The scenic Lijiang River in Guilin is a must-see for nearly every traveler, and what better way to enjoy its beauty than through a river cruise? But with so many options—3-star, 4-star, or 5-star cruises—it can be tough to decide which one best suits your needs. Are you after a budget-friendly option but concerned about service and meal quality? Or do you prefer a touch of luxury but find 4-star tickets hard to come by? Maybe you’re dreaming of the ultimate experience but balking at the high price of a 5-star cruise. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll break down the details of each cruise option, from service and meals to comfort and scenic views, to help you make the best choice for your Lijiang River adventure.
3-Star Lijiang River Cruise — Simple and Budget-Friendly
- Capacity: 120+ passengers
- Cruise Duration: Around 4 hours
- Departure Times: Morning cruises: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM; Afternoon cruises: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
- Ticket Price: Upper deck ¥255 per person; Lower deck ¥215 per person
- Departure & Arrival Piers: Mopan Mountain Pier (磨盘山码头) to Longtoushan Pier (龙头山码头). Some themed cruises depart from Zhujiang Pier (竹江码头).
- Onboard Meals: Simple boxed meals (available for purchase)
- Cabin Options: Two-deck boat—lower deck (first floor), upper deck (second floor), and an open-air viewing deck (third floor).
- Pros: Budget-friendly, offering a solid experience for first-time visitors.
- Cons: High demand due to its value for money, which can lead to crowded cruises.
The 3-star cruise is the most economical choice, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Lijiang River without breaking the bank. However, as it’s a popular option, you might need to book early to secure a spot. Though the meal options are basic, the stunning views from the open-air deck make up for it. If you’re looking to save money and still enjoy breathtaking scenery, this is a good option.
4-Star Lijiang River Cruise — Semi-Luxury Comfort
- Capacity: 80+ passengers
- Cruise Duration: Around 4 hours
- Departure Time: 8:50 AM – 9:40 AM
- Ticket Price: Lower deck ¥320 per person; Upper deck ¥350 per person; VIP deck ¥390 per person
- Departure & Arrival Piers: Zhujiang Pier (竹江码头) to Longtoushan Pier (龙头山码头)
- Onboard Meals: Buffet-style meal (included with the ticket)
- Cabin Options: Two-deck boat with spacious cabins—lower deck (first floor), upper deck (second floor), VIP deck, and a scenic viewing deck (third floor).
- Pros: Offers a more comfortable and smooth sailing experience than the 3-star cruise. Great value for money with a semi-luxurious feel.
- Cons: Extremely popular, especially during peak seasons, making it harder to get tickets.
If you’re looking for a balance of luxury and affordability, the 4-star cruise is a fantastic option. The cabins are more spacious and comfortable than those on the 3-star cruise, and the included buffet meal ensures you’ll be well-fed throughout the journey. The VIP deck offers an even more premium experience if you’re willing to pay a bit more. Given its popularity, it’s wise to book ahead, especially during the tourist season.
5-Star Lijiang River Cruise — High-End Luxury Experience
- Capacity: 40 passengers (ideal for groups of 20-30)
- Cruise Duration: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
- Departure Time: 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Ticket Price: Business class ¥1,100 per person; First-floor private cabin for four people ¥4,500; Second-floor private cabin for five people ¥7,500
- Departure & Arrival Piers: Mopan Mountain Pier (磨盘山码头) to Longtoushan Pier (龙头山码头)
- Onboard Meals: Lavish buffet with both Chinese and Western cuisine, including free-flowing cocktails (included in ticket price)
- Cabin Options: Four cabin areas—standard seats, private cabins on the first and second floors, and VIP cabins on the second floor, with a luxurious scenic viewing deck on the third floor.
- Pros: Five-star service, all-inclusive experience with gourmet meals and drinks. The intimate setting allows for a more private and relaxed atmosphere.
- Cons: The price is significantly higher than other options.
For travelers who want nothing but the best, the 5-star cruise offers an unparalleled experience. From the moment you board, you’ll enjoy VIP treatment, including luxurious cabins, gourmet meals, and private spaces to take in the breathtaking views. This is the ideal option for those who are willing to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime Lijiang River journey.