The Li River (Lijiang) cruise runs roughly 83 km from Guilin down to Yangshuo in China's Guangxi region, gliding past karst peaks and their mirror-like reflections in one of the country's most iconic landscapes. The stretch known as Yellow Cloth Shoal near Xingping is the actual scene printed on the back of China's 20-yuan banknote. Trips divide between the large tourist cruise boats and shorter bamboo-raft rides around Yangshuo, whose West Street is a lively end point.
The Xingping / Yellow Cloth Shoal viewpoint featured on the 20-yuan note — on clear days, peaks reflected in the calm river are the highlight
The Guilin-to-Yangshuo cruise (about 4–5 hours) offers a panoramic deck view of the karst peaks
Bamboo rafts on the Xingping–Yangdi stretch (in reality plastic tubes with wooden seats) for a close-to-the-water experience
The Yulong River raft route — quieter and more pastoral than the main river, passing three old stone bridges
Yangshuo's West Street with its night market and craft stalls, plus the large open-air 'Impression Liu Sanjie' light show
Good to know
CautionEn route to the dock, guides may push a '2nd-floor upgrade' or 'deluxe' ticket, but seats can be random or you may be put on a cheaper boat than promised. Book and verify tickets through official channels.
CautionUnlicensed 'black taxis' at Yangshuo station and Guilin airport quote inflated fares (3–5x normal) to foreigners with no meter. Before boarding say '请打表' (use the meter); if refused, take another taxi or use the Didi app.
CautionBeware the 'the attraction is closed today' ploy that steers you elsewhere (e.g. a tea house), and 'let's have tea together' invitations from strangers that end in a huge bill. Politely decline unsolicited offers to accompany you.
SafetyWear the provided life jacket at all times on a bamboo raft and avoid sudden movements. For safety, children under 1.2 m / under age 7 and seniors over 70 may be restricted from boarding (confirm latest).
SeasonDuring the May–June rainy season and July–August summer typhoon/flood periods, rafting can be suspended when water levels rise. Rainy days give beautiful misty scenery, but bring a rain poncho.
RulesPhotos, perfume, snacks and drinks sold onboard are often overpriced, so bring your own water and food. When renting a bike, use a cash deposit only — never hand over your passport.
Practical info
Guilin-to-Yangshuo cruise boats leave around 9:30–10:00 am from Zhujiang (Zhu Jiang) or Mopanshan wharf and take about 4–5 hours. Fares run around ¥215 for a 3-star boat and from about ¥360 for 4-star, varying by class (confirm latest). Book ahead in the April–November peak season, when tickets sell out early. Prepare WeChat Pay/Alipay or cash, and bring a rain poncho, sun protection and comfortable shoes.
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