9-Day Guilin-Yangshuo-Huangshan Tour
Discover the beauty of Southern China on this 9-day Guilin, Yangshuo, and Huangshan tour. From the serene Li River to the majestic peaks of Yellow Mountain, immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and rich heritage. Wander through Yangshuo’s charming countryside, admire ancient architecture, and savor local delicacies. With expert guides, private transportation, and handpicked accommodations, this journey promises comfort, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Note: If you are an international visitor, we suggest adding Shanghai and/or Hong Kong to this itinerary for a more convenient traveling experience.
Itinerary
Our thoughtfully planned 9-day China tour ensures you make the most of your time in China's most famed and unique natural landscapes, offering rich sightseeing and cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression:
Day 1: Arrival in Guilin and Relaxation
Arrive in Guilin, a city renowned for its dramatic karst mountain landscape and winding rivers. Take the day to relax and adjust to the new time zone, enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings. Stroll along the picturesque lakeside or visit the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner with views of the stunning mountains that frame the city.
- Meals: Dinner
- Transportation: Private transfer from airport/railway station to hotel
Day 2: Explore Guilin’s Iconic Landscape
Begin your day with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill, a famous landmark that resembles an elephant drinking from the river. Continue to Reed Flute Cave, where you’ll marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites illuminated in vibrant colors. Afterward, take a scenic bamboo raft ride on the Li River, renowned for its breathtaking karst peaks.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver, bamboo raft ride on the Li River
Day 3: Li River Cruise and Yangshuo Countryside
Set sail on a breathtaking Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning vistas of the region’s iconic limestone peaks, verdant landscapes, and charming riverside villages. After arriving in Yangshuo, visit Yangshuo Fuli Ancient Town to see traditional architecture and local handicrafts. Later, enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside, passing by bamboo groves, rice paddies, and tranquil riverside views.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Li River cruise, private vehicle with professional driver, bicycle ride
Day 4: Outdoor Adventure in Yangshuo
Today, embark on an adventurous outdoor experience. Take a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River, a quieter and more serene alternative to the Li River. In the afternoon, visit the Moon Hill, where you can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the stunning landscape. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local farm, featuring fresh ingredients from the area.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver, bamboo raft ride
Day 5: Travel to Huangshan
This early morning, depart from Yangshuo and head back to Guilin to take a flight to Huangshan, home to the famed Yellow Mountains. After arriving, relax and settle in. If you feel like it, head out to enjoy the quaint surroundings of the ancient Tunxi Old Street, a hub for local shops selling tea and handicrafts.
- Meals: Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver, flight from Guilin to Huangshan
Day 6: Hiking Huangshan’s Majestic Peaks
Prepare for a full day exploring the famous Yellow Mountains, one of China’s most celebrated natural wonders. Take a cable car up to the mountain and begin your hike through its stunning granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and sea of clouds. Enjoy the panoramic views and visit iconic spots like the Greeting Guest Pine and the Bright Summit.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver, Cable car
Day 7: Hui-style Ancient Villages Exploration
Today, visit the ancient villages at the foot of Huangshan, such as Xidi and Hongcun. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are known for their well-preserved traditional Hui-style architecture, narrow alleys, and picturesque ponds which span over 900 years in history. Enjoy lunch at a local family-run restaurant and learn about the region’s rich cultural history.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 8: Leisure Day in Huangshan
Enjoy a relaxing day in Huangshan. You can take a leisurely walk through the peaceful ancient villages or enjoy a quiet afternoon in the scenic surroundings. Optional activities include a tea ceremony to experience the local tea culture, local cooking experience, or a visit to nearby hot springs for relaxation.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 9: Depart from Huangshan
After breakfast, take a last view of Huangshan's breathtaking scenery. Depart from Huangshan by traveling to Shanghai or another city to continue your journey.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transportation: Private transfer from hotel to airport/railway station
Accommodations
You may choose 5-star or 4-star accommodations for your journey. The following list is a sample of hotels you may stay in. An alternative hotel of similar grade may be chosen if the following hotels are not available. All of our accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and convenience.
5-Star Hotels List:
- Guilin
- Shangri-La Hotel Guilin
- Yangshuo:
- Shixi Landscape Hotel
- Lijiang Resort (Yangshuo West Street Lijiang Store)
- Huangshan:
- Xidi Ancient Village Hotel
4-Star Hotels:
- Guilin:
- Lijiang Waterfall Hotel
- Lijiang Moon Hotel
- Yangshuo:
- Mercure Guilin Yangshuo Xingping
- Huangshan:
- Huangshan International Hotel
Inclusion/Exclusion
- What's Included:
- Panda Tourism's expert travel director and skilled professional driver
- Luxury 5-stars hotels with proven quality or comfortable high-end 4-stars hotels
- Inclusive of porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel service charges, tips, and local taxes covered
- Daily breakfasts and up to half your evening meals included
- Iconic sightseeing highlights plus unexpected extras
- Audio headsets for special destination tours
- Private premium transportation coach/vehicle
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Optional experiences and plenty of leisure time
- Flights and train rides within China included
- What's Not Included:
- International flights to and from China
- China visa fees
