The city is dominated by spectacular karst topography—thousands of unique limestone peaks rising steeply from the ground.
The crystal-clear Li River threads through this landscape. Key attractions include the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill and the breathtaking cruise to Yangshuo. Guilin provides a mystical, tranquil natural beauty often depicted in classic Chinese art.
DISCOVER YANGSHUO
The finest scenery under heaven!
Guilin
/ Youngshuo
7 days
/ 6 nights
Maximum Group Size
/ 12
Activity Level
/ 3 Stars
DAY 1 / Guilin Cityride
"Pedaling Through a Painting" Forget looking at the scenery—ride right into it. In Yangshuo, you will cycle through a living ink-wash masterpiece, where thousands of limestone Karst peaks rise dramatically from emerald-green fields.
Our route takes you off the beaten path and onto the banks of the Li River and Yulong River, where bamboo rafts drift lazily by. This is a sensory ride: the scent of rice paddies, the cool river breeze, and the silence of ancient villages. It’s not just a cycling trip; it’s a journey through the most poetic landscape on Earth.
Total Ride Distance 22km . Total Elevation Gain 12m . Estimated Timeline 2.5hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Elephant Trunk Hill
Elephant Trunk Hill (formerly known as Lishan Hill) is located at No. 1 Minzhu Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Standing at the confluence of the Li River and Peach Blossom River, this iconic karst hill is hailed as "the soul of Guilin's landscape" and Guilin's city emblem. Named for its striking resemblance to a giant elephant drinking from the river, it is a National 5A-level tourist attraction and an indispensable must-visit landmark for any trip to Guilin.
The Golden Sun and Silver Moon
The Sun Pagoda (Ri Ta): Reaching 41 meters, this nine-story structure holds the record as the world’s tallest copper pagoda. Its golden glow represents "Yang" and the vigor of the sun.
The Moon Pagoda (Yue Ta): Its seven-story companion is finished with white glazed tiles, emitting a cool, silver light that embodies "Yin" and the serenity of the moon.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Guilin Taste Realm
A top Guilin restaurant serving authentic local flavors. Guilin Rice Noodles (chewy noodles with savory broth), Beer Fish (fresh fish braised in beer), Lipu Taro Braised Pork (tender taro with pork). Cozy and flavorful, ideal for food lovers.
Chuanshan Lake Central Island
is located within Chuanshan Park in Qixing District, Guilin. As a small and exquisite man-made island in the Xiaodong River waters, it is hailed as "the green pearl of Chuanshan Park". This lake island is one of the key attractions of the Chuanshan Scenic Area, and together with the distant Tashan Hill and Chuanshan Hill, it forms "the clear reflection of Tashan Hill" — one of Guilin's traditional Eight Scenic Spots. It is an indispensable must-visit spot for tourists exploring Chuanshan Park.
Special experience / culture events
A Journey Through Liquid History:
The Two Rivers and Four Lakes
Cruising Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes is an immersive journey into a "living" landscape painting. This intricate waterway restores the city’s grand Tang and Song Dynasty heritage, weaving together the Li and Taohua Rivers with four historic lakes.
As you glide past the shimmering Sun and Moon Pagodas and ancient city walls, you witness a thousand years of history. The route features elegant bridges and lush banyan trees, perfectly embodying the Chinese philosophy of harmony between nature and architecture. It is more than a tour; it is a poetic encounter with Guilin’s cultural soul.
The Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin
Positioned on the banks of the scenic Li River, Shangri-La Guilin is a 5-star urban resort in northeastern Guilin, offering unobstructed views of the Li River and the iconic limestone karst hills. The hotel features 449 elegantly-appointed rooms and suites, with all guestrooms starting at a spacious 42 square metres—making them among the largest in the city. Every room offers sweeping views of the Li River or the hotel's lush, landscaped gardens, while guests seeking an elevated experience can access the Horizon Club with its dedicated lounge and exclusive privileges.
In addition to two swimming pools (indoor and outdoor), a fully-equipped fitness centre, and a luxury spa, the hotel provides exceptional family-oriented amenities including a mini zoo, a miniature botanical garden, a kids' club, and a mini royal train, ensuring a memorable stay for guests of all ages. The hotel's dining options include the signature Shang Palace, serving authentic Cantonese cuisine, along with a daily breakfast buffet and live teppanyaki stations. With its prime location and the renowned Shangri-La hospitality, the hotel serves as an ideal base for both leisure travellers and business guests alike.
River front view room
URL LINK: https://www.trip.com/w/T1scaA6UzU2
DAY 2 / Guilin to Youngshuo
Yangshuo, a county near Guilin in China's Guangxi province, is globally famous for its unrivaled karst landscape. Often called the "best of Guilin," the town is enveloped by thousands of dramatic limestone peaks and the winding Li and Yulong rivers.
This area offers a perfect blend of tranquil natural beauty and vibrant tourism. Visitors flock here to enjoy bamboo rafting along the Yulong River, cycle through the peaceful countryside, and hike to viewpoints like Moon Hill. The central West Street is a historic lane that now serves as the bustling heart of the town, featuring a lively mix of local shops, cafes, and international restaurants.
Total Ride Distance 60km . Total Elevation Gain 522m . Estimated Timeline 4hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Yangdi Wharf Yangshuo
As an iconic starting point of the Li River cruise in Yangshuo, Yangdi Wharf nestles amid towering karst peaks and crystal-clear river waters. Serving as a key hub for bamboo rafting and boat tours, it offers visitors a front-row seat to Guilin’s legendary landscape limestone mountains rising sharply from the river, lush greenery, and idyllic villages along the shores. Easily accessible by road, the wharf provides convenient access to downstream scenic spots like Xingping.
Daxu Ancient Town
An ancient town with a millennium of history, Daxu lies along the Li River amid stunning karst landscapes. Lined with well-preserved Ming and Qing-era buildings, stone-paved streets, and ancient bridges, it exudes a tranquil, old-world charm. Once a bustling commercial port, it now offers visitors a glimpse of traditional life—stroll through local markets, savor authentic snacks, or relax by the river. A perfect escape from the crowds, it’s a must-visit for those seeking Guilin’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Yixia Tang Private Cuisine (Yangshuo)
A hidden gem in Yangshuo, Yixia Tang Private Cuisine serves authentic Guangxi and local flavors with homemade warmth. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, the restaurant crafts classic dishes like Yangshuo Beer Fish (tender carp braised in local beer with herbs), Stuffed River Snails (minced pork mixed with mushrooms stuffed into snail shells), and Lipu Taro Braised Pork (soft taro absorbed with savory pork sauce). Other highlights include bamboo shoot stir-fry and osmanthus glutinous rice cakes.
Thousand-Mile Landscape
Stretching across Yangshuo’s core scenic area, the "Thousand-Mile Riverside Landscape" is a living scroll of karst wonders. Towering limestone peaks pierce the sky, reflecting in the crystal-clear Li and Yulong Rivers, while pastoral villages and green fields weave through the landscape.
Lined with cycling paths and bamboo raft routes, it blends natural grandeur with rural charm—offering visitors an immersive taste of Guilin’s iconic scenery that inspired ancient Chinese paintings. A must-explore for nature lovers and culture seekers alike!
Special experience / culture events
A Visual Epic Through Time: The Romantic Show of Yangshuo
The Romantic Show of Yangshuo (阳朔千古情) is not just a performance; it is a breathtaking voyage into the cultural soul of Guilin. Rooted in the mystical karst landscape, this world-class production uses state-of-the-art visual effects and immersive storytelling to recreate the millennium-old history and folklore of the Lingnan region.
From the ethereal "Legends of Guilin" to the heroic construction of the Ling Canal during the Qin Dynasty, and from the soulful mountain songs of Liu Sanjie to the vibrant modern spirit of West Street, the show is a living tapestry of history. Utilizing high-tech stage machinery and 3D effects, it places the audience at the center of a grand epic of love, struggle, and tradition.
Yangshuo Mountain Retreat ( 3 Nights )
Established in 2001 as a serene escape from urban life, Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is a premier eco-lodge located on the tranquil banks of the Yulong River. This award-winning sanctuary is celebrated for its commitment to "authentic sustainable tourism," employing local villagers and utilizing eco-friendly practices like solar heating and plastic-free operations.
The architecture reflects local heritage, featuring 29 to 34 rooms adorned with handmade bamboo furniture and traditional textiles. Guests can immerse themselves in regional culture through Tai Chi, calligraphy, and cormorant fishing, or relax in river-view suites. Recognized by National Geographic, the retreat offers a soulful connection to the karst landscape, blending rustic charm with exceptional hospitality.
River front view room
URL LINK: https://www.trip.com/w/T1scaA6UzU2
DAY 3 / Youngshuo / Yulong River
This ambitious 34km cycling route is a premier experience for enthusiasts seeking to go beyond the typical tourist path, traversing the dramatic karst heartland where the Yulong and Jinbao rivers converge. This journey offers a complete immersion into Yangshuo's "living ink painting," blending the famous riverside trails of the Yulong with the rugged, less-traveled backcountry surrounding the Jinbao River.
Route Highlights
The Three-River Convergence: A key landmark is the Gongnong Bridge, where the Yulong, Jinbao, and Tianjia rivers meet. This spot provides a panoramic view of the "Camel Crossing the River" peak and is a hub for watching traditional bamboo rafts navigate the weirs.
Backcountry Exploration: While the Yulong section features well-paved paths and ancient stone bridges like the 600-year-old Yulong Bridge, the extension toward the Jinbao River takes you through primitive villages, rice paddies, and orchards far from the crowds.
Cultural Landmarks: The route typically passes through Jiuxian Ancient Village, known for its Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, and skirts the famous Ten-Mile Gallery near Moon Hill.
Terrain & Effort: At 60 km, this is considered a "Challenging Route" or "Experienced Player" version. While much of the riverside path is flat, the full loop involves navigating local township roads and some moderate climbs through the karst hills.
Total Ride Distance 34km . Total Elevation Gain 231m . Estimated Timeline 3hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Jinbao River/ Yangshuo
Escape the tourist crowds and discover the Jinbao River, a tranquil tributary that offers the most authentic slice of rural life in Yangshuo. As you cycle along its peaceful banks, the scenery shifts from grand peaks to intimate details: ancient stone bridges, water buffalo grazing in lush rice paddies, and quiet villages where time stands still. The water here is crystal clear, mirroring the bamboo groves and distant mountains. This is a route for the soul—a gentle, rhythmic ride through the untouched heart of the countryside.
Yulong River / Yangshuo
As Yangshuo’s iconic waterway, the Yulong River winds through serene karst landscapes—towering limestone peaks, lush rice fields, and ancient villages line its banks. Famous for bamboo rafting on crystal-clear waters, it also boasts scenic cycling paths and walking trails. Away from the crowds, this pristine river offers a peaceful escape to experience Guilin’s "mountains and rivers like paintings" charm. A must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic rural Chinese adventure!
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Magpie Restaurant (Yulong River Branch)
Introduction Hidden within Jima Village inside a restored 100-year-old Northern Guangxi mansion, Magpie Restaurant offers a dining experience steeped in history. This former scholar's residence retains its rustic charm with grey tiles, wooden beams, and a tranquil, leafy courtyard. The highlight is the rooftop terrace, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Yulong River and surrounding peaks. A refreshing departure from typical farmhouse meals, Magpie specializes in exquisite Thai fusion cuisine.
Square Stone Cave
Sifangyan (Square Stone Cave) is a hidden gem tucked away in Fenglou Village, nestled within Yangshuo's breathtaking Ten-Mile Gallery. This karst cave earned its name from its distinctively square-shaped opening. Historically, it served as a mountain refuge for locals seeking shelter from bandits, with ancient defense structures still visible within its chambers today.
Visitors can climb up to discover a unique "natural picture frame" created by the cave opening, which perfectly captures the stunning scenery of the surrounding landscape and the panoramic views of the tranquil Yulong River.
Special experience / culture events
A Culinary Masterclass:
Yangshuo’s Hidden Flavors
Tucked away in the heart of Yangshuo, Yi Xia Tang (阳朔忆夏棠) offers more than just a private dining experience—it is a deep dive into the soul of Guangxi’s culinary traditions. This boutique cooking school bridges the gap between the region’s breathtaking karst landscapes and the vibrant flavors of its local kitchens.
The experience typically begins at the local wet market, where you learn to select the freshest seasonal ingredients, followed by hands-on instruction in a traditional setting. You’ll master the balance of heat and aromatics required for Yangshuo’s signature Beer Fish and delicate stuffed snails. More than a recipe, it’s a lesson in the history of the Jinbao and Li River cultures, served with authentic warmth.
DAY 4 / Xianggong Mountain
The journey from Yangshuo to Xianggong Mountain is a premier adventure for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Located about 28 kilometers from the town, this destination offers a spectacular 180-degree panorama of the Li River’s "First Bend" winding through iconic karst peaks. The ascent involves a short but steep 15 to 20-minute hike up well-maintained stone stairs to reach multiple viewing platforms. Many visitors arrive before dawn to witness the sunrise over the mist-shrouded valley. For a more immersive experience, travelers can extend their trek by descending toward the riverbanks, hiking through local orchards and hamlets to reach the scenic ferry points near Xingping Ancient Town.
Total Ride Distance 66km . Total Elevation Gain 461m . Estimated Timeline 4hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Zhujiang Pier
Serving as the gateway to one of the world’s most beautiful waterways, the Li River docks in Guilin, such as Zhujiang Pier and Mopanshan Pier, are where legendary cruises to Yangshuo begin. These bustling embarkation points offer visitors their first breathtaking glimpse of the iconic karst landscape—limestone peaks shrouded in mist, bamboo groves, and cormorant fishermen.
From here, motorized boats and bamboo rafts glide along the crystal-clear river, passing masterpieces like the Nine-Horse Fresco Hill. Whether you choose a standard cruise or a rustic raft from Yangdi Pier, the journey unfolds like a living scroll of traditional Chinese painting, leaving an indelible impression of serene natural beauty.
Mountain Panorama hike
Nestled on the west bank of the Li River in Xingping Town, Yangshuo, Xianggong Hill lies between Yellow Cloth Shoal and Nine Horses Fresco Hill.
Famous as the best spot to overlook the "First Bend of the Li River", it offers panoramic views of winding rivers and karst peaks.
With a 15-20 minute easy climb, the hill enchants visitors with stunning sunrises, sea of clouds, and golden light—once catapulted to fame by award-winning photos. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers seeking Guilin’s iconic landscape magic!
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Yujiaoji Private Kitchen (Yulong River Branch)
is a farm-style restaurant located by the Yangshuo Yulong River, famous for its freshly roasted Clay Oven Chicken. Recommended dishes include:
Clay Oven Chicken: Freshly killed and roasted, crispy outside and tender inside.
Bamboo Tube Chicken & Bamboo Tube Rice: Infused with the fragrance of bamboo. Stuffed River Snails: A classic Guilin specialty. Steamed Pork with Taro: A local traditional dish.
Quanjia zhou
Quanjiazhou is a secluded and picturesque village, surrounded by lush bamboo groves. Known as the hidden gem of the Li River, it sits on a large, tranquil sandy shoal. This serene location is a key stop on the classic Yangdi to Xingping hiking route, offering stunning views of the surrounding karst peaks. Accessible via scenic ferries, Quanjiazhou provides a peaceful escape from the busier tourist hubs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic rural landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty of Guilin. Its untouched atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for photography and quiet exploration.
Special experience / culture events
Yulong River Rafting:
A Serene Escape in Yangshuo
While the Li River offers grand vistas aboard motorized boats, the Yulong River provides the quintessential serene escape in Yangshuo. Known as the "Little Li River," this winding waterway flows through a tranquil corridor of traditional villages, lush bamboo groves, and iconic karst peaks. The magic lies in the rafting itself. Unlike its noisy counterpart, Yulong uses small, manual bamboo rafts operated by a single punting guide. Without the roar of an engine, your journey is accompanied only by the gentle lapping of water, birdsong, and the whisper of the wind. You drift slowly past water buffalo cooling in the shallows, farmers tending rice paddies, and centuries-old stone bridges arching gracefully overhead.
The most popular sections, such as from Yulong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge, offer a ride dotted with small, exhilarating weirs (low dams) that add just a hint of splash and thrill without breaking the peaceful spell. Whether you choose a half-day trip or the full route, Yulong River rafting is a meditative journey. It is a chance to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with the timeless, breathtaking beauty of rural China—floating in the very painting you came to see.
DAY 5 / Xingping Ancient Town
With a history spanning over 1,700 years, Xingping Ancient Town is a living museum of Lingnan culture nestled along the most scenic stretch of the Li River. Famous for the "Yellow Cloth Reflection" featured on the 20-yuan banknote, the town preserves its original charm through Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, ancient opera stages, and flagstone streets.
For cyclists heading toward Guilin, the route from Xingping often incorporates the Daxing Line, a stunning path that passes through the historic Daxu Ancient Town. This journey offers a moderate yet rewarding ride of approximately 46 km on well-paved roads, including sections once used for the prestigious Tour of Guangxi. Riders will experience a mosaic of emerald karst peaks, traditional farming hamlets, and tranquil river vistas, making it an essential highlight for any Guilin cycling itinerary.
Total Ride Distance 46km . Total Elevation Gain 431m . Estimated Timeline 3hr
Saddle-View Highlights
Sunset Mountain Water Train
Experience is a unique blend of modern engineering and ancient nature. Located near Xingping, travelers gather at high-altitude viewpoints to watch China’s sleek bullet trains glide through the karst mountain range. As the sun sets, the silver trains look like "silver arrows" piercing through the golden-lit peaks and emerald countryside. It has become a viral sensation for photographers, offering a surreal, cinematic contrast between the high-speed rail and the timeless, tranquil landscape of the Li River valley.
Xingping Ancient Town
Perched along the Li River in Yangshuo, Xingping Ancient Town is a timeless gem surrounded by dramatic karst peaks. With a history spanning over 1,700 years, it boasts well-preserved Ming and Qing-era architecture, stone streets, and traditional courtyard houses. Famous as the backdrop of the 20-yuan RMB note, its scenic riverside views, bamboo rafting experiences, and local delicacies make it unforgettable. Whether wandering ancient lanes or admiring the landscape, it’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and rural charm—essential for Yangshuo visitors.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Yuyao Ji Private Kitchen Cuisine (Yulonghe Store)
Laozhai Hill
Laozhai Hill (Laozhai Shan) is a steep limestone peak located right next to the Xingping dock. Renowned as the best free viewpoint in Yangshuo, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Li River’s "First Bend" and the surrounding karst forest. The hike takes about 40 minutes and involves climbing over 1,100 stone steps and a near-vertical iron ladder. It is the ultimate spot for photographers seeking the perfect sunrise or sunset over the peaks.
Yangshuo Bamboo Chicken is a celebrated local delicacy that captures the
essence of the countryside. Fresh chicken is seasoned with ginger, scallions, and mountain herbs, then stuffed into a fresh green bamboo tube.The tube is sealed and slow-roasted over an open charcoal fire. This unique steaming process infuses the meat with a delicate, sweet bamboo aroma, keeping the chicken incredibly tender and juicy. It’s a fragrant, earthy dish that perfectly complements the rustic charm of the Li River region.
Special experience / culture events
Red Yao Embroidery:
A Living Heritage
Red Yao embroidery is a vibrant expression of identity and history, passed down through generations of Red Yao women in Guangxi, China. Recognized in 2014 as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, this intricate craft embodies the soul of a people who have long inhabited the misty terraced hillsides around Longsheng and Longji.
Girls begin learning embroidery from their mothers or grandmothers around age 12 or 13. By their late teens, they are expected to complete their most important project: a full wedding dress. These elaborate garments are lavishly decorated with lotuses, butterflies, phoenixes, and peonies—each motif carrying wishes for happiness and protection. Creating a single dress can take years, making it a true labor of love.
Qingshan No. 1 Longji Courtyard
(Longji Terrace Branch)
Perched on a hillside in the Jinkeng Dazhai Rice Terraces, Qingshan No. 1 Longji Courtyard treats its guests to breathtaking, unobstructed 180-degree views of the cascading “Thousand-Story Ladder of Terraces” and the distant Golden Buddha Summit. The hotel blends modern comforts with traditional Red Yao ethnic stilt house architecture.
After a hotel-designed 2-year construction, the property features a lush garden courtyard and a stunning open-air terrace restaurant, ideal for enjoying morning noodles or a rice wine as the sun sets. All three major viewing platforms of the Longji Terraces are reachable on foot from the courtyard.
Mountain view room
URL LINK:
https://sg.trip.com/hotels/longji-terraces-hotel-detail-67065064/qingshan-no-1-longji-courtyard
DAY 6 / Longji Terraced Fields
The Longji Rice Terraces, specifically the Jinkeng Dazhai area in Longsheng, represent a breathtaking fusion of rugged topography and human ingenuity. Often called the "Dragon's Backbone," these terraces were carved into the mountainsides of Guangxi Province starting in the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and were largely completed by the early Qing Dynasty.
Culture and Heritage
Jinkeng Dazhai is primarily home to the Red Yao ethnic group, one of China's most distinctive minority cultures. Their heritage is woven into the very fabric of the landscape:
Architectural Marvels: The village is famous for its traditional wooden Diaojiaolou (stilt houses) that cling to the steep slopes without the use of metal nails.
The Long Hair Tradition: Red Yao women are world-renowned for their floor-length hair, which they cut only once in their lives (at age 18) as a symbol of longevity and prosperity.
Agricultural Wisdom: The terraces aren't just for show; they are a sophisticated irrigation system. Water flows from the forested mountaintops through a network of bamboo pipes and gravity-fed channels to nourish the rice paddies.
Historical Significance
For over 600 years, these fields have provided a livelihood in a region where flat land is non-existent. The "Jinkeng" (Gold Pit) name refers to the area's history as a gold-mining site, though today the true "gold" is the shimmering yellow rice during the autumn harvest.
Total Ride Distance 47.5km . Total Elevation Gain 605m . Estimated Timeline 4hr
Saddle-View Highlights
The Road to Longji Rice Terraces
The journey to Longji is a scenic climb through deep river valleys and lush bamboo forests. The winding mountain roads offer glimpses of traditional Zhuang and Yao stilt houses perched on steep cliffs.
Historically, these terraces date back over 700 years to the Yuan Dynasty. Hand-carved by ethnic minorities to ensure survival in the mountains, the road represents a bridge between modern travelers and a profound agricultural legacy carved into the "Dragon’s Backbone."
Longsheng Hot Spring SPA Hotel
The Longsheng Hot Spring SPA Hotel, opened in 2004, is the centerpiece of the Longsheng Hot Springs National Forest Park. It is built atop a natural thermal vein where mineral-rich waters gush from 1,200 meters underground. Historically, these "divine waters" have been used by local ethnic minorities for centuries for their healing properties. Today, the hotel blends modern luxury with this ancient wellness tradition, offering a serene escape surrounded by 700-year-old agricultural history and lush primeval forests.
Local Cuisine Recommendations
Longsheng’s cuisine
is a flavorful reflection of its ethnic diversity. The signature dish is Bamboo Tube Rice, where sticky rice, cured meat, and beans are roasted in fresh bamboo for a smoky aroma. Another highlight is Longsheng Oil Tea, a UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage. This "liquid gold" is made by frying tea leaves with ginger and garlic, then served with crispy popped rice and peanuts. These dishes, along with organic mountain vegetables and Longji Rice Wine, offer a healthy, earthy taste of the highlands.
Jinkeng Dazhai
Jinkeng Dazhai is the largest and most spectacular section of the Longji Rice Terraces. Inhabited by the Red Yao minority, it is famous for its grand, amphitheater-like landscapes that change with the seasons—from "silver mirrors" in spring to "golden waves" in autumn.
Highlights include the Golden Buddha Peak, accessible by cable car for a breathtaking sunset, and West Hill Music, the highest point for panoramic sunrise views. It’s a paradise for hikers and photographers seeking authentic ethnic culture and vast, vertical scenery.
Special experience / culture events
A Sip of Heritage: The Art of Longsheng Oil Tea
In the mist-shrouded Longji Rice Terraces, Longsheng Oil Tea (龙胜油茶) is more than a beverage—it is a cornerstone of the Guangxi minority culture, particularly for the Yao and Dong people. Often called "Chinese coffee," this traditional brew is a centuries-old remedy for the humid mountain climate, known for its medicinal and revitalizing properties. Learning to make Oil Tea is a rhythmic, sensory experience. You begin by "frying" tea leaves in a cast-iron wok with ginger, garlic, and scallions, using a wooden mallet to crush the mixture until the oils release a fragrant, toasted aroma. Boiling water is added to create a golden, savory broth.
The final bowl is a customized masterpiece, topped with crispy puffed rice, fried soybeans, and peanuts. To sit with a local family and master this craft is to taste the literal "roots" of the mountain, blending culinary skill with a deep sense of community and history.
Qingshan No. 1 Longji Courtyard
(Longji Terrace Branch)
Perched on a hillside in the Jinkeng Dazhai Rice Terraces, Qingshan No. 1 Longji Courtyard treats its guests to breathtaking, unobstructed 180-degree views of the cascading “Thousand-Story Ladder of Terraces” and the distant Golden Buddha Summit. The hotel blends modern comforts with traditional Red Yao ethnic stilt house architecture.
After a hotel-designed 2-year construction, the property features a lush garden courtyard and a stunning open-air terrace restaurant, ideal for enjoying morning noodles or a rice wine as the sun sets. All three major viewing platforms of the Longji Terraces are reachable on foot from the courtyard.
Mountain view room
URL LINK:
https://sg.trip.com/hotels/longji-terraces-hotel-detail-67065064/qingshan-no-1-longji-courtyard
What's included
The following services are part of your standard package to ensure comfort and technical support throughout the 6-night journey:
Support & Logistics
Dedicated Support Van : A vehicle follows the group every step of the way to provide mechanical support, luggage transport, and a "sag wagon" option for tired riders ( 6 passenger van )
Professional Driver: A dedicated driver for the support vehicle.
English-Speaking Professional Cycling Crew: Every tour is supported by a dedicated driver and expert Cycling Guides maintained at a 1:6 ratio for maximum safety and personalized attention. Our guides are multi-talented professionals: they lead the navigation, provide advanced mechanical support (Ride, Tech, Repair), and are fully trained in emergency first aid. They also act as your personal on-road content creators, capturing high-quality photos and videos throughout your journey.
Specialist Cultural Guides: Depending on the itinerary, we provide professional English-speaking cultural guides for city and heritage tours. These experts offer deep insights into local history and traditions, providing a rich, educational narrative that complements your physical adventure.
Accommodation & Meals
Luxury Accommodation: 6 nights of stay based on two guests per hotel room.
Daily Breakfast: Morning meals are included at each hotel.
Media Services
Professional Content Team: Comprehensive tour photography and video services.
DJI Drone Service: Aerial drone footage of the group cycling through the scenic landscapes.
Safety & Insurance
High-Limit Travel Insurance: Every participant is provided with 1,000,000 RMB accidental travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and accidental injuries during the tour.
Entrance Fees: Tickets for travel hotspots, cultural shows (e.g., Impression Liu Sanjie), and scenic area shuttles are included.
Not Included in the Tour
Guests should budget for the following additional costs and administrative requirements:
Lunch & Dinner: Daily meals (other than breakfast) are not included.
Bicycle Rentals
MTB, Carbon Road Bike, E-bike ( Please let us know your size and peddle requirements ahead of time. )
Documentation & Personal Travel
Visa Processing: Guests must process their Chinese visas independently.
Additional Travel Insurance: While 1M RMB accidental insurance is provided, guests must obtain their own comprehensive Travel Insurance (covering trip cancellation or illness) before submitting visa documents.
Single Occupancy: Single-room requests are subject to availability and will incur an additional fee.
Elite Support Vehicle & Logistics Infrastructure
A fleet of Professional Drivers (all highly experienced mountain drivers and active cycling enthusiasts) will man our dedicated support vans, shadowing the group every kilometer of the way.
Every vehicle is outfitted with a Full Logistics & Comfort Checklist (Items 1–19):
1.Roof Bike Carrier: Premium Thule rack system securely holding up to 6 bicycles per vehicle.
2.Side Awning Tent: Retractable vehicle canopy providing immediate outdoor shade and rest space.
3.Onboard Mini Refrigerator: Portable car fridge keeping drinks cold and fresh food chilled.
4. Cooking Kit: Complete outdoor cookware and portable gas stoves for field meal preparation.
5.Portable Power Station: High-capacity mobile power supply for all field electronics and appliances.
6. Pressurized Mobile Shower Set: Pressure-driven portable system for outdoor rinsing and bathing.
7.Detachable Changing Tent: Independent pop-up privacy tent for roadside clothes changes.
8.Camping Furniture: Foldable premium outdoor dining tables and matching camping chairs.
9.First Aid Kit: Standard comprehensive emergency medical and trauma treatment kit.
10.Cycling Energy Supplements: On-tour fuel supply including sports energy drinks and electrolyte powders.
10.Fresh Food Supply: Fresh bananas, assorted seasonal fruits, bread, and daily drinking water.
11.Beverage Reserve: Coca-Cola, craft beers, and red wine for post-ride relaxation.
12. Full Bicycle Repair Toolkit: Professional, portable bike-shop toolsets stationed in every van.
13.Certified Driver Team: Drivers possess over 10 years of experience navigating high-altitude and rugged terrain.
14. Professional Bike Tech Training: Every driver has completed formal mechanical bicycle repair courses.
15. Driver Cycling Hobby: Drivers are active cyclists, understanding rider needs intuitively.
16. Off-Road Ready Tires: Vehicles modified with rugged, off-road tires for mountain gravel and complex roads.
17. Emergency Spare Parts: Onboard reserve of common components for quick, roadside mechanical fixes.
18. Daily Camping Consumables: Full stock of cleaning supplies and daily necessities for multi-day outdoor comfort.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation request, in accordance with the following schedule:
90 days or more prior to scheduled departure: 5% of the total cost per person.
45 days or more prior to scheduled departure: 15% of the total cost per person.
15 to 44 days prior to scheduled departure: 30% of the total cost per person.
7 to 14 days prior to scheduled departure: 50% of the total cost per person.
6 days or less prior to scheduled departure: 100% of the total cost per person.
Important Notes:
Third-Party Fees: Any additional cancellation fees imposed by external service providers (including, but not limited to, banks, payment platforms, airlines, cruise lines, hotels, or railway companies) will be deducted from your final refund amount.
Traveler Changes: Changing the name of a traveler on an existing booking is considered a cancellation and is subject to the standard policy and fees outlined above.
Unused Services: Once a tour has commenced, we are unable to provide refunds for any unused services (including hotels, transportation, meals, or admission fees) resulting from late arrivals, early departures, or missed days on the tour.
Promotional Offers: Special terms and conditions may apply to promotional bookings.
Premium Fleet Rentals
Top-tier E-bikes, Road, and MTBs maintained to western standards, available with pre-loaded GPS routes for independent exploration.
MTB
"Ride China’s rugged terrain with confidence. Our premium fleet features top international brands like Specialized, Cannondale, and Trek. Professionally tuned for performance, we stock all sizes (XS to XL) to ensure the perfect fit. Experience reliable, high-end gear designed for technical single-track and scenic off-road adventures."
ROAD
"Experience pure speed on our elite fleet of full-carbon road bikes. We feature legendary brands including Colnago, Specialized, Cannondale, and Trek. We guarantee the perfect match for your geometry with all sizes available. Light, stiff, and professionally fitted to your specs for the ultimate riding experience."
E-BIKE
"Eliminate range anxiety with our expedition-ready E-bikes, capable of an impressive 170 KM on a single charge. Designed for long-distance touring, every bike comes fully equipped with integrated front and rear safety lights and spacious travel bags for your gear. Explore China further, faster, and effortlessly."
Special Experience guided bike tour
Beijing
For over 3,000 years, Beijing has been the beating heart of Chinese civilization. It is a city of staggering contrasts: immense imperial palaces—the Forbidden City—sit beside intimate hutong alleyways where the echo of bicycle bells lingers. The Great Wall snakes along the northern mountains like a sleeping dragon, while futuristic skyscrapers pierce the smog-free skies of the CBD. As you pedal through this living museum, you feel the weight of history under your wheels: emperors, revolutionaries, dreamers. Yet the city never rests. From sizzling Peking duck stalls to hidden courtyard teahouses, Beijing thrums with the vibrant pulse of a modern superpower—ancient, bold, and utterly unforgettable.
"Experience China’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient culture from the saddle. Safe, supported, and authentic adventures away from the crowds."
Yangshuo
Guilin, in China's Guangxi region, is famous for having "the finest scenery under heaven." The city is dominated by spectacular karst topography—thousands of unique limestone peaks rising steeply from the ground like ancient sentinels. The crystal-clear Li River threads through this surreal landscape, its emerald waters mirroring the jagged hills. Key attractions include the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, a rock formation resembling a giant elephant drinking from the river, and the breathtaking cruise to Yangshuo, where every bend reveals another postcard-perfect view. Guilin provides a mystical, tranquil natural beauty often depicted in classic Chinese ink paintings—a place where mist drapes over peaks and time seems to stand still.
ChengDu
Tucked away within Liangtai Gou near Chengdu, Sunshine Lover's Valley lives up to its romantic name. Bathed in abundant sunlight even as mist lingers elsewhere, this hidden gem offers pristine forests, gurgling streams, and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Towering snow-capped peaks frame the horizon, while lush greenery embraces every winding path. The gentle sound of flowing water accompanies your every step, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples seeking solitude or nature lovers craving tranquility. Whether you're sharing a quiet picnic by the creek or simply holding hands beneath the dappled sunlight, this valley feels like a secret whispered between the mountains—a place where love and nature bloom together in perfect harmony.
4 day 3 night tour
7 day 6 night tour
4 day 3 night tour
Shangri-la
6 day 5 night tour
Where snow-capped peaks pierce the heavens, Shangri-La offers an otherworldly escape into Yunnan’s wild frontier. Wander ancient cobblestone streets in Dukezong, one of Tibet’s best-preserved old towns. Hear rhythmic chants echoing within Songzanlin Monastery, the “Little Potala Palace,” where prayer wheels spin beneath golden rooftops. Lose yourself in pristine alpine valleys—Pudacuo’s crystal lakes and flower-strewn meadows. Here, ancient Tibetan myths breathe and untamed nature truly thrives. Wild yaks graze beneath glacier-carved ridges; prayer flags flutter in crisp mountain air. Whether seeking spiritual peace or high-altitude adventure, Shangri-La calls you home to a land where legend and landscape become one.
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