"What are the must-see attractions in Guilin?"

"In Guilin, don't miss the Li River cruise (Guilin→Yangshuo; morning departures for softer light), the Reed Flute Cave (color-lit limestone formations; arrive early to avoid crowds), and the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill (best viewpoints at Love Island and the hilltop; consider combo tickets). Add the Two Rivers Four Lakes night cruise for city lights."

"What activities can I enjoy in Yangshuo?"

"Yangshuo offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion: explore West Street for cafes and nightlife, cycle countryside lanes past karst peaks, climb Moon Hill, enjoy bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, and watch the Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show (book seats in advance; tiers vary). Night strolls along the Li River and cormorant fishing demos are popular."

"What should I do in Chengdu?"

"Chengdu is famous for pandas and Sichuan cuisine. Arrive early (around 8:00–9:30) at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for active pandas; pre-book in peak season. Explore Jinli Ancient Street and Wuhou Temple, then indulge in spicy hotpot, mapo tofu, and dan dan noodles (vegetarian options available—ask for less spicy)."

"When is the best time to visit Guilin, Yangshuo, and Chengdu?"

"Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal. Guilin/Yangshuo see spring rain and mist—great for ethereal photos; summers are hot and humid. Chengdu is humid in summer; pandas are most active in the early morning. Winters are cooler with fewer crowds."

"How do I travel from Guilin to Yangshuo?"

"Options: Li River cruise (4–5h, scenic), high-speed train to Yangshuo Station plus taxi/bus (60–90 min total), or direct bus (90–120 min). For countryside stays near Yulong River, arrange hotel pickup or take a taxi from Yangshuo."

"Li River cruise vs Yulong River bamboo rafting?"

"Li River cruise covers iconic panoramas and landmarks like Xingping and Nine-Horse Fresco Hill—best for first-timers. Yulong River bamboo rafting is calm and close-up, ideal for couples/families. Do both if time allows: cruise by day, rafting near sunset."

"Where should I stay—Guilin, Yangshuo, or countryside?"

"Guilin suits short stays and transport convenience. Yangshuo offers dining and nightlife. Countryside guesthouses near Yulong River deliver tranquil views and easy access to rafting/cycling. Families often prefer larger rooms in boutique inns."

"What food should I try?"

"In Guilin: rice noodles (桂林米粉), taro dishes, stuffed snails. In Yangshuo: beer fish, river shrimp, local produce. In Chengdu: hotpot, mapo tofu, dan dan noodles; for the adventurous, try rabbit head. Vegetarian options exist—ask for 'no meat' and 'less spicy'."

"Is bamboo rafting safe?"

"Generally safe with life jackets provided; height/age limits may apply. Avoid during heavy rain or high water; check conditions locally. Protect electronics from splashes and wear sandals or quick-dry shoes."

"Any photography tips?"

"For the Li River, aim for morning boats and golden hours; carry a polarizing filter for glare. At Reed Flute Cave, low light favors fast lenses; tripods are often restricted. Drones may require permits—always check local rules."

"How can I see pandas in Chengdu with fewer crowds?"

"Arrive early at the Chengdu base or consider Dujiangyan/Wolong for fewer visitors and more natural settings. Book tickets ahead during holidays; pandas are most active in the morning, less so midday."

"What budget should I expect?"

"Li River cruise: ~$30–80 depending on class. Yulong bamboo rafting: ~$15–30 per person. Impression Sanjie Liu: ~$30–100 by seat tier. Chengdu hotpot: ~$10–25 per person. Bike rentals: ~$5–10 per day."

"What should I pack?"

"Light rain jacket, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a small daypack. Mobile payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small vendors."

14-Day China Itinerary: Guilin, Yangshuo & Chengdu - Nature & Culture

2025-10-30

China travel Guilin Yangshuo Chengdu China itinerary Pandas Sichuan cuisine

14-Day China Itinerary: Guilin, Yangshuo & Chengdu - Nature & Culture

Embark on an unforgettable 2 week China itinerary, immersing yourself in the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Guilin, Yangshuo, and Chengdu. This carefully curated itinerary balances iconic sights with authentic experiences, perfect for first-time visitors seeking a deeper connection with China. For a complete overview, see our main guide to China travel itineraries.

2 Week China Itinerary: Nature & Culture Immersion

Day 1-3: Guilin - Li River and Reed Flute Cave

Your journey begins in Guilin, a city renowned for its otherworldly karst mountains and picturesque waterways.

Li River Cruise

No trip to Guilin is complete without a Li River Cruise. Glide along the serene waters, surrounded by towering karst peaks, bamboo groves, and charming villages. The scenery is so breathtaking, it’s featured on the 20 Yuan banknote! Consider booking your cruise in advance, especially during peak season.
Reed Flute Cave

Venture into the Reed Flute Cave, a mesmerizing natural wonder adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Illuminated by colorful lights, the cave formations resemble fantastical creatures and landscapes, creating a truly magical experience. Allocate at least two hours to fully explore this subterranean world.
Elephant Trunk Hill

Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s iconic landmark, which resembles an elephant drinking water from the Li River. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. The park surrounding the hill is also a pleasant place for a stroll.

Day 4-6: Yangshuo - Karst Mountains and Rural Scenery

A short journey from Guilin lies Yangshuo, a smaller town with even more dramatic karst scenery and a laid-back atmosphere.

West Street

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of West Street, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. While it can be touristy, it’s a great place to sample local snacks, buy souvenirs, and soak up the town’s lively energy.
Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Yulong River with a bamboo raft trip. Gently float along the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering karst peaks and lush rice paddies. This is a truly unforgettable experience.
Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show

Witness the spectacular Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show, a breathtaking outdoor performance set on the Li River. Directed by Zhang Yimou (director of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony), this show features hundreds of performers, stunning costumes, and dazzling special effects. Book your tickets in advance, as it’s a very popular attraction.

Day 7-9: Chengdu - Pandas and Sichuan Cuisine

Fly from Guilin to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province and home to giant pandas and fiery cuisine.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Get up close and personal with adorable giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and see the pandas at their most active.
Jinli Ancient Street

Step back in time at Jinli Ancient Street, a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and restaurants. Sample local snacks, buy souvenirs, and soak up the atmosphere of old Chengdu.
Wuhou Temple

Explore Wuhou Temple, a historical site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous strategist from the Three Kingdoms period. Admire the intricate architecture, learn about the temple’s history, and wander through the tranquil gardens.
Try Sichuan Hotpot

Indulge in the fiery flavors of Sichuan hotpot, a culinary experience not to be missed. Gather around a simmering pot of spicy broth and cook a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles. Be warned, it can be very spicy! Check out our guide to Sichuan Hotpot for the best places to try it.

Day 10-11: Leshan Giant Buddha (Day Trip from Chengdu)

Take a day trip from Chengdu to Leshan to witness the awe-inspiring Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carved into a cliff face overlooking the confluence of three rivers, this colossal statue is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Prepare for crowds and wear comfortable shoes for climbing.

Day 12-14: Return to Guilin/Chengdu for Departure or Further Exploration

Depending on your flight schedule, return to either Guilin or Chengdu for your departure. Alternatively, consider extending your stay to explore more of these fascinating regions. You could explore the Longji Rice Terraces near Guilin or delve deeper into Chengdu’s culinary scene.

This 2 week China itinerary offers a taste of the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. From the stunning karst mountains of Guilin and Yangshuo to the adorable pandas and spicy cuisine of Chengdu, this journey is sure to create lasting memories.