes, including the Painted Hill of Nine Horses, before ending at Yangshuo for further exploration.
• The tour includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for travelers.
• This tour offers flexibility, with the option to cancel up to 3 days in advance and group discounts available for two or more travelers.

Tour Overview

This private 2-day tour from Guilin includes visits to the stunning Longji Rice Terrace Fields and a scenic cruise along the iconic Li River.

On the first day, you’ll explore the Longji Terraces and interact with the local Zhuang and Yao communities.

The second day starts with a transfer to the Li River Cruise Terminal, where you’ll embark on a journey to Yangshuo, taking in the breathtaking Painted Hill of Nine Horses along the way.

In Yangshuo, you’ll have free time to explore the charming West Street and cycle through the picturesque countryside.

The tour includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Itinerary: Day 1

The first day of the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in downtown Guilin between 8:30-9:00 am.

You’ll then embark on a 2.5-hour journey to the Longji Terraces, a stunning rice terrace system nestled in the mountains.

Upon arrival, you’ll visit the Ping An Zhuang Village, where you can learn about the local Zhuang and Yao cultures and enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant.

After exploring the area, you’ll depart the terraces and return to Guilin by 3:30 pm, concluding the first day’s activities.

Longji Rice Terrace Fields

Nestled among the rolling hills of northeastern Guangxi province, the Longji Rice Terrace Fields stand as a stunning testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the local Zhuang and Yao communities.

These ancient, hand-carved terraces cascade down the mountainsides, creating a mesmerizing patchwork of water and rice paddies. Visitors can explore the picturesque Ping An Zhuang Village and discover:

• Centuries-old stone steps that wind through the terraced landscapes
• Quaint wooden houses with traditional architectural styles
• Friendly locals dressed in vibrant, ethnic minority costumes
• Breathtaking vistas of the terraces, especially during the planting and harvest seasons.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and agricultural traditions that have endured for generations in this remarkable region.

Zhuang and Yao Communities

Two of the ethnic minority groups that call the Longji Rice Terrace Fields home are the Zhuang and Yao communities. The Zhuang people are known for their distinctive architectural styles, intricate embroidery, and love of singing and dancing. The Yao, on the other hand, are renowned for their vibrant traditional costumes, elaborate hairstyles, and expert craftsmanship in silver jewelry making. Both communities have a deep connection to the land, preserving their rich cultural heritage amidst the stunning terraced landscapes. Visitors can witness the vibrant cultural tapestry of these groups, explore their villages, and engage in authentic cultural exchanges.

Ethnic Group	Traditional Attire	Cultural Practices	Livelihood
Zhuang	Intricate embroidery	Singing and dancing	Farming
Yao	Vibrant costumes, elaborate hairstyles	Silver jewelry making	Farming, handicrafts

Itinerary: Day 2

On the second day, guests are picked up from their hotel in downtown Guilin around 8:30 AM for the transfer to the Li River Cruise Terminal, which takes approximately 40 minutes.

At 9:30 AM, the cruise departs, offering stunning views along the way, including the famous Painted Hill of Nine Horses.

The cruise ends at the Yangshuo Pier between 1:30-2:00 PM, where guests can:

• Explore the lively West Street in Yangshuo
• Ride bicycles through the picturesque Yangshuo countryside
• Enjoy free time to discover the charming town at their own pace
• Return to Guilin or Yangshuo at their convenience after the tour.

Li River Cruise

The Li River cruise is the highlight of the second day. Guests depart on the cruise at 9:30 am from the Li River Cruise Terminal, which is about a 40-minute transfer from downtown Guilin.

During the 4-hour cruise, travelers will enjoy stunning scenery along the river, including the iconic Painted Hill of Nine Horses.

The cruise ends at Yangshuo Pier between 1:30-2:00 pm, allowing ample time to explore the charming West Street and countryside of Yangshuo.

The Li River cruise provides a serene and picturesque experience, showcasing the natural beauty that makes this region of China so breathtaking.

Yangshuo Exploration

Guests disembark the Li River cruise at Yangshuo Pier between 1:30-2:00 pm, allowing them ample time to explore the charming West Street and countryside of Yangshuo.

The tour includes free time to stroll along the iconic West Street, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Guests can also opt to rent bicycles and ride through the picturesque Yangshuo countryside, enjoying the stunning limestone hills, lush vegetation, and tranquil rivers.

Other highlights include:

• Browsing local handicrafts and sampling traditional cuisine
• Witnessing the blend of ancient and modern culture
• Capturing breathtaking photos of the dramatic landscape
• Relaxing in the laid-back atmosphere of this riverside town

Inclusions and Information

This private 2-day tour from Guilin includes a comprehensive package of essential inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off, meals, entrance fees, and a local guide are all provided. The tour also offers group discounts for 2 or more travelers. While not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. However, the tour is not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers. Cancellation up to 3 days in advance is free, providing flexibility. This tour offers a well-rounded experience showcasing the stunning Longji Rice Terrace Fields and scenic Li River cruise.

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Hotel pickup and drop-off in Guilin or Yangshuo
Meals	Lunch on Day 1
Admission Tickets	Entrance fees for all attractions
Guide	Local guide throughout the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private or Smaller Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private or smaller group tour. The tour overview indicates that this is a private 2-day tour, allowing for a more personalized experience. Group discounts are also available for 2 or more travelers.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends approximately 2.5 hours at the Longji Rice Terrace Fields and local villages on the first day. The second day includes a 4-hour Li River cruise and 2-3 hours exploring Yangshuo town and countryside.

Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention restroom stops, but it’s likely there are breaks along the way, such as during the lunch stop at Ping An Zhuang Village and at the Yangshuo Pier. The tour provider would accommodate reasonable restroom needs.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to fit guests’ interests. The private tour allows for flexibility, and the local guide can work with travelers to adjust the schedule or activities as desired within the overall tour structure.

What Should I Bring for the Cruise and Hiking Portions?

For the cruise and hiking portions, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, snacks, and water. Dress in layers to adjust to changing weather and terrain conditions.

Sum Up

This 2-day private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Guangxi’s natural wonders. Visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking Longji Rice Terrace Fields and immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Zhuang and Yao communities. The scenic Li River cruise showcases iconic landscapes before allowing for free exploration in the vibrant town of Yangshuo. With transportation, meals, and entrance fees included, this tour provides an unforgettable and enriching experience in this picturesque region.