6-Day Guangzhou and Guilin Land Tour: Immerse Yourself in Scenic Beauty, Cultural Heritage, and Natural Wonders

Summary

Day1 Guangzhou Arrival
Day2 Yuexiu Park, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, Huacheng Square
Day3 Train to Guilin, transfer to Longsheng
Day4 Sunrise, Longji Rice Terraces, Ping’an Village
Day5 Li River cruise, Yulong River Exploration, West Street
Day6 Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Guilin Departure

Day1 Guangzhou Arrival

Welcome to Guangzhou, the vibrant City of Rams! Upon your arrival at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport or one of the city's railway stations, your friendly local guide will be waiting to greet you, holding a sign that says "Your Way Holiday." After a warm welcome, they will escort you to your hotel in downtown Guangzhou and assist with your check-in. Once settled in, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax or venture out and explore the city at your own pace. Whether you're seeking relaxation, a deep dive into the local food scene, or immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the Lingnan region, Guangzhou offers something for every traveler. With a well-connected transportation network, including numerous domestic and international flights and convenient high-speed train routes, getting to Guangzhou is a breeze. If you're up for an evening adventure, consider taking the optional Pearl River night cruise. This 70-minute journey offers stunning views of the city's glowing skyline, with the iconic Canton Tower standing tall against the backdrop of historical and modern buildings. It’s the perfect way to experience the lively pulse of Guangzhou at night.

Day2 Guangzhou

In the morning, your local guide will meet you at your hotel and take you to your first destination: Yuexiu Park, the largest urban park in Guangzhou. This scenic park is not only a peaceful retreat but also a place steeped in history. As you walk through the park, the first iconic sight you'll encounter is the Five Rams Statue, a symbol of Guangzhou's legend. According to the tale, five immortals arrived in Guangzhou riding rams and bestowed upon the people five grains, ensuring prosperity and peace for the city. Wandering through the park, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air, making it the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. After the Five Rams Statue, you'll continue your tour to Zhenhai Tower, a five-story red structure that now serves as the Guangzhou Museum. The guide will help you understand the significance of this historic building, which once served as a military defense tower. You'll also have the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city, offering a beautiful contrast of Guangzhou's historical landmarks and modern skyline.

From Yuexiu Park, you'll head to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a key historical site dedicated to the great revolutionary leader. The memorial hall, with its distinct octagonal design, blends Chinese and Western architectural styles. The bright red and blue exterior immediately captures your attention, symbolizing the vibrant legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Upon entering the hall, the guide will take you through exhibits showcasing Sun Yat-sen’s life and his monumental contributions to China’s modernization. You'll learn about his revolutionary activities and his influence not just on China, but on the world. Outside the hall, a 5.5-meter bronze statue of Dr. Sun stands tall, and the guide will offer insights into the significance of this tribute. This moment allows you to pay respects to one of China’s greatest historical figures, the "Father of the Nation."

After a morning full of cultural exploration, it’s time to relax and enjoy a delicious Cantonese lunch. Your guide will take you to a well-known local restaurant where you can indulge in a variety of traditional Cantonese dishes. From classic dim sum like shrimp dumplings and steamed buns to signature dishes such as steamed fish and white-cut chicken, Cantonese cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. As you dine, your guide will explain the intricacies of Cantonese food, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients and the delicate techniques used in preparing each dish. This meal will not only satisfy your hunger but also give you a deeper appreciation for Guangzhou’s food culture, which has made it one of China’s culinary capitals.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, regarded as the largest, most beautifully preserved, and elaborately decorated traditional ancestral temple in Guangdong Province. Built between 1888 and 1894, the hall originally served as a place of worship for the Chen family but later became a hub of education. As you explore this remarkable structure, your guide will explain its dual purpose: as both a family temple and an academy. The architecture is a stunning example of Lingnan (Cantonese) style, with intricate carvings and colorful decorations depicting flowers, animals, and mythological figures. The hall’s artistic details symbolize prosperity, harvest, and good fortune, which were important cultural values in ancient China. The guide will take you through the courtyard, where you can appreciate the finely crafted decorations and learn about the craftsmanship that defined the region.

Next, you’ll head to Shamian Island, an area that offers a stark contrast to the modernity of Guangzhou’s city center. Shamian Island was once a foreign concession, and today it is home to more than 150 well-preserved European-style buildings from the colonial period. As you walk along its tree-lined streets, the guide will explain the history of this area and its role as a foreign trading hub in the 19th century. Shamian Island’s architecture is diverse, with styles ranging from Gothic to Baroque and Neoclassical, reflecting the influence of European powers during their time in Guangzhou. Walking through this quiet, historical area, you can almost imagine the life of the expatriates who once lived here. The guide will help you understand how this peaceful island, with its European-style buildings, is a testament to the cultural exchange between China and the West during the colonial era.

Your final stop of the day is Huacheng Square, the heart of Guangzhou’s modern business district. Located in Zhujiang New Town, this square is a symbol of the city’s rapid development and urban transformation. The guide will lead you through this bustling area, where you can admire the futuristic architecture of skyscrapers and the innovative design of the surrounding buildings. One of the most iconic features of the area is the slender, twisting figure of the Canton Tower, which stands proudly across the Pearl River. The guide will take you to a vantage point where you can enjoy spectacular views of both the modern cityscape and the river. As the sun sets, the city’s lights begin to shimmer, creating a dazzling sight that illustrates the dynamic nature of Guangzhou. Huacheng Square offers a perfect blend of the old and new, showcasing Guangzhou’s evolution from an ancient city to a thriving metropolis. After this captivating tour, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer as you reflect on the day's discoveries.

Day3 Guangzhou-Guilin by High-Speed Train

After breakfast, you will have some free time to relax before being escorted to the railway station for your high-speed train to Guilin, a journey that takes approximately 2.5 hours. As you travel, enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way, anticipating the beauty that awaits you in Guilin, known as the most picturesque city in China.Upon your arrival at the railway station in Guilin, our friendly local guide will be waiting for you with a sign reading “Your Way Holiday.” You will then be transferred to Ping’an Village, located at the famous Longji Rice Terraces. The drive from Guilin to Ping’an takes about 2.5 hours, offering more chances to soak in the landscapes of rural China.

Once you arrive in Ping’an, you will check in at your hotel, nestled amidst the stunning rice terraces. Afterward, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You are free to explore the surroundings, taking in the views of the terraced fields, the lush mountains, and the traditional wooden houses of the local Zhuang and Yao minorities. The peaceful environment provides an ideal setting for a leisurely walk through the village or to simply unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. Important things to note: When you arrive at Ping’an Village, you can only be dropped off at the Ping’an Village Tourist Center parking lot. From there, you will need to walk about 900 steps to reach your hotel, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended. For those who may find the walk challenging or for elderly travelers, you may wish to hire a local porter to help carry your luggage to the hotel, at your own additional cost. Enjoy the rest of your day soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Ping'an Village!

Day4 Longsheng

You’ll wake up in the peaceful tranquility of Ping’an Village, greeted by the crisp, refreshing air of the morning. For a moment, you may feel like you've stepped into a dream. If you're an early riser, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to watch the breathtaking Sunrise from one of the prime locations on the Longji Rice Terraces. The first light of day casts a warm golden glow over the entire landscape, illuminating the layered terraces as the sun rises slowly above the horizon. The rice fields, shaped by generations of farming hands, shimmer like a giant mosaic, each layer appearing more intricate as the light spreads across the sky. Your guide will be there to point out the best vantage points, ensuring you capture the most awe-inspiring views. Whether you’re a photographer eager to capture the moment or someone simply enjoying nature’s beauty, this is a view that will remain etched in your mind long after you leave.

After enjoying the magnificent sunrise, your guide will take you on a leisurely exploration of the Longji Rice Terraces. These terraces stretch across the mountain slopes like an intricate work of art, with layers upon layers of fields that seem to lead directly to the sky. As you walk along the cobbled paths that wind through the rice fields, you'll be able to admire the stunning landscape from different angles, each one offering a new perspective. Along the way, your guide will share the fascinating history of the terraces and explain how they were built by the local Zhuang and Yao people over centuries. Your guide will also point out some of the best spots for photos and offer insights into the culture and farming techniques still used today. One of the best spots to view the rice terraces is from Seven Stars with Moon and Nine Dragons and Five Tigers, two of the most famous lookouts. From here, you’ll be able to capture sweeping views of the terraces below, with the villages nestled amongst the fields, creating a scene that feels as if it has come straight out of a painting.

After your scenic hike through the rice terraces, it will be time to enjoy a traditional local meal in one of the quaint restaurants of Ping’an Village. The village is known for its authentic Zhuang and Yao cuisine, offering a rich blend of flavors that reflect the agricultural lifestyle of the area. Your guide will help you navigate the local menu, explaining each dish and its cultural significance. The food here is simple yet incredibly flavorful, with ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding landscape. You might enjoy dishes like bamboo rice, which is cooked in bamboo stalks and flavored with herbs, or a hearty chicken stew, simmered with locally grown vegetables. The dishes are not only delicious but also provide a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the ethnic minorities who have called this region home for centuries. Dining in one of the local restaurants allows you to experience the warmth and hospitality of the village’s residents, who are eager to share their culture and way of life with visitors.

After a delightful meal, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore Ping’an Village at your own pace. The village is a peaceful retreat, with narrow cobbled streets that wind through the wooden houses, each one reflecting the traditional architectural style of the local Zhuang and Yao people. As you stroll through the village, take your time to admire the craftsmanship of the buildings, which have been constructed with natural materials like wood and stone. Your guide will give you further insight into the village’s history and culture, pointing out unique architectural features and telling you stories about the local customs. The village is also home to small, family-run shops where you can purchase handmade souvenirs, such as intricately woven textiles or beautifully crafted wooden items. If you’re in the mood for relaxation, you can find a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the serenity of the village, surrounded by the lush green terraces and the sounds of nature. Whether you choose to shop, explore, or simply unwind, Ping’an provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

After a fulfilling day of exploring the beauty and culture of Ping’an Village, it will be time to return to Guilin City. Your guide will accompany you on the scenic drive back, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, your guide will share more information about the region’s history and culture, helping you better understand the connection between the land and the people. You can reflect on the stunning landscapes you’ve experienced, from the sunrise over the terraces to the peaceful charm of Ping’an Village. Once you arrive in Guilin, you’ll check in at your hotel, where you can rest and recharge after a day full of adventure. The hotel offers a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, providing you with the perfect place to unwind. After checking in, the rest of the evening is free for you to enjoy as you wish. You may want to take a stroll through Guilin’s vibrant streets, sample some local cuisine, or simply relax in your room.

Day5 Yangshuo

Your day begins with a scenic morning transfer to Mopanshan Pier in Guilin, where you'll board the Li River cruise. As the boat sets off, you’ll be surrounded by the serene and mesmerizing landscape that has earned Guilin its reputation as "the best landscape under heaven." The Li River stretches 84 kilometers through a winding maze of majestic limestone karsts that rise steeply from the water, creating a natural masterpiece that seems to leap out of a traditional Chinese painting. Your guide will point out iconic sights along the way, including the famous "Painting of Nine Horses," a unique rock formation, and the distinctive mountain scene featured on the back of the 20 RMB note. While cruising, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a simple, but tasty lunch served aboard the boat, featuring local Chinese dishes. The calm waters and ever-changing vistas create an atmosphere of tranquility, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The boat journey lasts about four hours, offering plenty of time to take in the landscape, snap photos, and listen to your guide’s explanations about the area’s rich history and cultural significance.

Upon disembarking in Yangshuo, your guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in, and after a short rest, the afternoon adventure begins. You’ll be taken to the Yulong River, where you can choose your preferred way to explore the area’s natural beauty. Whether you opt for a relaxing bamboo rafting trip, an energizing bike ride, or a leisurely drive, each option offers a unique perspective of the countryside. Your guide will help you decide which activity suits your interests and level of energy. If you choose to bike, the route takes you along the river, through vibrant farmland, and past traditional villages, where you can experience the rural life up close. Bamboo rafting provides a serene experience, gliding gently along the river while you take in the peaceful reflections of the surrounding Karst peaks and lush greenery. Alternatively, a scenic drive will offer a more comfortable way to enjoy the views without exerting too much energy. Your guide will provide insights about the landscape and ensure that your chosen activity is tailored to your preferences, making it an unforgettable afternoon.

After exploring the picturesque Yulong River, your guide will take you to Yangshuo’s famous West Street, a place where the blend of local Chinese culture and Western influences creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere. As you stroll through the ancient cobblestone streets, you’ll see an intriguing mix of traditional Chinese architecture and Western-style shops, cafes, and restaurants. West Street is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the relaxed vibe of the town. You may want to stop for a drink at one of the many cafes, sample some local specialties like Yangshuo beer fish, or simply watch the world go by as you soak in the atmosphere. Your guide can recommend some excellent places for you to try local snacks or buy souvenirs, ensuring you have a taste of Yangshuo’s rich cultural fusion.

As the day winds down, your guide will escort you back to your hotel in Yangshuo, where you can relax after a fulfilling day of exploration. Whether you choose to unwind in your hotel room, or perhaps take a leisurely walk around the area to enjoy the evening air, the peaceful ambiance of Yangshuo will help you recharge for the next day’s adventures. The evening is yours to enjoy as you please, with plenty of local restaurants and bars offering a chance to sample more local delicacies or simply enjoy a quiet dinner. With the stunning scenery and enriching experiences of the day fresh in your mind, you'll have time to relax and reflect on your journey before resting for the night.

Day6 Guilin Departure

In the morning, you will board a comfortable vehicle for the 1.5 to 2-hour drive back to Guilin. As you make your way through the picturesque countryside, your guide will share insights into the region’s history and landscapes, providing context for what you’re about to see. Upon arrival in Guilin, you will visit the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in China. This towering limestone formation, resembling a giant elephant with its trunk dipping into the Li River, creates a stunning backdrop for photos. Your guide will explain the legend behind the hill and its significance to the locals. As you explore, you’ll also come across a Buddhist temple, intricate stone carvings, and other historical relics that offer a deeper understanding of Guilin’s cultural heritage. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking views make Elephant Trunk Hill a perfect spot to start your day in Guilin.

Next, you will head to Reed Flute Cave, located about 7 kilometers from Elephant Trunk Hill. This extraordinary cave, often called the "Palace of Natural Arts," is a vast underground wonderland formed over millions of years. Your guide will lead you through the cave, where you’ll marvel at the intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating rock formations. The cave is illuminated with colorful lights, which highlight the natural beauty of the formations and create a magical atmosphere. As you walk through the cave, your guide will point out formations that resemble animals, plants, and even a waterfall, all sculpted by nature over eons. You will have plenty of time to explore the cave’s chambers, and your guide will share the geological history behind the formations, adding depth to your experience.

After your visit to Reed Flute Cave, your guide will assist you in returning to your hotel to collect your belongings before heading to the airport or railway station for your next destination. As your journey in Guilin comes to an end, you will reflect on the stunning landscapes, the rich history, and the fascinating natural wonders you’ve explored. Your guide will ensure that you have all the necessary information for a smooth departure, answering any last-minute questions you may have. Whether you’re continuing your travels in China or heading home, this will be the perfect conclusion to your exploration of Guilin’s iconic sites. 

Price Per Person in US Dollars