A Journey Through Time

Guilin, Guangxi If China were an ink-wash landscape painting, Guilin would undoubtedly be its most vibrant stroke. This city favored by nature uses the winding Li River as its thread and towering karst peaks as its dots, sketching out scenery that has earned the title "finest under heaven." But Guilin's charm extends far beyond its landscapes—it lies in its millennia-old cultural heritage and the lively human touch. This guide will take you deep into Guilin for a feast for both the eyes and the soul. I. Must-Visit Attractions TOP List 1. Li River Essence Cruise (Yangdi to Xingping Section) - Best taken at dawn or dusk when the Li River shrouded in mist or sunset resembles a fairyland - Snap a photo at the 20-yuan bill backdrop (Yellow Cloth Reflection), remember to bring a bill for the shot - Insider tip: Rent a bike in Xingping Ancient Town and explore lesser-known viewpoints along the river 2. Yangshuo West Street + Yulong River - Experience a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River (Golden Dragon Bridge to Jiuxian section recommended) to feel the tranquility of the "Little Li River" - At night, immerse yourself in West Street; we recommend "Pony's Sky" bar for folk music, beer fish, and stuffed river snails - Bonus: Visit West Street at 6 AM to see its true face without the crowds 3. Longji Rice Terraces (Jinkeng Terraces) - Best viewing periods: May (water-filled mirror terraces) & October (golden harvest sea) - Stay overnight to catch sunrise and sea of clouds at No.1 Viewpoint "Xishan Shaoyue" - Try on Yao ethnic costumes for photos and taste bamboo-tube rice with Longji chili 4. Hidden Gems - Huixian Glass Fields: Resembles shattered mirrors during spring planting - Mao'er Mountain: "South China's rooftop" for cloud seas and Li River's source - Daxu Ancient Town: Well-preserved Ming-Qing trading port ruins II. Guilin on the Tip of Your Tongue Must-try List: ✔ Guilin Rice Noodles (Lao Dongjiang flagship store—eat dry first then add broth) ✔ Yangshuo Beer Fish (made with Li River fish, Sister Xie's is most authentic) ✔ Lipu Taro Pork (perfect blend of fluffy taro and layered pork belly) ✔ Oil Tea (Gongcheng style is classic—bitter first then sweet aftertaste) Food Map: - Downtown Guilin: Taiping Road Food Street (liveliest after 10 PM) - Yangshuo: Kangzhan Road local eatery cluster - Longsheng: Farmhouse dishes in terrace areas III. Accommodation Guide 1. Designer Riverside B&Bs - Recommend Huashan Yunshe (facing Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, infinity pool overlooking landscapes) - Price: ¥800-1500/night 2. Yangshuo Countryside Resorts - Liangsu (by Yulong River, rooftop sky mirror for stunning photos) - Price: ¥500-1200/night 3. Longji Stilt Houses - Choose mid-mountain inns in Jinkeng Terraces for window views - Price: ¥200-400/night IV. Practical Tips 1. Best Seasons: - Apr-May: Misty Li River, pleasant temperatures - Sep-Oct: Crisp autumn air, golden terraces 2. Transport: - Direct buses from Guilin Liangjiang Airport to Yangshuo (~1.5hrs) - Taxis for city attractions; remote areas suggest chartered cars (~¥300/day) 3. Pitfall Avoidance: - Beware of "free guide" touts, buy tickets through official channels - Choose 3-star+ cruise ships on Li River, avoid private boats 4. Hidden Perks: - Elephant Trunk Hill Park free after 7 PM (outer viewing only) - Student IDs get 50% off all attraction tickets Guilin's beauty lies in the clear peak reflections on sunny days, the ink-wash blur of rainy mist, and most of all, in the warmth of an oil tea offered by farmers when you wander into their fields. Plan at least 5 days to slow down and truly become part of this living landscape painting. Remember—the best views often aren't at viewpoints, but around unexpected corners when you're lost. [Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping]