If the people at Disney were asked to invent a modern Chinese city they
would probably come up with something like Guilin. This spotless, green,
pollution-free metropolis is surrounded on all sides by incomparable scenic
beauty. Thousands of steep mountains were formed before humans walked the earth.
Today they stretch for miles along the Ly River. They always seem to be shrouded
in mist, like an ancient watercolor. Nestled between Hunan and Szechwan, Guilin
has some of the best food in China--so good you may want to spend more time
eating than sightseeing. There is even a little gay nightlife. During your visit
to Guilin you see one of the world's greatest caves, and cruise the Ly River Yangshou, one of the most unusual tourist attractions in China. The itinerary below is based on evening arrival and departure flights. We will modify it if necessary if your actual flights arrive and depart early in the
day.
We are on hand
meet you on arrival at Guilin at the airport and see you to our hotel.
If you arrive early enough in the day, we will give you a head
start on Guilin sightseeing.
This morning begins with a visit to Seven Star Park, a lush
garden spot nestled between seven mountains, and Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural rock
formation along the banks of the Ly River. Then it's on to the famous Reed Flute
Cave, one of the largest and most spectacular in the world. If you like spicy
food you will fall in love with Guilinese cuisine and your guide will be happy
to introduce you to one of the town's many outstanding restaurants following
lunch. In the afternoon (weather permitting) you enjoy a cable car ride to the
top of nearby Yao Mountain. At the bottom of the mountain you pay a visit to the
Tombs of Prince Kings of Jingjiang.
These Ming princes built a lavish tomb on the order of the famous Ming Tombs in
Beijing. On display is a collection of priceless vases. If time permits, we will
squeeze in a visit to Seven Star Park, which has been popular with visitors for
1,500 years. It is named for the seven stone mountains that surround lovely
formal gardens, picturesque lakes, and the oldest stone bridge in Guilin.
You are on your own tonight. You might want to see Guilin after dark aboard a colorfully-lit boat that pliess two
rivers and four lakes. Can you smell the perfume of the ozmanthus flowers in the
breeze?
Today's cruise on the spectacular Ly River to Yangshou may be one of the most
memorable parts of your visit to China. The three hour trip passes through
some of the most spectacular scenery in China. (We use a deluxe non-smoking
boat with a buffet lunch en route.) The town of Yangshou is a place you will either love or hate.
This picture-postcard town has been "discovered," mostly by backpackers. The
electric trolleys that transport tourists about make it seem more like a
theme park than a traditional Chinese town. You may enjoy West Street, which
is lined with shops and restaurants and closed to vehicular traffic. It's
the best place to sample "beer fish," a decidedly un-Chinese local
tourist specialty. There are plenty of lesser-trampled side streets where
you can find really authentic food. If you extend your
Guilin visit by one night or more, you may spend the night in Yangshou.
Otherwise, return to Guilin by road. 
You have free time until
we deliver you to the airport for your onward flight. Stay longer if you like.
There is plenty to do and see in and around Guilin. or extend your stay to discover more
of China in Beijing,
Xian,
Shanghai or Hong Kong,
or on to Bangkok via a direct Bangkok
Airways flight.
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choose from these
GUILIN HOTELS
Deluxe:
Guilin Sheraton Hotel
VIP:
Guilin Sheraton Hotel
optional overnight options
YANGSHOU HOTELS
Jujingge Hotel
You can take an instant
discount when you combine two or more Purple Dragon China packages. More
details are on the Club Sanook website. |
Includes
private airport transportation, hotel accommodation, tax, service, sightseeing with a private
car, driver and guide, boat trip, admission fees to places mentioned in the itinerary.
Not included: other meals or admissions costs, items of a strictly personal
nature. |
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