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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3506 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
Outstanding4703 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.36km from city centre
For my Golden Week holiday, I chose Guilin, drawn by its stunning landscapes and rich culture. After some comparison, I decided to stay at the Sheraton, and it proved to be an excellent choice.
The Sheraton's location is truly superb, just twenty or thirty meters from the Li River. In the mornings, to the sound of beautiful music, small groups of elderly people dance gracefully by the river. In the evenings, a stroll along the Li River reveals boats drifting downstream, street singers performing their hearts out, and bustling crowds on the pedestrian street… This is the vibrant pulse of life, offering a rare sense of ease and joy.
While not overly luxurious, the hotel consistently maintains its five-star quality. The service is excellent; the doorman promptly opened the car door and handled our luggage, and the front desk staff were patient during check-in. The guest rooms aren't huge, but one detail truly highlights the hotel's attentiveness. Many hotels have ill-designed nightlights, with light that's either too bright or too dim. The nightlight in this room type's washroom has just the right intensity, making it very convenient for guests who need to get up at night.
Breakfast is served on two floors, which effectively manages the flow of guests during peak times, again showcasing the hotel's thoughtful service. Our two nights at the Sheraton truly enhanced our Guilin trip.FromVND 2,316,328
Good2799 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.25km from city centre
My overall stay was very pleasant. The hotel's location is super convenient, making it easy to get to any scenic spot. The room was spotless, the bed was very comfortable, and it was quiet at night – the soundproofing is great, I couldn't hear any noise from next door. The front desk staff were very friendly and helpful, providing attentive service. I arrived at the hotel in the morning, and they allowed me to check in early. Both check-in and check-out were quick, and they responded promptly to any requests. The breakfast had a wide variety of options and tasted great. It offers good value for money, and I would definitely prioritize staying here again if I come to this area. Highly recommended.FromVND 1,492,659
Very Good4135 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|2.52km from city centre
I will always trust Shangri-La Hotel Guilin when staying in Guilin; every visit feels like coming home. The hotel's decor is incredibly well-thought-out, and the garden is meticulously maintained. Sitting in a lounge chair in the Camphor Garden, looking back at this palace-like hotel, it exudes grandeur and comfort. It not only boasts the hardware and comfort of a five-star hotel but also features extensive gardens. Across the bridge lies the Li River, allowing you to enjoy its scenic beauty without even leaving the hotel. This is also an excellent family-friendly hotel. Teacher Xiao Pa leads children in engaging activities, making it a more cost-effective choice than Club Med. Furthermore, it's conveniently located near all major attractions in Guilin, even allowing for city walks.FromVND 2,262,190
Excellent3423 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.76km from city centre
The hotel is absolutely fantastic!
The facilities are luxurious – and I mean *luxurious* – with an incredibly high-quality feel. All the amenities are L'Occitane, and yes, I took them all home with me! 😂 They even provide Watson's sparkling water and, crucially, comfy slippers. You know the value of having slippers in your room!
The welcome fruit was a nice touch, too. The location is superb; it's a short walk to Zheng Yang Street, and Elephant Trunk Hill is right across the road.
The window view is absolutely breathtaking, so expansive! For a scenic room in Guilin city, I believe the area around Elephant Trunk Hill offers the best views, with the widest stretch of water. The Twin Pagoda area, with its small pond, pales in comparison.
Needless to say, the top-floor restaurant boasts an incredible view and a chic, sophisticated vibe. There's a big TV playing shows, creating a wonderful ambiance. We had a meal there – fries, pizza, chicken nuggets – and the food quality was excellent.
If I had to point out any downsides, it would be that the breakfast variety isn't extensive, and the restaurant staff could be a bit more proactive.
Overall, I highly, highly, highly recommend this place. Staying here is definitely the right choice when you're in Guilin city. The last two photos show the actual window view; I took so many beautiful shots.FromVND 1,542,929
Perfect6440 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.77km from city centre
First off, the location is great—it's super close to Guilin Railway Station, just about a 5-minute taxi ride. It's also really convenient for exploring nearby spots like Elephant Trunk Hill, East and West Alleys, or snapping photos at the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas. The hotel boasts a strong design aesthetic; just looking at their collection of awards tells you everything about their high standards. The vibe is very warm and cozy. The front desk staff, both the handsome young men and lovely ladies, were incredibly warm and welcoming, even helping carry our luggage all the way to our room. The lobby features a massive panoramic ”dome” installation that makes for fantastic photos. The room itself was exceptionally cozy, fully living up to 5-star standards, and opening the window revealed stunning views of the Li River. Had an amazing night's sleep! Breakfast offered a wide variety, and the dining area was beautifully set up. It’s also very accessible, taking just about 30 minutes by taxi to get to the hotel. Super convenient transportation all around. Will definitely stay here again next time!FromVND 1,933,495
Outstanding2097 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.02km from city centre
Back in Guilin, I chose Guilin Hotel again. The location and environment are truly excellent; the night views by the lake right outside are picture-perfect. The room itself felt nice, with an upscale and elegant design, clean bedding, and comfortable pillows. The breakfast selection was also abundant. However, I really need to complain about the service and management. In the morning, my husband forgot to take his medicine from the fridge because we were in a hurry. It wasn't until around 8 PM, when it was time to take his medicine, that we remembered it was still in the hotel fridge. What's strange is that the hotel didn't call all day to ask if we had left anything behind. Does the cleaning staff not check when tidying the room, or do the managers not have a habit of checking the fridge? Since it's common daily medication that can be easily bought, I didn't bother to ask the hotel. I hope management improves in this area.Business travel
Excellent827 Reviews
Reed Flute Cave/Lujia Village/Peach Blossom River/West Hill Park Guilin|4.11km from city centre
I absolutely loved my stay at Heshe Lakeside Hotel. The service was incredibly personalized—they even asked us the night before what we would like for breakfast the next morning. Every staff member was cheerful, attentive, and genuinely helpful throughout our stay.
One thing we really appreciated was their assistance in booking our tours, which ended up saving us money and a lot of hassle. They even provided transportation to the train station, which was a thoughtful touch.
The hotel’s location and view are simply unparalleled. It truly lives up to its name—right by the lake, with beautiful scenery all around. We especially enjoyed taking leisurely walks outside and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re looking for warm hospitality, stunning views, and a relaxing stay in Guilin, I highly recommend Heshe Lakeside Hotel.FromVND 1,256,772
Outstanding2842 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.1km from city centre
Great location! It's right in the old city, close to Elephant Trunk Hill, Diecai Hill, Li Zongren Memorial Hall, and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area, making it very convenient for getting around. The breakfast is also plentiful. A special thanks to Zeng Jiayi at the front desk. She enthusiastically told me the best way to comfortably bike to the scenic spots and shared local food recommendations. It helped me perfectly avoid any pitfalls.FromVND 989,950
Outstanding1573 Reviews
Guilin|15.93km from city centre
Jiangjing Hotel boasts an excellent location, nestled by mountains and a clear, emerald Li River flowing gently past. We booked a room with a balcony, and waking up to the thin morning mist drifting over the nearby and distant mountains felt like being in a fairyland.
Before arriving in Lingchuan, I did a little research and learned that the local market (Ganxu) is held on the 2nd, 5th, and 8th of each month, with the 2nd coinciding with a family member's birthday. We specifically wanted to experience the local hustle and bustle. From the hotel's main entrance, a 10-15 minute walk to the right leads to a promenade. At the end of the promenade, turning left takes you to the market, and turning right leads to the ancient town – the directions were very clear. The market was incredibly lively; we bought local mulberries, osmanthus rice wine, and even Ash Alkaline Rice Dumplings, which are popular in Guangdong and Guangxi. We visited the ancient town in the afternoon. Originally built during the Northern Song Dynasty, the most prominent remaining relic is the Longevity Bridge from the Ming Dynasty (Wanli era). The Republican period was likely the ancient town's most glorious commercial era, and I truly hope the modern buildings can be restored and maintained.
The mountains, the water, and the people. After admiring the scenery, let's talk about the staff at Jiangjing. Team members 12 and 27 were particularly attentive. One sent us navigation details before we even arrived and helped us upgrade our stay. The other's massage technique was exceptionally professional; it greatly relieved the shoulder and neck fatigue from a long drive, even though the process was quite 'intense.' I highly recommend dining at the hotel; not only is the ambiance pleasant, but the food is also delicious, and most importantly, the oil and rice are safe. The kitchen even prepared a longevity noodle dish for us upon learning it was a family member's birthday. Lastly, I must mention Mr. Tu, an elderly hero who participated in the Sino-Vietnamese War. At over 70, he's still hale and hearty, wearing a military cap, and his eyes are sharp as an eagle's. I wish everyone the good fortune to meet this elder, hear his stories of fierce battles, and appreciate the beautiful life we have today 🙏FromVND 1,426,920
Excellent2510 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.FromVND 1,357,314
Perfect13595 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.38km from city centre
Guangzhou Roof View Hotel Review: Excellent Location, Heartwarming Service, a Smart Choice for National Day Travel!
During this National Day holiday, I stayed at the Guangzhou Roof View Hotel, and the experience far exceeded my expectations. I simply must write a good review!
Unbeatable location, incredibly convenient for getting around! Downstairs from the hotel is a pedestrian street with everything you need for dining, drinking, and entertainment. The biggest surprise was that you can reach the famous East-West Alley and Jingjiang Prince City in just one minute by crossing an underground passage. It's like having your home right at the entrance of a scenic spot. During the National Day holiday, Guilin's traffic was severe, but we could easily reach our destinations by walking a few hundred meters. Seeing the congested traffic on the roads, I truly felt we made the right choice for accommodation – when you're traveling, staying near tourist attractions is the real joy!
Clean and comfortable environment, ensuring a restful stay. The room was spotless, the bedding soft and skin-friendly, and the soundproofing was good. After a tiring day of exploring, we could always get a good night's sleep. The rooftop viewing platform offered a panoramic view; blowing a gentle breeze in the evening and enjoying the night scenery really enhanced the holiday feeling.
Warm and attentive service, just like coming home. From the moment we walked in, every staff member greeted us with a smile. They actively helped us carry our luggage to the room and patiently marked walking routes to nearby attractions on a map, telling us which alley had more snacks and which entrance to Jingjiang Prince City was the most effortless. These thoughtful details truly warmed our hearts.
Summary: If you're visiting Guilin, especially during holidays, I highly recommend the Guangzhou Roof View Hotel. It saves you from traffic woes and reduces time spent on navigation, allowing you to dedicate all your energy to the scenery and food – this is what a holiday should be like! Next time I come to Guilin, I will definitely stay here again! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️FromVND 1,017,019
Excellent10569 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.69km from city centre
I highly recommend this hotel in Guilin. The location is excellent; Elephant Trunk Hill and Sun and Moon Pagodas are all within walking distance. There are also many noodle shops and highly-rated restaurants nearby. We traveled to Guilin with our child and chose a family room on the 10th floor. The kids' play area is right outside the door in the hallway, and our child absolutely loved it and didn't want to leave the hotel. The rooms in this row, facing the play area, are very spacious and comfortable. They also come equipped with rocking horses, crawling mats, and small tents, making it an ideal choice for a family trip. On top of that, it offers great value for money. The hotel breakfast was also good; we stayed for three days, and the breakfast menu was different every morning. Oh, and the front desk also provided different small desserts every evening, which was a very nice touch!FromVND 1,117,560
Family friendly
Excellent4973 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|2.97km from city centre
After my trip, I still chose the Hilton Garden Inn Guilin. The front desk staff were incredibly attentive, and the hotel's laundry facilities were very convenient. The self-service laundry room was a great bonus, with complete dryer amenities, so clothes dried quickly and thoroughly. The guest rooms were quiet and peaceful, allowing for a comfortable rest. The bedding was soft and skin-friendly, and the mattress had just the right firmness for a good night's sleep. As a Hilton brand, the service was professional, thoughtful, and responsive.FromVND 1,318,644
Very Good608 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.95km from city centre
We stayed one night at The Grand Link hotel a wuick stop in Guilin before we moved on to the Longji rice terraces.
Check in was smooth, passports copies taken paid an extra deposit to be refunded when we left.
Our room was average, dark decor and very minimal lighting - which come dark this was abit of a nightmare!
Lots of damp areas in the decor in the main bedroom and bathroom walls. The room did have everything we needed but glad we only had one night here.
The children enjoyed an hour in the pool, a welcome break from the heat.
Check out wasn’t the best, we got up at 5am to be on our way to Longji by 6am but when we went to check out the man asked us to wait 5 minutes for the room to be checked for the deposit to be refunded - but this in the end took 35 minutes! I’m just glad we weren’t up early for a flight or something like or I would have panicked more about missing it with how long it took!FromVND 1,221,969
Very Good2191 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|2.43km from city centre
I stayed at two hotels in Guilin this time: the Grand Palace Hotel and the Shangri-La. I stayed at the Grand Palace first. For over 400 yuan a night, I was quite surprised upon entering. Such luxurious decor, plus a swimming pool and gym – it felt like a full five-star setup. The value for money was incredible.
Since it was a family trip, we booked two rooms. We arrived a bit late, and couldn't find adjacent rooms on the lower floors. The front desk even helped by calling the housekeeping staff to communicate. After some discussion, they managed to get us two rooms right next to each other. I'd like to thank the ladies at the front desk for being so warm and polite. I've forgotten their names, but I think one of them was surnamed He?
The hotel's swimming pool is great. The children's pool is a suitable 1.2 meters deep, while the adult pool is 1.5 meters, separated by steps. The gym faces the outdoor pool, so it doesn't feel cramped, and the kids had a blast.
The next day, we went to Shangri-La and immediately felt it wasn't worth it. For over 980 yuan a night, the room wasn't even as big as the one at the Grand Palace, and all the facilities were old and worn. My wife said she didn't even want to use the bathtub after seeing it. The front desk staff were also very robotic, constantly saying 'we cannot provide that.' It really made me feel that Shangri-La has declined, from its hardware to its service.
Overall, the hotel (Grand Palace) was excellent, exceeding expectations in terms of value for money, and highly suitable for family trips. If I had to point out any issues, a few breakfast dishes could use improvement. The milk lacked flavor, and the grapefruit yogurt was excessively, sickeningly sweet – very unhealthy.FromVND 1,600,934
Outstanding5297 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.16km from city centre
The facilities are complete, and the room has complimentary bottled water and drinks. On the top floor, there's a communal area with a gym and laundry room for self-service. It's conveniently located near the Gold and Silver Twin Pagodas and Elephant Trunk Hill, making sightseeing easy. Plus, the room even got an upgrade!FromVND 641,921
Very Good497 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!FromVND 580,049
Very Good374 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|3.49km from city centre
First off, the location is excellent. It's quiet, being just outside the scenic area. You can reach Mixc City in 3-5 minutes on a shared bike, and Elephant Trunk Hill Park is about 3 km away. The hotel environment is fantastic – clean, tidy, spacious, and bright, with a particularly beautiful garden. The service is great; the staff are warm and attentive. They also offer free laundry and drying facilities. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time!FromVND 510,443
Breakfast
Very Good929 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!FromVND 672,856
Very Good3843 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.FromVND 924,211
Good423 Reviews
Guilin North&West Railway StationDiecai Wanda Plaza Guilin|6.04km from city centre
This hotel stay was a great experience and added a lot of comfort to my trip. The location is excellent, not far from the main commercial areas and attractions. Getting around by taxi was easy with minimal traffic delays, and there are plenty of convenience stores and restaurants nearby, making dining and getting around very convenient.
Check-in was quick, and the front desk staff were very friendly and proactive, explaining the hotel's public facilities and breakfast times. They were happy to answer all my questions and responded promptly. The room itself was clean and tidy, with good natural light and ventilation. The bedding was soft and comfortable, and the bathroom had a great wet/dry separation, with no strange odors or water stains. The soundproofing was better than expected, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep without any disturbance from outside.
The breakfast offered a rich variety, from hot dishes to pastries and freshly squeezed juices. The ingredients were fresh, and the taste was just right. Overall, it's excellent value for money. If I visit this area again, I'll very likely choose this hotel, and I'd definitely recommend it to friends who are planning to visit.FromVND 552,980
Very Good864 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!FromVND 630,320
677 Reviews
Guilin North&West Railway StationDiecai Wanda Plaza Guilin|6.29km from city centre
The hotel has a very good service attitude, beautiful environment, good location, clean and tidy rooms, high floors, good lighting, good sound insulation, very satisfied! ! ! ! ! ! !FromVND 541,379
Very Good791 Reviews
Guilin South Railway Station/Too Square/Qintan Bus Station Guilin|2.9km from city centre
The location is great, right across from MixC shopping mall. There's a large parking lot downstairs. It's very convenient to go anywhere, and there are plenty of places to eat nearby. The only downside is that the hotel is stingy with water; you have to ask for two extra bottles.FromVND 618,719
Gym
Outstanding2267 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.2km from city centre
This was my first time staying at an Atour hotel. The room was right on a pedestrian street, so it was a bit noisy at night, but I'm a heavy sleeper, so it wasn't an issue for me, especially since the location was a big plus.
It was very convenient to walk to all the attractions. Parking was outdoors and about 50 meters away. The Grand Waterfall Hotel was only 100 meters away, but since their rooms were quite old, I chose Atour instead. However, having dim sum at the Grand Waterfall was still a great option.
When I first entered the room, I noticed the toilet wasn't clean – it was quite disgusting. I immediately told the front desk, and they sent a cleaner. The cleaner said, ”I'm sorry, this room was vacant yesterday, and I don't know which colleague didn't clean it properly.” They eventually took care of it, but I felt it was unnecessary to share internal issues like that with a guest.
After the front desk learned about the dirty toilet, they just apologized and said they'd send someone immediately, and that was it. Personally, I think if a hotel clearly makes a mistake, they should offer some compensation, like fruit or drinks. Whether the guest accepts it or not is another matter.
Before checking in, I asked if they could provide a third breakfast, and the front desk readily agreed, which I really appreciated. All in all, for a few hundred yuan a night with breakfast, what more could you ask for? It was already pretty good! 😄FromVND 1,183,299
Good792 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.FromVND 382,832
Good527 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|1.29km from city centre
It was my mistake; I booked the wrong room type. We were traveling as a family and I booked a king bed, but the staff proactively helped us switch to a twin room. Their service was very thoughtful. Although the hotel is quite old, it has been renovated and is still very good. It has a laundry room, a gym, and a garden for guests to enjoy. It's great for kids to watch the fish 🐟. I'll bring the kids back again during the summer break for a swim 🏊🏻♀️.FromVND 552,980
Perfect6568 Reviews
Downtown/Elephant Trunk Hill/Two Rivers And Four Lakes Guilin|0.17km from city centre
This hotel boasts an excellent location, right in the heart of Guilin city. Both the top-floor restaurant and the rooms offer the best views of the Sun and Moon Pagodas. Downstairs, you'll find the Fir Lake, part of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area. Elephant Trunk Hill is just a 5-minute walk away.
I received a complimentary room upgrade to a spacious 80-90 square meter room, complete with a separate walk-in closet, a huge terrace, and a double vanity. The welcome fruit and minibar items could be replenished upon request. The service was exceptional; staff were patient and helpful, offering bottled water when I left the hotel, and I even received essential oils as a farewell gift.
The hotel breakfast was also excellent, featuring Guilin rice noodles, grilled steak, stewed chicken soup, freshly squeezed passion fruit juice, and many other made-to-order dishes. It's also rated as the top restaurant in Guangxi.
The hotel offers a fantastic travel photography experience where you can choose from Miao or Zhuang ethnic costumes, enhanced by the surrounding beautiful scenery.
They also offer intangible cultural heritage workshops like making traditional Chinese herbal sachets. Staying multiple nights includes a complimentary foot massage. While the swimming pool is a bit small, it's a wave pool, which is great for kids.FromVND 4,261,424
Excellent4602 Reviews
Convention And Exhibition Center/Seven Star Park Guilin|1.82km from city centre
Welcome amenities: They provided complimentary fruit, biscuits, and a refreshing herbal tea to beat the heat. Minibar drinks: It was hot, so we drank a lot of water. Room service was very quick to replenish our water supply, which was great. Guaranteed late check-out until 2:00 PM: Since we checked in quite late, the hotel extended our check-out to 2 PM, which was very thoughtful. The front desk also upgraded our room, and the swimming pool was nice. My family was very satisfied with this stay. It would have been even better if breakfast was included, but overall it was good and worth recommending. We'll definitely come again.FromVND 1,450,122
Excellent2464 Reviews
Wanfu Square/South Bus Station/Yugui Park Guilin|6.46km from city centre
This hotel deserves a perfect 10/10! The environment is quiet and peaceful, and the lobby is incredibly grand with an amazing atmosphere. Every little detail is thoughtfully designed, making it a fantastic spot for photos. Both the corridors and rooms are spotless, and the facilities are complete and well-maintained – hot water is plentiful, the air conditioning works perfectly, and the bedding is so soft, I slept incredibly well. The natural light and views are also excellent. The staff were friendly and gentle throughout my stay, responding quickly to all my requests and even offering thoughtful tips on local attractions. The hotel's location is super convenient, with free parking and even charging stations. It's right next to a commercial area and a bus stop. The value for money is unbeatable. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I visit Guilin!FromVND 1,272,240
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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FAQ – Things to Do in Guilin
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