China is home to landscapes that look like they were pulled straight from an ancient scroll painting. But for many travelers, the fear of high costs and complex logistics keeps these bucket-list destinations out of reach. What if I told you that you could experience the four most viral, jaw-dropping adventures in the heart of Guilin and Yangshuo for a grand total of just $88?
Join me on a breathtaking journey through the dramatic karst landscape of Guilin, China. We’ll take a scenic cruise along the river, surrounded by stunning landscapes and towering limestone cliffs. Experience the natural beauty of this incredible region, soaking in the serene river views and picturesque villages along the way.
I’m about to break down a trip that looks like a million bucks but costs less than a fancy dinner back home. We’re talking about Guilin and Yangshuo—the land of “Ink Wash Painting” landscapes, emerald rivers, and karst mountains that look like they belong on another planet.
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From the iconic 20 Yuan banknote view to the mist-covered peaks of the Li River, this is the ultimate China Travel guide for those looking to see the “Unseen China” on a budget. In this China vlog companion article, we are breaking down the logistics, the costs, and the viral secrets of Guangxi province.
Table of Contents
- 1. Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin’s Free Iconic Landmark
- 2. Two Rivers and Four Lakes: The “Venice of the East” Night Cruise
- 3. The Li River Cruise: A 4K Journey to Yangshuo
- 4. Xingping Ancient Town: The 20 Yuan Note Landscape
- Bonus Adventure: Yulong River Bamboo Rafting (The 9 Dams)
- The Perfect 3-Day Guilin & Yangshuo Itinerary
- Final Budget Breakdown: How We Spent Only $88
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin’s Free Iconic Landmark
Our journey begins in the heart of Guilin city. If you’ve ever searched for Guilin China on Instagram or Pinterest, the first image you likely saw was Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan). This natural rock formation at the confluence of the Li and Taohua rivers looks exactly like a giant elephant drinking water.
This is the symbol of Guilin. It literally looks like a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River for a drink. While it used to be a paid attraction, it is now completely free for visitors (though you usually need to book a time slot on their WeChat mini-program).
The Viral Factor (Score: 9.5/10)
The “Water Moon Cave” is the circular opening between the elephant’s trunk and its body. At night, the reflection of this cave in the river creates the illusion of a full moon floating on the water. It’s a 10/10 photo op and a staple of any travel vlog.
The Cost: Free
For years, this was a paid attraction. However, in a move to boost China travel, the government made it free to the public. You simply need to bring your passport and book a time slot. It is the highest-value “free” activity in all of China.
Pro Tip: Most tourists stay at the bottom. For a “Hidden China” experience, hike the steep stairs to the top of the “elephant’s back” to find the Puxian Pagoda. The view of the city skyline framed by karst mountains is unbeatable.
Why It’s Viral
Between the “trunk” and the “body” is a circular cave called Water Moon Cave. On a clear night with a full moon, the reflection in the water makes it look like there’s a moon floating on the river. It’s a photographer’s dream.
Top Tip: Skip the midday heat. Arrive at 7:00 AM for the morning mist or stay for the sunset when the hill is illuminated with golden lights.
2. Two Rivers and Four Lakes: The “Venice of the East”
As the sun sets, Guilin transforms. The city lights up in a neon glow that reflects off the surrounding waters. This is the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise.
If you think Guilin is beautiful by day, wait until the sun goes down. This cruise takes you through the heart of the city, connecting the Li and Taohua Rivers with four inland lakes.
The Experience
For 180-220 RMB ($25-31 USD), you board a glass-top boat. You’ll navigate the Li River, Taohua River, and the four inland lakes: Ronghu, Shahu, Guihu, and Mulonghu. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a journey through architectural history. You will pass under 19 different bridges, each modeled after a famous bridge in the world, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pont Neuf in Paris.
Why It’s Worth the $30
The highlight is the Sun and Moon Pagodas. The Sun Pagoda is the world’s tallest copper pagoda and glows a fiery gold, while the Moon Pagoda is silver. Seeing these twin towers reflected in the lake at night is a China 4k dream come true. This is where your budget starts to work for you—providing a luxury experience for the price of a movie ticket and popcorn in the US.
What to Expect
You’ll sail past the famous Sun and Moon Pagodas. The Sun Pagoda is the world’s tallest copper pagoda and glows a brilliant gold, while the Moon Pagoda shines silver.
The Vibe: It feels like a futuristic version of Venice. You’ll pass under 19 bridges modeled after famous bridges around the world (like the Golden Gate and Pont Neuf).
Cost: 180–220 RMB ($25–31 USD) depending on the boat type.
3. The Li River Cruise: A Journey to Yangshuo, China
No China travel guide is complete without the Li River Cruise. This is the legendary 83km stretch of water that has inspired Chinese poets and painters for millennia. It is the backbone of Paradise adventures in China.
Choosing Your Cruise
- 3-Star Cruise: Costing around 200-250 RMB ($28-35 USD). This is the “budget traveler” favorite. It includes a simple lunch box and plenty of outdoor deck space for photos.
- 4-Star Cruise: More expensive, with better food and fewer people, but the views are exactly the same!
What You’ll See
The cruise takes about 4 hours. You will pass the Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, where the minerals on the cliffside have created patterns that look like galloping horses. Legend says if you can spot all nine, you are a genius. You will also pass through the Yellow Cloth Reflection, where the mountains are so perfectly mirrored in the water that it’s hard to tell where the sky ends and the river begins.
Highlights
Nine-Horse Fresco Hill: A cliffside where the weathered rock looks like nine galloping horses.
Yellow Cloth Reflection: Where the water is so green and still that the mountains reflect perfectly on the surface.
The Price: You can find 3-star cruises for roughly 250 RMB ($35 USD). This is the best way to get from Guilin to the backpacker paradise of Yangshuo.
4. Xingping Ancient Town: The 20 Yuan Note Landscape
The cruise usually ends in Yangshuo, but the most famous spot is actually just upriver in Xingping. If you look at the back of a Chinese 20 Yuan note, you are looking at the landscape of Xingping.
The 10/10 Viral Score
To get the “money shot,” head to the 20 Yuan Note Viewpoint. It is completely free to access. For the best experience, find a local fisherman with cormorant birds. For a small tip (usually 20-50 RMB), they will pose for you, creating that iconic unseen China image of the traditional fisherman against the karst peaks.
Hidden Gem: Laozhai Mountain
While everyone else is at the riverbank, the real travel vloggers are climbing Laozhai Mountain. It is a grueling, vertical 30-minute hike on uneven stairs. There is no entrance fee. At the top, you get a 360-degree view of the Li River’s “Big Bend.” It is arguably the best view in all of Guilin China.
How to get the shot
Walk about 15 minutes from Xingping Ancient Town to the viewpoint pier.
Hold up your 20 Yuan note.
Align it with the mountains.
Instant Viral Photo.
Bonus: For the best aerial view, hike up Laozhai Mountain. It’s a steep 30-minute climb, but the 360-degree view of the Li River bend is the best “unseen China” view you’ll ever get for zero dollars.
Bonus China Adventure: Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
If the Li River is the “Mother River,” the Yulong River is her peaceful, more adventurous sister. In Yangshuo, the Yulong River Bamboo Rafting is a non-negotiable activity.
The “9 Dams” Route
Don’t just take any raft. Ask for the Golden Dragon Bridge to Old County route. It costs 320 RMB ($45 USD) for a raft that seats two people—breaking down to $22.50 per person.
Unlike the Li River, these rafts are made of real bamboo and are hand-pushed by a raftsman with a pole. The excitement comes from the 9 stone dams. Your raft will “slide” down each one, creating a splash and a mini-rollercoaster thrill. It is the most fun you can have in Yangshuo China for under $25.
The “Most Exciting” Route
Ask for the Golden Dragon Bridge to Old County route.
Length: 6km (90 minutes).
The Thrill: You will go over 9 dams. Yes, the raft literally slides down a water drop. You’ll get a little wet, but the adrenaline rush and the quiet beauty of the “Little Li River” are unmatched.
The Perfect 3-Day Guilin & Yangshuo Itinerary
To maximize your China travel itinerary, follow this plan:
- Day 1: Arrive in Guilin. Visit Elephant Trunk Hill (Free). Evening: Two Rivers Four Lakes Cruise ($30).
- Day 2: Morning Li River Cruise to Yangshuo ($35). Explore West Street in the evening.
- Day 3: Morning Yulong River Bamboo Rafting ($23). Afternoon: Scooter to Xingping for the 20 Yuan view (Free).
Final Budget Breakdown: How We Spent Only $88
| Adventure | Cost (USD) | Viral Score |
|---|---|---|
| Elephant Trunk Hill | $0.00 | 9.5/10 |
| Two Rivers Four Lakes Cruise | $30.00 | 8.5/10 |
| Li River Cruise (3-Star) | $35.00 | 9.5/10 |
| Yulong River Bamboo Rafting | $23.00 | 9.0/10 |
| TOTAL | $88.00 | Bucket List Approved |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is China open for travel in 2026?
Yes! China has expanded its visa-free entry for many countries and has streamlined the process for Travel China enthusiasts. Always check the latest embassy requirements before booking.
How do I pay for things in China?
Cash is rarely used. You should download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link your international credit card. This will make your China tour much smoother as you can pay for everything from street food to cruise tickets with a QR code.
Can I see these spots if I don’t speak Chinese?
Absolutely. Guilin and Yangshuo are major international tourist hubs. Most signs are in English, and translation apps like Baidu Translate or Google Translate (with a VPN) work wonders.
What is the best way to get around Yangshuo?
Rent an e-scooter! For about 30-50 RMB ($5-7 USD) a day, you can zip through the rice paddies and karst mountains at your own pace. It is the quintessential travel vlog china experience.
Is it safe for solo travelers?
China is incredibly safe. Guilin and Yangshuo are very used to international tourists, so even if you don’t speak Mandarin, translation apps and friendly locals will get you where you need to go.
Ready to see the best places to visit in China? If you enjoyed this guide, leave a comment below! I can help you find the best hotels in Guilin or explain how to navigate the high-speed train system for your next China adventure.
