4-Day Center of the Earth Tour
This is a journey to deeply experience Guilin’s landscape and unique outdoor activities. Visitors will participate in the geocentric caving project to experience the mystery of the original ecological cave; climb Xianggong Mountain to overlook the magnificent landscape of the Li River; hike along the Li River to enjoy classic landscapes such as the reflection of the yellow cloth; experience double bamboo rafting on the Yulong River to experience the beautiful scenery of “not the Li River, but better than the Li River”; and freely explore the pastoral scenery and natural beauty in Yangshuo Shili Gallery, encounter famous attractions such as Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree, and fully appreciate the poetic landscape and customs of Guilin.
Included with every escorted tour
Day 1: Guilin
Guilin Arrival
4- Star hotel
None
Welcome to Guilin! Upon arrival, please collect your luggage and proceed to the exit, where our station representative will be holding a sign with the name of the lead guest. After verifying your details, a private vehicle will be arranged to take you to your hotel in downtown Guilin (approximately a 60-minute drive). There are no scheduled activities today, so if you arrive early, feel free to explore the city on your own.
For those looking to explore Guilin independently: (Please note that no transportation or guide will be provided during this time.)
You can discover the popular local cuisine and experience the lifestyle of old Guilin. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife. Feel free to wander through the Banyan and Cypress Lake Scenic Area, where you can visit the Sun and Moon Twin Towers, the Ancient South Gate, the Millennium Banyan Tree, and the Crystal Glass Bridge.
Day 2: Guilin
Journey to the Center of the Earth
4+ Star Hotel
Breakfast
After breakfast, we’ll set off by vehicle to our destination to embark on the “Journey to the Center of the Earth”. Upon arrival, our instructor will brief us on the cave exploration safety guidelines. We’ll then gear up with helmets, headlamps, and other necessary equipment before beginning our adventure.
Led by a professional guide, we’ll enter the pristine, undeveloped cave system that forms the core of our “Journey to the Center of the Earth” experience. Once inside, it’s crucial to follow the guide’s instructions and protect the cave environment by avoiding any unnecessary contact or littering.
Our activities will include:
Rappelling into the Cave: We’ll start with a thrilling descent from the cave’s cliff entrance to the bottom.
Lunch Break Inside the Cave: A simple meal will be taken inside the cave (at your own expense; you may purchase food beforehand or bring snacks).
Learning About the Cave’s Formation: Our guide will explain the geological processes that created the cave and share fascinating stories about its history.
Cave Games and Relaxation: Finally, we’ll engage in some fun cave games to unwind and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
After our cave adventure, we’ll return to the cave entrance and travel to Xianggong Mountain, where we’ll check into our hotel.
Day 3: Guilin
Xianggong Mountain – Hiking along the Li River – Double Bamboo Rafting on Yulong River
4+ Star Hotel
Breakfast
Xianggong Mountain (Approximately 70 minutes of exploration)
Xianggong Mountain is located on the west bank of the Li River in Xingping Town, Yangshuo, about 28 kilometers from Yangshuo, between the attractions of Huangbu Beach and Jiuma Painted Hills. Climbing to the top of Xianggong Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the orderly mountain peaks and the meandering Li River, embraced by the mountains. The interplay of light and shadow, sea of clouds, sunrises, and colorful sunsets here has attracted countless photographers and enthusiasts. Works captured by Guilin photographers at this spot have even won bronze awards at the 10th International Photography Exhibition.
Note: If Xianggong Mountain is inaccessible due to special circumstances, an alternative visit to the equally stunning Silver Cave Scenic Area will be arranged.
Hiking Along the Li River (Approximately 2 hours of hiking)
We’ll embark on a scenic hike starting at the foot of Xianggong Mountain, heading towards Jiuma Painted Hills and ending at Xingping Chaobanshan Dock. Along the way, you’ll enjoy iconic Li River views such as the Huangbu Reflection, Yuanbao Mountain, Chaobanshan, and the backdrop featured on the 20-yuan Chinese banknote. After the hike, we’ll explore the ancient town of Xingping. During the hike, you’ll pass through quaint fishing villages, marvel at the stunning scenery of the Li River, including the famous Huangbu Reflection, and see the original landscape depicted on the back of the 20-yuan banknote—be sure to take a comparison photo! Xingping, a picturesque ancient town nestled against the mountains and beside the water, offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere with its whitewashed walls, black tiles, and cobblestone alleys.
Encounter River Double Bamboo Raft Drift (Approximately 40 minutes, subject to actual conditions in the scenic area)
Described as “better than the Li River itself,” the Encounter River is acclaimed by CCTV as the most beautiful scenery in Yangshuo. This leisurely bamboo raft ride offers a serene and picturesque experience on the water.
Note: The activity is not recommended for pregnant women, people with disabilities, individuals over 70 years old, or children under 1 meter. Children over 1 meter must purchase an adult ticket and share the raft with an adult. If the combined weight of two people exceeds 320 pounds, separate rafts will be required.
In the evening, you are free to wander through the vibrant and international Yangshuo West Street (also known as “Foreigners’ Street”). This lively area is best explored after 21:00 without any vehicle or tour guide accompaniment.
Day 4: Guilin
Ten Mile Gallery–Departure
None
Breakfast
Ten-Mile Gallery (Approximately 120 minutes of cycling)
Located along National Highway 321 in Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the Ten-Mile Gallery is named for its picturesque scenery that unfolds like a continuous painting. On both sides of the road, continuous mountain ranges and uniquely shaped peaks—some resembling screens, castles, and even screws—stand majestically against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, creating a breathtaking panorama. In addition to the mountains, the Ten-Mile Gallery features vast pastoral landscapes, with fields, villages, streams, and bamboo groves interwoven to form beautiful rural scenes. Rivers like the Yulong River meander through the mountains like green ribbons, adding a touch of liveliness and vitality to the area.
End of the Journey: Depending on your flight or train schedule, you will depart from Guilin Airport or Guilin Railway Station to return home, concluding your delightful trip and arriving back at the warmth of your own home.
