8 days Shanghai Guilin Yangshuo tour
Discover Shanghai, Suzhou’s classical gardens, Guilin’s Li River, Yangshuo countryside, and the Longji Rice Terraces on this well-paced 8-day private tour blending culture, landscapes, and traditional village life.
Itinerary
This 8-day Shanghai Guilin Yangshuo Tour combines culture, scenery, and authentic rural experiences. Begin in Shanghai with its vibrant mix of modern landmarks, colonial Bund architecture, and classical Yu Garden. Continue to Suzhou to explore its UNESCO-listed gardens, ancient lanes, and nearby Tongli Water Town.
Fly south to Guilin for a Li River cruise to Yangshuo, surrounded by iconic karst mountains and river landscapes. Enjoy a mix of hiking, biking, bamboo rafting, and countryside walks along the Yulong River. Conclude your journey at the Longji Rice Terraces, where you can explore minority villages and panoramic trails before departing from Guilin. This itinerary offers an ideal balance of culture, nature, and local life across eastern and southern China.
Upon arrival at Shanghai, you will welcomed by your local guide and transported to your hotel. Once checked in choose to explore some nearby sites on your own or have a rest.
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to Yu Garden, a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Wander through its elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, rockeries, and shaded walkways, an oasis of calm in the heart of Shanghai’s bustling Old Town. Just next door, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, perfect for picking up local snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.
Next, head to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center at People’s Square to learn about the city’s transformation from fishing village to global metropolis through impressive models and multimedia displays.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, one of Shanghai’s most recognizable landmarks. Ride up to the observation decks for panoramic views of the city and the Huangpu River. Then, take a walk down Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling commercial street, before arriving at the historic Shanghai Bund, where colonial architecture faces off with the modern skyline across the river.
In the evening, you can choose to enjoy a Huangpu River night cruise (optional, extra fee applied), offering stunning views of illuminated Shanghai.
Today drive to Suzhou for classic gardens, begin with the visit to the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO site renowned for its harmonious blend of natural scenery and architectural elements across four distinct sections. Next, take a rickshaw ride through Suzhou's alleys, including some food markets, offering a glimpse into the locals' lives. The rickshaw ride concludes at the well-preserved Pingjiang Road from the Song Dynasty.
In the afternoon, explore Tiger Hill to visit historical sites such as the 1000-year-old Yunyan Pagoda, a seven-story structure that famously leans much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Sword Pool, as well as the Bonsai Garden at the foot of the hill for its intricate art. If time is allowed, explore a Suzhou Silk Factory to discover the traditional silk-making process and consider acquiring some premium silk items. Overnight at Suzhou.
In the morning, you will be driven to visit Tongli Water Town near Suzhou, an ancient town with over 1,000 years of history, the town boasts picturesque waterways, bridges, classical gardens and ancient architecture. Enjoy exploring the town by walking along its narrow alleys. An optional tour by boat can be arranged along its tranquil canals to enjoy the town's peaceful ambiance (additional fee is required). In the afternoon drive to Shanghai airport for flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, to be met and transferred to hotel.
Enjoy a scenic Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The Li River is famous for its picturesque waters and towering karst mountains. The cruise lasts about 4 hours, with lunch served on board. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon, you can choose between bamboo rafting (additional fee applies) or hiking along the Yulong River for views of rural life and picturesque landscapes. Visit Jiuxian, a charming village in Yangshuo, known for its tranquil environment, traditional architecture, and karst peaks. In the evening, enjoy the Impression of Sanjie Liu show (optional, fees on your own). Overnight in Yangshuo. (B)
Today is free for you to explore Yangshuo on your own. You may choose to hike, bike, or enjoy a bamboo rafting experience.
A popular option is the Gongnong Bridge to Yima Village hike along the Yulong River, often called the “Little Li River.” This 4 to 5 hour walk takes you through classic rural scenery with green karst hills, clear waters, ancient stone bridges, and peaceful farmland. Along the way you will see local farmers working in their fields and experience the charm of traditional countryside life.
If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, visit West Street, Yangshuo’s lively pedestrian area known for its mix of Eastern and Western architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and a wide variety of restaurants.
Morning drives about 40 minutes to visit Xianggong hill (Husband Mountain), it takes about 15 minutes to the top of the hill where you will be amazed by the breathtaking view of Li River and the surrounded Karst mountain peaks. Then head to Longji Rice Terraces for the splendid rice terraces and local ethnic minority villages, the drive takes roughly 2-3 hours, on the way enjoy the nice mountain range views. Upon arrival, spend a few hours to hike around at the Ping’an village to enjoy the rice terraces views and visit local minority villages. Choose from trails lasting between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your fitness level. Be sure to let your guide know your preferences to receive tailored recommendations. Overnight at Ping’an village.
Enjoy a peaceful morning view of the Longji Rice Terraces before driving to Guilin’s airport or train station for your departure. This concludes your week-long journey through Shanghai and Guilin.
Inclusions
Tour notes:
General inclusions:
General exclusions:
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