Lijiang River
Lijiang River Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 83-kilometer stretch of the Lijiang River in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Celebrated for its karst landscape of limestone peaks, crystal-clear waters, and rural villages, it has inspired poets and painters for centuries, including the 20-yuan banknote’s iconic vista. A cornerstone of China’s tourism, the area blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering boat cruises, cycling trails, and traditional minority villages.
Historical Overview
The river’s allure dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), when it served as a trade route connecting central China to the south. Poets like Li Bai and Du Fu immortalized its scenery, while the 13th-century painter Huang Gongwang featured it in his masterpiece Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains. In modern times, the 1960 film Johnnie Guitar (adapted as Liu Sanjie in China) showcased its vistas globally. Designated a UNESCO site in 2007, it remains a symbol of China’s ecological and cultural richness.
Structural Layout
The scenic area spans three key segments:
Upper Reaches (Guilin to Yangshuo): Features dramatic peaks like Elephant Trunk Hill and Fubo Hill.
Middle Reaches (Yangdi to Xingping): The most picturesque stretch, with the 20-yuan banknote viewpoint at Huangbu Reflection.
Lower Reaches (Xingping to Yangshuo): Calmer waters flanked by terraced fields and minority villages.
Key structures include:Ancient Ferry Crossings: Historic sites like Bilian Ferry.
Karst Caves: Reed Flute Cave and Seven Star Cave near Guilin.
Villages: Yulong River’s stone-paved lanes and Ming-era dwellings.
Major Attractions
Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin’s symbol, resembling an elephant sipping water.
Yangdi to Xingping Cruise: A 4-hour journey past Nine-Horse Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal.
Xingping Ancient Town: A 1,400-year-old village with cobblestone streets and the 20-yuan viewpoint.
Yulong River: A calmer alternative for bamboo rafting, with karst backdrops.
Li River Folk Customs Center: Showcases Zhuang and Yao minority traditions.
Impression Liu Sanjie: Zhang Yimou’s outdoor light show on the river.
Seven Star Park: Guilin’s largest urban park with karst caves and pagodas.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (1 Day):
Guilin → Elephant Trunk Hill → Yangdi Pier (Cruise Start) → Xingping Ancient Town → Yangshuo
Highlights: Iconic peaks, cruise, and village exploration.
Extended Route (2 Days):
Day 1: Guilin → Reed Flute Cave → Yangdi Cruise → Xingping (overnight).
Day 2: Xingping → Yulong River Bamboo Rafting → Impression Liu Sanjie Show → Yangshuo West Street.
Highlights: Caves, rafting, and cultural performances.
Comprehensive Route (3 Days):
Day 1: Guilin → Elephant Trunk Hill → Seven Star Park → Cruise to Xingping.
Day 2: Xingping → Yulong River Cycling → Moon Hill → Impression Liu Sanjie.
Day 3: Yangshuo → Silver Cave → Folk Customs Center → Guilin Departure.
Highlights: In-depth exploration of caves, cycling, and minority culture.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book cruises via Ctrip, Fliggy, or official Lijiang River websites (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets sold at piers (longer queues during peak season).
Prices:
Cruise Tickets: ¥210–¥400 (standard to luxury).
Attractions: Elephant Trunk Hill (¥55), Reed Flute Cave (¥60), Impression Liu Sanjie (¥198–¥648).
Combination Tickets: ¥500–¥800 for 3–4 sites.
Transportation
High-Speed Train: Guilin to Yangshuo (30 mins).
Bus: Guilin Bus Station to Yangdi Pier (1.5 hours).
Taxi: Direct to piers or towns (¥100–¥200).
Local Transport:Cruise Ships: Depart from Zhujiang Pier (Guilin) or Yangdi Pier.
Electric Scooters: Popular in Yangshuo (¥20–¥30/hour).
Shuttle Buses: Connect Guilin, Xingping, and Yangshuo.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM for cruises; book morning slots.
Crowds: April–May and September–October are busiest; weekdays are quieter.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. Avoid summer monsoons.
Essentials:
Wear waterproof shoes (bamboo rafts may splash).
Bring sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
Photography allowed (use polarizing filters for river glare).
Prohibited items: Drones without permits, littering.
FAQ
What is the most scenic section of the Li River cruise? How long does it take?
Hello! The most scenic Li River cruise route starts from Mopanshan Pier in Guilin and takes you through breathtaking landscapes like Yangdi Waterfall, Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, and Yellow Cloth Reflection, ending at Longtoushan Pier in Yangshuo. This 4-hour journey is a visual feast, perfect for families or friends. We recommend 3-star or 4-star cruise ships with panoramic views and light meals included. For added convenience, we can arrange pier transfers to ensure a seamless experience.
How can I return from Yangshuo West Street to Guilin city center? Is there direct transportation?
Returning from Yangshuo West Street to Guilin is easy. You can take a direct bus from Yangshuo Tourist Parking Lot to Guilin city center, or opt for our private car service. Our vehicles are comfortable and spacious, with English-speaking drivers who can take you directly to your hotel or desired location in Guilin.
Is the Yulong River bamboo rafting suitable for children? Are there age restrictions?
Yulong River bamboo rafting is a great family activity, open to children over 1 meter tall. Guests over 70 must sign a health waiver. During the rafting, you'll enjoy serene views of rice fields and distant mountains. We can provide child life jackets or basic English guidance upon request.
How can I book tickets for "Impression Liu Sanjie"? Is transportation included?
We can book tickets for "Impression Liu Sanjie" and arrange transfers from your Yangshuo hotel to the theater. After the show, we can also assist with your return transportation needs.
Do Li River cruises offer vegetarian or special dietary options?
While the cruise offers standard Chinese meals, we can arrange vegetarian, halal, or gluten-free options upon request. Just let us know in advance, and we'll ensure your dietary needs are met.
Are there hiking trails near Li River suitable for photography? Is a guide recommended?
There are several hiking trails near Li River perfect for photography, like the Xianggong Mountain sunrise trail. The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking. If you need a professional photo guide, we can arrange a licensed guide with photography skills who can communicate in English.
Can I choose to stop at some interesting spots during the cruise?
It depends on the type of cruise you choose. Some customized or luxury cruises may have the option to make stops at certain scenic spots according to your request, but most regular scheduled cruises follow a fixed route without additional stops.
What traditional folk cultures can be experienced along the Lijiang River?
Yes, there are some shuttle bus services in some areas, especially between major tourist attractions like Xingping Ancient Town and Yangshuo. It helps tourists to move around conveniently.
Is it safe to swim in the Lijiang River?
It's not recommended to swim in the Lijiang River. Although the water looks clear, there may be undercurrents and other potential safety hazards. Also, for the protection of the water environment and your own safety, it's better to enjoy the river in a proper way like taking a cruise.
