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Itinerary
Welcome to Guilin! Your exciting 9-day Guilin and Yunnan tour begins as a private driver meets you at the airport and takes you to your hotel in downtown Guilin. Once you’ve settled in, the rest of the day is yours to explore this charming city at your own pace.
For a memorable evening, consider joining the optional Two Rivers and Four Lakes night cruise (at your own expense). As you glide across the calm waters, the city comes alive with colourful lights, casting a magical glow on the karst mountains and traditional architecture—truly a sight to behold.
If you’d like more recommendations for things to do after dark, your guide is happy to help!
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Stay in Guilin
After breakfast at your hotel, the adventure begins with a scenic Li River cruise from Mopanshan Pier. As you gently glide along the river, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the iconic karst mountains and lush countryside, giving you a true taste of rural life in China. Along the 4-5 hour cruise, you’ll pass famous sights like the Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horse Fresco Hill, and the Yellow Cloth Shoal, the same scene featured on the back of the 20 RMB note. A delightful lunch is included on board, allowing you to relax and take in the beauty around you.
Once you reach Yangshuo, your guide and driver will transfer you to your hotel for a short break. After freshening up, it’s time to explore the famous Ten-mile Gallery. This area lives up to its name with spectacular views of the karst peaks, tranquil rivers, and charming rural landscapes. You can explore by sightseeing bus, bike, or electric scooter, depending on your preference. Don’t miss Moon Hill, a towering 380-metre peak with a striking natural arch—climb the 800 steps for panoramic views that are perfect for photos.
As the day winds down, head to Yangshuo’s lively West Street, known for its blend of ancient architecture, vibrant shops, and tempting restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re looking to shop for local souvenirs or sample delicious local dishes, the street is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
Optional: For an extra cost, you can enjoy the Impression Liu Sanjie show, an outdoor performance set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River and karst mountains, directed by Zhang Yimou. It’s a spectacular way to end your day in Yangshuo.
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Stay in Yangshuo
After breakfast, your guide will take you to the serene Yulong River, just 43.5 kilometres long but packed with natural beauty. This tributary of the Li River is known for its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and the stunning karst peaks that rise dramatically along its banks.
For a truly memorable experience, hop onto a traditional bamboo raft and drift gently down the river. As you float along, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and the towering mountains. It’s the perfect way to take in the scenery and snap some stunning photos.
If you prefer a more active adventure, you can cycle through the surrounding countryside, visiting quaint local villages along the way. The roads are quiet, and you’ll get a real sense of rural life here in Yangshuo.
After a relaxing time by the river, your guide will escort you back to Guilin, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s beautiful sights.
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Stay in Guilin
After breakfast, say goodbye to Guilin as your driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Lijiang. Upon arrival, the crisp mountain air and snow-capped peaks greet you. Your guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Lijiang Ancient Town. After a short break, explore this UNESCO-listed town, where cobbled streets, canals, and wooden houses create a charming atmosphere. Lijiang moves at its own pace, with locals in traditional Naxi attire, shopkeepers selling handcrafted goods, and tea houses filled with the soft strains of traditional music.
Explore Mufu Palace, once home to the powerful chieftains of Lijiang. The grand halls and intricate carvings blend Naxi, Han, and Bai architectural influences, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. From its terraces, enjoy panoramic views of the town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.
Then, wander through Sifang Street Square, the lively heart of Lijiang. It was once a major trading hub, where merchants from Tibet, Yunnan, and beyond exchanged goods. Today, it’s a great place to observe local life, whether it’s elderly Naxi women dancing in the square or artisans showcasing their crafts.
After soaking in the town’s vibrant energy, return to your hotel. If you’re keen to explore more, ask your guide for the best spots to try local snacks like Lijiang baba (crispy Naxi pancakes) or for evening activities like a traditional Naxi music performance.
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Stay in Lijiang
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel. Your Lijiang adventure begins with a scenic drive to Yuhu Village, located about 18 km from the city. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yuhu Village offers a tranquil atmosphere with its traditional stone houses, lush greenery, and glimpses of Naxi culture. Wander through the village and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Next, head to Baisha Village, where you’ll encounter the Baisha Murals. These intricate paintings, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, blend Naxi, Tibetan, and Han artistic influences, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s rich cultural fusion.
Continue to Shuhe Ancient Town, once a key stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The town’s cobbled streets and well-preserved buildings invite you to explore at your own pace. You’ll find quaint teahouses and workshops, where you can pause to enjoy a quiet moment or try local snacks.
Visit the Dongba Culture Museum next. Here, discover the fascinating Naxi culture through exhibits of Dongba pictographs, traditional clothing, and artwork. It’s a perfect place to understand the heritage of the local people.
End the day at Black Dragon Pool Park. Take in stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the clear waters of the pool. It’s a peaceful spot to relax before returning to your hotel to unwind.
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Stay in Lijiang
After a hearty breakfast, check out from your hotel in Lijiang, and embark on your scenic journey towards Shangri-La. The first stop today promises a stunning natural wonder—the First Bend of the Yangtze River. As the mighty river twists sharply into a “V,” the view is nothing short of breathtaking. Photographers and nature lovers alike will find themselves captivated by the rugged mountains framing the bend, with plenty of opportunities to snap some unforgettable shots.
From here, your adventure continues to one of the world’s best hiking destinations—Tiger Leaping Gorge. With 2.5 hours to explore the upper gorge, you’ll find yourself on a winding mountain trail that leads you through charming ethnic villages. As you hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on one side and Haba Snow Mountain on the other. The fresh mountain air and the sound of the river below create a truly immersive experience, ideal for those seeking adventure and a deeper connection to nature.
After your hike, the drive to Shangri-La will be filled with anticipation, as you make your way through tranquil countryside, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon. Here, you can unwind and reflect on the day’s natural beauty. The evening is yours to relax, ready for the exciting days ahead in this mystical, high-altitude paradise.
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Stay in Shangri-La
After enjoying breakfast, your Shangri-La adventure begins with a visit to the magnificent Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist complex in Yunnan. Often called the “Little Potala Palace,” its architecture mirrors the grand Potala Palace in Lhasa, with golden roofs and prayer halls rising up the mountainside. As you explore the monastery, the intricate carvings and peaceful prayer halls provide a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Don’t forget to marvel at the towering pagodas, offering a serene backdrop against the rugged landscape.
Next, head to Potatso National Park, a true paradise for nature lovers. Picture vast meadows stretching across the horizon, crystal-clear lakes like Bita and Shudu shimmering under the sun, and forest streams winding through the landscape. This untouched beauty is home to a variety of wildlife, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a dream world, far away from the hustle of city life.
After the park, you’ll visit a welcoming Tibetan family in their traditional home. They’ll greet you with warmth and offer you a taste of local treats like butter tea, yak cheese, and barley wine. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the hospitality of the Tibetan people and learn about their everyday life and customs.
By the end of the day, return to your hotel in Shangri-La to unwind. Reflect on the spiritual and natural wonders you’ve encountered, knowing that this is just one chapter of your unforgettable Yunnan journey.
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Stay in Shangri-La
After breakfast at hotel, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport for your flight to Kunming. Once you arrive, our local guide and driver will warmly greet you and drive to your hotel in the heart of the city.
In the afternoon, head out to explore the Western Hills, a serene spot nestled on the western shore of Dianchi Lake. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling lake, surrounded by lush hills. You’ll take a scenic cable car ride to the summit, where the Dragon Gate grottoes await. As you walk along cliffside pathways, you’ll be mesmerised by ancient stone carvings and inscriptions that tell the story of this historic site. The stone chambers, tucked into the mountainside, will give you a glimpse of China’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
After soaking in the beauty and history, you’ll return to your hotel in Kunming’s city centre, ready to unwind after an enriching day of sightseeing.
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Stay in Kunming
Today, you’ll experience two of Kunming’s top highlights. After breakfast, head to Kunming Green Lake Park, a stunning “emerald gem” in the heart of the city. As you stroll around the lake, you’ll be greeted by locals enjoying their morning routines—some practising Tai Chi, others dancing, and a few singing traditional songs. The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect spot to witness the daily life of the city’s residents.
Next, you’ll be whisked away to the famous Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the natural wonders formed over millions of years as you wander through towering stone pillars, jagged peaks, and hidden caves. The Greater and Lesser Stone Forest offer some of the most dramatic views, where the ancient landscape seems almost otherworldly.
After exploring the stone formations, the driver will transfer you to Kunming Airport for your departure flight. With memories of beautiful parks and stunning landscapes, your unforgettable Guilin and Yunnan tour comes to a close.
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The tour includes internal flights from Guilin to Lijiang and from Shangri-La to Kunming, with comfortable transfers between destinations.
The hike is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding mountains, with stops at local ethnic villages.
The Stone Forest is a natural wonder, with towering limestone formations, unique karst landscapes, and an opportunity to explore caves and rock formations shaped over millions of years.
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your preferences. You can add extra activities, modify the pace of travel, or request special experiences.
You’ll experience traditional Naxi culture in Lijiang, visit Tibetan monasteries in Shangri-La, explore local villages, try homemade Tibetan snacks, and enjoy local dances and performances.
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Unforgettable adventure
Anna Garcia –
From start to finish, this tour exceeded my expectations. The highlights were definitely the stunning views from Moon Hill and the vibrant culture of Lijiang. I loved exploring the ancient towns and meeting the locals. Shangri-La was a dream destination, especially the Songzanlin Monastery and Potatso National Park. If you’re looking for a mix of nature and culture, this tour is perfect!
perfect combination of nature and culture
Jessica Kim –
This tour was exactly what I was hoping for! The Li River cruise was incredibly serene and the karst formations were jaw-dropping. But the real highlight was Yunnan’s blend of ethnic cultures. I enjoyed the Tibetan experiences in Shangri-La and the peaceful walks around Lijiang. The Stone Forest and Kunming’s Green Lake Park were great ways to wrap up the trip. Highly recommend it!
Breathtaking scenery
Rachel Brown –
This trip to Guilin and Yunnan was absolutely amazing! The Li River cruise was a peaceful escape into nature, and the karst mountains were even more spectacular than I imagined. Yunnan’s diversity, from the Naxi culture in Lijiang to the Tibetan monasteries in Shangri-La, was truly an eye-opener. The hikes, especially the Tiger Leaping Gorge, were challenging but so rewarding. A perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
Fascinating scenery in Yunnan and Guilin
Chris Walker –
I’ve been to China before, but this tour really allowed me to dive deep into the rich cultural heritage of Yunnan. The time spent in Lijiang was magical – ancient streets, beautiful temples, and friendly locals. The hikes in Tiger Leaping Gorge were tough but unforgettable. Plus, the local Tibetan snacks in Shangri-La were delicious! JustChinaTour really provided a seamless experience from start to finish.