Southern China is a treasure trove of natural wonders, ancient towns, and vibrant culture. This 10-day itinerary takes you through the best of Guilin, Yangshuo, and beyond, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
Start your journey in Guilin, a city famed for its karst mountains and winding rivers. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along the Li River or visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s most recognizable landmark.
On Day 2, embark on a scenic Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The four-hour journey passes through breathtaking landscapes of limestone peaks, bamboo groves, and rural villages. Keep your camera ready for Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Xingping Ancient Town, the backdrop of the 20 RMB note.
Spend Day 3 exploring Yangshuo’s countryside. Rent a bike and ride through Yulong River Valley, stopping at hidden villages and rice paddies. For thrill-seekers, try rock climbing on the karst cliffs or take a bamboo raft down the Yulong River.
A two-hour drive from Guilin brings you to the Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone. These cascading terraces, built over 600 years ago, are a marvel of agricultural engineering. Hike to Ping’an Village or Dazhai Village for panoramic views.
Stay overnight in a traditional wooden guesthouse and immerse yourself in the culture of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. Enjoy a local meal of bamboo rice and try on colorful hand-embroidered clothing.
Leave the crowds behind and head to Huangyao Ancient Town, a well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty village. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, cross ancient stone bridges, and visit ancestral halls.
Sample Huangyao’s specialty dishes, like fermented tofu and river fish. Don’t miss the chance to watch artisans create handmade oil-paper umbrellas, a craft passed down for generations.
Venture further south to Detian Waterfall, the largest transnational waterfall in Asia. Straddling the China-Vietnam border, the falls are at their most powerful between May and October. Take a bamboo raft for an up-close view.
End your trip in Pingxiang, a lively border town with a mix of Chinese and Vietnamese influences. Visit the Friendship Pass, a historic gateway between the two countries, and browse the bustling Dongxing Market for souvenirs like Vietnamese coffee and tropical fruits.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is mild but less vibrant.
Trains and buses connect major cities, but renting a car or hiring a private driver is ideal for remote areas like Longji and Detian.
This 10-day journey through southern China blends natural beauty, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Whether you’re cruising the Li River or hiking terraced fields, every moment promises to be unforgettable.
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Author: Guilin Travel
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