The Li River trek follows one of China's most iconic landscapes — the karst mountain scenery between Guilin and Yangshuo that has appeared on Chinese banknotes for centuries. Unlike the crowded bamboo raft experience, this trekking route follows quiet riverside paths through rural villages, past water buffalo grazing in rice paddies, and through ancient fishing villages. The landscape of limestone karsts rising from the flat river valley is among the most photographed in the world.
This is an easy, mostly flat trek along riverside paths and rural roads. Suitable for all fitness levels. The main challenge is distance if doing the full route in one day — we recommend splitting it over 2 days with a village guesthouse stop.
The most iconic 18km stretch — karst peaks, bamboo groves, 20 RMB note viewpoint.
Combine trekking with karst cycling and Yangshuo nightlife.
Best: March-May (misty rain creates the classic 'ink painting' Li River atmosphere, rhododendrons on hillsides) and September-November (clear skies, cool temperatures, crystal-clear water). Summer (Jun-Aug): hot and humid, water levels high (may be muddy after storms), but lush green scenery. Winter (Dec-Feb): mild but damp, water levels low exposing riverbanks, fewer tourists. The famous 'misty Li River' (烟雨漓江) effect is most common in spring — many consider this the most photogenic season.
Everything you need to know as an international traveler planning this route in China.
Same China visa requirements. Guilin (桂林) is a well-established tourist city with an international airport (KWL) receiving flights from major Asian cities. Many Southeast Asian travelers combine Guilin with Vietnam or Thailand. The city has a developed tourism infrastructure with English-friendly services.
No permits needed. The trek follows public paths and roads — completely free to walk. Ferry crossings: ¥5-10 each (3 crossings on the full route) — cash only. Yangdi Pier access: ¥16 fee collected at the pier. No tickets or booking required for the trekking route.
No booking needed for the trek itself. Guesthouses in Xingping: ¥80-300/night, book on arrival or via Trip.com. Bamboo rafts on Yulong River: ¥200-300, buy at the dock. Impression Liu Sanjie light show (Yangshuo): ¥200-680, book via Trip.com or hotel. The trek is completely independent — no guides required.
Cash needed for ferry crossings and small village vendors. Alipay/WeChat Pay works in Xingping and Yangshuo towns. In Guilin: all payment methods including some international hotel cards. Along the trail: very few shops — bring water and snacks. Budget: ¥100-200/day for meals and guesthouses.
Fly to Guilin Liangjiang Airport (KWL). Or: high-speed train from Guangzhou (2.5h, ¥175), from Shanghai (8h), from Beijing (10h). From Guilin to Yangdi (trek start): bus from Guilin Bus Station to Yangdi (1.5h, ¥25). From Xingping (trek end) to Yangshuo: bus (30 min, ¥10) or bamboo raft (scenic, 2h, ¥100-150). Yangshuo to Guilin: bus (1.5h, ¥30).
Xingping Ancient Town: guesthouses ¥80-300/night, many with river views. Xingping Hostel is popular with backpackers. Yangshuo: huge variety from ¥50 hostels to ¥1000+ boutique hotels. Yangshuo is the party town — West Street (西街) has bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Guilin: standard city hotels ¥150-500.
Guilin and Yangshuo are international tourist destinations — English is relatively widely spoken in hotels and restaurants. Along the trek: villagers speak minimal English but are very friendly and hospitable. Useful phrases: 过河多少钱 (guò hé duō shǎo qián) = how much for the ferry?; 兴坪在哪 (xīng píng zài nǎ) = where is Xingping?; 二十块背景 (èr shí kuài bèi jǐng) = 20 RMB note viewpoint
4G/5G signal is good throughout the trek — this is one of China's most accessible hiking routes. WiFi at most guesthouses in Xingping and Yangshuo. You can use ride-hailing apps (Didi) at both ends of the trek.
Yangshuo People's Hospital (阳朔县人民医院): 0773-8822120. Guilin: Guilin People's Hospital (桂林市人民医院): 0773-2825114. Ambulance: 120. The trek is flat and low-risk. Main hazards: slippery stones near the river, sun exposure in summer, and occasional ferries. Life jackets are provided on ferries.
Walking through the countryside was so much better than the touristy raft experience. We passed through villages where time seems to have stood still.
Beautiful trek with incredible scenery. The village guesthouse was basic but charming. Great way to experience rural China.
No permit required. The trek follows public paths and roads through villages. Some villages welcome visitors; please be respectful of local customs and ask before photographing residents.
Last verified: August 1, 2026