How to See Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng in 3 Days

How to See Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng in 3 Days

Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng are three of the most iconic destinations in southern China, each offering a distinct flavor of the region’s stunning landscapes. From the jagged limestone peaks of Guilin to the picturesque countryside of Yangshuo and the layered rice terraces of Longsheng, you can experience the highlights in just three days with careful planning. This guide provides a practical itinerary for international travelers who want to maximize their time without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Guilin – The Heart of Karst Landscapes

Start your trip in Guilin, the gateway city known for its Li River and dramatic karst mountains. Arrive in the morning, ideally by direct flight or high-speed train from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.

Morning: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

The classic way to see Guilin’s scenery is to take a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. This four-to-five-hour boat journey glides through the most scenic section of the river, passing iconic peaks like the "Nine Horses Fresco Hill" and the "Crown Cave." International travelers often appreciate the chance to relax and take photos while the landscape unfolds. Most cruises depart from Zhujiang Pier or Mopan Pier, about 40 minutes from central Guilin.

Travel Tip: Book the cruise in advance, especially during peak seasons (May to October). Morning departures are best for clear light and fewer crowds.

Afternoon: Arrive in Yangshuo

After the cruise, you’ll dock in Yangshuo, a lively town surrounded by karst peaks. Check into your hotel and spend the late afternoon exploring West Street – a pedestrian-friendly area lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and art galleries. For your first taste of local cuisine, try "Beer Fish" (a stir-fried fish with beer, chili, and ginger) at a restaurant near the street.

Evening: Liu Sanjie Show (Optional)

If you enjoy cultural performances, consider the "Liu Sanjie" outdoor show directed by Zhang Yimou. Set against a natural backdrop of peaks and the Li River, it tells a folk tale through music, dance, and lights. The show runs nightly, and tickets are available from local tour operators or your hotel.

Day 2: Yangshuo – Cycling, Climbing, and River Scenery

Yangshuo is best explored at a slow pace. Dedicate a full day to its rural landscapes, outdoor activities, and small villages.

Morning: Bike or E-Bike Through the Countryside

Rent a bicycle or e-bike from your hotel or a local shop (around ¥30–80 USD equivalent per day) and head toward the Yulong River area. This scenic route passes through rice paddies, bamboo groves, and ancient bridges like the "Jade Dragon Bridge." You can also take a short bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River – a quieter alternative to the Li River cruise.

Lunch: Local Farmhouse Meal

Stop at a farmhouse restaurant along the Yulong River. Dishes like "Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables," "Taro and Pork Casserole," and "Steamed Rice with Bamboo" are common. Most menus have English translations.

Afternoon: Moon Hill or the Big Banyan Tree

After lunch, ride toward the village of Gaolian or Fuli. Visit Moon Hill – a natural rock arch on top of a karst peak. The climb takes about 30 minutes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Alternatively, the Big Banyan Tree (a 1,400-year-old tree) is a quick stop for photo opportunities.

Evening: Night Market and Relaxation

Return to Yangshuo town and explore the night market near West Street. You’ll find handmade crafts, local snacks like sticky rice dumplings, and fresh fruit. End the day with a foot massage at a local spa to soothe your legs after the cycling.

Day 3: Longsheng – The Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

Day three requires an early start. Longsheng is about 1.5–2 hours north of Guilin by car, so it’s best to travel from Yangshuo to Guilin first, then continue to Longsheng. Alternatively, you can arrange a private driver or join a guided tour from Yangshuo.

Morning: Drive to Longsheng Rice Terraces

The rice terraces of Longsheng, also known as the "Dragon’s Backbone," are ancient agricultural marvels carved into the mountains. The two most popular viewpoints are:

• Ping'an Village – Known for the "Seven Stars with Moon" and "Nine Dragons with Five Tigers" terraces.
• Dazhai Village (a.k.a. Jinkeng) – Home to the "Golden Buddha Peak," offering a higher vantage point and fewer crowds.

Travel Tip: If you have only one day, choose either Ping’an or Dazhai based on your fitness and time. Ping’an is more accessible with shorter walks, while Dazhai offers more dramatic views.

Lunch: Local Zhuang or Yao Minority Cuisine

Many local families near the terraces serve simple lunches – try a bowl of bamboo rice (sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes) or a hot pot of wild mushrooms and chicken. You can also sample locally brewed tea.

Afternoon: Hike to the Top

After lunch, hike up the stone steps to the highest viewpoint. The climb takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace. The view from the top across the terraced hillsides is breathtaking. If you visit in spring (March–May), the terraces are filled with water and reflect the sky. In autumn (September–October), the rice turns golden.

Late Afternoon: Return to Guilin

Drive back to Guilin (about 1.5 hours) for your onward journey. If your flight or train departs late, you’ll have time for a relaxed dinner in Guilin’s city center. Consider catching the sunset at Crescent Hill or taking a final stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area.

Practical Travel Advice for International Travelers

• Best Time to Visit: April–October offers warm weather and green scenery. Avoid Chinese public holidays (especially Golden Week in early October and Chinese New Year) for fewer crowds.
• Transportation: High-speed trains connect Guilin with major Chinese cities. Within the area, taxis, private drivers, and tour buses are widely available. You can book private transfers through travel platforms or your hotel.
• What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing in summer, and a rain jacket for sudden showers. Sunscreen and a hat are essential.
• Language: English is not widely spoken in smaller towns. Carry a translation app or a printed map in Chinese for directions.
• Money: Bring some cash for local vendors, as not all accept cards. ATMs are available in Guilin and Yangshuo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Longsheng and Guilin in one day?
While it’s possible, it’s not recommended. The drive from Guilin to Longsheng takes 1.5 hours each way, and the terraces require at least 2–3 hours of walking. Combining both in one day would mean very early starts and limited time to enjoy either location.

Do I need a guide for the rice terraces?
A guide is not essential, but it can help with navigation and local history. The main paths are well-marked. If you prefer independence, you can download offline maps.

Is it safe to eat street food in Yangshuo?
Generally yes, but use common sense. Choose stalls with high turnover (lots of local customers), and avoid raw or undercooked items. Bottled water is available everywhere.

How fit do I need to be?
For the rice terraces, you need to be moderately fit for climbing stairs. For Yangshuo, cycling is flat and easy. Most people can manage the itinerary with a reasonable fitness level.

Conclusion

A 3-day itinerary connecting Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng is entirely achievable for international travelers who are well-prepared. You’ll see the most iconic landscapes: the Li River’s karst peaks, Yangshuo’s countryside, and the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces. Start early, pack light, and be flexible with your schedule – the payoff is a trio of unforgettable natural wonders. For a deeper exploration, consider extending your trip to include more days in Yangshuo or a visit to nearby minority villages.