Top Things to do in Guilin: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of limestone karst hills, the southern Chinese city of Guilin is home to lush vegetation, lakes, rivers, and breathtaking landscapes. The second-largest city in the Guangxi region, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions. If you’re interested in exploring this side of China, we’ve put together a detailed guide on what to see and do while in Guilin.
Top Things to Do in Guilin
- 🚢 Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise – A glittering journey through Guilin's illuminated river and lake system.
- ⛰️ Solitary Beauty Peak & Prince City – A historic Ming Dynasty princely residence featuring a striking peak in the city centre.
- 🌾 Longji Rice Terraces – Breathtaking, centuries-old rice terraces cascading down steep mountainsides.
- 🏞️ Li River Scenic Area – China's world-famous karst landscape, featured on the 20-yuan banknote.
- 🛶 Yulong River Bamboo Rafting – A romantic bamboo raft float on the Yulong River, including shuttle transfer.
What to Do in Guilin Based on Your Stay
How best to prioritise your time in Guilin depends on how long you intend to stay and the interests and needs of your travel group. We’ve popped together some example itineraries and recommendations to help you plan your trip.
Length of Stay | Couple | Family | Friends | Solo |
1 day | Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Li River, and end the day with a romantic stroll around the Sun and Moon Pagodas. | Explore the Reed Flute Cave in the morning, and spend a family-focused afternoon around the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area. | Get adventurous with a bamboo raft on the Li River, and unwind in the evening on Zhengyang Pedestrian Street. | Catch the morning light hiking up Elephant Trunk Hill, and relax with a gentle walk around the Two Rivers and Four Lakes. |
2-3 days | Take time exploring the city’s pagodas and caves, head to Yangshuo to cycle around the Karst hills, and take the trip out to the rice terraces for sunset. | Spend time discovering Guilin’s lakes and caves, go on kid-friendly walks at the rice fields, and go cycling or bamboo rafting near the river. | Take sunrise photos at the rice fields, try local dishes in Yangshuo, and spend quality time exploring the city’s natural hot spots. | Enjoy the landscape, cruising the rivers, cycle through the Yangshuo countryside, and tuck into local delicacies. |
Considering Guilin as your next holiday destination? Keep reading to Learn more about what to do in Guilin.
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Guilin's Top Attractions and Tours
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3138 booked![Guilin Longji Rice Terraces + Jinkeng Terraces + Huangluo Red Yao Village 1-day tour [small group/private tour]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images//0584812000necx193D136_C_568_320.jpg)
Must-Visit Districts in Guilin
The major sights that Guilin is best known for is spread across six different districts, so knowing which neighbourhood is home to those historical buildings or that hill comes in really handy when preparing for your holiday. Here are our recommendations for Guilin’s must-visit districts, whether you’re planning a day tour or spending a good chunk of time in the city.
Xiufeng District: shopping, dining and culture in Guilin
Xiufeng is a great place to start when you first arrive in Guilin, and it makes for a fantastic base for your stay. Not only is it the city centre, meaning this is where you’ll find a whole host of food, drink, transport and amenities, but it also has its own sightseeing draws too. You’ll find the Jingjiang Princes’ Palace here, as well as traditional neighbourhoods to stroll through. The area is also on the border of the popular and scenic Two Rivers and Four Lakes Area.
Diecai District: a backdrop of dramatic Karst Hills
Another of Guilin’s urban districts, Diecai, is special for being flanked by the famous karst hills. The name Diecai translates to ‘stacked colours’, referring to the unique shades, textures, and layers of the surrounding limestone formations. Here you’ll find hills to hike, parks to stroll through, and local neighbourhoods that are a little bit quieter than those found in Xiufeng.
Xiangshan District: Guilin’s spectacular natural formations
The Xiangshan neighbourhood is home to the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, a karst formation named after its appearance of an elephant trunk drinking from the Li River. In this district, you’ll discover a fantastic mix of natural scenery, historic buildings like temples, pagodas, and pavilions, and local street food spots. It’s also got great transport links and, like many other areas of the city, lots of useful amenities on offer.
Qixing District: Recreation and relaxation in Guilin
Also known as the Seven Star District, after the eponymous park, the Qixing neighbourhood is a great place to head for a spot of relaxation. Not only can you find the city’s most famous park here, but also caves, lakes, karst hills (of course!), and lots of green spaces for recreation.
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Guilin Hotel Recommendations
5 star
Very Good4822 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.36km from city centre
The hotel's location is excellent, with many attractions within walking distance. The pedestrian street is right behind it, making for a pleasant stroll to Jiefang Bridge after dinner in the evening. I absolutely have to give Mila a five-star review! She was incredibly patient during our discussions, listened attentively to my ideas, and offered appropriate suggestions. She's meticulous and responsible, handling every detail perfectly.From£59
Good2882 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.25km from city centre
Our stay was absolutely fantastic! The hotel's surroundings are really quiet, and the room's soundproofing was excellent, so both the elderly and the kids slept soundly. We felt very confident about the cleanliness; the bedding and toiletries were spotless. All the staff were incredibly kind, and they were very quick to respond to any requests. Our whole family had such a wonderful time, I highly recommend it for family trips! The room was spacious enough for the kids to move around comfortably, and the hygiene was top-notch. Plus, the restaurants around the hotel offered light and healthy options, perfect for children. Getting around was convenient too. The entire experience was incredibly thoughtful and pleasant!From£43
Very Good4057 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|2.52km from city centre
I highly recommend the Shangri-La Hotel Guilin! This well-established five-star hotel, located right on the Li River, offers an absolutely fantastic experience ✨
The hotel boasts an elegant environment with extensive gardens. The back gate provides direct access to the Li River, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the scenery. We stayed in a river-view room, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offered direct views of the Li River and the karst peaks. Opening the window was like stepping into a Guilin landscape painting, with misty clouds in the morning and absolutely breathtaking views.
The room was clean and tidy, and the bedding was soft and comfortable. The staff provided attentive and thoughtful service, and check-in was warm and polite. With both indoor and outdoor pools, plus a kids' club, it's absolutely ideal for a vacation with seniors and children.
The location is convenient for getting around, with attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill just a short drive away. Choosing this hotel for our trip to Guilin was a very wise decision; it offered a wonderfully relaxed vacation experience. I'll definitely choose to stay here again next time I visit Guilin!From£61
Excellent3419 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.76km from city centre
The hotel room's location couldn't be better! The view of Elephant Trunk Hill from the hotel is even more complete than from within the scenic area itself. Getting around is super convenient, and the hotel thoughtfully provided a list of great local restaurants. The breakfast was unexpectedly lavish! There was even a towel elephant made by the staff in the room, which was absolutely adorable! 😍From£46
Perfect6494 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.77km from city centre
I chose the Qiao CIAO Hotel for my short stay in Guilin, and its riverside location right by the Li River is absolutely fantastic! It's been raining lightly recently, and the infinity pool on the first floor looks incredibly inviting. The pool water seems to blend seamlessly with the outdoor mountain scenery, and a gentle breeze just makes you feel completely relaxed.
I booked a twin room, and it was spacious and brand new. The lighting was warm and inviting, and there was a large bathtub – perfect for a relaxing soak after exploring the mountains and rivers, it really helped me unwind.
You absolutely must try the Guilin rice noodles for breakfast. A warm bowl of it is incredibly satisfying, and you can add as many toppings as you like. There's also a good variety of fruits and pastries, so you can take your time and enjoy your meal without rushing.
The ambiance, rooms, and breakfast were all excellent. This short trip was incredibly comfortable, and I'd definitely recommend considering this hotel if you're visiting Guilin!From£61
Excellent2557 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.93km from city centre
The hotel's location is absolutely fantastic, right opposite Elephant Trunk Hill's Gate 1, making it super convenient to get anywhere. The butler was incredibly attentive too! On our first day, we even received a welcome fruit platter with cucumber, plums, and bananas.From£44
Business travel
Excellent863 Reviews
Reed Flute Cave/Lujia Village/Peach Blossom River/West Hill Park Guilin|4.11km from city centre
Heshe Hotel stands as one of the finest resorts for accommodation in Guilin. Their hospitality, culinary offerings, ambiance, and staff are all exceptionally delightful and helpful.
Upon our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by amazing front desk attendant, Melody. She assisted us through out our stay and made sure we’re comfortable and well taken care of and our tour guide, Eric, who communicated fluently in English, significantly easing our experience as non-Chinese speakers.
The owner was equally gracious, sharing their barbecue with us, creating a sense of homeliness. This hotel is located just 15 minutes from the main tourist attractions, with rooms that are very clean and offer breathtaking views.
I am definitely coming back again.From£38
Outstanding2825 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.1km from city centre
Xiao Ping and Xiao Jie at the front desk gave us a complimentary room upgrade and free drinks when we checked in, and the room was on a great floor. The room was very clean and spacious, and the hotel's breakfast buffet was excellent with a wide variety of choices. The hotel is right next to a food street and Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, so after dinner, you can walk to Dongxi Alley to digest. It's located in the city center, about a 10-minute walk to the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas and a 15-minute walk to Elephant Trunk Hill. Taxis and public transportation are also very convenient. It's 3 kilometers from Guilin Station and 6 kilometers from Guilin North Station.From£32
Outstanding1710 Reviews
Guilin|15.93km from city centre
Returned for another stay at this hotel because of its beautiful environment and excellent hygiene. The service was fantastic all around. A special shout-out to the ladies working shifts on the 12th, 27th, and 21st (both day and night) for their exceptional service. I wasn't feeling well due to a cold, and one of the staff members thoughtfully applied medicated oil, massaged pressure points on my head, and even helped upgrade my room. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time!
Hotel Response: [The 'Sky Mirror' on the seventh floor is a beautiful spot for photos]From£41
Perfect13370 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.38km from city centre
I was very satisfied with my stay at your hotel this time. After getting out of the taxi, I couldn't find the hotel, and the front desk lady came out to greet us and even helped us with our luggage. Check-in was also very fast. The hotel is located in the center of ZhengYang Pedestrian Street in Guilin, so there are plenty of food options right downstairs, and it's also close to nearby attractions. During our stay, every hotel staff member was very enthusiastic and always ready to help. What impressed me the most was when I asked for slippers to be sent to the room, an auntie rang the doorbell and handed them to me with both hands. Although it was a small gesture, it showed the high quality of the hotel staff. The enthusiasm of the staff also indicates that the owner must be a great boss. The next time I or my friends visit Guilin, your hotel will definitely be our first choice or recommendation. Thank you so much for your excellent service, which made us feel so warm. Kudos to all the hotel staff!From£35
Outstanding2136 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.02km from city centre
Upon arriving at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised by the room. You can see it in the pictures below.
**Ambiance:** Elegant. It's right by Rong Lake. In the evening, you can enjoy a gentle breeze by the lake, taking in the tranquility and beauty of the night.
**Cleanliness:** Spotless and tidy.
**Facilities:** Excellent facilities. There's a self-service laundry room on level B1, and you can even iron clothes there, which was an unexpected bonus. There's also a swimming pool in the hotel's central courtyard if you fancy a swim. The breakfast selection was rich and varied, with several types of bread. Both the cold and hot dishes were superb. There were many foreign guests at the hotel at the time, indicating that it caters to both Eastern and Western tastes and preferences.
**Service:** There's a housekeeping department on every floor.
**Areas for improvement:** During meal times, staff should be more prompt in clearing fruit peels and leftover food scraps from tables.From£48
Excellent10719 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.69km from city centre
Our stay at this hotel was absolutely fantastic! The front desk service was incredibly thoughtful and welcoming. Staff greeted us with smiles, processed our check-in quickly, and even proactively asked about our needs. When the weather was hot, they thoughtfully prepared fresh fruit (crisp plums) and iced drinks (sour plum juice, lemonade) in the lobby for guests to enjoy at any time. The room was clean and tidy, with dust-free floors and fresh bedding. The bathroom had a separate wet and dry area and was well-equipped (hair dryer, toiletries). The kids absolutely loved the tent and ride-on toy in the room, and there was plenty of space for them to play freely. On the 10th floor, there's a dedicated kids' play area with slides, a ball pit, and a picture book corner, which the children thoroughly enjoyed. Overall, we were very satisfied.From£59
Family friendly
Excellent5053 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|2.97km from city centre
This is my go-to hotel whenever I'm traveling, it offers incredible value for money. The room was spotlessly clean, the bathroom had no unpleasant odors, and there was always hot water available. All the toiletries were well-stocked. The mattress was just the right firmness, ensuring a super refreshing night's sleep. The air conditioning worked perfectly, and the Wi-Fi speed was consistently stable, great for streaming or working without any lag. It's conveniently located downstairs for easy access to transport, and the front desk staff are really welcoming and helpful – they sorted out any issues right away. Check-in and check-out were smooth and hassle-free. Whether it's for a business trip or a short getaway, staying here is worry-free and comfortable. The price is fantastic; you get a pleasant stay for a small cost. I'll definitely choose this place again next time I'm in town.From£47
Very Good649 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.95km from city centre
I'm back in Guishan! This time I stayed for three days straight. I went to the pool every day. The water was great, and the kids had a blast! An unexpected surprise was discovering Shijiayuan Road, just a short walk away, with so many delicious restaurants. It's a continuous walk from the beginning to the end!From£35
Very Good2298 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|2.43km from city centre
This hotel has over a hundred rooms on the first floor, all well-designed. The lobby is grand, the breakfast is excellent, and the price is very reasonable. The location is superb, making it easy to get to attractions and the train station. Plus, there's a huge parking lot! And I loved the full-length mirrors in the hallway – perfect for quick touch-ups and checking your outfit.From£51
Outstanding5205 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.16km from city centre
The hotel's location is quite good, making getting around very convenient. The room size is spacious enough, and there's a tatami mat under the window. The front desk service was patient and thoughtful, and we even received a small gift upon checkout. We're also very grateful to the hotel staff for helping us mail back an item we left in the room – their efficiency was amazing, truly excellent! We'll definitely come back next time! (՞ਊ՞)👍From£27
Very Good489 Reviews
Gaoxing Wanda Plaza/Hi-Tech Zone Guilin|4.12km from city centre
This hotel is super conveniently located near the Wanda commercial area. The room was fantastic, quite spacious, clean, and the bedding was really comfortable. The front desk service was incredibly attentive; they asked about my room preferences during check-in and gave me a quiet room facing the residential area. The hotel also has a breakfast restaurant, a gym, and a laundry room, so the facilities are quite comprehensive. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you can't go wrong choosing this place!From£19
Very Good342 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|3.49km from city centre
The hotel is very convenient for travel, with complete facilities and a design-oriented decoration. The garden is beautiful and the photos are very good. The front desk service is very good and attentive. The room is very clean and hygienic. The breakfast is richer than that of the same level. It is highly recommended!From£24
Breakfast
Very Good949 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|2.61km from city centre
Ha, the advantage of Lefeng is the fine decoration and 20+ square meters. It seems not as stable and practical as other cheaper brands.
1. There is a pull rod outside the bathroom door but not inside. In fact, it can be pushed open in both directions.
2. The faucet design is difficult to understand and control, and the wash basin is very small and splashes water.
3. The toilet paper holder is crooked and the paper fell to the ground.
4. There is no shelf in the shower. The toiletries are placed on the old crooked big bottle, which also fell to the ground.
5. The shower adjus**ent knob seems convenient but is actually difficult to understand. It is inevitable to be showered with a lot of cold water first. The top shower leaks and has a rotten hole.
6. The disposable slippers are small and dirty, and should be cancelled.
Repair the bathroom quickly!From£25
Very Good4062 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.97km from city centre
Upon arrival, I found that a section of the hotel was under renovation. There were a lot of construction materials near the elevator entrance and plenty of dust from the renovation on the floor. My family even joked that after all my careful searching, I ended up picking a hotel undergoing renovations!
There was a slight formaldehyde smell inside the elevator on my floor, but it became very faint once we entered the room, almost unnoticeable unless you specifically tried to smell it.
The room had no windows and felt a bit stuffy, which I knew before booking. There was a faint musty smell in the room, and I'm not sure if it was related to the lack of ventilation. However, the room itself was relatively clean.
Overall, I really didn't expect the renovation... I was a bit taken aback during check-in 😮. I hope things improve once the renovations are complete.From£28
Very Good413 Reviews
Guilin North&West Railway StationDiecai Wanda Plaza Guilin|6.04km from city centre
Comfortable hotel, suitable for all traveller types. The staff were friendly and helpful. The location is about 10km from the city centre, but it is close to the Guilin North station, helping you on your journey to mountain views further south. The hotel's short comings were not everything worked (power sockets, the overhead shower feature, and supposedly the onsite launderette dryer - though it did for me) and the breakfast, while okay, was monotonous each morning.From£19
Very Good810 Reviews
Guilin North&West Railway StationDiecai Wanda Plaza Guilin|4.92km from city centre
The luckiest thing about this Guilin trip was booking this hotel! The location is impeccable; I was able to see the Two Rivers and Four Lakes, the Sun and Moon Twin Towers, and the riverside night view was absolutely stunning. The room was spotless, the bedding was soft and comfortable, and the soundproofing was excellent, so I slept very soundly after a day of sightseeing. The receptionist at 019 was exceptionally attentive, proactively offering tips on avoiding tourist traps, recommending authentic local cuisine, and patiently helping with luggage storage. The stay was incredibly relaxing and a top choice for any trip to Guilin; I've already recommended it to friends!From£24
715 Reviews
Guilin North&West Railway StationDiecai Wanda Plaza Guilin|6.29km from city centre
The environment of this hotel is comfortable and pleasant, and parking is super worry-free if you drive. The breakfast is rich in variety and delicious, and the overall rating is good.From£18
Very Good847 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|2.9km from city centre
I've stayed here multiple times. The location is excellent, with a mall nearby and plenty of dining options. The soundproofing in the rooms is great, making them quiet and comfortable. The staff are always responsive and quick to assist. The value for money is outstanding, making it my top choice for business trips. Highly recommend!From£20
Gym
Outstanding2310 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.2km from city centre
Our first stop in Guangxi was the Atour Hotel, and it was a fantastic choice! The location is superb, right on the pedestrian street, making it incredibly convenient for getting around. It's nestled right within the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area. The staff were exceptionally welcoming and helped us, as first-time visitors from afar, immediately get comfortable with the surroundings. Even though we only stayed one night, it left a lasting impression. Highly recommended!From£47
Good917 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|3.25km from city centre
The Guilin Zhongshui Hotel is located next to Nanxi Mountain Park, very close to Guilin Railway Station and Elephant Trunk Hill Park, making it convenient to reach by electric bicycle. A slight drawback is that the hotel entrance is about 150 meters from Zhongshan South Road. Booking during the National Day holiday, the price was reasonable and offered good value. As a 4-star hotel, it's an older establishment, but the facilities are decent, and the hot water is excellent.From£13
Good543 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.29km from city centre
The front desk lady was super nice and upgraded my room. It has a pool, perfect for a summer trip. You can swim, and there's also a gym, which is a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. The gym overlooks the beautiful backyard garden, which is absolutely stunning. A hotel definitely worth staying at!From£18
Perfect6483 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.17km from city centre
The balcony view was absolutely stunning; I just wanted to lie there all day. It's a peaceful retreat in a bustling area, and the service was incredibly attentive. The security guard at the entrance was so helpful. Aside from the weather being uncooperative and the Li River scenic area being closed, I really loved everything else. The breakfast restaurant also had a beautiful view and delicious food. It truly lives up to its reputation as the top-ranked hotel. I'll definitely stay here again if I get the chance.From£105
Excellent4485 Reviews
Convention And Exhibition Center/Seven Star Park Guilin|1.82km from city centre
The hotel stay was very comfortable, and the location is excellent. All the hotel staff were very friendly, and our butler was incredibly attentive. For both nights we stayed, they offered a selection of complimentary teas delivered right to our door. After checking out, my friend's child accidentally left their smartwatch in the room, and the butler kindly helped us mail it for free via SF Express to our hotel in Yangshuo. The service attitude is truly exceptional. I will definitely choose this hotel again next time I visit Guilin! The complimentary travel photography service provided by the hotel was also great. The photographer was very friendly and professional.From£41
Outstanding5754 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.5km from city centre
I booked a twin room and asked the front desk for a quieter one, but didn't get an upgrade. The room was clean, but the view from the window was just other room windows, so no scenery.
Check-in was quite strict; they even took separate photos for those with children, which was thorough.
Overall, I'd still recommend staying here, mainly for the good value for money and excellent location. Pros: The room was clean, and it's quite close to Dongxi Alley, Elephant Trunk Hill, and the Twin Pagodas. There's a shared e-bike station right outside, making it convenient to ride and park. Plus, there are BBQ stalls nearby, so it's easy to grab a bite without ordering takeout.
Cons:
The bathroom didn't have a shower curtain, just a half-door, so showering easily made the whole bathroom wet. The overhead shower leaked, and the handheld shower holder was unstable, wobbling whenever the water was turned on. These minor issues could probably be fixed with a small tweak from the hotel's engineering department.
The lobby bar's self-service desserts from 9-10 PM: mung bean soup and guilinggao (turtle jelly) drinks. They were just okay, not worth making a special trip if you're short on time.
The 'all-you-can-drink' option was also just average.
Both were served in large barrels or bowls for self-service. I suggest serving them in individual cups for better convenience and hygiene. I believe the hotel's F&B department could easily adjust this.
Environment: During my two-day stay, I went in and out multiple times, and the drop-off lane at the hotel entrance was almost always occupied by tour buses. Every time I took a taxi back, I had to stop on the main road. This issue with vehicle guidance could likely be managed with a little regulation from the hotel's concierge department.From£25
Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Guilin
Guilin’s unique geography makes it a fantastic destination for nature lovers who still want access to city amenities and conveniences. The landscape on its own is a sight to behold, but if you’d like to delve deeper into what Guilin has to offer, here are our recommendations for the best things to see and do.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes: Natural charm on the waterfront
Beautiful to take in day and night, Two Rivers and Four Lakes is a network of different waterways found in Guilin. Passing by dramatic scenery, pagodas, and bridges, you can while away the hours just taking it all in. Great for both nature and history lovers, every angle is a picture-perfect scene. Don’t forget to visit the famous Sun and Moon Pagodas, which come to life every evening when lit up.
Solitary Beauty Peak and Prince City Scenic Area: History in the hills
The area surrounding the Solitary Beauty Peak and Prince City, also known as Duxiufeng Wangcheng, is positively alive with history and culture, nestled amongst the stunning limestone karst hills. Here, you can explore the Solitary Beauty Peak, soaring into the sky from its city centre location. This area is also home to the Jingjiang Princes’ Palace, which dates back to the Ming dynasty, along with ancient city walls, gates, temples and more.
Longji Rice Terraces: Serenity in rural China
About a two-hour drive away from the centre of Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces are well worth the journey. It’s also known as the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces for the dragon spine-like appearance of the tiered landscape. With changing colours throughout the year, these centuries-old terraces are the perfect backdrop for a relaxing trip to the countryside.
Li River Scenic Area: A display of natural majesty
Carving its way through 51 and a half miles through Guilin to Yangshuo, the winding Li River is a must-see. Whether walking on its banks or cruising its waters, the scenic areas surrounding the river showcase some of the best landscapes Guilin has to offer. Take a bamboo raft downstream and understand why the Li River has captured the imagination of so many artists.
Yulong River: The heart of rural southern China
Around 20 miles south of Guilin lies the Yulong River, a tributary of the aforementioned Li River. For travellers looking for fewer crowds, a trip down the scenic Yulong River is guaranteed to recharge the batteries. Hire a bike, go for a gentle walk, or cruise along the water as you pass traditional villages and the region’s famous karst peaks.
Guilin, a Landscape That Continues to Inspire
An awe-inspiring landscape of verdant peaks, winding waterways, and mist-topped karst hills awaits. Guilin offers all the conveniences of a modern city, yet its natural splendour is what keeps travellers returning. It’s the perfect place to take a breather from the urban rush and discover wild China at its most serene.
For centuries, this dramatic scenery has stirred the imaginations of poets and artists. Tang dynasty masters like Li Bai and Wang Wei wrote verses inspired by the region’s ethereal beauty, while celebrated painter Qi Baishi captured its mountains and rivers in expressive ink strokes. Their works immortalised Guilin’s landscapes, transforming them into cultural icons.
Today, you can follow in their footsteps by exploring the city’s grandest natural landmarks. Wander through the illuminated chambers of Reed Flute Cave, shaped by millennia of limestone formations, and climb to viewpoints around Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s most emblematic karst peak. As you stand before these scenes, it becomes clear why generations of artists have found endless inspiration here.
Then, see art and nature merge at Yuzi Paradise sculpture park, where contemporary works are framed against lush mountainsides. The result is a living gallery that blends creativity with the landscape that has inspired so many before.
Best Time to Visit Guilin
Each season in Guilin offers a different and unique experience. However, it’s best to be prepared for the weather, as things can get pretty hot and pretty wet! Our table below outlines what to expect, as well as some fun festivals celebrated throughout the year.
Season | Weather | Notes | Activities & Festivals |
🌸 Spring (Mar–May) | Starting cool and damp and warming up as the season progresses. | Mid-to-late spring is a great time to visit, as the temperatures are pleasant for exploring the city’s many outdoor sights. | Flower festival, Tomb-sweeping day, and the flooding of rice terraces ahead of the growing season. |
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | Moving from warm to hot, increasing humidity and thunderstorms. | Pack your brollies and a water bottle to stay dry and hydrated. It’s due to get pretty hot! | Dragon Boat Festival, and Impression Liu Sanjie night performances, |
🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Cooling down and drying up throughout autumn. | A great time to go sightseeing, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Would recommend avoiding Golden Week if possible, as could get quite busy. | Golden week, Mid-Autumn Festival, Chongyang Festival, and Longji Rice Terraces Harvest Season, where the rice terraces turn golden. |
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Day Trips from Guilin
Guilin’s central location in the heart of Southern China’s picturesque landscape makes it a fantastic base for those looking to venture further afield. With river and road transport links, local buses and private taxi services available, it’s easy to discover more of this beautiful area.
Yangshuo
Located in the nearby Guangxi province, Yangshuo is a little quieter than Guilin. Meet up with the Li River further on its journey and take in the karst hills in a more rural setting. Yangshuo is perfect for travellers who like to get active, with cycling, rock climbing, walking, and bamboo rafting activities readily available.
- Average travel time: around 1-1.5 hours from Guilin
- Transport: High-speed train from Guilin train station (🎫Guilin to Yangshuo trains from £2.36)
- Must-sees: Moon Hill, Silver Cave, and the historic West Street for regional eats.
Daxu Ancient Town
One of the history buffs, the waterside Daxu Ancient Town has cobblestone streets, stilted river houses, and historic bridges to explore. A fantastic day trip option from Guilin, this millennia-old town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture.
- Average travel time: around 1-1.5 hours from Guilin
- Transport: Bus from Guilin East Bus Station
- Must-sees: Historic landmarks and temples, riverside walks, and local snacks.
Sanjiang
A little way out from Guilin, the town of Sanjiang is best known for its celebration and display of southern Dong culture. Here, you’ll find examples of this Chinese ethnic minority’s heritage, including wooden drum towers, wind and rain bridges, and stilted homes. Ideal for an overnight stay, this peaceful, rural town is a great way to explore more of China’s rich cultural heritage.
- Average travel time: around 3-4.5 hours from Guilin
- Transport: Bus from Guilin Bus Station
- Must-sees: Zhaoxing Dong Village, wooden wind and rain bridges, and local dishes.
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