Southern China Tours & Trips
Have you dreamed of seeing the limestone karst landscape around Guilin that's been capturing Chinese artists' imagination for generations? Explore Dali with its ancient towns, or head to Xizhou for local Bai snacks. Don’t forget to hike the stunning Tiger Leaping gorge, and visit the beautiful Sumtseling Monastery. Southern China’s mysteries are waiting for you.
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Vicky • traveled in May
It was a fantastic trip . The two girls Tina in Beijing and Celine In Xi’an were amazing . Very knowledgeable. We saw so much and it was an amazing place . The food was good and the hotels were 5 star really. The only thing is maybe we could just say stop for and hour at a couple of places were there was a market that we walked through where we could just look around by a souvenir or just sits down get a drink and soak up the atmosphere of the place . In Shanghai we could have had an hour to look around the French quarter and take it all in . We did not need to to the shops as that was the point but he Mosque in Xi’an would have been another spot we could have just sat had a drink or a quick look at sovereign whatever anyone wanted to do for an hour . Guilin was the same when we walked up the old street we needed to rest get a cold drink and icy pole as it was so hot the blind after the cruise. Just a note that maybe in Shanghai the day we arrive maybe an activity for the evening (A dinner some where ax a group) as he hotel is a fair way out of town and it took us a while to get in . Apart from that I would still recommended this 11 days . You saw all you need and more and the activities were really good . So thank you all. If you haven’t visited China yet I would recommend this tour . Loved it . Regards Vicky from Melbourne Australia
11-Day Classic China Tour: Quality Small Group & Luxury Hotels, All Inclusive - D
DaveM • traveled in September
Great introduction to Guilin and Yangshou. Daniel was excellent in helping to arrange everything beforehand and my guide (Anna) and driver (Huang) were accommodating, friendly and very knowledgeable. Highly recommended for a introduction of a beautiful part of China.
The Essence of Guilin - E
Erika • traveled in July
The sightseeing and activities were way better than we even thought! I still can’t believe we did so much in such a short time. My husband and I really loved the tour and would do it all over again in a minute! Thanks and we will tell everyone!
11-Day Impressive China
Table of contents
- The best Southern China tour packages
- Travel Southern China your way
- Best tour companies for Southern China tours
- Discover Southern China tours for every budget
- Southern China tours for every type of group
- Top Southern China travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Southern China
- Contact our Southern China travel experts
- What our customers ask about Southern China Tours & Trips
The best Southern China tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouthern China travel expert at TourRadar
Yunnan: Kunming, Dali, Shangri-la, Lijiang Highlights Mini Group Tour 7D
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Nice trip, nice people.”
Tint, traveled in August
Yunnan's treasures unfold from Kunming's Stone Forest to Dali's Erhai Lake. UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town and ethnic minority villages offer cultural insights, while 4-star hotels, bullet trains, and Bai three-course tea ceremonies create memorable experiences.
Duration 7 days Destinations Kunming, Dali, Shangri-La, Lijiang Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Top China Travel From
- NZ$2,077
The Essence of Guilin
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip was well planned, managed and the pace whilst punchy meant we got to see all the key areas of Guilin, China and immerse ourselves in the culture.”
MarcieMccarthy, traveled in August
Southern China's most scenic spots unfold from Guilin's illuminated waterways to Yangshuo's karst peaks. Four-star accommodations complement authentic cultural experiences at minority villages, while outdoor adventures include bamboo rafting and countryside cycling.
Duration 5 days Destinations Guilin, Longsheng, Yangshuo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German Operator Truly China Travel From
- NZ$1,706
11-Day Classic China Tour: Quality Small Group & Luxury Hotels, All Inclusive
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was excellent from A to Z. I have become taken by the country and wonderful people.”
Adewale, traveled in December
Southern China's limestone peaks stretch from Guilin to Yangshuo's countryside. A Li River cruise passes dramatic karst mountains, while Reed Flute Cave reveals illuminated chambers. Traditional farming villages provide cultural insights.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator TravelChinaGuide From $3,714
15% Off- NZ$3,157You save $557
4-Days Ha Giang Loops Motobike
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Everything professional. Great service, food and provided a 'family atmosphere amongst our group'.”
Ryan, traveled in March
Dramatic karst formations and ethnic villages dot the Vietnam-China border region. The historic Vuong Palace, Lung Cu Flag Tower, and daily life in Pa Vi village offer unique cultural insights. Package includes homestay accommodations and all meals.
Duration 4 days Destinations Hanoi, Ha Giang, Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, Mau Due Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Indochina Today Travel From
15% Off- NZ$376
Trekking The Northern Trails of Vietnam 9 days 8 nights
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This was our second time in the country and we chose Mr Linh's Adventures as they were recommended by a friend. The tour was awesome!”
Han, traveled in October
Karst formations define landscapes from Ha Giang's mountain passes to Ba Be National Park's limestone caves. A 65km trek reveals Meo Vac valley, ancient Pu Lo fortress, Pac Ngoi Village's Tay communities, and Hua Ma cave formations.
Duration 9 days Destinations Hanoi, Quan Ba, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Ba Be National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Mr Linh's Adventures From
15% Off- NZ$2,661
Ban Gioc Waterfall and Dong Van Karst plateau mark Vietnam's border with Southern China. H'Mong villages dot the landscape, leading to the northernmost point at Lung Cu flagpole, while local culture thrives at Phuc Sen Knife Village.
Duration 5 days Destinations Hanoi, Ha Giang, Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, Meo Vac, Ban Gioc, Cao Bang, Ba Be National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bee Gng International Joint Stock Company From
15% Off- NZ$1,250
11-Day Impressive China
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The sightseeing and activities were way better than we even thought! My husband and I really loved the tour and would do it all over again in a minute!”
Erika, traveled in June
Southern China's cultural tapestry unfolds from Suzhou's UNESCO-listed gardens to Shanghai's iconic Bund. Luxurious stays at Grand Park Wuxi and Holiday Inn Shanghai Hongqiao enhance the journey. Grand Canal rides ($35) and ERA Acrobatics shows ($55) available.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Intertrips From
15% Off- NZ$1,894+$207 upfront costs
Shanghai's historic Bund anchors this cultural triangle, connecting to Suzhou's UNESCO Lingering Garden and Hangzhou's Longjing tea village. Ancient water towns, traditional ceremonies, and authentic cuisine come alive through expert guides and luxury transport.
Duration 4 days Destinations Shanghai, Zhouzhuang, Suzhou, Hangzhou Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Shanghai Advisor Tour From
15% Off- NZ$1,344+$276 local payments
UNESCO treasures abound in Southern China: Xidi's millennium-old village, Hongcun's lakes, and Mount Huangshan's peaks. Authentic guesthouses and mountain-top Xihai Hotel provide distinctive lodging. First-class bullet train from Beijing included.
Duration 5 days Destinations Beijing, Huangshan, Hongcun Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
15% Off- NZ$2,859
Customized 10-Day China Family Tour with 4-stars Hotels (Private Guide and Driver)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Well organised. Great locations.”
Patricia, traveled in April
Guilin's Reed Flute Cave and Yangshuo's rural villages reveal Southern China's natural beauty. A scenic Li River cruise passes iconic limestone peaks while premium rooms at Guilin Bravo Hotel provide comfort.
Duration 10 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator TravelChinaGuide From $6,411
25% Off- NZ$4,808You save $1,603
Travel Southern China your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Southern China tours
Travelers who've explored with Truly China Travel consistently mention how well everything flows together on their tours. The company's getting particularly good feedback about "The Essence of Guilin" - lots of our customers point out how Daniel stays on top of communication and really knows his stuff. The guides Anna and Green have made quite an impression too, with one person mentioning they felt like they got "VIP treatment" throughout the whole experience. For those looking to explore on two wheels, Mr Biker Saigon has built up a solid reputation with their Ha Giang Loop cycling tours in Northern Vietnam. They've figured out how to handle different cycling abilities on the same trip, which isn't easy - you'll find both casual riders and experienced cyclists giving them high marks. The support team stays close by while letting you tackle those mountain roads and rice terraces at your own pace. What stands out in both cases is how the companies handle the practical details - from quick responses to questions before the trip to making sure everything runs smoothly once you're there. The guides know when to share interesting local insights and when to step back and let travelers take it all in.
Discover Southern China tours for every budget
Southern China tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Southern China travel itineraries to fit your plans
3 Day Itineraries
7 Day Itineraries
10 Day Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers94 tours- Couples146 tours
- Seniors (50+)75 tours
Best time to visit Southern China
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Southern China's winter tours shine brightest around Guilin and Lijiang. The mountains wear their snow caps well, and Longji's rice terraces take on a special kind of quiet beauty when dusted white. Our travelers tell us they love having Tiger Leaping Gorge almost to themselves during these quieter months. A popular multi-day route links Beijing and Shanghai through Guilin, so you get the Forbidden City and Great Wall plus those distinctive Li River formations. The guides handle winter changes smoothly - when Xi'an's Tang Dynasty show takes its winter break from December to February, they've got excellent backup entertainment lined up. Winter also works perfectly for wandering Yunnan's old towns like Dali and Lijiang, where Jade Dragon Snow Mountain makes an impressive backdrop for photos.
- 116 tours
- popular 126 tours
- 119 tours
- Spring 2026
March through May is when Southern China really comes into its own. The Longji terraces transform into shimmering water mirrors as farmers prep their fields, and our travelers can't get enough of those misty morning views over the karst peaks during Li River cruises. Tiger Leaping Gorge trails firm up nicely after winter - just right for those 4-6 hour daily walks. Up in Vietnam's northern edges, the Ha Giang loop opens up beautifully too. Our customers particularly enjoy staying with Dao families and kayaking the clear waters of Nho Que River this time of year.
- popular 137 tours
- 137 tours
- 137 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer paints Southern China in deep greens, and photographers on our tours make the most of it. Several routes blend Beijing and Xi'an's culture with Guilin's natural side. Cycling through Yangshuo's countryside is a favorite - you can stop at local homes and join cooking classes using ingredients from nearby farms. The Li River bustles with activity, and you'll spot fishermen working with their cormorant birds. It gets warm, but our guides know every shady rest spot and where to find the best cool drinks during city walks. The evenings really come alive too - our customers love watching Yangshuo's Liu Sanjie show or taking night boats through Guilin's lit-up lakes.
- 122 tours
- popular 124 tours
- 124 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn turns Longji's rice terraces to gold just before harvest, and the comfortable temps make it perfect for exploring. Our travelers choose this season for Tiger Leaping Gorge hikes and wandering Dali's old streets. The Li River runs crystal clear, making it a photographer's dream. Around Yangshuo, you can watch farmers bringing in crops and even join tea picking at Seven Fairies Peak. Many routes connect these countryside experiences with Beijing and Shanghai's attractions, letting you explore the Forbidden City and Yu Gardens without summer heat or winter's chill.
- 126 tours
- popular 129 tours
- 122 tours
Contact our Southern China travel experts
Tassanee
Expert in Southern China at TourRadar
Tassanee is one of our seasoned Southern China Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Southern China tours answered!
- Choose from 185+ Southern China tours
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Southern China Tours & Trips
What cultural experiences can you join in Southern China?
Southern China offers so many ways to dive into local culture. Head to Shiqiao Miao Village in Guizhou where you'll see how the Dong people make traditional paper using techniques passed down through generations it's pretty amazing to watch. If you're feeling hands-on you can join a proper tea ceremony in Hangzhou (it's actually China's tea capital) or try making local dishes like baba rice cakes and cheese in Xizhou Yunnan. Over in Lung Tam Village you can even learn traditional weaving from the locals which is really cool.
What natural areas can you explore outside the cities?
There's some incredible landscapes to discover beyond the busy cities in Southern China. The Longji Rice Terraces are absolutely stunning you can get there pretty easily by car from Guilin. If you're up for an adventure take a boat through Tiger Leaping Gorge - just hop on a bus from Lijiang Yunnan to get there. The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is another must-see with its unique sandstone formations you can reach it by high-speed train and then take a cable car up.
What are some less traveled routes worth checking out?
Want to get off the tourist track? The Ha Giang Loop in Northern Vietnam is amazing travelers love it for the mountain views and genuine encounters with local communities especially the H'mong people you'll spot them by their distinctive clothing. Another great option is exploring the Dong villages in Sanjiang Guangxi they're connected by these beautiful "wind and rain" bridges. These routes really let you experience local life and see some incredible traditional architecture.
Which places are still authentic but not crowded?
If you're looking to avoid the crowds check out Zhaoxing it's this charming Dong minority town tucked away in a Guizhou valley. Even with its traditional wooden buildings wind and rain bridges and drum towers it still feels really authentic. Or head to Balagezong Scenic Area in Shangri-La Yunnan where you'll find impressive cliffs emerald waters and the peaceful Dongzhulin Temple it's perfect if you want a quiet escape in nature.
What local foods should you try and where?
The food scene in Southern China is incredible really diverse too. You've got to try Guilin rice noodles they're famous throughout the city. While Peking duck is technically from Beijing you can find amazing versions in specialized restaurants down south. In Yangshuo try local dishes at converted country houses or hit the night markets for some fantastic street food. And don't skip dim sum it's a Cantonese classic you'll find great options all over Hong Kong and Guangzhou.