Discover the Real Guilin-Yangshuo by Foot
Guilin and Yangshuo are famous for their breathtaking karst landscapes—those iconic limestone peaks that grace Chinese paintings and the 20-yuan note. While most visitors cruise the Li River by boat, the best way to truly experience this UNESCO-worthy scenery is on foot. In 2019, I organized a multi-day walking journey with friends from Guilin to Yangshuo, immersing us in ancient towns, riverside villages, and dramatic mountain views.
This moderate 5-day trek (with luggage transfers) is perfect for curious walkers who want to slow down, connect with local life, and end at our charming riverside retreat. It’s part of our Walk & Talk series—think deep conversations, shared discoveries, and the joy of presence amid extraordinary natural beauty.
Why Walk Instead of Cruise?
- Immerse in authentic countryside life: villages, markets, and ferry crossings.
- Flexible pacing with easy-to-moderate daily distances (5–19 km).
- Private luggage van means you walk light.
- End with a celebratory stay at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat on the peaceful Yulong River.
The Itinerary: Guilin to Yangshuo on Foot
Day 0: Arrival in Guilin
International flight to Guilin. Meet at the airport and transfer to Sheraton Guilin Hotel. Free time to rest and explore the city. Dinner at a local restaurant. Alternatively, stay right in the heart of old Guilin on Ronghu Lake at the Tea Aroma Hotel, a foreign guest favorite.
Sleep: Sheraton Guilin or Tea Aroma
Day 1: Guilin to Daxu Ancient Town (~8 km easy walk)
Check out and leave heavy bags in the lobby (they’ll be transferred daily by private van). Transfer to the outskirts of Guilin to begin your long march. Wander Daxu, one of ancient China’s largest markets, known for its vibrant trade history. Lunch at a local spot, followed by dinner with river views.
Sleep: Ancient Town Jiangjing Hotel (river view rooms)
Day 2: Daxu to Caoping (~19 km easy walk, flat paved road)
Follow the scenic Li River path to Caoping town. Enjoy peaceful riverside scenery and rural charm. Lunch at a river-view restaurant; dinner at the guesthouse.
Sleep: Lijiangyuan Guesthouse (best in town—exclusive use of its 6 rooms)
Day 3: Caoping to Yangdi (~8 km countryside road)
Take a short ferry across the Li River and walk to Yangdi town. Lunch locally, then explore the village in the afternoon. Dinner at the courtyard hotel.
Sleep: Yangdi Courtyard Hotel (standard rooms)
Day 4: Yangdi to Xianggong Hill Area (~13 km countryside road)
Another ferry crossing leads to Xingping Ancient Town for lunch. In the afternoon, cross the river again and walk toward Xianggong Hill. Dinner at the hilltop café with panoramic views.
Sleep: Xianggong Hill Café (basic rooms)
Day 5: Xianggong Hill to Baisha (~18 km, scenic mountain walk)
Early rise for sunrise from the top of Xianggong Hill—one of the trek’s highlights. Then descend and walk through stunning mountain scenery to Baisha town. Meals at local restaurants.
Sleep: Local hostel (basic rooms)
Day 6: Baisha to Jiuxian Village (~5 km easy walk)
Short, pleasant walk. Check the local market if it’s market day. Lunch and dinner at local spots, ending at a charming courtyard.
Sleep: Ruihua Courtyard Hotel
Day 7: Jiuxian to Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (~9 km easy walk along Yulong River)
Final leg along the beautiful Yulong River. Lunch locally; celebratory dinner at the Retreat. You’ve made it—congratulations on completing this epic trek!
Sleep: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (charming river-view rooms)
Day 8: Departure
Check out by 10:30 AM and transfer to Guilin bullet train station (or airport). End of the tour.
Practical Tips for Your Guilin-Yangshuo Walk
- Difficulty: Mostly easy to moderate on paved/countryside roads and paths. Suitable for fit walkers; good footwear recommended.
- Best Season: Spring (March–May) or autumn (Sept–Nov) for mild weather and clear views. Avoid summer heat/rain.
- What to Pack: Light daypack, comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket, hat, reusable water bottle, snacks, and a camera/phone for those epic karst vistas.
- Logistics: We handle luggage transfers, transfers, ferries, and most meals. This keeps the focus on walking and connecting.
- Extensions: Add time in Yangshuo for biking the Yulong River, bamboo rafting, rock climbing, or simply relaxing at the Retreat.
This journey isn’t just about the miles—it’s about presence, conversation, and discovering the timeless beauty of rural Guangxi. Many participants describe it as life-affirming, blending physical movement with cultural immersion.
Ready to Walk with Us?
We’re planning a renewed version of this trek with a small group of curious, kind, and interesting people (more on that soon). If you’d like to join a future Walk & Talk or customize this for your group, contact us. In the meantime, stay at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat and explore the area at your own pace.
— Chris Barclay, Yangshuo Mountain Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Guilin to Yangshuo walking trek?
The main trekking portion is 5 days / approximately 70+ km of walking, spread over easy to moderate daily distances from 5 km to 19 km.
Is the Guilin to Yangshuo walk difficult?
Most days are easy to moderate on flat or gently rolling countryside roads and paths. It is suitable for reasonably fit walkers. Good walking shoes are recommended.
What is included in the trek?
Daily luggage transfers by private van, ground transfers, most meals, ferry crossings, and accommodation each night. You only need to carry a light daypack.
When is the best time to do the Guilin to Yangshuo walk?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and clearest views of the karst landscape.
Where does the trek end?
It ends at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, a peaceful riverside hotel on the Yulong River with river-view rooms.
Can I join a group Walk & Talk?
Yes. We are organizing a new edition with curious, kind, and interesting travelers and content creators. Contact us for details.