Things To Do
in Guilin
Guilin, located in southern China, is renowned for its stunning karst landscape and picturesque waterways. It is often considered one of China's most beautiful cities, with the Li River flowing through its heart. The area is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery, explore ancient caves, and experience the vibrant local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing Li River cruise to soak in the iconic karst mountains and lush greenery. The cruise typically lasts around 4 hours and offers incredible photo opportunities.
After returning, visit the Reed Flute Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area, where you can see beautifully lit pagodas.
Visit the Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of Guilin, and hike up to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the Guilin Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, then wander through the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Dine at a local eatery famous for its rice noodles, and end the night with a visit to a tea house for a traditional tea ceremony.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of Rice Noodles | $2 |
| 🥟Dumplings (10 pieces) | $3 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $1 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural scenery and landscapes.
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
- Variety of outdoor activities available.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Chinese speakers.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "我不懂" - I don't understand
- "多少钱？" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Guilin
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its breathtaking karst mountains and serene waters, this river offers stunning landscapes.
A natural limestone cave filled with colorful stalactites and stalagmites that create fascinating formations.
An iconic hill resembling an elephant drinking water, perfect for capturing both natural beauty and cityscape.
Food in Guilin
Guilin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, these chewy rice noodles are often served with various toppings and broth.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish caught from the Li River, typically grilled or steamed and served with local spices.
A local specialty where fish is cooked with beer, resulting in a unique flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in the evening filled with street food stalls offering local snacks.
A pedestrian street lined with food vendors selling traditional Guilin snacks and dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect to older individuals by greeting them first and offering your seat.
It is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.
Gifts are appreciated but avoid giving clocks, as they symbolize death.
Safety
Tipping in Guilin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not common in China, but rounding up your bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and flowers bloom, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.
Hot and humid, but ideal for water activities and enjoying the lush greenery.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies provide perfect conditions for hiking and sightseeing.
Mild winters with occasional rain; fewer tourists make it a peaceful time to visit.
Guilin at Night
Hiking in Guilin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike that leads to a hill with a natural arch, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A beautiful hiking area featuring breathtaking rice terraces, ideal for both hiking and photography.
Airports
How to reach Guilin by plane.
Located about 28 kilometers from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers to Guilin.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Guilin, contributing to the city's cultural practices and traditions.
One of the largest ethnic minorities in China, the Zhuang people add a unique cultural element to the region, particularly in local festivals and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among locals, with many playing in parks and community centers.
Widely played throughout the city, often seen in public parks and sports facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guilin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask if dishes contain meat or fish sauce.
Gluten-free options may be limited; it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.