Guilin Travel Guide: Exploring the Magical Landscape of Karst Peaks and Lijiang River
Guilin, located in the northeastern part of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking natural scenery. As the saying goes, “Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven,” and this reputation is well-earned. With its unique karst peaks, crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and charming rural villages, Guilin offers a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This 1500-word travel guide will take you through the must-visit attractions, delicious local cuisine, accommodation options, transportation tips, and more to help you make the most of your trip to this enchanting city.
Must-See Natural Attractions
Lijiang River (Li River)
The Lijiang River is the crown jewel of Guilin’s landscape, stretching 83 kilometers from Guilin to Yangshuo. A cruise along this iconic river is an absolute must, as it allows you to witness the stunning karst peaks rising dramatically from the water, resembling a landscape painted by a master artist.
The most popular section of the cruise is from Guilin to Yangshuo, which takes about 4-5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass by famous landmarks such as the Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbi Shan), where a hill 形如 (xíng rú, is shaped like) an elephant drinking water from the river, and the Yellow Cloth Shoal (Huangbu 滩), known for its clear water that reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. The best time to take the cruise is in the morning when the mist shrouds the peaks, creating a magical atmosphere. In autumn (September-November), the weather is mild, and the foliage adds vibrant colors to the scenery.
Yangshuo West Street
After arriving in Yangshuo by Lijiang River cruise, a visit to Yangshuo West Street is a must. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with a mix of traditional Chinese shops, Western cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a vibrant cultural melting pot.
Stroll along the street to shop for local handicrafts, such as embroidered products, bamboo carvings, and paintings depicting Guilin’s landscape. You can also try a variety of local snacks and international dishes. In the evening, the street comes alive with street performers, including musicians and acrobats, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. West Street is not only a great place to experience the local life but also a convenient starting point for exploring other attractions in Yangshuo.
Longji Rice Terraces
Located about 100 kilometers north of Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces) are a marvel of agricultural engineering. Built by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities over 650 years ago, the terraces wind up the mountainsides like a giant dragon’s backbone, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
The terraces are especially beautiful during different seasons: in spring (April-May), they are filled with water, reflecting the sky and surrounding mountains; in summer (June-August), they are lush and green; in autumn (September-October), the rice ripens, turning the terraces into a golden sea; and in winter (December-February), they are sometimes covered in snow, creating a serene white landscape. The most popular areas to visit are the Ping’an Village and Jinkeng Village terraces. It’s advisable to spend a night in a local village guesthouse to fully experience the rural life and catch the sunrise over the terraces.
Reed Flute Cave
Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan) is a magical underground cave located 5 kilometers northwest of Guilin. Named after the reeds growing outside the cave that can be made into flutes, this cave is famous for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, which have been formed over millions of years.
Inside the cave, colorful lights illuminate the various rock formations, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The cave is about 240 meters long, and a walk through it takes about 1 hour. Along the way, you’ll see formations with imaginative names such as the “Crystal Palace,” “Dragon and Tiger,” and “Flower Mountain.” The cave is a popular attraction year-round, as it provides a cool escape from the summer heat.
Elephant Trunk Hill
As one of Guilin’s most iconic landmarks, Elephant Trunk Hill is a must-visit. This hill gets its name from its resemblance to an elephant drinking water from the Lijiang River, with its trunk dipping into the water.
You can climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Guilin and the Lijiang River. At the base of the hill, there is a cave called the Water Moon Cave (Shuiyue Dong), which is formed by the elephant’s trunk and legs. When the moon is full, the reflection of the moon in the cave’s water creates a beautiful “water moon” scene, hence the name. The hill is located in the city center, making it easily accessible.
Culinary Delights
Guilin’s cuisine is influenced by the flavors of Guangxi, with a focus on fresh local ingredients and bold flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen): This is Guilin’s most famous dish. The noodles are served in a flavorful broth made from pork or beef bones, and topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, beef, peanuts, pickled vegetables, and chili oil. It’s a hearty and delicious breakfast or lunch option, available at almost every street corner.
- Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu): A specialty of Yangshuo, beer fish is made by frying fish (usually grass carp or crucian carp) and then simmering it in beer with ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. The result is tender fish with a rich, savory flavor.
- Stuffed Tofu (Rougansi Doufu): This dish features tofu stuffed with minced pork, then steamed or fried. It’s often served with a soy-based sauce and is a popular vegetarian option.
- ** Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Gao)**: A sweet dessert made with glutinous rice flour, sugar, and osmanthus flowers. It has a fragrant aroma and a soft, chewy texture, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Bamboo Rice (Zhumu Fan): Glutinous rice mixed with meat, mushrooms, and other ingredients is stuffed into bamboo tubes and steamed. The rice absorbs the fragrance of the bamboo, creating a unique and delicious flavor.
Accommodation Options
Guilin and Yangshuo offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:
- Luxury: In Guilin, the Sheraton Grand Guilin Hotel is located along the Lijiang River, offering spacious rooms with beautiful views, a spa, and multiple restaurants. In Yangshuo, the Banyan Tree Yangshuo provides luxurious villas with private pools, surrounded by karst peaks, for a truly indulgent experience.
- Mid-Range: The Guilin Bravo Hotel is a great mid-range option in Guilin, located in the city center with comfortable rooms and easy access to attractions. In Yangshuo, the Yangshuo Mountain View Hotel offers clean and spacious rooms with views of the surrounding mountains, and is within walking distance of West Street.
- Budget: For budget travelers, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses in both Guilin and Yangshuo. In Guilin, the Guilin Youth Hostel offers dormitory beds and private rooms at affordable prices, with a friendly atmosphere. In Yangshuo, the Yangshuo Backpackers Hostel is a popular choice, located near West Street and offering bike rentals for exploring the area.
Transportation
- Getting Around Guilin: Guilin’s city center is relatively small, and many attractions can be reached on foot or by bicycle. Buses are also convenient and affordable, with fares ranging from ¥1 to ¥2. Taxis are readily available, with a starting fare of ¥9 for the first 2 kilometers.
- From Guilin to Yangshuo: Besides the Lijiang River cruise, you can also take a bus from Guilin’s South Bus Station to Yangshuo, which takes about 1.5 hours and costs around ¥25. High-speed trains are also available from Guilin North Station to Yangshuo Station, taking about 40 minutes, and then you can take a bus from Yangshuo Station to the town center.
- From the Airport: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport is located about 30 kilometers from the city center. You can take an airport bus to the city center, which takes about 40 minutes and costs ¥20. Taxis are also available, costing around ¥80-100.
- Getting to Longji Rice Terraces: To reach the Longji Rice Terraces, you can take a bus from Guilin’s North Bus Station to Longsheng County, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to the terraces. The total journey takes about 2.5-3 hours. Alternatively, you can join a day tour from Guilin, which includes transportation and a guide.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Guilin is in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer (June-August) can be hot and rainy, but it’s also a good time to enjoy water activities. Winter (December-February) is cold but less crowded.
- Language: English is spoken in major hotels and tourist areas, but it’s helpful to learn some basic Chinese phrases or carry a translation app, especially when interacting with locals in rural areas.
- Cash and Cards: While credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, it’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases, street food, and in rural areas where card payments may not be available. ATMs are widely available in Guilin and Yangshuo.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting ethnic minority villages such as those in the Longji Rice Terraces, respect their customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photos of local people, and follow the guidance of your guide.
- Packing Essentials: Bring comfortable walking shoes as there will be a lot of walking and hiking. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. In rainy seasons, a waterproof jacket or umbrella is necessary.
Guilin is a place where nature’s beauty takes center stage, leaving visitors in awe of its magical landscapes. From cruising along the Lijiang River to exploring the ancient rice terraces, from savoring delicious local cuisine to immersing yourself in the local culture, Guilin offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this charming city has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to be captivated by the beauty of Guilin.
