Guilin: A Complete Guide to an Unforgettable Trip

If you're looking for an Asian destination that combines stunning natural scenery, authentic culture, and outdoor activities, you should definitely add Guilin to your list! Located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, Guilin is famous for its karst formations, the meandering Li River, and its breathtaking rice terraces. It's undoubtedly one of China's most popular tourist destinations, often ranked just after Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai.

When people talk about visiting Guilin, they're really referring to exploring the entire region, which includes Guilin City, Yangshuo Town, and Longsheng County. It's such a vast area, packed with attractions, that to truly appreciate it, you'd need to plan a stay of 3 to 5 days. From getting lost in a sea of karst peaks to hiking among rice terraces that seem like stairways to heaven, you'll find inspiration for your next great adventure here.

What is the best time to visit Guilin?

Guilin has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is around 17.8°C (64°F). Generally speaking, the best time to visit is between April and October. However, it's crucial to keep in mind Chinese national holidays, such as National Day (the first week of October) and Labor Day (early May), and avoid traveling during these times as the sites will be crowded with local tourists.

For a better experience, you should consider which part of Guilin you want to explore, as the weather and views vary:

Guilin City (altitude: 155 m): You can visit it all year round.

Yangshuo (altitude: 136 m): The best time is from April to October.

Longsheng (altitude: 300-1100 m): Also from April to October, but the landscape of its terraces changes dramatically with the seasons:

Avoid December, January, and February if you can, as the weather is usually cold, gray, and rainy, with fog obscuring the views.

How to get to and around Guilin?

Getting to Guilin is easier than you think, thanks to its good connectivity.

By air: Guilin Liangjiang Airport (KWL) is about 28 km from the city center. There are over 100 flights connecting Guilin with 76 cities, including Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Kunming. There are also some international flights from Seoul, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

By train: Guilin has three railway stations: Guilin Railway Station, Guilin North Railway Station, and Guilin West Railway Station. High-speed bullet trains (G and D trains) are an excellent and modern way to travel from cities such as Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. The train journey itself offers a glimpse into China's ever-changing landscape.

Once there, to get around between the city, Yangshuo and Longsheng, you can use a combination of tourist buses, taxis or private transport services, depending on your budget and comfort.

Must-See Attractions and Activities in Guilin:

Guilin is much more than a pretty picture. It's a place to immerse yourself in. Here's a list of what you can't miss:

1. Li River Cruise:

This is, without exaggeration, Guilin's signature activity. The 4-hour boat trip from Mopanshan Pier in Guilin to Longtoushan Pier in Yangshuo takes you through breathtaking scenery. You'll pass the Nine Horses Mural and the location featured on the 20 RMB banknote, the Yellow Cloth Bank. It's a living, breathing art gallery.

2. Cycling in the Yangshuo Countryside:

Rent a bicycle and explore the rural roads of Yangshuo. It's the best way to feel the breeze, experience local life firsthand, and stop whenever you like to take photos of the stunning karst peaks. There are routes ranging from 15 to 30 km, suitable for various skill levels.

3. Bamboo rafts on the Yulong River:

If the cruise offers panoramic views, the bamboo raft provides a tactile experience. Floating peacefully down the Yulong River for 50-90 minutes is incredibly relaxing. The scenery is more serene than on the Li River, perfect for connecting with the tranquility of the place.

4. Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng:

The reason to climb to Longsheng is to witness this masterpiece of agriculture and engineering. Over 600 years old, these terraces still feed the local Zhuang and Yao communities. Walking among them is the only way to appreciate their true scale. The most popular areas are Ping'an and Jinkeng, each with spectacular viewpoints like "Seven Stars Around the Moon."

5. Elephant Trunk Hill in Guilin:

It is the undisputed symbol of the city. Its shape, reminiscent of an elephant drinking water from the river, is unique.

6. Reed Flute Cave in Guilin:

Just a few kilometers from the city center, this cave is an underground world of stalactites and stalagmites illuminated with colored lights. It's a great option, especially if the weather isn't suitable for outdoor activities.

7. West Street in Yangshuo:

This ancient pedestrian street is now a vibrant hub of activity, filled with cafes, restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. It's the perfect place to end the day, enjoy a beer, and chat with your travel companions (if you have any) or, if you're feeling adventurous, with the locals.

Hiking along the Terraces and the Yulong River:

In Longsheng, hiking takes you to the highest viewpoints for unforgettable postcard-perfect views. In Yangshuo, a walk along the Yulong River lets you discover ancient villages and stone bridges you might otherwise miss.

Guilin is one of those destinations that stays with you long after you leave. Carefully plan your visit, choose the activities that appeal to you most, and prepare to witness some of the most incredible scenery Asia has to offer. Have a great trip!