Lijiang River

The Lijiang River, stretching 164 kilometers through Guilin and Yangshuo, is one of China's most picturesque waterways. This natural masterpiece features dramatic limestone karst mountains, emerald waters, and ancient villages along its banks.

Highlights

The river section between Guilin and Yangshuo is particularly renowned for its:

• Stunning karst mountain landscapes
• Crystal-clear waters reflecting the mountains
• Traditional fishing villages
• Iconic view featured on the Chinese 20 Yuan banknote
• Ancient bamboo groves lining the shores

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season (May-August): Ideal weather with clear skies
• Spring (March-April): Beautiful misty mornings
• Autumn (September-October): Pleasant temperatures, less crowded
• Winter (November-February): Unique misty landscapes

River Cruise Options

Luxury Cruise (5-Star)

• Price: ¥1200
• Duration: 4 hours
• Includes: Premium buffet, multilingual guide
• Departure: Mopanshan Wharf

Standard Cruise (4-Star)

• Price: ¥360
• Duration: 4 hours
• Includes: Chinese buffet
• Departure: Zhujiang Wharf

Basic Cruise (3-Star)

• Price: ¥215
• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure: Mopanshan Wharf

Popular Routes

1. Guilin to Yangshuo Cruise

• Duration: 4 hours
• Highlights:
  • Nine Painted Hills
  • Yellow Cloth Shoal
  • Crown Cave
  • Water Buffalo
  • Fishing villages

2. Xingping Bamboo Raft Tour

• Duration: 50 minutes
• Price: ¥120
• Features:
  • 20 Yuan note viewpoint
  • Traditional fishing demonstrations
  • Small group experience

3. Yangdi to Xingping Route

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Price: ¥225
• Highlights:
  • Liyu Hanging Wall
  • Langshi Ancient Village
  • Nine Horse Fresco Hill

Transportation

From Guilin City Center

• To Mopanshan/Zhujiang Wharf:
  • Taxi: 40 minutes
  • Shuttle bus: Available from major hotels

From Yangshuo

• To Xingping Wharf:
  • Bus from Yangshuo Bus Station
  • Duration: 30 minutes

Essential Tips

Photography

• Early morning offers the best lighting
• Misty conditions create dramatic photos
• Bring a zoom lens for mountain details
• Best viewpoints:
  • Xingping viewing platform
  • Nine Painted Hills
  • Crown Cave area

What to Bring

• Sun protection
• Light jacket
• Camera
• Water
• Motion sickness medication
• Cash for local vendors

Booking

• Book 4-5 days in advance
• WeChat official account: "漓江售票处"
• Peak season requires earlier booking
• Confirm departure point when booking

Recommended Accommodations

Guilin

• City center for easy access to wharfs
• Zhongshan Road area for dining options

Yangshuo

• West Street area for vibrant atmosphere
• Riverside hotels for scenic views

Additional Activities

• Photography tours
• Countryside cycling
• Village visits
• Local cuisine tasting
• Cormorant fishing demonstration (evening)

Local Specialties

• Beer Fish (啤酒鱼)
• Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉)
• River Snails (田螺)
• Bamboo Rice (竹筒饭)

Important Notes

• Cruises may be cancelled during adverse weather
• Different wharfs offer various experiences
• Prices may vary during peak seasons
• Booking through official channels recommended
• Some areas have limited mobile signal