Li River Cruise

Li River on Chinese Money 20RMB

Although there are many reasons for visiting China, specifically Guilin, the Li River is probably the greatest attraction. Also known as, the Lishui River, this waterway feeds the lush, green vegetation that offers people such perfect scenery. The Li River winds through China’s countryside for more than 105 miles, moving past numerous cities to include Changde, Jushou, Lixian, Jinshi, Zhangjiajie, and Shimen.

The reflections created by the waters of the Li River are one of its finest characteristics. For instance, when traveling the river during the winter months, the river becomes mystical from droplets of rain and lingering clouds above. However, no matter the time of year you travel to Guilin, taking a cruise down the Li River should be at the top of your list for things to do. On either side of the river are sheer limestone cliffs that enhance the overall experience.

Just outside of Guilin is a place called Bamboo Wharf. From there, an official tour boat leaves every morning, traveling the Li River about five hours until the city of Yangshuo is reached. Keep in mind that if this trip is taken during the rainy season, the river flows faster so reaching the destination may only take four hours but in hot, dry months, the river moves slower, meaning the time could stretch to six hours.

One important consideration if you choose to take a Li River cruise such as this, you need to remember that the boat comes back empty. Therefore, if you want to get back to Guilin, you would need to take land transportation. Or you may spend some time in Yangshuo.

Although the entire journey down the Li River is spectacular, the most breathtaking is between Yangdi and Xingping. People who have taken a Li River cruise agree that the trip provided an opportunity to see nature in all its glory, creating a memory to be cherished for life. Because a Li River cruise is so popular, it is highly recommended that you book as far ahead as possible and then once in Guilin, confirm the location and time for boarding the boat.

Li River Cruise

One of the first questions people have when considering a trip to Guilin China has to do with the best time of year to go. Obviously, people want to schedule a trip around the most beautiful seasons and often times when cultural festivals are taking place, but most people try to coordinate a trip such as this with the weather. If you are looking at going to Guilin and want to pick the time of the year with the nicest climate, the following information will help. Read the rest of the article »

When visiting China, certain cities should not be overlooked, one of those being Guilin. Nestled in the southeast area of the country, Guilin offers many experiences but one in particular has captured attention from around the world – the Li River Cruise. River cruises are available that start in the center of the city, flowing to the lush countryside while providing people with breathtaking views of green valley floors, cliff side caves, and limestone karsts. The Li River is so amazing that poets, artists, musicians, and tourists have been mesmerized by the scenery for thousands of years. Read the rest of the article »

People visit Guilin China for many reasons.  Some people go specifically to experience the breathtaking outdoor beauty and to learn about the city’s history and culture, some people are more interested in dining and the arts, specifically the wonderful museums, and then there are visitors that love to shop.  After all, in Guilin, you can find anything you want. Read the rest of the article »

China is a magnificent country, one with a long history and rich culture.  Although many cities in China are unique, one in particular stands out for a number of reasons.  If you want to visit China, we strongly recommend that you spend time in Guilin.  Home to 28 ethnic minorities, some that include Dong, Yao, Zhuang, Hui, and Miao, the city embraces all of the different religious and customs beliefs, celebrated with amazing festivals. Read the rest of the article »

Are you planning a trip to Guilin China?  Do you want to get involved with outdoor activities in addition to traditional sightseeing such as  Li River Cruise?  If so, you will find that Guilin offers a wide list of opportunities for the outdoor and sports enthusiast.  For instance, two activities that have grown in popularity over the years are rock climbing and bike riding, both offered for your trip in Guilin. Read the rest of the article »

For outdoor enthusiasts, there is no better place to enjoy nature than in Guilin China.  Having the opportunity to spend time on the  Li River is remarkable, something that more people should experience.  The three river tributaries that have the best rafting include Yangshuo, Xingping, and the Yulong River.  In addition, bamboo rafting is offered in one of two ways.  First, some rafts are motorized and second, some have to be poled.  Regardless, you are sure to have an amazing time. Read the rest of the article »

For hundreds of years, the Chinese people have enjoyed the tradition of cormorant fishing.  While this type of fishing is also popular in Japan and Macedonia, it is a huge part of the Chinese culture.  Unlike any other type of fishing, this one involves birds called cormorants.  These birds are caught from the wild while very young, allowing for a unique bond with the person fishing.

Cormorants are a unique looking bird with a long neck similar to that of a reptile.  Often, this type of bird will stand with its wings spread, as a way of drying the feathers.  What makes the cormorant so vital is its ability to dive beneath the water and remain there for quite some time.  While under the water, this bird will use its keen eyesight looking for fish. Read the rest of the article »

If you love the theater and you plan to visit Guilin China, you have to see Impression Liu Sanjie.  Even if you have been to some of the finest shows elsewhere, until you have seen this show, you have never truly experienced theater.  Impression Liu Sanjie first opened in 2004 and today, it remains one of the best-known shows in the world.

One of the things that make this production so spectacular is that it is held at the Sanjie Liu Sing Fair, the largest natural theater on the planet.  This means instead of sitting in a closed in theater, you sit in an open-air auditorium that uses the Li River water for the stage, the Twelve Mist Shrouded Hills as the backdrop, and the canopy is the sky. Read the rest of the article »

Okay, if you live in a country other than China, chances are you have never had the pleasure of savoring the unique flavors associated with Asian cuisine.  Even if you were to purchase the best Chinese cookbooks, capturing the true essence of Chinese food would be impossible.  However, if you were planning a trip to Guilin and you love to cook, why not take classes from master chefs. Read the rest of the article »

When visiting Guilin, China, you will be amazed at the vast range of hotels from which to choose.  No matter your budget, personal style, or the types of amenities you want, numerous hotels would meet your standards.  This means whether you want a smaller hotel, one away from the hustle and bustle of the city or a large, five-star hotel in the heart of Guilin, you will have no problem finding it. Read the rest of the article »

When visiting Guilin China, it would be worth the two-hour trip to Longsheng County where you will discover the magnificent Longji Rice Terraces, which translates to “Dragon’s Backbone”.  In many parts of China, land for farming is scarce so the China people developed a way to take advantage of land that would otherwise be wasted.  These rice terraces are literally built into hillsides with winding designs that look similar to beautiful strips of ribbon. Read the rest of the article »

One of the challenging aspects of visiting Guilin China is that there are so many places and things to see.  Typically, people struggle in trying to narrow choices down to fit the time spent in this magnificent city but the good news is that with such variety, there is some type of adventure for everyone.  We wanted to point out five things that we think you would enjoy with these being unique places that would create lasting memories for your trip to Guilin. Read the rest of the article »

When dining in Guilin, two things about the experience make it unique.  First, dishes are a perfect blend of traditional Cantonese, Sichuan, and Hunanese, which gives diners sweet to spice foods.  Second, many restaurants serve exotic dishes that include ingredients such as horse, birds, dogs, cats, turtles, snakes, and rats along with restaurants that stick with a more traditional menu.  Therefore, Guilin delicacies are available for the brave of heart along with more westernized Chinese food.

Dining in Guilin is an incredible experience with the city boasting literally hundreds of restaurants.  Some restaurants are tucked away in quiet neighborhoods while others are located in the busiest tourist sections.  Regardless of the restaurant or type of menu you choose, be prepared for a mouth-watering treat.  Because there is such diversity for the Guilin dining experience, we wanted to provide you with a list of some of the favorite restaurants frequented by locals and tourists alike. Read the rest of the article »

Anyone going to Guilin needs to schedule time for outdoor activities.  This part of China is truly a sight to see, a beautiful creation that leaves most people in awe.  No matter the time of year you go, numerous opportunities exist for a variety of outdoor adventures.  In addition to rafting,  Li River cruises, swimming, cormorant fishing, and bike riding, people also love hot air balloons and hiking while in Guilin. Read the rest of the article »

Not only is Guilin a favorite destination for its beauty, energy, and hospitable people but people also love being able to get in and out of the city easily.  Unfortunately, some foreign countries offer so much but air and railway travel is complicated but when visiting China, especially Guilin, you will discover that transportation has been designed to make the experience of visiting even better. Read the rest of the article »

Whether going to Guilin China for a much-needed couple’s getaway or honeymoon, you will find many adventures and romantic experiences waiting.  During the day, you and your loved one could spend time learning about and getting to see ancient towns, reed caves, temples and pagodas, shopping zones, and restaurants.  Then at night, you could switch things up by creating a little romance.

For a romantic evening, you have a multitude of opportunities but taking a Guilin night cruise is sure to impress.  Remember, Guilin is not only home to the beautiful Li River, but many other waterways all connected to include the Taohua River, Ronghu Lake, Shahu Lake, Guihu Lake, and the Mulong Lake.  With this unique layout, a night cruise would take you and your partner around this water system, which is fondly called “Two Rivers and Four Lakes”.

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