Things to do in Guilin (2025): Top nearby activities,popular attractions,itinerary planning,weather,accommodation,food,transportation,and more - all you need to know (updated October 2025) | Trip.com

About Guilin

Recommended trip: 3–5 day(s)

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Guilin Local Travel Guide 2025

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Guilin Brief Guide

Guilin is renowned for its landscape of water and mountains throughout the whole country. With clear water shimmering in the sun, the Li River is surrounded by green mountains and oddly shaped boulders. You can take a bamboo raft to enjoy the natural beauty. Guilin is also famous for Elephant Trunk Hill, Jingjiang Princes’ Palace as well as Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Spot featuring beautiful surroundings. Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area also depicts an awesome night view. The Li River section of Yangshuo offers idyllic countryside views. You can ride a bike or go hiking here. As one of the best places for rock climbing in China, Yangshuo has attracted numerous tourists. What's more, natural terraced fields and magical caves are also worth exploring.

Guilin Must-try local experiences

1. Cruise the Li River and Explore the Enchanting Reed Flute Cave Embark on a scenic cruise along the Li River to witness the stunning karst landscape and picturesque villages. Afterward, visit the Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cave adorned with colorful stalactites and rock formations. 2. Hike up Yao Mountain for Panoramic Views Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Yao Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Guilin, the Li River, and the surrounding karst landscape. 3. Wander through the Longji Rice Terraces Hike through the Longji Terraces to experience the ingenuity of the Zhuang and Yao communities and capture the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. 4. Immerse Yourself in the Ancient Charm of Daxu Ancient Town Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Daxu Ancient Town, admire traditional architecture, and sample local snacks in this well-preserved ancient town. 5. Visit Elephant Hill Scenic Area See the iconic Elephant Hill Scenic Area, a natural rock formation resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River, and enjoy great photo opportunities. 6. Stroll Through Seven Star Scenic Area Explore Seven Star Scenic Area, the largest park in Guilin, featuring beautiful gardens, caves, and a zoo, named after the seven peaks resembling the Big Dipper constellation. 7. Experience the Impression Sanjie Liu (Evening Showtime) Be mesmerized by theImpression Sanjie Liu (Evening Showtime), a spectacular performance showcasing local ethnic culture through music, dance, and stunning visual effects. 8. Discover the Art of Chinese Fan Painting Visit a local workshop to learn about the techniques and symbolism of traditional Chinese fan painting, and try painting your own fan. 9. Attend the Guilin International Tourism Festival Plan your visit in November to attend the Guilin International Tourism Festival, featuring cultural performances, parades, and various activities showcasing Guilin's culture. 10. Savor the Flavors of Guilin Cuisine Indulge in Guilin cuisine, including specialties like Guilin rice noodles, beer fish, stuffed snails, and Osmanthus wine. 11. Find Treasures at the Xicheng Pedestrian Street Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Xicheng Pedestrian Street, Guilin's main shopping district, and bargain for unique gifts and souvenirs. 12. Visit the Night Market Explore the bustling night market in Guilin, sample local specialty street foods, shop for souvenirs, and experience the vibrant local nightlife. 13. Shop for Local Handicrafts Visit local markets to buy traditional handicrafts such as embroidered textiles, bamboo products, and painted fans, making for unique souvenirs. 14. Capture the Beauty of the Sun Pagoda and the Moon Pagoda Head to Shanhu Lake for a picturesque photo opportunity at the Sun Pagoda and the Moon Pagoda, especially stunning at night when illuminated. 15. Experience the Tranquility of a Bamboo Rafting Opt for a traditional bamboo raft trip on the Li River to enjoy the tranquil waters and capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscape.

Guilin Must-see Attractions

Guilin is a picturesque city renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, serene river cruises on the Li and Yulong Rivers, culturally rich Longji Rice Terraces, and the historical and natural beauty of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes system and Duxiu Peak Palace Destination.

Guilin Food Guide

Renowned for its distinctive flavors and meticulous preparation techniques, Guilin's culinary ranges from its traditional rice noodles to freshly made beer fish. Local specialties, like Gongcheng oil tea and sweet caramelized taro, each highlights the area’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Guilin Transportation

Guilin's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with Guilin Liangjiang International Airport and major long-distance bus stations playing a crucial role in the city's connectivity to other regions. Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (IATA: KWL) is an international airport serving as a key gateway to the city. Located about 28 km southwest of the city center, it connects Guilin with numerous domestic and international destinations. To reach the city from the airport, travelers can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus, with the shuttle offering routes to the Civil Aviation Building, Guilin Railway Station, and other key points in the city. Guilin's long-distance bus stations, including Guilin South Bus Station, Qintan Bus Station, and Guilin North Bus Station, are vital for intercity travel. These stations offer routes to various destinations within Guangxi Province and beyond, such as Nanning, Guangzhou, and Changsha. To access these bus stations from within the city, travelers can use local buses that connect to the respective bus stops.

Guilin Where to Stay

Guilin, known for its stunning karst landscapes, is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city's accommodation options cover several key areas, each offering unique experiences and conveniences for travelers.

Guilin Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Guilin is from April to October, as this period offers a blend of warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and the most comfortable weather for exploring the enchanting natural scenery. April and May provide the opportunity to experience the Li River's beauty after the drizzle, while July and August are perfect for hiking and capturing the lush greenery. September and October are ideal for witnessing the golden terraced fields at sunset, and the autumn months offer less rain with hot-to-mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the golden autumn paddy fields. However, it is advisable to avoid Chinese public holidays due to large crowds and higher costs.

Guilin Useful Guide

Guilin, a city in China, predominantly speaks Mandarin Chinese, the official language of the country. Travelers to Guilin are encouraged to learn basic Chinese phrases to enhance their experience, as English is not widely spoken outside major cities. Translation apps and carrying hotel business cards with Chinese instructions can aid in communication. Guilin's multilingualism is limited, but some locals in tourist areas may speak English. To overcome language barriers, use gestures, maps, and facial expressions.