Lakes and Rivers Night Cruise

Highlights:

• See the waterways of stunning Guilin at night
• Glide along the two rivers of Li River and Taohua River
• Explore the four lakes of Ronghu, Mulong, Shanhu and Guihu

Experience Guilin at its most enchanting with an atmospheric night cruise through the city’s famed waterways, a shimmering network of rivers and lakes set among southern China’s iconic karst hills. Guilin has long been celebrated for its dramatic natural scenery, but by night its landscapes take on an entirely different beauty. This 90-minute cruise is one of the finest ways to see the city from a new perspective and makes a wonderful optional addition to your China tour.

Step aboard your charming river boat and drift gently into the heart of Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes, a connected system of waterways that has shaped the city for centuries. You will glide along the Li River and Taohua River, and circle the four serene lakes of Ronghu, Mulong, Shanhu and Guihu. These lakes once dried and fell into decline, but during the late 1990s, they were carefully restored, rekindling Guilin’s historic identity as a prosperous water city dating back to the Tang and Ming dynasties.

As the boat moves through the water, the cruise leads you into three distinct scenic areas. Ronghu and Shanhu Lakes appear first, linked by the graceful Yangqiao Bridge and framed by traditional Chinese gardens, banyan trees and cedar-lined banks. Here you will also encounter one of Guilin’s most striking landmarks: the shimmering Sun Tower at the centre of Shanhu Lake, the tallest bronze tower in the world.

The journey continues toward Guihu Lake, a quieter area known for its natural landscapes. From the deck you can enjoy views of Laoren Hill rising in the distance, while the shores nearby are adorned with lily magnolias, cedars and ancient ginkgo trees. Mulong Lake brings the cruise to a historic finale, surrounded by the cultural relics of the Song Dynasty. The ancient Song city wall, the Mulong arch bridge, the Mulong Tower and Diecai Hill all come into view, each beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

Throughout the evening, the glow of lanterns and soft lighting transforms every bridge, pagoda and lakeside pavilion into a scene of tranquil beauty. Occasionally, performers appear along the banks, adding a touch of local culture with displays such as the Zhuang bronze drum dance and Guangxi Gui opera.

This night cruise reveals a Guilin that is as magical after dark as it is by day, offering a serene and memorable way to appreciate one of China’s most picturesque cities.

What's included

• Return transfers
• Entrance tickets