1-Day Guilin Highlights: Elephant Trunk Hill, Solitary Beauty Peak, Daxu Ancient Town & Cormorant Fishing Show

Discover the essence of Guilin on this 1-day tour that combines natural wonders, historical charm, and cultural traditions. Begin your journey with Guilin’s iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of the city steeped in legend and beauty. Then, climb to the top of Solitary Beauty Peak for panoramic views of Guilin City and the winding Lijiang River, cherished by poets and artists for centuries. Next, step back in time at Daxu Ancient Town, a well-preserved relic of over 1,000 years of history, where bluestone streets and ancient temples tell stories of a bygone era. Conclude your day with a mesmerizing cormorant fishing performance, a traditional fishing method preserved for over a millennium, offering a glimpse into Yangshuo’s unique heritage. With private transportation and an English-speaking guide, this journey ensures a seamless and enriching experience.

Overview of Costs and Inclusions

This private tour is priced based on group size:

• 1-2 people: $159
• 3-4 people: $179
• 5-6 people: $219
• 7-8 people: $249

What’s included in your package:
✔ English-speaking private driver/guide
✔ Private transportation
✔ Air-conditioned vehicle

Please note the following are not included:
✘ Entrance fees – approximately CNY 520 per person
✘ Food
✘ Personal expenses
✘ Gratuities

Detailed Itinerary

Morning: Elephant Trunk Hill and Solitary Beauty Peak

Your day begins with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s most iconic landmark. This natural wonder resembles an elephant drinking from the Lijiang River and is steeped in local legend. Take memorable photos, listen to the story of how an elephant transformed into a hill, and explore the hidden secrets within the “belly” of this geological marvel. Next, head to Solitary Beauty Peak, located in the heart of Guilin City. Climb 306 stone steps to reach the peak, which stands 66 meters high. From the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Guilin City and a section of the Lijiang River, a sight cherished by celebrities and scholars since ancient times.

Midday: Daxu Ancient Town Exploration

Afterward, take a 1-hour drive to Daxu Ancient Town, located on the east bank of the Li River, 23 kilometers southeast of Guilin City. This town boasts over 1,000 years of history, dating back to the early Northern Song Dynasty. Once the leader of four renowned ancient towns in Guangxi Province, Daxu is home to highlights such as the Gaozu Temple, the Hanhuang Temple (built during the Qing Dynasty), assembly halls, and a two-kilometer-long bluestone street lined with well-preserved buildings. Don’t miss the Longevity Bridge, a Ming Dynasty-era stone arch admired for its natural and simplistic beauty. With the Li River to its west, this town offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the river’s timeless charm.

Evening: Cormorant Fishing Performance and Return to Guilin

Conclude your day with a visit to Xingping Town to witness the captivating cormorant fishing performance, a popular nighttime activity in Yangshuo. Cormorants, fascinating birds trained to dive underwater and catch fish, are part of a traditional fishing method that has existed for over 1,000 years in Yangshuo. Watch as fishermen skillfully guide these birds to preserve a practice that blends nature and human ingenuity. After the performance, your driver will transfer you back to Guilin, bringing your memorable day of exploration and discovery to a close.