Four Days in Guilin

Day 3: Li River Cruise and Yangshuo

We got up early and went to the jetty at the city centre when we were surprised to see the large number of luxury air-conditioned boats. These were rapidly filling up with hordes of tourists disembarking from many tourist buses. We were genially welcomed aboard. Our boat had two tiers with comfortable seats and tables. Snacks and food were available to bide the journey of four hours of the cruise. The cruise along the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo is an unforgettable experience. At almost every bend in the river there were stunning and interesting scenery to see. Between spectacular limestone peaks there are graceful bamboo groves, farmers tending rice paddies, and lumbering water buffaloes pulling carts or cooling off in the river. As our boat traversed through the bends of the river, we were told of the history of the area and its scenery.

After four-hour cruise we arrived in Yangshuo, a lovely tiny town set among the limestone pinnacles. The area is internationally known for its superlatively natural beauty. Over centuries it has been a magnet for artists and poets who has been inspired by the unique landscape and created their masterpieces.

It was said that the countryside around Yangshuo is ideal for bike rides. So in the afternoon we hired bikes head for the countryside. Most of the routes were flat enough - with only very small hills. Although the weather was a little bit hot, the cool scenery around reward us. After half an hour's ride we arrived at the destination - Yulong River. The incredible scenery there drove us rise our cameras and took lots of pictures.