What are the top things to do in Guilin? If you're looking for breathtaking landscapes, fascinating culture, and a dash of adventure, Guilin is the place to be. Nestled in southern China, Guilin offers some of the most picturesque sceneries in the world, from its iconic karst mountains to the tranquil Li River. But what exactly should you not miss when visiting this stunning city? In this guide, we’ve compiled the top 10 things to do in Guilin to make sure you have an unforgettable experience.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes
Discover the heart of Guilin with a mesmerizing night cruise through the Two Rivers and Four Lakes. This scenic water system, often compared to Venice, offers a unique view of the city's iconic mountains and lush landscapes. Enjoy stunning bridges, ancient pagodas, and cultural performances like osprey fishing and traditional Yao village customs.
Key Highlights:
- Night or day cruises available
- Explore Shanhu Lake, Ronghu Lake, Guihu Lake, and Mulong Lake
- Cultural performances on board (osprey fishing, Yao village customs)
- Iconic Guilin views with famous hills like Elephant Trunk Hill and Fubo Hill
Pricing:
- Night Cruise Deluxe Boat Ticket: From $28.96
- Water Rhythm Cruise + Fast Boarding + Refreshments: From $24.13
- Day Trip (One River and Four Lakes): From $12.41
User Reviews:
"A must-see in Guilin! The scenery was beautiful, and the boat was super comfortable." – Anonymous
Day Tour Option:
Private Day Tour of Guilin Four Lakes Night Cruise – From $41.21. Enjoy a personalized, in-depth exploration of this stunning waterway!
Solitary Beauty Peak Prince City Scenic Area
Explore one of Guilin's most iconic spots, Solitary Beauty Peak Prince City Scenic Area. This historical site offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Climb to the top of Duxiu Peak for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, or visit the ancient Prince City, a historical palace with rich cultural significance.
Key Highlights:
- Famous Duxiu Peak with stunning city views
- Historical Prince City, with traditional architecture
- Scenic mountain climbing and rich cultural heritage
Pricing:
- Entrance Ticket: From $13.79
- Duxiu Peak + Reed Flute Cave Combo: $25.10 (Save $1.10)
User Reviews:
"The palace was beautiful, and I loved the history behind it. Worth the visit!" – Anonymous
Day Tour Option:
Private Guilin Day Tour: Yao Mount, Elephant Hill, Beauty Peak, Prince City + Optional Night View – From $76.71. Explore the best of Guilin in one day with a personalized guide!
Longji Terraces
Discover the stunning Longji Terraces, one of Guilin's most iconic natural wonders. Located in the scenic Longsheng County, this breathtaking series of rice terraces stretches across the hillside, showcasing nature’s perfect balance between human craftsmanship and the environment. Whether you're hiking through the terraces or enjoying the view from one of the peaks, the Longji Terraces offer a unique and peaceful experience.
Key Highlights:
- Spectacular terraced fields with panoramic views
- Best viewed from the Kowloon Five Tigers Peak and the Seven Stars to Watch the Moon
- Cultural immersion with local ethnic clothing rental
Pricing:
- Entrance Ticket: From $11.04
- Ethnic Clothing Rental: From $6.90
- Ticket + National Costume Rental: From $17.26 (Save $2.05)
User Reviews:
"Amazing views, especially when you climb to the top. A must-see if you're in Guilin!" – Anonymous
Day Tour Option:
Longji Rice Terrace and HuangLuoYao Village Tour – From $53.89. Explore the stunning terraces and nearby villages with a local guide for a deeper cultural experience.
Li River Scenic Area
Experience the natural beauty of the Li River Scenic Area, one of the most famous landscapes in China. Located in Lingchuan County, this picturesque area is renowned for its towering karst peaks, clear waters, and serene river cruises. Whether you're hiking along the river or enjoying a boat ride, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Don’t miss the iconic 20 RMB picture spot along the way!
Key Highlights:
- Scenic river cruises from Guilin to Yangshuo
- Easy hiking spots with beautiful views of the mountains and river
- Explore a small ancient city next to the river
- Famous photo spot featured on the 20 RMB banknote
Pricing:
- 4-Star Cruise (Guilin-Yangshuo) with Meals: From $43.58 (Save $46.05)
- 3-Star Cruise (Guilin-Yangshuo) without Meals: From $26.20
- Theme Boat (Guilin-Yangshuo): From $17.65 (Save $92.66)
User Reviews:
"Incredible views from the cruise, and the 20 RMB photo spot is a must-see!" – Anonymous
Day Tour Option:
Li River Cruise Day Tour from Guilin to Yangshuo – From $78.45. Enjoy a scenic cruise and explore the countryside in one memorable day!
Guilin Romance Park
Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Guilin Romance Park, a spectacular show that combines stunning visuals, music, and local folklore. Located in Yangshuo, this performance celebrates the history, landscapes, and cultural heritage of Guilin through elaborate choreography, costumes, and mesmerizing scenery. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the region!
Key Highlights:
- Live performance showcasing Guilin’s history, culture, and landscapes
- Beautiful choreography, costumes, and music
- Interactive audience experience
Pricing:
- VIP Seat (Adult): From $38.61
- VIP Seat (Family 1 Adult + 1 Child): From $73.08
User Reviews:
"A fantastic cultural experience with great interaction. Totally worth seeing!" – Anonymous
Day Tour Option:
Ten-mile Gallery, West Street, Baisha Fishing Fire & more, including Guilin Romance Park – From $190.19. A full-day tour through the best attractions in Yangshuo!
Yulong River
Discover the serene beauty of Yulong River in Yangshuo, a picturesque spot perfect for a peaceful escape. Experience the stunning natural scenery and enjoy an unforgettable bamboo rafting adventure, where the misty river and rolling karst peaks create a scene straight out of a painting. Known as the "Little Li River," this area is a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Key Highlights:
- Scenic bamboo rafting on a tranquil river
- Stunning natural landscapes, perfect for photography
- Serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and nature exploration
Pricing:
- Free entry to the Yulong River scenic area.
User Reviews:
Day Tour Options:
- Yangshuo Private Guided 1-Day Tour including Yulong River – From $125.21
Silver Cave
Located in Lipu County, Guilin, Silver Cave (Yinziyan) is a must-see natural attraction famous for its breathtaking underground formations. The cave spans across twelve mountains, offering a truly spectacular and vast environment to explore. The mesmerizing light displays further enhance the beauty of the cave, making it a great spot for photography and imaginative exploration.
Key Highlights:
- Spectacular cave formations spanning twelve mountains
- Beautiful light displays that enhance the cave's stunning features
- Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts
User Reviews:
Pricing:
- Admission: $8.97
- Attraction pass (cave + meteorite museum): $21.38 (discounted from $31.04)
Day Tour Options:
- Guilin + Yulong River Rafting + Shili Gallery + Silver Cave + Xianjia Hot Spring: From $90.34
Peak Ruyi Junjing Ropeway
Located in Yangshuo, Peak Ruyi Junjing Ropeway offers visitors a stunning cable car ride that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the famous Ruyi Peak. It is one of the top attractions for visitors seeking a unique perspective on Yangshuo's natural beauty.
Key Highlights:
- Cable car ride offering breathtaking views of Ruyi Peak and the surrounding countryside.
- Glass plank road experience for a thrilling walk over the edge of the mountain.
- Stunning views, especially during the low season with less crowd, offering a tranquil experience.
User Reviews:
Pricing:
- Round-trip cableway + glass plank road: $28.68 (originally $30.34)
- Concessions for children, seniors, and students available from $15.17.
Day Tours:
- Yangshuo 1-Day Trip: Includes Ruyi Peak cable car and countryside biking for $107.77.
Reed Flute Cave
Reed Flute Cave (蘆笛岩) is one of Guilin's most iconic natural attractions, renowned for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. It's a must-see for visitors exploring the region, often regarded as a "natural art gallery" of limestone formations.
Key Highlights:
- The cave is famous for its colorful lighting that enhances the natural features of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations.
- The cave has been a popular filming location for movies like Journey to the West.
- Guided tours are available to help explain the geological formations and history behind the cave.
User Reviews:
Pricing:
- Adult tickets: $11.31 (originally $12.41)
- Family tickets (2 adults + 1 child): $28.83 (originally $31.03)
- Multiple attraction tickets:
- Reed Flute Cave + Xiangshan + Fubo Mountain: $14.07
- Reed Flute Cave + Liu Sanjie Grand View Garden: $20.28 (originally $24.13)
Day Tours:
- 1-Day Guilin Tour: Includes Reed Flute Cave, Xianggong Hill, Bamboo Boat ride, and a night show for $178.02.
Shiwai Taoyuan
Shiwai Taoyuan, also known as "The Peach Blossom Spring," is a serene and picturesque attraction located in Yangshuo, Guilin, celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. The area is often referred to as a "hidden paradise," offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Key Highlights:
- Natural Beauty: Known for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and dramatic limestone peaks, the area offers a scenic escape with walking paths, gardens, and the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding countryside.
- Ticket Options: Visitors can choose from tickets that include boat cruises to enhance the experience and enjoy views of the landscape from the water.
- Activities: While the attraction has fewer activities in the dry season, it is still a tranquil experience with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a relaxed visit.
User Reviews:
Pricing:
- Basic Ticket: $7.59 (originally $8.28)
- Ticket + Cruise (Adult): $7.59 (originally $8.28)
- Ticket + Cruise (Senior): $4.14
- Family Ticket (1 Adult + 1 Child): $11.72
- Shuttle Bus + Ticket (Yangshuo to Attraction Round-trip): $11.50 (originally $16.55)
Day Tours:
- Guilin + Lijiang River Bamboo Rafting + Ten-mile Gallery + Utopia: From $45.17
Best Local Food to Try in Guilin
Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes, also offers a rich and unique food scene. Here are three must-try dishes when visiting:
1. Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉)
Description: This is a staple in Guilin and one of the most iconic dishes in the region. The rice noodles are served in a clear, flavorful broth, often topped with braised pork, beef, or pickled vegetables. It’s typically accompanied by chili, garlic, and various seasonings, allowing you to customize the flavor to your taste.
Recommended Restaurant:
Address: No. 5, Zhongshan South Road, Guilin
This is one of the most famous local spots where you can try an authentic bowl of Guilin Rice Noodles. The restaurant is well-loved by locals for its rich broth and fresh ingredients.
2. Beer Fish (啤酒鱼)
Description: Beer Fish is a unique dish from the Li River area. Fresh fish, often from the Li River, is cooked with beer, which infuses the fish with a rich, savory flavor. The dish is usually served with vegetables and spices, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Recommended Restaurant:
Address: 6-1 West Street, Yangshuo
Known for serving some of the best Beer Fish in the region, Cheng Long Restaurant uses fresh Li River fish, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience.
Guilin Travel Guide (Transportation, Seasonal Temperatures, What to Wear)
Transportation: Getting to Guilin is easy, with Guilin Liangjiang International Airport serving as the main gateway. You can book flights through Trip.com to secure the best deals. Once in Guilin, public transportation, including buses, taxis, and rental bikes, are available for getting around. For a more scenic experience, consider booking a boat tour or cycling along the riverbanks.
Seasonal Temperatures: Guilin experiences a mild climate year-round. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching over 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cool but rarely freezing, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
What to Wear: Depending on the season, pack accordingly. In spring and autumn, light layers, comfortable shoes for walking, and a light jacket should suffice. In summer, wear breathable clothing and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat. For winter, a warm coat and a scarf are recommended.
Book Your Trip with Trip.com
Planning a trip to Guilin? Trip.com makes it easy to book everything you need, from flights to hotels, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
Guilin Hotel Recommendations
Looking for the best places to stay in Guilin? Whether you're after a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly guesthouse, Trip.com offers a wide selection of options. For those who prefer stunning views, try staying at hotels near the Li River or Elephant Trunk Hill to enjoy the scenic beauty right from your window.
Guilin Hotels
5 star
Gym
Swimming pool
Breakfast
Guilin Flight Recommendations
Finding affordable flights to Guilin has never been easier. Use Trip.com to compare prices and choose from a range of airlines offering direct flights to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. Whether you're flying from major cities in China or abroad, Trip.com ensures you get the best deals available.
- One way
- Round-trip
EWR01:0027h 20m2 stopsKWL16:20New York - Guilin|Sat, Mar 14|Air PremiaCAD 594CAD 83228% off28% offCAD 832CAD 594
JFK13:2055h 55m3 stopsKWL09:15New York - Guilin|Tue, Mar 31|Korean AirCAD 706CAD 83215% off15% offCAD 832CAD 706
JFK11:4557h 30m3 stopsKWL09:15New York - Guilin|Thu, Apr 16|Asiana AirlinesCAD 707CAD 83215% off15% offCAD 832CAD 707
NYC1:00 PM3h 5mNonstopKWL2:00 PMNew York - Guilin|Sun, Feb 15|Air PremiaFind more flightsFind more flights
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FAQs about Things to Do in Guilin
What are the top tourist attractions in Guilin?
Li River Cruise: A scenic boat tour along the Li River, offering breathtaking views of karst mountains and lush landscapes. Reed Flute Cave: A spectacular limestone cave known for its colorful lighting and unique stalactites and stalagmites. Elephant Trunk Hill: A famous hill resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River, it’s an iconic symbol of Guilin. Longji Rice Terraces: A stunning series of terraced fields in the Longsheng area, offering a glimpse into the traditional life of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. Yangshuo: A nearby town known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture.When is the best time to visit Guilin?
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Guilin. During these seasons, the weather is mild and the landscapes are especially beautiful. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while Winter (December to February) is cold but often less crowded.How do I get to Guilin?
By Air: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is the main airport, with flights connecting to major cities in China and international destinations. By Train: Guilin Railway Station offers train services from cities like Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai. By Bus: There are long-distance buses connecting Guilin to surrounding regions and cities.What is the Li River Cruise?
The Li River Cruise is one of the most famous activities in Guilin. It takes you on a boat ride from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing through some of the most stunning karst landscapes in China. The cruise typically lasts around 4-5 hours, and it’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.Is Guilin a good place for outdoor activities?
Yes! Guilin is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Popular outdoor activities include: Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River: A peaceful and scenic way to explore the countryside. Cycling in Yangshuo: Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside surrounded by karst peaks. Hiking: There are many trails around the area, especially in the Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo. Rock climbing: Yangshuo is also known for its excellent rock climbing spots.What food should I try in Guilin?
Some must-try dishes include: Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉): A local noodle dish served in a rich broth with various toppings. Beer Fish (啤酒鱼): Fish cooked with beer and spices, a specialty of the Li River area. Yangshuo Tofu (阳朔豆腐): Stir-fried tofu with fresh vegetables and meats. Local restaurants, such as Cheng Long Restaurant for Beer Fish or Guilin Rice Noodle Shop, offer authentic and delicious versions of these dishes.