Explore China's stunning natural landscapes on a 7-day budget adventure! Discover Guilin's karst mountains, cruise the Li River, hike Longji Terraces, and experience authentic local culture.
Day 1
Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)
Take the airport shuttle bus to Guilin city center (approx. 30-40 RMB). Use Didi (China's Uber) or a local taxi for the final leg to your budget hostel; have WeChat Pay/Alipay ready.
Check-in to Hostel & Refresh
Many hostels offer dorms or private rooms at budget prices. Book in advance via international platforms like Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Explore Rongshan Lake Park & Sun and Moon Pagodas (exterior view)
Enjoy a free stroll around the beautiful lakes. The pagodas are lit up at night, offering a picturesque view, and there is no entrance fee for the park itself.
Dinner at ZhengYang Pedestrian Street
Sample local street food and budget-friendly eateries. Look for Guilin rice noodles (Mifen), a local specialty, typically costing under 15 RMB per bowl.
Day 2
Bus to Yangdi Pier
Take a public bus from Guilin Bus Station to Yangdi (approx. 1.5 hours, 20-30 RMB). This is the starting point for a more authentic and budget-friendly bamboo raft trip.
Li River Bamboo Rafting (Yangdi to Xingping)
Negotiate with local raft operators for a 1.5-2 hour trip (around 100-150 RMB per person, shared raft). This offers stunning views of the karst landscape.
Explore Xingping Ancient Town
Wander through the charming old streets and visit the viewpoint for the 20 RMB banknote scenery (free). Grab a simple, cheap lunch from a local vendor.
Bus to Yangshuo
Regular public buses connect Xingping to Yangshuo (approx. 40 minutes, 10-15 RMB). Check into your budget guesthouse upon arrival.
Dinner & West Street Stroll
Explore Yangshuo's famous West Street. While touristy, you can find affordable local eateries away from the main drag, but be prepared for souvenir hawkers.
Day 3
Bike Rental & Countryside Cycling
Rent a bicycle (15-30 RMB/day) and cycle through the scenic countryside. Head towards Moon Hill (view from afar) or explore smaller villages; bring water and sunscreen.
Picnic Lunch or Local Eatery
Pack some snacks or find a small local restaurant in a village for an affordable meal. Avoid tourist traps near major attractions.
Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
Experience a quieter, more serene bamboo raft trip on the Yulong River (approx. 150-200 RMB per raft for 2 people). It's a peaceful alternative to the busier Li River.
Return Bikes & Relax
Return your rented bike and freshen up at your guesthouse. Many guesthouses offer laundry services for a small fee.
Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Try some local dishes like beer fish (if your budget allows, share with others) or simpler noodle/rice dishes, which are generally very affordable.
Day 4
Morning Walk/Relax
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Yangshuo, perhaps visit a local market or relax by the river. This is a good opportunity for souvenir shopping.
Lunch
Grab a quick and cheap lunch from a street stall or a local noodle shop. Look for places popular with locals.
Bus to Xingping
Take a public bus back to Xingping (approx. 10-15 RMB). Buses run frequently from Yangshuo North Bus Station.
Hike Laozhai Mountain
This challenging but rewarding hike (free entrance) offers panoramic views of the Li River and Xingping. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; aim for sunset if possible.
Return to Yangshuo
Catch a bus back to Yangshuo after your hike. Make sure to check the last bus times.
Farewell Dinner in Yangshuo
Enjoy your last evening meal in Yangshuo. Consider trying different street food options or a final bowl of Guilin rice noodles.
Day 5
Bus from Yangshuo to Guilin North Bus Station
Take an early bus (approx. 1.5 hours, 30-40 RMB). This is the main transit point for buses heading to Longji.
Bus from Guilin to Longji Scenic Area (Ping'an Village)
Find a direct bus or shared minivan from Guilin North Bus Station to Ping'an parking lot (approx. 2-3 hours, 50-70 RMB). You'll need to pay the Longji entrance fee (around 80-100 RMB) upon arrival.
Hike to Ping'an Village Guesthouse
From the parking lot, it's a 30-60 minute uphill walk to Ping'an village, as cars cannot enter. Your guesthouse might offer porter service for luggage (negotiate price).
Check-in & Explore Ping'an Village
Settle into your guesthouse. Many offer basic but comfortable rooms with stunning views. Explore the Diaojiaolou (stilt houses) and observe the Zhuang minority culture.
Dinner at Guesthouse
Most guesthouses offer home-cooked meals (often with local ingredients like bamboo-cooked rice) at reasonable prices. This is a convenient and authentic option for dinner.
Day 6
Sunrise View & Breakfast
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the terraces from a nearby viewpoint. Enjoy breakfast at your guesthouse, which often includes local specialties.
Hike to 'Seven Stars Accompany the Moon' Viewpoint
Embark on a moderate hike to one of Ping'an's most famous viewpoints. The paths are well-marked, but wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
Lunch in Ping'an
Try another local eatery or your guesthouse for lunch. Don't miss the local glutinous rice wine, often homemade.
Hike to 'Nine Dragons and Five Tigers' Viewpoint
Continue exploring the terraces, soaking in the breathtaking scenery. This viewpoint offers a different perspective of the intricate terrace patterns.
Relax & Experience Village Life
Spend the late afternoon observing daily life in the village, perhaps interacting with locals. Basic Mandarin phrases will be helpful for communication.
Dinner & Stargazing
Enjoy a final dinner in the tranquil village. On a clear night, the lack of light pollution offers excellent stargazing opportunities.
Day 7
Breakfast & Check-out
Enjoy one last view of the terraces over breakfast at your guesthouse. Settle any remaining bills.
Hike down to Parking Lot & Bus to Guilin
Walk back down to the parking lot. Take a shared minivan or bus back to Guilin city (approx. 2-3 hours), which usually drops you near the main bus station.
Lunch in Guilin (Optional)
If time permits, grab a quick lunch near the bus station or airport shuttle stop. Guilin rice noodles are always a good, cheap option.
Airport Transfer
Take the airport shuttle bus from Guilin city center to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) (approx. 30-40 RMB). Allow ample time for traffic and check-in procedures.
Depart from Guilin
Ensure you have your e-ticket or boarding pass ready for your departure flight. Remember to declare any items if required.