Li River was listed as one of the world’s top ten watery wonders by America National Geographic Magazine.
The 83km leisurely cruise (about 5 hours) from Guilin to Yangshuo is like a masterpiece. The scenery is decorated with rolling hills, steep cliffs, fantastic caves, leisurely boats, tranquil cormorant fishing scenes and picturesque villages.
Sometimes the weather is a bit hazy or raining which generates very different views. But it is seldom frustrating. However, it is recommended you start your cruise early as the scenery in the morning are better then in the later parts of the day.
Since cruising the Li River is an extremely popular thing to do in Guilin, you must book the cruise ticket in advance. Ideally one or two days before the planned cruise will do.
Boats for Li River cruise depart the Zhujiang Pier between 8:00 and 10:00 am, the cruise goes downstream from Guilin to Yangshuo, there are daily departure cruise tour available for foreign travelers, no upstream cruise available.
You may buy the cruise ticket from your hotel or local travel agency. Since it takes 50 minutes driving from Guilin city to the Zhujiang Pier, usually you need to make a transfer included. The price for the cruise is relatively high but includes lunch and you can take your luggage on board.
