🚤 Li River Travel Guide: Discover China’s Scenic Masterpiece

The Li River, located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, is one of the most iconic and picturesque natural attractions in the country. Flowing for over 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Guilin to Yangshuo, the Li River is renowned for its stunning karst limestone peaks, misty waters, bamboo groves, and traditional villages.
 

Celebrated by poets, painters, and emperors for centuries, the Li River is more than a natural wonder—it’s a living scroll of Chinese landscape painting. Whether you cruise its waters, cycle its trails, or explore its ancient towns, the Li River is an essential destination for nature lovers and cultural travelers alike.

📍 Where is the Li River?

Location: Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Southern China

Length: ~160 kilometers

Main Route: Guilin → Yangdi → Xingping → Yangshuo

Closest Cities: Guilin (starting point), Yangshuo (ending point)

🧭 How to Get to the Li River

1. By Air

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is the main entry point. It serves domestic and international flights.

From the airport, Guilin city center is about 40 minutes by car.

2. By Train

High-speed trains connect Guilin to major Chinese cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Shanghai.

Guilin North Station and Guilin West Station are main hubs.

🛶 Best Ways to Experience the Li River

1. 🚢 Li River Cruise (Guilin to Yangshuo)

The most popular way to explore the river is through a river cruise, offering panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape.

Duration: 4–5 hours

Departure Point: Zhujiang Wharf (near Guilin)

Arrival: Yangshuo

Highlights:

Nine Horse Fresco Hill

Yellow Cloth Shoal (featured on the 20 Yuan bill)

Xingping Ancient Town

Ticket Price: ¥300–¥500 ($40–$70 USD), depending on boat class

🚨 Tip: Book early during peak seasons (April–October) as boats fill up quickly.

2. 🛶 Bamboo Rafting (Yangdi to Xingping)

A more intimate and traditional way to explore the river. While motorized rafts are now common, the scenery remains spectacular.

Duration: 1–2 hours

Best For: Photography, peaceful sightseeing

Restrictions: Children under 7 and elderly may be restricted

3. 🚴 Cycling & Hiking Along the River

Cycling Route: From Yangshuo to Yulong River or Xingping

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for ideal light and fewer tourists

Rentals: Available in Yangshuo for ~¥30–¥50/day

🌄 Top Attractions Along the Li River

🏞️ 1. Nine Horse Fresco Hill (Jiu Ma Hua Shan)

A famous cliff face with natural rock formations said to resemble nine horses. Legend says only the wise can spot them all.

💴 2. 20 Yuan Note Scenic Spot (Xingping)

The exact location featured on China’s 20 Yuan banknote—this view is one of the most photographed in the region.

🏘️ 3. Xingping Ancient Town

A charming town with stone-paved streets, Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, and a tranquil riverside.

Perfect base for short hikes and sunset views.

🐂 4. Cormorant Fishing Demonstrations

Witness the traditional fishing technique where fishermen train cormorants to catch fish.

Usually held in the evening around Xingping or Yangshuo.

🏞️ 5. Yulong River (a tributary of the Li)

Quieter and more rural than the Li River.

Great for bamboo rafting and countryside cycling.

🏨 Where to Stay Along the Li River

📍 In Guilin:

Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin

Mid-range: Aroma Tea House, Guilin Bravo Hotel

Budget: Wada Hostel, This Old Place

📍 In Yangshuo:

Luxury: Banyan Tree Yangshuo, Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

Boutique: Li River Resort, Pure Lotus Boutique Inn

Backpackers: Green Forest Hostel, Monkey Jane’s

🏡 Note: Many accommodations offer stunning river views or traditional-style courtyards.

🍜 What to Eat in the Li River Region

The cuisine around Guilin and Yangshuo is rich in flavor, with a mix of spicy, sour, and savory elements.

Must-Try Dishes:

Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉): Served with peanuts, chili oil, and sliced meat.

Beer Fish (啤酒鱼): A Yangshuo specialty made with local river fish and brewed in beer sauce.

Stuffed Snails (田螺): Spicy snails filled with pork and garlic.

Pomelo and Bamboo Shoots: Common in rural villages.

📸 Best Photo Spots Along the Li River

📍 Sunset at Xianggong Hill: Panoramic view of meandering river and karst peaks.

📍 20 Yuan Viewpoint in Xingping: Iconic photo for social media.

📍 Cormorant Fishermen at Dusk: Classic cultural shot with lanterns on bamboo rafts.

☀️ Best Time to Visit the Li River

The best seasons are spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) when the weather is pleasant and visibility is high.

🧳 What to Pack

Lightweight clothing + warm layers for evenings

Waterproof gear (umbrella, rain jacket)

Comfortable walking or cycling shoes

Sunblock, sunglasses, and hat

Power bank and backup camera batteries

🎭 Culture and Local Customs

The area is home to Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. Their customs, music, and dress add rich cultural flavor.

Be respectful when entering local homes or photographing people.

Bargaining is acceptable in local markets but should be done politely.

🌿 Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

Avoid plastic: bring a refillable bottle and eco-bags.

Do not litter in or near the river.

Support local businesses and family-run guesthouses.

Respect signs that prohibit drone use (especially near cruise routes or heritage sites).

🧠 Fun Facts About the Li River

The river appears in traditional Chinese paintings and classical poetry dating back over 1,000 years.

It’s said that every twist in the river reveals a new painting.

Over 100 movie scenes and TV series have been filmed here, including martial arts films.

U.S. President Bill Clinton visited Li River and declared it one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen.

📌 Suggested Itinerary: 3 Days Along the Li River

Day 1: Guilin

Arrive and explore Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill

Stroll around Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area

Overnight in Guilin

Day 2: Cruise to Yangshuo

Morning cruise on Li River to Yangshuo

Check into hotel; explore West Street

Optional: Light show by director Zhang Yimou

Day 3: Yangshuo Countryside

Sunrise at Xianggong Hill

Cycling or bamboo rafting along Yulong River

Return to Guilin or continue to Longji Rice Terraces

🧭 Final Thoughts

The Li River is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a cultural treasure and a window into traditional China. Whether you're floating down its waters, hiking along its banks, or immersing yourself in the rhythms of village life, the Li River offers a serene yet unforgettable adventure.

With proper planning and an open heart, a journey along the Li River can be one of the most inspiring experiences in your travels through China.