As travel enthusiasts, we are always on the lookout for new destinations that offer unique experiences. Guilin is one such place that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Located in the Guangxi region of China, Guilin is known for its stunning natural beauty, with limestone karst mountains, winding rivers, and picturesque countryside.
If you’re planning a trip to Guilin, there are plenty of things to see and do. From hiking in the karst mountains to exploring the local villages, there’s something for everyone. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a list of our top recommendations for things to do in Guilin. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you.
If you’re short on time, we’ve also created a 4-day itinerary that covers the highlights of Guilin. This itinerary includes visits to popular attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and the Li River. We’ve also included some off-the-beaten-path experiences, such as a visit to a local tea plantation and a hike to a secluded waterfall. With this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Guilin in just a few days.
Top Attractions in Guilin
When it comes to Guilin travel recommendations, there are a few attractions that are simply unmissable. Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Guilin:
Elephant Trunk Hill
One of the most iconic landmarks in Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill is a must-see for any visitor. The hill gets its name from its distinctive shape, which looks like an elephant drinking from the river. You can climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the city and the Li River.
Li River Cruise
A Li River cruise is one of the top things to do in Guilin. The scenery along the river is simply breathtaking, with towering karst peaks, lush greenery, and traditional villages. The cruise takes around four hours and includes a stop at the charming town of Yangshuo.
Reed Flute Cave
Reed Flute Cave is a fascinating underground world filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations. The cave is illuminated with colorful lights, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere. A guided tour takes around an hour and is well worth the time.
Longji Rice Terraces
If you have time for a day trip, the Longji Rice Terraces are well worth the journey. The terraces are a marvel of engineering and are still farmed using traditional methods. The views from the top are simply stunning, with the terraces stretching out as far as the eye can see.
In our 4-day itinerary Guilin, we recommend visiting all of these attractions to get a taste of the best that Guilin has to offer. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or history, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of China.
Outdoor Activities in Guilin
When it comes to outdoor activities, Guilin has a lot to offer. From hiking to cycling and kayaking, there’s something for everyone.
Hiking
One of the best ways to experience Guilin’s beautiful scenery is on foot. There are several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of our top recommendations include:
- Longji Rice Terraces: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these terraced fields offer stunning views and a glimpse into traditional Chinese agriculture.
- Xianggong Mountain: A popular spot for sunrise and sunset hikes, Xianggong Mountain offers panoramic views of the Li River and surrounding karst mountains.
- Moon Hill: This unique rock formation is a popular hiking destination, with a cave at the top offering views of the surrounding countryside.
Cycling
Cycling is another great way to explore Guilin’s scenery, and there are several routes to choose from. Some of our favorites include:
- Huajiang River and Countryside: This scenic route takes you through rural villages and along the Huajiang River, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
- Yangshuo Countryside: A leisurely ride through Yangshuo’s picturesque countryside, with stops at local villages and attractions like the Moon Hill and Yulong River.
- Guilin City: For a more urban cycling experience, explore Guilin’s city streets and parks on two wheels.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a unique way to experience Guilin’s famous karst scenery from a different perspective. Some of the top kayaking destinations in the area include:
- Li River: A popular spot for kayaking, the Li River offers stunning views of the karst mountains and lush countryside.
- Yulong River: A quieter alternative to the Li River, the Yulong River is known for its crystal-clear water and peaceful surroundings.
- Shangri-La River: This lesser-known river offers a more secluded kayaking experience, with opportunities to see wildlife like water buffalo and monkeys.
Overall, Guilin has something for everyone when it comes to outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely bike ride or a challenging hike, there’s no shortage of options.
Local Cuisine in Guilin
When it comes to local cuisine, Guilin is known for being spicy and sour. We highly recommend trying out the following dishes during your visit:
Guilin Rice Noodles
Guilin Rice Noodles, or Mifen, is a must-try local snack. It’s pliable yet strong, fragrant, and mellow. You can find it almost anywhere in the city, from street vendors to high-end restaurants. The dish is usually served in a bowl with various toppings, such as braised beef, pickled vegetables, and peanuts. It’s a perfect breakfast, lunch, or dinner option that won’t break the bank.
Stir-Fried Li River Shrimps
Li River Shrimps are a local delicacy that you can’t miss. They’re small, sweet, and tender, and are usually stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. You can find them in many restaurants along the Li River, especially in Yangshuo. The dish pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.
Beer Fish
Beer Fish is a popular dish that originated in Yangshuo. It’s made with fresh carp, which is marinated in beer, ginger, and garlic, and then stir-fried with tomatoes, peppers, and onions. The dish is both savory and slightly sweet, and goes well with a bowl of steamed rice. You can find it in many restaurants along the Li River, but we recommend trying it at the Beer Fish Street in Yangshuo for an authentic experience.
Overall, Guilin has a lot to offer when it comes to local cuisine. Don’t be afraid to explore the city’s backstreets and try out some of the hidden gems. We hope our recommendations have inspired you to try out some of the best dishes Guilin has to offer.
Note: This article is based on our personal experiences and research. We recommend doing further research and consulting with local experts for more information.
Best Accommodations in Guilin
If you’re planning a trip to Guilin, finding the right accommodations can be a crucial part of your travel experience. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, Guilin has something for everyone. In this section, we’ll explore the best accommodations in Guilin and provide some recommendations to help you make the most of your stay.
Luxury Hotels
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Guilin, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are our top recommendations:
- Shangri-La Hotel Guilin: This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Guilin and offers stunning views of the Li River. With spacious rooms and top-notch amenities, it’s the perfect choice for those looking for a luxurious stay. More information on Booking.com
- Guilin Sheraton Hotel: Another five-star option, the Guilin Sheraton Hotel offers a range of amenities including an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The hotel is located near many of Guilin’s top attractions, making it a convenient choice for travelers. More information on Booking.com
Budget Hotels
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options in Guilin. Here are some of our top picks:
- Ming Palace International Hostel: This hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations in the heart of Guilin. With clean rooms and a friendly staff, it’s a great choice for backpackers and budget travelers. More information on Booking.com
- Riverside Inn Guilin Central: Another affordable option, the Riverside Inn Guilin Central offers clean and comfortable accommodations at a great price. The hostel is located near many of Guilin’s top attractions, making it a convenient choice for travelers. More information on Booking.com
Hostels
For those looking for a more social and communal travel experience, hostels can be a great choice. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Wada Hostel: This hostel offers a range of accommodations including dormitory rooms and private rooms. With a friendly staff and a range of amenities, it’s a great choice for budget travelers looking to meet other travelers. More information on Booking.com
- This Old Place International Youth Hostel: Another popular hostel in Guilin, This Old Place International Youth Hostel offers a range of accommodations including dormitory rooms and private rooms. The hostel is located near many of Guilin’s top attractions, making it a convenient choice for travelers. More information on Booking.com
Overall, Guilin offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or hostels, there’s something for everyone. We hope these recommendations will help you make the most of your stay in Guilin.
Transportation
When it comes to transportation in Guilin, there are a variety of options available to us. In this section, we will discuss the best ways to get to Guilin and how to get around the city.
Getting to Guilin
The most common way to get to Guilin is by air. Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is located about 28 kilometers southwest of the city center. The airport is served by many domestic and international airlines, including China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and Korean Air. From the airport, we can take a taxi or shuttle bus to our hotel.
Another way to get to Guilin is by train. Guilin has three train stations: West, North, and Central. These stations provide bullet train connections to the complete Chinese high-speed network. Traveling from Guilin to Nanning takes two hours, while the journey from Guilin to Beijing takes only ten hours.
Getting Around Guilin
The most special transportation vehicles in Guilin are the cruise boat, motor-driven raft, and bamboo raft. They are the best vehicles to travel Li River and Yulong River. To travel along the country road, a bicycle is our first choice for its low rent and high flexibility.
We can also take public transportation to get around Guilin. Buses and taxis are convenient and affordable options for intercity travel. In addition, we can also use local trains and coaches within the city center.
If we prefer to have more independence, we can rent a car or hire a private driver. This is a great option for those who want to explore Guilin at their own pace. However, keep in mind that traffic in Guilin can be congested, so we should plan accordingly.
Overall, there are many transportation options available to us in Guilin. Whether we prefer to travel by air, train, boat, or bicycle, we can easily get around and explore all that this beautiful city has to offer.
