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Guilin

Guilin Travel

Ultimate Guilin Travel Guide with Guilin Travel Itineraries & Plan (Updated 2025)

Guilin is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. It's renowned for its iconic attractions like the Li River, Yangshuo, and Longsheng Rice Terraces, and it's also the birthplace of traditional Chinese landscape painting. When you wander through Guilin's landscapes, it feels like stepping into a living painting, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature.

From cycling along the tranquil country paths by the Yulong River to experiencing the vibrant nightlife of West Street in Yangshuo, and exploring the awe-inspiring terraced fields of Longsheng, each site leaves an indelible impression. In Guilin, you can not only marvel at the stunning natural landscapes with their peculiar peaks and rocks but also delve deep into the unique local culture, such as discovering the secrets behind the Red Yao ethnic group's long hair.

Take a look at this ultimate Guilin guide and the latest travel information, featuring the best places to visit, popular attractions, must-do activities, optimal travel seasons, travel planning tips, and recommended itineraries to inspire your Guilin tour.

Guilin Travel Essentials – Travel to Guilin Before You Go

Planning a trip to Guilin? Then these articles below will be your best choice before you set off! From how to plan your itinerary and the best time to visit, to introductions of attractions and must-do activities, these articles cover everything you need to know and provide valuable insights and insider tips for your Guilin travel plan. No matter how much you know about Guilin, these articles will help you better plan a smooth and enjoyable Guilin tour!

Planning the best time to visit Guilin in Guangxi is key to experiencing this top Chinese destination at its utmost splendor. As one of China’s most popular scenic spots, Guilin lures travelers with its iconic karst mountains, rippling rivers, and idyllic rural charm. So when is...
Guilin, tucked away in the heart of southern China, is a gem where every nook and cranny is a testament to nature's splendor. Its panoramic landscapes are a blend of reality and fantasy, painting a canvas that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Unlike the grandeur of the northern...
Looking to explore the top attractions and places to visit in Guilin? Eager to discover the best things to do in this picturesque wonderland? Guilin is adorned with countless rugged limestone peaks, offering breathtaking views at every turn. From leisurely cruising down the Li Ri...
Guilin, renowned as the nature paradise of China, boasts the most exquisite scenery on earth. To discover the ethereal beauty of Guilin, Guangxi, one must not miss the opportunity to explore its picturesque Karst mountains. Guilin, often referred to as the "top landscape under he...
Welcome to Guilin, a picturesque city situated in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. This Map of Guilin provides all the essential information you need to explore this enchanting city. Begin your journey with the G...
"Guilin's landscape is the best under heaven," so the ancient saying goes. But within the vast expanse of Guilin, where does one find its most captivating vistas? The answer lies in Yangshuo. The beauty and cultural richness of Yangshuo's landscapes stands as the pinnacle of what...
Why Longji Rice Terraces? Longji Rice Terraces, also called Longsheng Rice Terraces in Guilin, are hailed as the "Birthplace of Terraced Fields Worldwide" and a "Globally Significant Agricultural Cultural Heritage". It has not only been included in the list of National Wetland Pa...
Li River, Guilin, a jewel in the crown of China's scenic spots, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, encapsulating the essence of karst landscapes. The river, which originates from Mount Mao'er in Xing'an county, northern Guangxi, courses through charming villages, dense bamb...
Stunning Views Along China's High-Speed Train Routes
The high-speed train from Beijing to Guilin covers a distance of 2,102 kilometers (about 1,306 miles), offering a convenient and quick travel option. There are 2-3 daily departures, including G-trains taking around 8-9 hours and D-trains (including overnight options) taking about...
Our Customers in Yangshuo
Travel from Shanghai to Guilin aboard the high-speed train, spanning a distance of approximately 1500 kilometers. Shanghai, known for its towering skyscrapers along with the Bund and Yu Garden, and vibrant urban life serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure. The tr...
Scene depicted on the back of the 20-yuan banknote
Xi'an, once China’s ancient capital, is a city rich in history and culture, offering iconic landmarks like the Terracotta Army. Guilin, renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and serene Li River, is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts. How to get to Guilin from Xi’an...
Cycling through Yangshuo Countryside
Chengdu and Guilin are two must-visit destinations in China. Chengdu, famous for its giant pandas, laid back atmosphere and vibrant culture, contrasts beautifully with Guilin’s dramatic karst landscapes and picturesque rivers. The Chengdu to Guilin high speed train makes traveli...
Longji Rice Terrace - Ping'an
Traveling between the heart of Beijing and the center of Xi'an on a high-speed train is one of the best ways to go. The quickest Fuxinghao bullet trains (G-trains) can whisk you there in just 4 hours at speeds of up to 350 km/h, covering 1134 km (about 705 miles). With roughly 25...
Symbol of Guilin's natural beauty
How to get from Hong Kong to Guilin? Why not hop on a high-speed train from Hong Kong to Guilin! With about three direct trains departing daily from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, you can travel the 585 km (364 miles) distance in just 3 to 3.5 hours. It's the best way to go stra...
Relaxing bamboo raft to Xingping Town
Looking to travel from Guangzhou to Guilin? The high-speed train is your best bet! With over 60 departures throughout the day, you can travel the 446 km (277 miles) distance in just 2 to 2.5 hours, making it the fastest and most comfortable option. The train takes you directly fr...
Li River Cruise
How do you go to Guilin from Zhangjiajie? If you're traveling from Zhangjiajie to Guilin, consider taking the high-speed train for a smooth and scenic journey. There's 1 train daily, D3967, which departs at 7:17 AM and takes about 7 hours to reach Guilin. Ticket prices range from...

Explore Guilin Top Attractions on Map

Are you ready to explore the popular destination in China, the picturesque Guilin? Make the most of an active Guilin map to discover top attractions and hidden gems in the region, helping you plan your ideal vacation. From iconic city landmarks like Li River and Elephant Trunk Hill to the surrounding Yangshuo countryside, Longji Rice Terraces, and vibrant nightlife on West Street, Guilin has something for everyone. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey in Guilin!

Best Things to Do in Guilin

When visiting Guilin, there are several must-visit attractions and activities that you should not miss out on. Guilin is a city that combines enchanting landscapes with a rich history, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences. Here are some classic things to do, such as Cruising on the Li River, unique activities, and nighttime attractions that we sincerely recommend for you to make the most of your time in Guilin.

Guilin Travel Itineraries 2025/2026

As a local travel agency in Guilin, we have carefully designed a variety of Guilin tour packages to cater to your diverse interests and showcase the vibrant charm of this city. You can choose to embark on a Li River tour to admire the breathtaking landscapes, experience the joy of rural life on a Yangshuo tour, explore the magnificent Longsheng Rice Terraces on a specialty tour, embark on a family adventure tour with your children, go on a hiking tour expedition to get up close with nature, discover picturesque photography spots on a specialized tour in Guilin, or indulge in various water activities during your summer trip to Guilin. With our premium tour packages, you can embark on an immersive exploration of Guilin. All our tours can be customized according to your preferences!

Guilin - Yangshuo - Xingping - Guilin
Short Trip
Days
3 Days
Places
4 Places
Have you ever wished to step into a landscape like Chinese landscape painting? You’ve almost certainly seen Guilin’s karst landscape in Chinese landscape paintings: the emerald-green, moss-draped ...
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Guilin - Longji Rice Terrace - Xingping - Yangshuo - Guilin
Photography Tour
Days
6 Days
Places
5 Places
Do you like Chinese ink paintings? Want to explore a typical Chinese painting-like landscape? Come to Guilin. Have you captured the artistry of the land up close? Interested in learning about China'...
View Details
Guilin - Yangshuo - Guilin
Summer Vacation
Days
5 Days
Places
3 Places
Hey, summer seekers! Are you on the hunt for the ultimate summer escape? A destination that mesmerizes you with ethereal landscapes and promises a bucketful of fun adventures? Look no further! Welco...
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Guilin - Longji Rice Terrace - Ping’an Village - Dazhai Village - Guilin
Short Trip
Days
2 Days
Places
5 Places
Hiking is a must-do activity when visiting Longji Rice Terraces. As one of the Top 10 most beautiful rice terraces in the world, a Longji Rice Terrace Hike will reward you with the Art of Earth, ama...
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Guilin - Longji Rice Terrace - Yangshuo - Guilin
Classic Exploration
Days
5 Days
Places
4 Places
Want to explore a typical Chinese painting-like landscape? Come to Guilin. Want to experience the beauty of the Chinese countryside? Yangshuo welcomes you. Interested in learning about China's agric...
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Guilin - Longji - Yangshuo - Guilin
Classic Itinerary
Days
4 Days
Places
4 Places
You may have appreciated the imperial palaces and zigzag magnificent Great Wall in Beijing, or marveled at the historical miracle Terracotta Warriors in Xian, how about coming to Guilin in the South...
View Details
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Frequently Asked Questions about Guilin Travel
  • 1. What are the top attractions to visit in Guilin?+

    The top attractions to visit in Guilin downtown are:

    • Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan)
    • Elephant Trunk Hill
    • East West Alley
    • Sun and Moon Pagodas
    • Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes Resort
    There are many other attractions to explore in Guilin downtown and around Guilin, you can check: Top 10 Attractions in Guilin >>

     

  • 2. When is the best time to visit Guilin?+

    It is recommended to travel to Guilin from April to October during which there are many sunny days, greener hills and clearer river water.

    The summer temperature in Guilin can be as high as 37ºC. It is best to bring something convenient for summer, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, mosquito repellent, etc.r.

  • 3. How many days do you need in Guilin?+

    The number of days you need in Guilin depends on your travel preferences and the depth of exploration you desire. Usually, it is suggested to spend at least 2 days in Guilin and Yangshuo to experience the main highlights. It allows you to visit popular attractions such as the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and explore the picturesque Yangshuo countryside.

    However, if you wish to delve deeper into the region and immerse yourself in its natural beauty, culture, and activities, it is recommended to allocate 3 to 6 days or more. You can have in-depth exploration of attractions like the Longji Rice Terraces, Yangshuo's karst landscape, Xingping Town on the bank of the Li River, ethnic minority villages, cycling or hiking adventures, and leisurely river cruises.

    You can check more on: How to Plan a Guilin Tour | Ultimate Guilin Planning Guide >>

  • 4. How long is the Li River cruise and where do I have lunch?+

    The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is 83 kilometers long. You will spend approximately 4 hours on a ferry. During the rainy season, the water level is high and the cruise time may be less than 3.5 hours. During the low season, the cruise time may be longer. Your lunch will be served on the ferry at around 12 pm.

  • 5. Where are the Longji Rice Terraces?+

    The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces, are located in Longsheng County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. They are situated in the mountainous region of southern China, approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Guilin City. The terraces span several villages, including Ping'an Village and Dazhai Village, showcasing the breathtaking landscape and centuries-old farming traditions of the region.

    In fact, Longji Rice Terraces is a group of rice terraces consisting of mainly four parts: Ping'an Rice Terraced Fields, Jinkeng Rice Terraced Fields, Longji Ancient Zhuang Village Rice Terraced Fields, and Xiaozhai Rice Terraced Fields. Among them, Ping'an Rice Terraces and Jinkeng Rice Terraces are two must-visit terraced fields known for their stunning landscapes and convenient transportation.

  • 6. Can I have cultural experience in Guilin?+

    Though Guilin is primarily known as a natural destination, it also offers a rich cultural experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions, customs, and ethnic minority cultures.

    (1) Ethnic Minority Villages: Explore the nearby ethnic minority villages, such as the Longji Terraced Fields area or the villages around Yangshuo. Interact with locals from the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups, learn about their unique traditions, witness their traditional clothing and handicrafts, and even participate in cultural activities.

    (2) Calligraphy & Traditional Fan Making: Engage in activities like calligraphy, Taichi, or cooking classes in Yangshuo, or try your hand at making a traditional fan in Fuli Town.

    (3) Traditional Performances & Night Shows: Attend cultural performances that showcase the vibrant traditions of Guilin. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and singing performances that highlight the local culture and ethnic minority influences. The Liu Sanjie Light Show in Yangshuo, which combines music, dance, and stunning natural surroundings, is a particularly popular performance.

    If you are interested in these cultural activities, we can include them in your Guilin tour to ensure a well-rounded and enriching experience.

  • 7. Where is Yangshuo?+

    Yangshuo is located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China. It's situated to the southeast of Guilin City, along the banks of the Li River . Known for its stunning karst landscape and picturesque countryside, Yangshuo has become a renowned tourist destination and is easily accessible from Guilin via road or river.

  • 8. What are the highlights along the Li River?+

    The Li River is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. Here are some of the highlights you can expect along the Li River of Guilin:

    The most iconic feature of the Li River is its karst mountains. These limestone peaks rise majestically from the riverbanks, creating breathtaking and otherworldly scenery. Nine Horses Fresco Hill is a natural landscape that resembles nine galloping horses when viewed from a specific angle. Yellow Cloth Shoal is the typical scenery depicted on the 20 Yuan banknote.

    Xingping Ancient Town on the banks: The town itself is an attraction, with well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture lining its narrow streets. During the cruise, you can enjoy an overlook of this beautiful small town.

    Yangshuo: As you approach Yangshuo, the landscape transforms into a picturesque countryside dotted with rice paddies, bamboo groves, and traditional villages. This scenic beauty provides a peaceful and idyllic backdrop for your Guilin Li River journey.

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