Guilin
桂林
China's most scenic landscape — dramatic karst peaks and the Li River.
Scenic, slower, and outdoorsy — Guilin is more about atmosphere, river views, and natural beauty than big-city energy.
Why this city
A richer way to experience Guilin
Guilin has inspired Chinese poets and painters for over a thousand years, and one look at its extraordinary landscape makes it easy to understand why. Towering limestone karst peaks rise abruptly from the flat valley floor, mirrored in the tranquil waters of the Li River. The iconic cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo passes some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, while the surrounding countryside offers cycling through rice paddies and visits to minority villages.
Best for
- ✓Nature lovers
- ✓Photographers
- ✓Couples
- ✓Travelers who want slower scenic days
Essential highlights
What makes Guilin worth the trip
Take the legendary Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
Explore the dramatic Reed Flute Cave and Seven Star Park
Cycle through the rice terraces of Longji (Dragon's Backbone)
Wander the charming town of Yangshuo by foot or bicycle
Witness the cormorant fishing tradition at sunset
Must-see places
Start with these standout experiences in Guilin
Li River Cruise
A Li River cruise is the classic Guilin experience, taking visitors through serene waters framed by limestone karst peaks and rural river landscapes.
View Attraction →Longji Rice Terraces
The Longji Rice Terraces are a stunning mountain landscape of layered fields, traditional minority villages, and scenic hiking routes near Guilin.
View Attraction →Eat, stay, move
The practical side of enjoying Guilin
What to eat
The city's best-known everyday dish — light, savory, and ideal for breakfast or lunch.
A local specialty often enjoyed along the riverfront after a day of scenic exploration.
Meals around the countryside often feature fresh vegetables, river fish, bamboo shoots, and simple farmhouse cooking.
Where to stay
Practical for short stays, transport links, and early departures for cruises or day trips.
Best for: Logistics and one-night stops
A more atmospheric and traveler-friendly base with karst scenery, cafés, and easy cycling routes.
Best for: Scenery, slow travel, and outdoor days
Basic but memorable guesthouses with dramatic rice terrace views.
Best for: Sunrise, hiking, and immersive scenery
Getting around
- Guilin city itself is simple to navigate, but many highlights are spread out across the wider region.
- The Li River cruise and Yangshuo transfer are often easiest when arranged through a hotel or agency.
- If visiting Longji, start early and be prepared for road travel plus walking between viewpoints.
Budget snapshot
Plan your spend with confidence
Budget
USD 40–70
Guesthouses, simple noodles and local transport make Guilin manageable on a modest budget.
Mid-range
USD 85–150
A comfortable base in Yangshuo or central Guilin with organized day trips.
Comfort / Premium
USD 180+
Best for boutique river-view stays, private transfers, and more scenic comfort.
Practical tips
Small things that make the trip smoother
- •Weather changes quickly, so keep a light waterproof layer with you.
- •Many visitors prefer staying in Yangshuo rather than only in Guilin city.
- •Longji and Li River scenery are best enjoyed with enough buffer time rather than rushing between stops.
Suggested itinerary
3 Days in Guilin and Yangshuo
Travelers focused on classic river scenery
Day 1 — Guilin arrival
Morning
Arrive and settle in, then explore a city sight such as Reed Flute Cave.
Afternoon
Take it easy around central Guilin and riverside areas.
Evening
Try Guilin rice noodles and rest for an early scenic day.
Day 2 — Li River to Yangshuo
Morning
Take the Li River cruise or scenic transfer route to Yangshuo.
Afternoon
Check into Yangshuo and rent a bike or explore the countryside.
Evening
Eat along West Street or choose a quieter river-view dinner.
Day 3 — Yangshuo countryside
Morning
Cycle or drive through the karst landscape and small villages.
Afternoon
Choose bamboo rafting, a cooking class, or a café-and-viewpoint afternoon.
Evening
Return or stay one more night depending on onward plans.
More itinerary ideas
Choose the pace that fits your trip
3 Days in Guilin and Yangshuo
Travelers focused on classic river scenery
3 day plan
4 Days with Longji extension
Visitors who want both river scenery and terraced mountain landscapes
4 day plan