Li River

Experience The Natural Beauty of Guilin

Originating in Mao’er Mountain at Xing’an County, the Li River winds its way 52 miles (83 kilometers) from Guilin to Yangshuo and attracts millions of visitors each year. The Li River scenic area is arguably the largest and most beautiful example of karst scenery in the world that is, an underground system of caves or sinkholes caused by dissolved limestone or other water-soluble rock. The river sections from Yangshuo to Guilin enjoy a reputation for picturesque scenery and epitomize the Li River, replete with undulant and verdant hills, wonderful caves, and traditional boats and fishermen.

What to see on the Li River

The charm of the Li River lies in its crystal-clear water, lush mountains, unique caves, and exquisite rocks. The Li River scenic area is divided into three sections according to the different views. The first scenic section is from downtown Guilin to Huangniu Gorge, which includes Elephant Trunk Hill, Rooster Fighting Hill, Pagoda Hill, Forest of Odd Shaped Peaks, Daxu Ancient Town, and Huangnue Gorge; the second from Huangniu Valley to Shuiluo Village, featuring Wangfu Rock, Crown Cave, Yangdi Village, Mural Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal, and Xingping Ancient Town; and the third from Shuiluo Village to Yangshuo, including Snail Hill, Bilian Peak, and Shutong Hill.

The Li River takes on different views depending on the weather. On the rainy days, the river and its neighboring mountains are covered with mist. On sunny days, the green mountains and white clouds are reflected in the river.

For visitors to Guilin, cruising on the Li River is undoubtedly a memorable experience, taking about four hours to get from Guilin to Yangshuo. Downstream, the boat  usually stops at Yangdi Village while the karst landscape can be seen all the way. This is also the final part of Li River cruise, where visitors can take in the rural scenes of buffalo in the fields, ducks paddling in the water, peasants working in the paddies, fishermen in the river, etc.

The Li River cruise will leave you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience with its captivating landscape and countryside scenery.