Guilin to Yangshuo
One of China's most scenic short journeys, traveling through the heart of the stunning karst landscape. The Li River cruise is the highlight of any Guilin trip.
Travel Options
Li River Cruise
Li River Cruise
Morning departures daily
Bus
Bus
Every 15-20 minutes
Private Car
Private Car
On demand
Route Comparison
| Type | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Li River Cruise | 4-5 hours | $40-$80 | Scenic experience and photography |
| Bus | 1-1.5 hours | $3-$5 | Budget travel and rural destinations |
| Private Car | 1 hour | $30-$50 | Flexibility and door-to-door convenience |
Booking Tips
Book train tickets on Trip.com or the official 12306 app, both of which accept foreign passports.
Tickets for popular routes sell out quickly during holidays — book at least two weeks in advance for Golden Week and Chinese New Year.
Second-class seats on high-speed trains are spacious and comfortable for journeys under five hours.
For overnight trains, soft sleeper berths offer the best comfort with a private four-bed compartment.
Domestic flights are often cheaper than trains for distances over 1,500 km, especially with budget carriers like Spring Airlines.
Download the Didi app for in-city rides — it works like Uber and supports English.
At train stations, arrive at least 30 minutes early as security screening and ID checks can be time-consuming.
Keep your passport handy — it is required for all train ticket purchases and boarding in China.
About Guilin
Guilin's landscape of karst limestone peaks rising from emerald-green rice paddies is among the most iconic scenery in all of China, famously depicted on the 20 yuan banknote. A cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo reveals some of the most breathtaking natural beauty on earth, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Explore Guilin city guide