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3 Days in Guilin & Yangshuo, China

6/11/2016

56 Comments

 
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
You may not have heard of Guilin or Yangshuo in China, however you may know of the Li River which is synonymous for its mountainous beauty, and limestone karst hills. If you have ever looked at the 20 yuan note, a scene from this stunning part of China is printed on the back.

There is an old saying in China "Guìlín's hills and water best under heaven".

Guilin is an easy 1 hour 25 minutes flight away from Hong Kong or seven hours by bullet train from Shanghai making it convenient to visit when touring China ... and it will be worth it!

​We visited Guilin & Yangshuo for three days as part of an 18 day tour of China. It was part of our tour programme and we didn't know what to expect, but those three days ended up being a highlight.

What was it about Guilin and Yangshuo that made our trip to China so memorable?
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing

Where is Guilin and Yangshou?

Guilin and Yangshou are situated on the west of the Li River. Shanghai is 1,500km to the east of Guilin and for lovers of train travel, the high speed train will take you between the two cities in just over 9 hours. Hong Kong is only 4.5 hours by bullet train from Yangshou.

Guilin means Forest of Sweet Osmanthus after the copious amounts of Osmanthus trees in the city.

We had the same tour guide for the entire three days and when we parted company, if felt as though we were saying goodbye to a friend as Qin (pronounced Chin) had taught us so much about Chinese culture. We loved his sense of humour and he would call us DINK = Double Income No Kids – thank you Qin.
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3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant FishingOsmanthus Tree
Driving from the airport to the Guilin Park Hotel, our base for a few nights, we drove past the beautiful and mystical looking limestone mountains. Our guide, Qin, informed us that 90% of the tourists in Guilin are Chinese and there are around 10,000 tour guides all of which are endorsed by the government.

​Our hotel was situated at the foot of a mountain and on Lake Guihu. At night, it’s illuminated with pretty lights so is beautiful to walk around and very easy to spot. For our first evening we ventured into town and what an adventure that was!

​We negotiated cobble pavements, kids pushing past on roller blades, confusing underground subways to get to the other side of the road and the usual plethora of bikes, cars and people crossing above ground.   
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
View from our hotel window during the day
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
View from our hotel window at night
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Our hotel from across the river
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In town, we found a restaurant and bar with a comfy seat and basically stayed there for the next few hours – perfect! Trying to order a cocktail or even a simple vodka and lemonade was nearly impossible despite pointing at the pictures on the Chinese menu! We even had four kind waiters at one point trying to help, so we found it easier to stay and re-order rather than go through the same process at another bar. Needless to say when we left about 11pm, we were a little tipsy, so we stopped at a food stall and bought a delicious chicken wrap.

​The streets were now empty and we were able to stumble slowly back to our hotel and enjoy the masses of bats flying over our heads. The bats come from the surrounding mountains at dusk and are a feature of this area.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant FishingGeneral Fubo statue below Fubo Hill
Guilin's tourist sights

Fubo Hill was named after General Fubo who came to Guilin 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty to stop the Vietnam rebellion (back then it was part of China). We saw Buddhist carvings in Returned Pearl Cave then walked the 300+ steps to the top of Fubo Hill for some lovely views of the area.

​We enjoyed the cool breeze at the top as the humidity here was stifling and it wasn’t helped by the fact there was a typhoon a few days prior. The Li River also wasn’t as clean as it usually is as grass and mud had been washed downstream down due to the weather.  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Buddhist statues and carvings in Returned Pearl Cave
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Enjoying the view at the top of Fubo Hill

​Reed Flute Cave is a 200m underground cavern of exotic rock formations, and what an unexpected trip – it was fascinating! The huge stalagmites and stalactites were illuminated in different colours and Qin was pointing out all the different “shape” formations which you could just about see if you used your imagination! There was as an owl, a snowman, a lion or a pointing finger.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
​The most spectacular was the “New York Skyline” which was a mystical blue formation reflected into the rock pool in front of it – it took my breath away and I was speechless. Throughout the cave system coloured lights were installed and provided such an atmosphere to the incredible formations. We spent more time in the cave than most people probably do but I love caves and this one was probably the best we have ever visited. 
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Fish pedicures are very popular in China and Sy had never had one… well now was his chance. He loved it! We were in there for 30 minutes and it only cost 25CYN (£2.50). This spa was very much a social hang out for families, couples or friends and it was interesting watching their interaction (or should I say lack of interaction) as everyone would sit with their feet in a fish tank glued to their mobile phones having zero conversation – this seemed to be a feature of modern China.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Fish pedicure shops are very popular in Guilin!
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Sy enjoying a fish pedicure
​In a large communal square which had various market stalls, kids would play and families hung out. We passed a children’s painting area and stopped at a Mum & Dad painting a picture with their daughter. I decided to try out a few new words I had learnt. I thought I was saying “excellent” so pointed at the picture and said “Howda” they didn’t look too impressed! Sy reminded me I was using the word for “OK” ooooops, so I quickly changed it to “hen how!”and thankfully this made them smile.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
A happy family painting a picture in the communal square

​Cormorant Fishing

Our Cormorant Fishing cruise was a huge disappointment! We believed that we would be taken on a trip to see real Cormorant fisherman out doing their business, however this was staged for tourists and the fishing was an after-thought lasting around 3 minutes, the main focus was on the cruise down the river which, admittedly was lovely as we passed beautifully lit bridges and tea houses, but we didn’t pay for that, we wanted cormorant fishing.  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing

​​We couldn’t hide our disappointment when Qin asked if we enjoyed our evening. Qin was an excellent guide and, not wanting to disappoint us in any way, informed us that there was the chance of another 30 minute Cormorant fishing option for another evening.

This one was just what Sy and I wanted! Now I’m not going to lie, this was something Sy wanted to experience because it was an old, ancient Chinese tradition and one that happens to have been used on HSBC adverts in the UK (incidentally, did you know that HSBC means Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation? We had to come all the way to China to find this out!). I, on the other hand, am a little torn about this practice.

​Fisherman need to build up a relationship when training the birds to fish for them and this can take some time. How they fish is by tying a chord around the bird’s neck loose enough for them to catch small fish to eat, but tight enough so they cannot swallow the big fish, which the fisherman keep for themselves.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
A fisherman with his cormorant
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
​It was amusing watching a bird catch a big fish then swim around to the back of the bamboo raft trying to claim the prize for himself, only to realise he was on to a looser! The fisherman would pick up the cormorant by its long neck to remove the fish, the bird would then be released back into the water to continue fishing. They obviously have a loyal relationship otherwise the birds would fly away but it’s strange to see them handled this way and they appear to accept it – it is a forced relationship, but a relationship none the less. In ancient times this would be a fisherman’s livelihood but now it’s mainly for tourists.

​There is something very romantic and lovely watching the bamboo rafts punt down the river, the fishermen and birds softly lit by oil lanterns on the front.  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
The beautiful bamboo rafts lit by oil lamps

​Cormorants aren’t naturally oily birds like ducks, they obtain their oil from their back and rear feathers which they rub into the rest of their bodies. They can only be in the water for about an hour otherwise they start to lose their buoyancy, and we witnessed them standing on the raft with wings spread as they were drying.

​The whole experience felt natural and gave us a sense that we were witnessing part of a Chinese tradition and skill replaced by modern methods. 

Wondering what to pack for your China trip? Let us help with the essentials in our Ultimate Packing List for Worldwide Travel (tried and tested!

3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Li River cruise to Yangshuo

The leisurely cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo took around four hours and we passed farmers working the land, rural communities living along the river banks, boats used as a form of transport and water buffalo cooling themselves in the river.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
​It was very picturesque with limestone hills rising steeply into the skyline forming mystical formations amidst the misty sky – it looked like something out of Lord of the Rings. There are many shapes and pictures etched into the formations such as a dolphin or the 9 horses… again you do have to use a little imagination!  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
The Painted Hill Of Nine Horses - can you see them??
The views along the cruise are relentlessly breath-taking, in fact it’s so special that a section of the Li River is featured on the back of a 20 yuan note.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
Xiping Section of Li River Scenery printed on the 20 yuan note

​A buffet style lunch was provided on the boat but it was mama hu-hu (so-so or mediocre in Chinese – check me out sounding like a local).
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It’s difficult to bear in mind that 3 million years ago these peaks were at the bottom of the sea because they look as though they have risen up.  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing

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Yangshuo

​When we disembarked we walked through the town towards our hotel. We passed quaint traditional shops selling a myriad of tourist souvenirs but the difference here is when you look around, karst peak mountains surround this charming, picturesque town. It has a slow and calm pace and we felt at ease strolling around the cobbled streets.  We stayed at the relaxing Jasper International Hotel just around the corner from the main area and we found a great place to stop, sip a cocktail and beer then simply people watch.
   
Kung-Fu lesson

On the Li River cruise we became friendly with an American couple who told us they were doing a kung-fu lesson. They didn’t mind us hijacking, so we all went to the park to be taught by Sifu Yang aka Master Yang who had been doing Kung-Fu for 40+ years.
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We had a fabulous hour and were taught 10 moves that we carried out twice and included the buffalo, chicken, snake and dragon stances to name a few. We loved it all – we were learning Kung Fu ... in the park ... in China ... by Sifu Yang– it doesn’t get better than that – AWESOME! 
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing

​We were on an absolute high when we finished and found a fantastic restaurant which served the best lemon chicken, sticky satay chicken and special fried rice we had ever tasted! In fact, it was that good we had to take the rest away – oh yes, we had a real Chinese takeaway – get in!  

Livsanjian Impression Show

This is an outdoor performance set to the scenic backdrop of the karst mountains with the Li River forming the stage.  The show was directed by Zhang Yimou who was in charge of the Beijing 2008 Olympics opening ceremony so that may give you an indication of how breathtakingly jaw dropping and spectacular the show was.

​The cast of the show is made up of 600 performers comprised of local fisherman, children and farmers. I really feel that if there is one show you must watch during your time in China, then it has to be this one.  
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
​Just when I thought I had seen it all and felt all the highs and emotions possible in China –the country will go and prove me wrong! I was so moved by the beauty of this theatrical production, I couldn’t help but become emotional.

​There is something very special and magical about this show, Guilin, Yangshuo and China in general! It was hard not to be swept away by our experiences.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing

​Bike ride through the Countryside

Qin arranged for us to hire bikes and we all went for a gorgeous three hour bike ride through the Countryside. After we had negotiated the hectic roads and joined the hundreds of cyclists, we were in the heart of the countryside and pootled past farmers working the land, collecting hay, buffalo grazing, bamboo rafts punting down the river and villagers going about their business.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
​We saw ponds of flowering lotus, crops of rice, sweet potato, peanuts and cotton to name a few and the butterflies were gorgeous colours; black/white, black/orange, yellow and a black/blue, I have only ever seen such beauty in butterfly houses back home but here I was seeing them wild and free – magnificent

However it was the mountains that provided the breath-taking scenery for the majority of the ride. Wherever we looked our eyes were met with stunning mountainous views.
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
3 days in Guilin and Yangshuo, China, Li River, Limestone Karst hills, Shanghai, Liu San Jie Impression Night Light Show, Reef Flute Cave, Fubo Hill, Cormorant Fishing
We cycled down a country path over stones which Qin said would give us a free bum massage but to avoid the “landmines”, more commonly known as water buffalo poop. We loved Qin’s sense of humour and he made us laugh so many times.
 
Many people fall in love with the area of Guilin for its mountainous beauty, picturesque river and countryside feel.  This includes us, we completely fell in love with Guilin and Yangshuo.

​If you are travelling around China and Asia, we recommend you check bus, boat and train schedules ahead of time with 12Go Asia. You can also book your tickets in advance online (as we did) to save time and hassle.

Have you been to Guilin, the Li River cruise or Yangshuo, what were your thoughts? Share them with us in the comments below, we would love to hear of your experience!.

​Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, it won't cost you any extra, the small commission we may earn will help support the FeetDoTravel community.
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​Pin for future reference!
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Guilin, Reed Flute Cave, Li River, Yangshuo, they are all stunning parts of China to visit and highly recommended. Find out more about Feed Do Travel's enchanting experience in the limestone karst hills of Guilin and Yangshuo#guilin #yangshuo #china #beautifulchina #bucketlist #hongkong #shanghai #visitchina #beautifulchina #travelblogger #traveltips #travelling #travelguides #traveladvice #thingstodo #travelguide #sightseeing
Guilin, Reed Flute Cave, Li River, Yangshuo, they are all stunning parts of China to visit and highly recommended. Find out more about Feed Do Travel's enchanting experience in the limestone karst hills of Guilin and Yangshuo#guilin #yangshuo #china #beautifulchina #bucketlist #hongkong #shanghai #visitchina #beautifulchina #travelblogger #traveltips #travelling #travelguides #traveladvice #thingstodo #travelguide #sightseeing
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56 Comments
Garth link
6/11/2016 06:44:29 pm

So guess what? we visited Guilin and Yangshuo too, following in your footsteps in China once again! Although we didn't do half the things you did, for some reason we under estimated how dramatic and beautiful the area is, and really wanted to hire bikes and do more exploring, but couldn't as we were on such a tight itinerary. Loved reading about your experience as always! Simon looks very serious in the video, we hired a guide too, and boy they are so worth it when you are short on time, oh and some of our friends call us DINKs too! haha.

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:44:40 pm

Hey fellow DINK :-) We wished we had more time in these beautiful areas as well, especially Yangshuo, the countryside is stunning! Oh yes, the guides are definitely worth it, they take you to places you would never have found. I'm so glad you enjoyed visiting here a much as we did, and I hope you get a chance to return and see more.

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Sarah link
9/11/2016 06:13:54 pm

Fubo Hill and those caves look incredible! I've never been to Asia but would love to go someday, the geography is stunning.

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:46:03 pm

Oh the caves were a huge surprise, I was blown away by them and could have spent so much more time in there. Asia is a fascinating continent, if you do get a chance to visit someday, I hope you enjoy it's stunning geography and culture.

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Van @ Snow in Tromso link
10/11/2016 08:08:06 pm

I'm definitely one of those people who had never heard about this region before but I'm totally hooked now! Seems like you did quite a lot in those three days - would love to try kung fu too!

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:47:41 pm

I had never heard of this area before we visited either, strange how it turned out to be one of our favourite places, probably because it was less touristy and we love the countryside. The Kung Fu was pretty special, I love that they practice outside in the fresh air as well :-)

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Katy Clarke link
10/11/2016 08:14:25 pm

You guys are amazing. I just love how many different activities you pack into a trip and want to try them all - except maybe the cormorant fishing. It does sound a little mean. The scenery is just beautiful and you have really made me think about exploring China in the not too distant future. I have never been but would love to. Thanks for the inspiration and sharing with us on #FarawayFiles

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:50:21 pm

Thanks Katy and yes, I guess upon reflection we do pack a lot in but it never feels tiring, we feel it's a steady pace and we aren't exhausted to enjoy everything so I guess that's the main thing :-) Hmmm the cormoront fishing is controversial isn't it and it douns sound mean, they do "allow" the birds to have some of the catch and there must be some sort of relationship there as the birds could fly away - I don't know, I'm still torn by it myself! China is a land of beautiful scenery, especially when you get into the countryside so if you do visit, I hope you have a chance to get out of the cities :-)

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Ruth link
11/11/2016 01:45:56 am

This has to be one of the more beautiful places in China. I will go only for the Li River cruise (but the outdoor show looks amazing too). Good to know there is a bullet train from Shanghai. Seven hours doesn't sound that bad (I have spent more time than that on regular trains). #FarawayFiles

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:52:02 pm

We personally felt this one of the more beautiful places to visit in China, but I think that could be because it's more in the countryside and less built up meaning it feels more "natural". The Li River cruise is a main attraction and seven hours on a bullet train would be a pleasure!

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Courtney @ Adelante link
11/11/2016 05:10:14 am

WOW! All of the scenery looks incredible. You captured some amazing shots!

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:54:04 pm

The scenery truly is incredible, and we know there is so much more to see, we just ran out of time. Thank you for your comment, I'm glad you appreciate the photos, but we can't take credit for it, the stunning landscape makes it so easy to point and shoot :-)

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Ahila link
11/11/2016 05:51:41 am

I have long wanted to go on the Li river cruise to Yangshuo. Enjoyed your post and photos.

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:55:16 pm

I hope you get an opportunity to go on the Li River Cruise, it is very special and the beauty is never ending! I am so glad you enjoyed the post and thank you for taking the time to read and comment, it's much appreciated.

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Anna link
11/11/2016 10:32:52 am

Never heard of Guilin, however I´ve been obsessed with the Li River cruise for years! These views look out of this world, and all these boats and locals - such a different and ancient culture! It´s so amazing you were able to explore that much of China!
By the way, while I lived in Hong Kong for 2 months I also took Kong Fu classes: my Sifu was around 70 y.o and you´d barely give him 35! Made me seriuosly consider our lifestyle, food habits and medicine here in Europe!

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FeetDoTravel
1/12/2016 05:57:44 pm

It's funny how there are things we want to see/do but are unsure exactly where they are, but travel is all about learning and exploring new places isn't it :-) I love the ancient culture of China, and you are absolutely right, the Sifu's are incredible - so youthful and full of bendy energy lol and they certainly do make you question your own habits, I know I have!

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Siddharth and Shruti link
11/11/2016 03:30:13 pm

Whoa! The light show looks amazing. The countryside looks so dreamy. We have always wanted to get a fish pedicure. Do you recommend it for ticklish feet?

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:41:42 pm

The lightshow was breathtaking, one if not the best show we saw throughout China if I'm honest. As for the fish pedicure, if you have ticklish feet, it can tickle quite a bit to start with in truth but you kind of get used to it. I would say it's more of a novelty "try something once" thing to do and I haven't done it again since lol.

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Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) link
11/11/2016 03:40:37 pm

What an awesome trip to Guilin and Yangshuo. You were both so adventurous with your bike riding, Kung Fu in the park and more. Love all the photos especially the night photos which are so hard to capture :-) The story of the fisherman with his birds, and just the tranquil boats gliding down the river was amazing. What an amazing evening performance. I will definitely have to put this on my bucket-list for when I return to China. Thanks for sharing :-)

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:43:18 pm

I did feel rather brave negotiating the crazy Chinese traffic I will admit, definitely felt like a hero lol but when we were in the countryside, it was wonderful and worth it. It really is a wonderful place to visit this area with so much natural beauty to photograph, I'm so glad you enjoyed it :)

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Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) link
11/11/2016 04:13:58 pm

Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful experiences on #Farawayfiles. You did so much - and it's great seeing it for ourselves on your blog. The scenery is astounding and you've definitely inspired me to visit China.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:44:33 pm

That's fantastic news Clare, if I can inspire someone like you to visit China through my blog, I feel very honoured :) It really is a wonderful country and I hope you get a chance to visit.

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Oana link
11/11/2016 07:23:37 pm

I don't know why I was never attracted to China, I always had other destinations on my travel list but seeing your pictures made me change my mind. I love reading your blog, you always find different activities to fit into your trip and not to mention the amazing pictures. What camera do you use? I already asked Simon about the scuba photos 😊.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:45:44 pm

There are so many amazing Countries to visit in the world, sometimes other places take preference - it did with me! China was top of my bucket list for years and years and I have no idea why it took me so long to go there but I was so happy when I did.

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Trippin' Turpins (Kelly) link
12/11/2016 03:02:30 am

Wow! You did, and saw, so much in three days. I suppose that is what is so useful about having a guide. I am hoping to do China next year. I don't think we will have a long time there so I really need to plan and think about what I want to see... we don't usually do much planning! Your blogs on China are going to be very helpful. Thank you.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:47:04 pm

We felt having a guide in China was invaluable so if you do visit next year, I would recommend getting one - they are all (apparently) government approved. I'm so glad our blogs have been helpful, I know your blogs on Laos/Penang have helped us massively!

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Chiera McLaughlin link
12/11/2016 12:17:03 pm

WOW! What incredible pictures :) Those caves are amazing, I've never seen anything like it! I'm travelling China for 2 weeks next April and I am so excited to see the landscape! #WanderfulWednesday

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 04:48:19 pm

Oh the caves are magnificent, I hadn't seen anything like them either before our visit. How exciting that you are travelling to China in April, I cannot wait to read about your adventures!

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Jenn | By Land and Sea
12/11/2016 01:27:52 pm

Guys this is fantastic! I learned something new in the bank acronym (who knew?!?!) and really enjoyed the great photos and video too! It looks like the perfect combination of impressive natural beauty and colorful electric lights! I'm so impressed with this area - I've never heard of it! The Cormorant fishing is interesting to me... I saw something about this on the travel channel once, but never knew that's what its called. As always, love this post!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:03:29 pm

It's amazing what you learn isn't it, I had no idea about he bank acronym either!! Our visit to Guilin & Yangshuo was the perfect combination and it was our favourite time during out 18 day trip - probably as we took it at a slower pace. So glad you loved this post, can't wait to hear of your adventures in China when you visit next year!

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Jen link
12/11/2016 03:18:20 pm

You took amazing photos! This is a great itinerary if we visit Guilin and Yangshuo. Pinned this for future reference. Thanks for sharing!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:04:37 pm

Thanks for pinning this Jen, I sincerely hope you visit Guilin and Yangshuo as it's such a beautiful area of China. I hope you visit and enjoy!

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LIsa link
13/11/2016 02:26:43 pm

Your adventures to China are so fascinating to say the least. You always seem to visit the coolest places! Beautiful terrain, fabulous shows, and getting into the feel of the locals. I'm not sure I'll ever get there but I must say your posts series really make me want to consider it! Thanks as always for sharing, just keeps getting better!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:06:00 pm

If you don't get to China Lisa, you can experience it's beautiful vicariously through our posts - there is much to see in the world and we can't all do everything despite how much we would like to lol. I'm so glad you enjoyed this post and thank you for taking the time to read and comment.

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Erin Gustafson link
13/11/2016 04:34:34 pm

Thank you so much for sharing such beautiful corner of the world for this week's #FarawayFiles. The mountains are so gorgeous and I would love to see. Cheers from (very flat) Copenhagen! Erin

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:07:04 pm

This really is a beautiful corner of the world, so picturesque and the mountains are stunning. Thank you for stopping by and reading our story :)

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SamH Travels
13/11/2016 06:50:23 pm

I always love your posts - they are informative and you take very interesting photos. I am amazed how much you see and do in so little time.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:08:04 pm

Yes we do try and see as much as we can - it's easier when there isn't a beach around to distract me lol. So glad you enjoyed reading our story.

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Anda link
13/11/2016 08:39:17 pm

I have to confess that I've never heard about this region. I'd love to travel to China and explore its interesting culture.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:09:04 pm

I had never heard of this region before we visited either Anda, and to be fair, China is a huge country so we can be forgiven :) I hope you travel to China and maybe consider visiting Guiling & Yangshuo.

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Juliette | Snorkels to Snow link
13/11/2016 10:46:59 pm

What an amazing place to visit - the Buddhist carvings looks beautiful, and as for the caves, how incredible! Especially how they are lit up to reveal the formations in such a dramatic, magical way! Beautiful. It all looks amazing!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:11:13 pm

The caves were breathtaking and the photos and description just don't do them justice, how they light them up, well, they really are incredible. I'm so glad you enjoyed this post and thank you for your comments.

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Anisa link
14/11/2016 10:21:40 pm

I was not familiar with this area before reading your post but it does look quite impressive! Those caves are magical. Not sure if I could get my courage up to do the fish pedi though. Thanks for sharing this on #TheWeeklyPostcard. I also pinned it for later (when I make it back to China).

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:15:45 pm

China is a large country so it's understandable that there will be many areas we are unfamiliar with ... this was one of them for me as well - I had never heard of it before but I had heard of the Li River. Yes those caves were indeed magical, a highlight of the trip really (although there were many highlights now I think about it!). Thank you for pinning and taking the time to comment.

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Kreete link
15/11/2016 12:21:29 am

Sounds like you guys had an awesome time and managed to do a lot in three days! The views from top of that hill are awesome and you two look adorable. The cocktail ordering described was so funny, I always do this when something is too big of a hassle to explain haha! Just keep ordering the same. And hey, I didn't know what HSBC means until now either! How weird haha! The fishing method is interesting. At some point the bird must be fed though, otherwise why wouldn't they fly away? Loving the photos from that cruise too! Thanks for introducing me an area I haven't even heard of, but now want to go!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:17:56 pm

This area is full of stunning countryside to be fair so plenty of wonderful views and yes, it's funny about HSBC isn't it! With regard to the fish, if they pick up a small one, they get to keep it as it slides down it's mouth, it's only the bigger fish that don't and these go to the fisherman, it's a strange relationship that appears to work. I'm so glad you are considering this area for the future.

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Cathy link
15/11/2016 09:49:00 pm

I love the mountains there- I'd want to hike them:) I have found tours are not always what is expected. Good that your guide could make it right for you though!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:19:25 pm

This mountainous area would be incredible for hiking but you would be stopping every few minutes to take photos as it's just so picturesque. We were lucky with our tour, our guide was absolutely incredible and taught us so much, we will be forever grateful to Qin :)

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Christopher link
16/11/2016 04:12:53 am

I love this culture. It beautiful. That scenery along the river is incredible and I love the architecture.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:20:20 pm

Chinese culture is beautiful and the scenery truly is incredible, it's definitely worth a visit and exceeded our expectations.

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Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) link
17/11/2016 05:24:44 am

Wow! Beautiful countryside, and that show looks fantastic! We honestly don't know too much about China, but Guilin seems enchanting. And those mountains...wow!

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:22:14 pm

Guilin is very enchanting, a truly stunning part of China to visit and the show - well, it's definitely worth attending. The mountains are another story - absolutely breathtaking indeed and we are so glad you enjoyed this area as well :)

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Vyjay link
20/11/2016 03:29:54 am

What lovely 3 days. Reading through the post and looking at the pictures, I was transported at the speed of imagination to this lovely land called China. I was particularly fascinated by the illuminated caves. They look really dazzling. Another lovely post.

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:25:54 pm

The illuminated caves are fascinating and this area is wonderful, I'm so glad you enjoyed our journey and came along with us on our journey :)

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travel4lifeblog link
24/11/2016 10:08:06 am

Hello DINK!

We really enjoyed reading your post about Guilin and Yangshuo. We were there last year and absolutely loved it too. Your article is full of cool tips and great stuff to do! We also suggest to go to the small village of Ping'an if you go near Guilin or Yangshuo :)
Keep up the great work guys and we hope to meet you on the road one day :)
Patrick and Cecile from www.travel4lifeblog.com

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FeetDoTravel
15/12/2016 05:28:31 pm

That's brilliant you were in Guilin last year and also loved it and thank you so much for your suggestion. So glad you enjoyed reading this post, especially as you have been here and I hope it brought back memories for you.

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