Guilin

China · Guangxi

Guilin

Karst mountains, Li River cruises, and Longji Rice Terraces.

Best for

Karst landscapesRiver cruisesRice terracesBamboo rafting

Recommended stay

3-4 days

Best season

April to October

Location

China, Guangxi

Snapshot

City Snapshot

A city at a glance

6 dimensions · 1–5 scale

PandaLoco's read of six travel-relevant dimensions on a 1–5 scale, built from public datasets and our travel criteria.

It describes the city's profile. It is not a ranking of better or worse cities.

Basis: Public datasets and PandaLoco travel criteria

Overview

Renowned for karst landscapes: Li River cruises, bamboo rafting, limestone peaks, and Longji Rice Terraces.

Ideal Pace

3-4 days

Seasonal Window

April to October

Overview

Landscape of karst mountains and rivers: Li River cruises and bamboo rafting past limestone peaks.

Brief Guide

Guilin is renowned throughout China for its stunning landscape of water and mountains. The Li River, with its clear, sunlit waters, is flanked by green hills and oddly shaped boulders. Visitors can take a bamboo raft to enjoy the natural beauty. Guilin is also famous for Elephant Trunk Hill, Jingjiang Princes’ Palace, and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Spot, which offers beautiful surroundings and a spectacular night view. The Li River section in Yangshuo presents idyllic countryside views, perfect for biking or hiking. As one of China's best rock climbing destinations, Yangshuo attracts many tourists. Additionally, natural terraced fields and magical caves are worth exploring.

Getting There & Around

Air: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) 28 km west. City buses extensive, 150+ lines, ¥1-5, English announcements.

How to Get There

Guilin is a critical tourism and transportation hub in South China, accessible by air, rail, bus, or road.

  • By Air: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is the primary gateway, located about 28 km (17 miles) west of downtown. It serves both international and domestic flights. To reach the city center from KWL, airport shuttles run every 30–60 minutes to downtown drop-off points (about 50 minutes). Taxis and private transfers are available for direct travel to the city center or nearby Yangshuo
  • By Train: Guilin North Railway Station is the largest hub for high-speed trains connecting to other major cities. Guilin Railway Station is the most centrally located station, convenient for downtown access. Guilin West Railway Station primarily handles long-distance high-speed transit routes. All stations are integrated with the local public bus network and taxi stands
  • By Bus: Regional bus services provide easy access to nearby scenic destinations. Guilin North Bus Terminal serves as a key departure point for intercity routes. For Yangshuo, frequent express buses depart from areas near Guilin Railway Station and the North Bus Terminal, taking approximately 1.5 hours. For Longji Rice Terraces, direct tourist buses run to the Heping ticket office and onward to villages such as Dazhai and Ping’an, with a travel time of 2.5–3 hours

Local Transportation

  • City Bus: Guilin's public bus system is extensive, with over 150 lines covering the main urban areas and some counties like Yangshuo. The buses are equipped with Chinese and English stop announcements, making them tourist-friendly. Fares range from CNY 1 to 5, and buses typically operate from early morning until late evening
  • Taxi: Taxis in Guilin are a convenient option for city travel, with around 3,000 taxis available. Drivers generally use meters for in-town trips, but for longer distances, it is advisable to agree on a fare beforehand. Online car-hailing apps like Didi are also an option for securing a ride
  • Bicycle: Cycling is a popular and economical way to explore Guilin's compact cityscape and surrounding rural areas. Bikes can be rented from hotels, shops, or via mobile apps, with rates varying based on rental duration and bike type. Recommended cycling routes are available for tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty at their own pace

Practical Information

Mandarin predominant, limited English. Alipay, WeChat essential. Prepaid SIMs available. Monsoon humid subtropical climate, rainy Apr–Jun.

Local Language

Guilin, a city in China, predominantly speaks Mandarin Chinese, the official language of the country. Multilingualism is limited, but some locals in tourist areas may speak English.

English is not widely spoken outside major cities. Travelers to Guilin are encouraged to learn basic Chinese phrases to enhance their experience.

  • Use translation apps.
  • Carry hotel business cards with Chinese instructions.
  • Use gestures, maps, and facial expressions to overcome language barriers.

Local APP

  • Alipay: Widely used for convenient payment and transport options, supporting integration with other services like Didi for efficient travel
  • WeChat: Essential for communication, and social networking, and also acts as a digital wallet, allowing for various transactions and services accessibly
  • Didi Chuxing: Popular for ride-hailing, offers integrated payment through Alipay, ensuring ease of transport without a local number
  • MetroMan: Useful for navigating metro systems across major cities, helps plan routes and calculates travel costs effectively
  • Gaode Maps: The primary choice for accurate, real-time navigation within China, surpassing other map applications

Internet and Communication

Mobile data packages for immigrants in China are available through local carriers such as China Mobile and Unicom.

  • China Mobile: Prepaid data SIM cards with unlimited text and calls within China, high-speed connections, sometimes 5G, no long-term contract.
  • Unicom: Data packs with unlimited music applications, no long-term contract.
  • eSIMs: Unlimited data plans start at just $6.

Public WiFi is widely available in airports, restaurants, coffee shops, and malls. However, connecting often requires a Chinese phone number for text verification, which can be a challenge for travelers without a local SIM card.

Global WiFi devices like Skyroam offer a convenient alternative, connecting multiple devices with no additional setup upon arrival in China.

Weather

Guilin features a monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and long, hot, humid summers. The city experiences significant rainfall, particularly from April to June, and is prone to occasional heavy rains and typhoons.

  • Summer: Pack light, breathable clothing and rain gear such as umbrellas or waterproof jackets.
  • Winter: Pack warm layers, including sweaters and coats.
  • Footwear: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking in all seasons.
  • Sun & insect protection: Use hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during summer months.

Currency and Payment

In Guilin, common payment methods include wire transfers, credit cards, PayPal, and WeChat Pay.

  • Wire Transfer: Widely used, but funds may take up to two weeks; using Bank of China can speed up the process.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Credit card payments incur an additional service fee of about 3%, and major cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted.
  • Digital Payments: WeChat Pay is recommended for expats and now allows foreign travelers to link their credit cards. PayPal is also available with an extra fee of roughly 3.5% to 4%.
  • Fees: Always confirm bank details and transaction fees when making payments, and notify your travel consultant to secure your booking.

Top Experiences

Cruise the Li River for karst views, or bamboo raft. Visit Longji Rice Terraces for seasonal colors.

Must-try local experiences

  1. Cruise and Raft the Li River: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Li River to soak in Guilin's iconic karst landscape and riverside villages. For a quieter experience, opt for a bamboo-style rafting trip — a more intimate way to glide past dramatic limestone peaks.
  2. Wander Through the Longji Rice Terraces: Hike through the Longji Rice Terraces, known as the "Dragon's Backbone," and marvel at their sweeping, layered beauty. Shaped by the Zhuang and Yao communities, they are a must-visit for photographers and those drawn to Guilin's rural highland scenery.
  3. Explore Guilin's Natural Wonders: Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the city's most recognizable landmark, where a rock formation resembles an elephant drinking from the river. Head up Yao Mountain for panoramic views, descend into Reed Flute Cave to marvel at its colorful stalactites, or stroll through Seven Star Park among karst peaks said to mirror the Big Dipper.
  4. Discover Ancient Towns and Hidden Gems: Wander the cobblestone streets of Daxu Ancient Town for a glimpse into traditional architecture and local life. In the evening, capture the Sun and Moon Pagodas glowing in the reflection of Shanhu Lake.
  5. Experience Local Arts and Festive Culture: Be captivated by Impression Sanjie Liu, a large-scale outdoor performance set against the river landscape. Try a traditional Chinese fan painting workshop, or time your visit with the Guilin International Tourism Festival for parades and cultural performances.
  6. Savor Authentic Flavors and Nightlife: Dive into Guilin's local cuisine — from signature rice noodles to beer fish and osmanthus wine. Explore lively night markets for street food and souvenirs, or browse Xicheng Pedestrian Street for shopping and local handicrafts.

Food Highlights

Guilin noodles, beer battered fish, Gongcheng oil tea, caramelized taro.

Renowned for its distinctive flavors and meticulous preparation techniques, Guilin's cuisine ranges from traditional rice noodles to freshly made beer fish. Local specialties like Gongcheng oil tea and sweet caramelized taro highlight the area’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Guilin Noodles

Guilin Noodles

Guilin noodles are a distinctive local snack celebrated for their unique flavors. This dish primarily consists of noodles, a specially seasoned brine, and various toppings.

  • Vegetables
  • Peanuts
  • Chopped green onions
  • High-grade rice is ground into a paste.
  • The paste is shaped into dough and cooked.
  • The dough is pressed into cylindrical strands or slices.

These noodles are characteristically white and silky, served with a savory broth concocted from beef, pork, Sichuan pepper, licorice, and other ingredients, creating a memorable and lingering taste sensation.

Beer Battered Fish

Beer Battered Fish

Beer battered fish is a renowned dish in Yangshuo, celebrated for its tender and finely textured fish. The cooking process is meticulous, featuring distinct ingredients.

  • Fish: Fresh carp or spinefoot from the Li River.
  • Seasoning: Seasoned with salt and cooking wine.
  • Frying oil: Fried in a blend of peanut oil and raw tea oil from the northern Guilin mountains.
  • Enhancement: Enhanced with a stir-fry of green and red peppers and tomatoes, making it delicious and succulent.
Gongcheng Oil Tea

Gongcheng Oil Tea

For breakfast, long-time residents of Guilin enjoy Gongcheng oil tea, a regional variation renowned for its distinct flavor.

These days, several local eateries offer oil tea as a complimentary appetizer.

The preparation of oil tea is somewhat intricate, involving a process of simmering lard or bone broth, and thereafter infusing it with scallions.

It is customarily served with stir-fried puffed rice, crispy fried snacks, peanuts, and roasted soybeans for a uniquely satisfying taste.

Caramelized Taro

Caramelized Taro

Taro is bountiful in Guilin, known for its delightfully sweet and tender texture. This makes caramelized taro a local favorite. The dish is best enjoyed hot, allowing the sugar to be drawn into strands. Upon immersing in cold water, these strands snap, leaving behind a delicately sweet flavor with a crunchy sugar shell.

Best Time to Visit

April to October offers warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and comfortable weather for exploring natural scenery.

The best time to visit Guilin is from April to October. This period offers a blend of warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and comfortable weather for exploring the enchanting natural scenery.

  • April and May: Experience the Li River's beauty after the drizzle.
  • July and August: Perfect for hiking and capturing the lush greenery.
  • September and October: Witness the golden terraced fields at sunset; less rain with hot-to-mild weather for outdoor activities and enjoying the golden autumn paddy fields.

However, it is advisable to avoid Chinese public holidays due to large crowds and higher costs.

Attraction Highlights

Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Li River, Solitary Beauty Peak·Prince City Scenic Area, Longji Rice Terrace.

Two Rivers and Four Lakes

Two Rivers and Four Lakes

桂林两江四湖景区

Explore Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes on a night cruise through Shanhu, Ronghu, Guihu, and Mulong lakes, plus the Li and Taohua rivers. Glide past illuminated bridges and mountains, and enjoy cultural performances like osprey fishing and Yao village customs in this enchanting waterscape.

1-2 hours
90 CNY
Li River Scenic Area

Li River Scenic Area

漓江风景名胜区

The Li River Scenic Area showcases Guilin’s iconic karst landscape, celebrated as the world’s finest scenery. Its banks feature uniquely shaped peaks, including Nine Horse Mountain and Yellow Cloth Shoal, which appears on the 20 RMB note. Visitors can explore by spacious boat or exotic bamboo raft.

3-5 hours
215 CNY
Solitary Beauty Peak Prince City Scenic Area

Solitary Beauty Peak Prince City Scenic Area

独秀峰王城景区

Solitary Beauty Peak Prince City Scenic Area, dating back over 600 years to the Ming Dynasty, centers on the iconic Solitary Beauty Peak. Here, natural beauty meets rich history, including the stone carving that inspired the phrase 'Guilin's landscape is the best under heaven.' It's a gateway to Guilin's cultural heritage.

3-4 hours
98 CNY
Longji Terraces

Longji Terraces

龙脊梯田

The Longji Terraces in Longsheng feature vast, sculpted rice terraces with striking curves and tiers. Home to Zhuang and Yao communities, the area invites hiking and photography amid rural farmhouses and rich ethnic traditions. Sunrise over the terraces is a particularly memorable sight.

1-2 days
80 CNY
Yulong River

Yulong River

遇龙河景区

The Yulong River, a gentle tributary of the Li River in Yangshuo, is celebrated as the 'Little Li River' for its serene scenery. Visitors can enjoy bamboo rafting through karst landscapes, or explore the riverside on foot or by bicycle for a relaxing journey amid beautiful natural surroundings.

3-6 hours
180 CNY

FAQ

What's the most popular attractions in Guilin?
The top attractions in Guilin include the Li River, Xiangshan Scenic Area, and the Impression Sanjie Liu evening show.
Things to do near Guilin for family & child?
For families with children, recommended activities include visiting the Li River, Ludi Cave (Reed Flute Cave), Duxiu Peak Palace, Xiangshan Scenic Area, and Yinziyan in Guilin.
How to get to Fenghuang from Guilin?
You can drive to Huaihua and then transfer to Fenghuang, or take a train to Huaihua via Liuzhou and then continue by car to Fenghuang.
How to get to Macau from Guilin?
To reach Macau, cross the border in Zhuhai. You can take a train from Guilin to Zhuhai Station; Gongbei Customs is right next to the station. Direct trains from Guilin to Zhuhai are limited, so you may also go to Guangzhou South Station first and then continue to Zhuhai.
How to get to Linchuan from Guilin?
Depending on your starting point: from Guilin Sanlidian, take the special bus to Lingchuan at the big disc. From Guilin South Railway Station or Qintan Station, take bus No. 301 to Lingchuan. From Guilin North Station, there are many buses heading to Lingchuan.
How to get to Yangshuo from Guilin?
You can take a boat trip along the Li River to Yangshuo, or take a shuttle bus. Both options are convenient.

Local Moments

Muxin Mountain Lodge, nestled amidst the Lijiang River landscape, offers a rooftop retreat within a picturesque setting.

Yangshuo's appeal lies in its mountain and river views from hotel windows. The rooftop Sky Mirror offers photo opportunities. A suggested cycling route: Ten-Mile Gallery, Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill, Butterfly Spring, Julong Pool, Totem Ancient Trail. Best photo times: early morning mist, sunset, blue hour.

photographycyclingscenic routes

Ten-Mile Gallery · Big Banyan Tree Scenic Area · Moon Hill · Butterfly Spring · Julong Pool · Totem Ancient Trail · Lijiang River · Yulong River · Guilin Impression

Quiet mountain lodge next to West Street

A quiet mountain lodge near West Street, offering convenient access to Yangshuo West Street, Lijiang River, Yitian West Street, and Bilian Peak. Day trip: Lijiang River Three-Star Cruise from Fuli Pier to Yangshuo Pier. Evening: West Street for Beer Fish, Guilin Rice Noodles, Qingbuliang. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking both convenience and tranquility.

foodnightlifecruise

West Street · Lijiang River · Yitian West Street · Bilian Peak · Fuli Pier · Yangshuo Pier · Yangshuo Park · West Street Night Market · Yulong River · Ten-Mile Gallery · Guilin Romance Park

Taking photos from this rooftop spot after a hot air balloon ride has a very cinematic feel.

Muxin Mountain Lodge offers mountain and river views, close to West Street, Li River, and Guilin Romance Park. Suggested evening route: West Street, Li River, Yangshuo Park, Yitian West Street, Xu Beihong's Former Residence, West Street Night Market. Best photo times: morning mist, sunset, blue hour. Stay at least one night for morning attractions, afternoon tea, sunset rooftop, West Street night tour, and breakfast.

photographynightlifeitinerary

West Street · Li River · Guilin Romance Park · Yangshuo Park · Yitian West Street · Xu Beihong's Former Residence · West Street Night Market · Yulong River · Ten-Mile Gallery

This mountain-view room in Yangshuo County is perfect for taking stunning vacation photos.

Yangshuo County offers mountain-view rooms with photo spots like the Sky Mirror and rooftop deck. Suggested itinerary: Yulong River bamboo rafting, Ten-Mile Gallery cycling, Moxin Mountain Lodge Sky Mirror, West Street night tour. Best for couple travel photography with karst peaks, Li River, rice fields, and Guilin Impression backdrop. Shoot at early morning, sunset, blue hour; use one-third composition with peaks, windows, reflections for depth.

photographyitinerarycouple travel

Yangshuo County · Yulong River · Ten-Mile Gallery · Moxin Mountain Lodge · West Street · Li River · Guilin Impression

A must-visit during the May Day holiday! Guihai Qinglan Mountain and Water Aesthetic Resort

Guihai Qinglan (Guanghai Qinglan) is a 3,600-acre scenic area in Guilin with karst peaks, meadows, lakes, and black swans, known as 'Little Switzerland.' Located 20 minutes from downtown, entry is 25 RMB. Best visited before 8 AM or after 4 PM to avoid crowds. Key photo spots include the 3rd-floor viewing platform, the Lonely Tree, west boardwalk of Swan Lake, petting zoo, and lakeside at sunset. Nearby food options: Lao Dongjiang Rice Noodles (8-10 RMB) and farmhouse restaurants in Yanshan Town (50 RMB). Accommodation ranges from budget homestays (150-200 RMB) to light luxury villas (from 680 RMB). Avoid eating inside the park and renting electric carts. Use sightseeing bus (30 RMB) or walk.

naturephotographyfoodaccommodationtransportation

Guihai Qinglan · Guilin · Swan Lake · Yanshan Town · Lao Dongjiang Rice Noodles

Last updated 10/9/2026 · published