The cruise begins on a section of the Li River that is winding and at places controlled by manmade levees and reinforced shorelines. This soon gives way to the main river. We pass a few towns and villages along the way.

Misty mornings are normal here, but the haze generally clears.

Lunch is served buffet style onboard the river boat.

We always try to reserve seats in the upper deck dining room. This allows us to sit and enjoy the scenery while eating.

Lunch consists of mostly traditional Guilin dishes. Tasty and filling. Be sure to try the breaded sweet yams.

What makes this river cruise most interesting are the unusual limestone hills that just pop up out of the ground. Called limestone karst formations, these hills add a beauty to this region unlike any you may ever see.

The hills have fueled a local mountain climbing craze. In Yangzhou and Guilin we see climbing shops and clubs scattered between the more normal mix of stores and shops.

 These bamboo rafts are the traditional vessel on this section of the Li River. Giant bamboo is gently bent in a upward sweep to form the bow.

This vendor was selling fruit and vegetables.

 4 to 5 hours later we arrive at the town of Yangzhou. This is an interesting town with hundreds of shops and sidewalk cafes, restaurants and coffee shops.

It is a good place to find some unusual souvenirs as your China Adventure trip nears the end.

Click here to view the Longsheng Rice Terrace Photos - part of our Guilin Tour.

Click here to view the Yangzhou Town photos - part of our Guilin Tour.

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