Guilin

🇨🇳 China
Nature's Inspiration in Southern China

Guilin - Vacation Briefing

Guilin is a picturesque city located in the southern region of China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Guilin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The city is surrounded by stunning limestone karst hills, meandering rivers, and enchanting caves, creating a landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Aside from its natural wonders, Guilin also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back more than 2,000 years.

Popular Sights in Guilin

Things to do during your Guilin vacation

Guilin is a beautiful city in southern China known for its stunning karst landscape, picturesque scenery and cultural heritage. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Guilin, ranging from exploring scenic spots to engaging in cultural experiences. Whether you're a nature lover or history enthusiast, there's something for everyone in Guilin.

  • Li River Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Li River to admire the breathtaking karst mountains and scenic countryside.
  • Reed Flute Cave: Visit the mesmerizing Reed Flute Cave, known for its fantastic stalactite and stalagmite formations.
  • Elephant Trunk Hill: Explore the famous Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural landmark resembling an elephant drinking water from the Li River.
  • Seven Star Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Seven Star Park, the largest park in Guilin, and discover its scenic landscapes, caves, and zoo.
  • Longji Rice Terraces: Take a day trip to the Longji Rice Terraces and witness the stunning panoramic views of the cultivated rice fields that extend over the hillsides.
  • Yangshuo West Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Yangshuo West Street, known for its lively nightlife, local food, and souvenir shops.
  • Impression Liu Sanjie: Experience the spectacular open-air performance of Impression Liu Sanjie, a mesmerizing show featuring lights, music, and hundreds of performers.
  • Guilin Merryland Theme Park: Have a fun-filled day at Guilin Merryland Theme Park, offering thrilling rides, live performances, and beautiful gardens.
  • Silver Cave: Discover the enchanting beauty of the Silver Cave, characterized by its magnificent stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams.
  • Guilin Tea Plantation: Visit a traditional tea plantation and learn about the history, production, and art of tea making in Guilin.
  • Biking through Yangshuo Countryside: Rent a bicycle and cycle through the picturesque countryside of Yangshuo, enjoying scenic landscapes and local villages.

Why you should visit Guilin

Overall
6.1

Guilin, China is a decent destination with its unique landscapes, but it may not be for everyone.

Safety
5

The safety in Guilin is average. While crime rates are generally low, travelers should be cautious and take necessary precautions.

Culture
7

Guilin has a rich cultural heritage with its historical sites and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore traditional Chinese customs and enjoy the local cuisine.

Nightlife
4.5

The nightlife in Guilin is not very vibrant. There are limited options for entertainment and nightlife activities.

Adventure
6

While Guilin may not offer extreme adventure activities, there are opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Relaxation
8

Guilin offers a tranquil and serene environment with its picturesque landscapes. It is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Best time to visit Guilin

Guilin, China offers breathtaking landscapes and stunning natural beauty that can be enjoyed all year round. However, the best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

Jan
Mild weather but crowds
6°C - 13°C
Feb
Off-peak season
6°C - 14°C
Mar
Blossoming scenery
9°C - 17°C
Apr
Peak season, perfect weather
15°C - 23°C
May
Blooming scenery, fewer crowds
19°C - 27°C
Jun
Warm weather, occasional rain
23°C - 30°C
Jul
Hot weather, fewer crowds
26°C - 33°C
Aug
Hot weather, occasional rain
26°C - 34°C
Sep
Mild weather, fewer crowds
22°C - 30°C
Oct
Peak season, pleasant weather
17°C - 26°C
Nov
Cooler weather, fewer crowds
11°C - 21°C
Dec
Cool weather, occasional rain
7°C - 16°C

A guide To your first day of Guilin vacation

morning

  • Start your day with a peaceful boat cruise along the Li River, enjoying the stunning karst landscape.
  • Visit the Reed Flute Cave, a mesmerizing limestone cave with colorful illuminated formations.

afternoon

  • Explore the picturesque Seven Star Park, known for its beautiful natural scenery and traditional Chinese architecture.
  • Take a hike up Elephant Trunk Hill, an iconic symbol of Guilin, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Li River.

evening

  • Walk along the bustling Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, filled with shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a traditional cormorant fishing show on the Taohua River, where fishermen use specially trained birds to catch fish.

night

  • Take a relaxing stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area, illuminated with colorful lights.
  • Indulge in a delicious local dinner at one of the night markets, trying out a variety of street food options.

How to get to Guilin

By Plane

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is the major airport serving Guilin with a growing number of international flights. Located just 28 kilometers from the city center, it offers convenient transportation options to the city, including buses and taxis. With its modern facilities and efficient services, Guilin Liangjiang International Airport ensures a pleasant start to your journey to this picturesque destination.

By other means

Guilin is well-connected by an extensive network of trains and buses, making it easily accessible by public transport. The Guilin Railway Station is a major hub offering both high-speed and conventional rail connections to various cities in China. Additionally, the city has a well-organized bus system, providing convenient access to Guilin's top attractions. Navigating Guilin by public transport is not only cost-effective but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Guilin is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility and inspiration in a stunning natural setting.

How long to stay in Guilin?

To fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Guilin, it is recommended to stay for at least 3-4 days. This will allow you to take a leisurely Li River cruise, explore the caves, visit the iconic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

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