Guilin

Li River's painting

Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo 4 hours, gliding among limestone peaks is surreal. Longji rice terraces (Dragon's Backbone) are green stairs carved into mountains. Reed Flute Cave mesmerizing with stalactites.

Yangshuo cycling tour between villages. Guilin is nature's most elegant painting.

Yangshuo's bohemian spirit

Yangshuo West Street is foreign travelers' center, cafes and bars. Cormorant fishing traditional night show. Impression Sanjie Liu open-air water show directed by Zhang Yimou.

Guilin rice noodle (mifen) is local breakfast tradition. Every morning starts with a bowl of mifen.

Neighborhoods and Where to Stay

Travelers staying in Guilin's downtown are within walking distance of museums, parks, and night markets, making this central area ideal for saving time and energy. Mid-range hotels and guesthouses dominate here. Yangshuo, just 50 kilometers away, is a popular choice for budget travelers; it offers a quieter atmosphere and concentrated local culture experiences. Xingping village, situated along the Li River, serves as a base for bamboo rafting or hiking tours. For those traveling on tighter budgets, Xingping offers more affordable options, with family-run guesthouses and homestays abundant. As a guideline: use downtown as your base, then take day trips to Yangshuo and Xingping, or stay overnight to fully experience these areas.

How Many Days and What to Do

Three days are sufficient to capture the essence of Guilin. On day one, start with the Li River early in the morning; catch the rafting at sunrise or in afternoon light. Have lunch in Xingping village and spend the evening in downtown. Day two, head to Yangshuo; trek through rice terraces in the afternoon and explore the local market. Day three is flexible: visit Seven Star Park, explore caves, or take a bicycle tour around Yangshuo. Each day calls for early starts, but you can slow the pace in afternoons to explore superior locations. If you have five days, explore the region in greater depth.

Food Culture, Budget, and Practical Tips

Guilin's cuisine revolves around fish, fresh vegetables, and rice; it is light, flavorful, and reasonably priced. Street market meals cost 3-5 euros, while local restaurants charge 5-10 euros. Red bean and taro sweets are local favorites. For budget-friendly dining, opt for people's canteens and markets; tourist-area restaurants are more expensive. For transport, use card-based metro and bus systems; taxi fares are competitive. Visit between April and October; summers are hot but vegetation is lush. Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons. Prepare with a translation app on your phone. ATMs are plentiful in downtown and tourist areas for withdrawing cash.