Guilin, China

Guilin Travel Guide

Introduction

Located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, Guilin is a city famous for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and long history. The area has been designated as a “national scenic spot” by the Chinese government due to its unique karst landscape featuring towering limestone peaks, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers.

Places to Visit

1. Li River

The Li River flows through Guilin and offers breathtaking scenery with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs. Take a leisurely boat ride along the river to admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan)

Located on the west bank of the Lijiang River, Elephant Trunk Hill is one of Guilin’s most iconic landmarks. This natural rock formation resembles an elephant drinking from a pool of water.

3. Reed Flute Cave (Ludiyan)

One of China’s largest and most impressive caves, Reed Flute Cave features a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites that have been formed over millions of years.

4. Fubo Hill

Located on the south bank of the Lijiang River, Fubo Hill offers panoramic views of Guilin’s scenic landscape. The hill is also home to several ancient temples and shrines.

5. Yuzhi Park (Wanfeng Park)

This beautiful park features a stunning array of flowers, trees, and lakes. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and admire its natural beauty.

Activities

  • Boat Ride: Take a leisurely boat ride along the Li River to admire Guilin’s stunning scenery.
  • Hiking: Explore Guilin’s scenic hills and valleys on foot for a more intimate experience of the area’s natural beauty.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle through Guilin’s countryside for a fun and adventurous way to explore the area.
  • Rock Climbing: For experienced climbers, Guilin offers several challenging rock climbing routes with breathtaking views.

Where to Eat

1. Local Cuisine

Try some of Guilin’s local specialties such as rice noodles, fish balls, and roasted chicken.

2. Miao Street Food Market

This bustling market offers a wide range of street food from across China.

3. The Waterfall Restaurant

Located on the banks of the Lijiang River, this restaurant offers stunning views and delicious seafood.

4. Guilin’s Night Markets

Several night markets offer a wide range of food options, from traditional snacks to modern twists.

Where to Stay

  • Luxury Hotels: Guilin has several luxury hotels that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Mid-Range Accommodations: Guilin also has several mid-range hotels and inns that offer comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels and guesthouses that offer simple but clean and safe accommodations.

Things to Know

  • Language: While Mandarin Chinese is widely spoken, many locals also speak the Zhuang language. Some signs may be translated into English, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Chinese phrases.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Chinese yuan (RMB).
  • Weather: Guilin has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Safety: Guilin is generally a safe city for tourists.

Transportation

  • Li River Cruise Terminal: Take a taxi or bus to the Li River cruise terminal for boat rides along the river.
  • Public Bus System: Guilin has an extensive public bus system that covers most areas of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Taxi Services: Taxis are widely available in Guilin, but be prepared for some English language difficulties.

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Guilin is a culturally rich area with many temples and shrines. Dress modestly and respect local customs when visiting these sites.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Guilin’s local cuisine is delicious and offers a unique culinary experience.
  • Explore Off the Beaten Path: While Guilin has many famous landmarks, there are also many hidden gems to discover by exploring off the beaten path.

Other Things of Interest

  • Guilin’s Karst Landscape: The area around Guilin features some of China’s most impressive karst landscapes.
  • Ancient Temples and Shrines: Guilin has several ancient temples and shrines that offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.
  • Traditional Zhuang Music and Dance: Experience the traditional music and dance of the Zhuang people, one of China’s many ethnic minority groups.

Final Thoughts

Guilin is a city that offers something for everyone. From stunning natural scenery to rich cultural heritage, this city has it all. With its unique karst landscape, tranquil lakes, and winding rivers, Guilin is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of China’s natural beauty and cultural traditions.