Guilin & Yangshuo Travel Guide: Where History, Culture, and Nature Collide

Guilin and Yangshuo, located in southern China’s Guangxi province, are famous for their surreal karst mountain landscapes, winding rivers, and rich cultural heritage. Known as one of the most picturesque regions in China, this area is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers wanting to experience authentic Chinese countryside life.

From cruising the Li River to cycling through rice fields, exploring ancient villages, and hiking breathtaking peaks, Guilin and Yangshuo offer a once-in-a-lifetime journey through history, culture, and nature.

📍 Top Attractions in Guilin & Yangshuo

1️⃣ The Li River – The Most Scenic River in China

🚣 Why Visit?

One of China’s most iconic landscapes, featured on the 20 RMB banknote.
Famous for limestone karst mountains rising from the misty riverbanks.
Take a bamboo raft or river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo.

📷 Photo Opportunity: Traditional bamboo rafts drifting on the river with misty peaks in the background

🎟 Tip: Take the sunrise cruise for the most magical views.

2️⃣ Yangshuo – A Hidden Paradise

🏕 Why Visit?

A charming riverside town surrounded by towering karst mountains.
A hub for outdoor adventures like rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking.
Explore the small villages, farmlands, and serene countryside by bike.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A cyclist riding through golden rice fields with karst peaks behind

🎟 Tip: Visit in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush.

3️⃣ Xingping Ancient Town – The Best View of the Li River

🏯 Why Visit?

A quaint village with over 1,700 years of history.
Features the famous Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the 20 RMB view of the Li River.
A great spot for bamboo rafting and traditional photography.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A fisherman in a straw hat with his cormorant birds at sunset

🎟 Tip: Stay overnight in a guesthouse to experience the village’s peaceful charm.

4️⃣ Reed Flute Cave – The Underground Palace of Guilin

🌄 Why Visit?

A 1,200-year-old limestone cave filled with colorful stalactites and rock formations.
Known as the “Palace of Natural Art” for its mystical appearance.
Features a spectacular underground lake with glowing reflections.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A stunning rock formation illuminated in rainbow colors

🎟 Tip: Visit in the early morning to avoid crowds.

5️⃣ Longji Rice Terraces – The Dragon’s Backbone

🌾 Why Visit?

One of China’s most impressive rice terrace landscapes, built over 600 years ago.
A stunning sight, especially in spring when flooded with water or in autumn when golden-hued.
Hike between Ping’an Village and Dazhai for breathtaking panoramic views.

📷 Photo Opportunity: Sunrise over the golden rice terraces

🎟 Tip: Stay in a traditional wooden guesthouse to experience local culture.

6️⃣ Elephant Trunk Hill – Guilin’s Symbolic Landmark

🐘 Why Visit?

A natural limestone hill shaped like an elephant drinking from the Li River.
One of the most famous attractions in Guilin.
Features a small pagoda on top with beautiful panoramic views.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The elephant-shaped rock arch reflecting in the river

🎟 Tip: Visit at sunset when the lights illuminate the rock formation.

7️⃣ Impression Liu Sanjie – A Spectacular Outdoor Show

🎭 Why Visit?

A breathtaking night performance directed by Zhang Yimou (director of Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony).
Features 600 performers on rafts, using the Li River as a natural stage.
A mesmerizing blend of music, lights, and traditional folk culture.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The glowing stage with misty karst mountains as a backdrop

🎟 Tip: Book VIP seats in advance for the best view.

8️⃣ Moon Hill – Yangshuo’s Most Famous Hike

🧗 Why Visit?

A unique karst mountain with a giant moon-shaped hole at the peak.
A 40-minute hike to the top offers incredible views of the countryside.
A popular spot for rock climbing enthusiasts.

📷 Photo Opportunity: Framing the karst mountains through the moon-shaped hole

🎟 Tip: Hike at sunrise or sunset for the best scenery.

🚆 How to Get to & Around Guilin & Yangshuo

✈ By Air:

Fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) from major Chinese cities.

🚆 By Train:

High-speed trains connect Guilin to Guangzhou (2.5 hours), Hong Kong (3 hours), and Chengdu (6 hours).

🚤 By River Cruise:

The best way to reach Yangshuo is by Li River cruise or bamboo raft.

🚲 By Bike:

The best way to explore Yangshuo’s countryside is by bicycle.

🚖 By Taxi/Didi:

Use Didi (China’s Uber) for easy transport.

🌦 Best Time to Visit Guilin & Yangshuo

🌸 Spring (March–May): Best for green landscapes, mild weather, and blooming flowers.
☀ Summer (June–August): Hot but great for river activities and lush scenery.
🍂 Autumn (September–November): Best for golden rice terraces and clear skies.
❄ Winter (December–February): Chilly but great for fewer crowds and peaceful scenery.

🕰 Opening Hours: Most attractions open from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

🍽 What to Eat in Guilin & Yangshuo

✅ Guilin Rice Noodles – The most famous dish, served with pickled vegetables and peanuts.
✅ Beer Fish – Yangshuo’s specialty, fresh fish cooked in a rich beer sauce.
✅ Stuffed Li River Snails – A local delicacy filled with pork and herbs.
✅ Oil Tea – A unique tea soup with crispy rice and peanuts.
✅ Bamboo Rice – Sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes.