Things To Do
in Guilin

A local staple — rice noodles in a flavored broth topped with pickled vegetables, peanuts, minced pork or beef and chili oil. Found at countless street stalls and small restaurants around the city; great for breakfast or a cheap meal.

Must-Try!

Originally from Yangshuo: fresh river fish stewed in a fragrant broth with local beer, chilies and herbs. Best sampled in riverside Yangshuo restaurants.

Spicy, pungent rice noodle soup with pickled bamboo shoots and a snail-based broth — originally from nearby Liuzhou but widely available in Guilin night markets and noodle shops.

Regional condiments and pickled vegetables that accompany many dishes; sold in markets as souvenirs and used liberally on noodles and rice.

Pleasant temperatures and blooming countryside make it one of the best times to visit; occasional rain and mist enhance karst photography, but expect pockets of rain especially April–May.

Hot, humid and rainy: heavy showers and the June–July flood season can affect river cruises. Expect high humidity, lively vegetation and busy tourist spots in July–August holidays.

Cooler, drier and clear — excellent for outdoor activities, hiking and photography. This is another prime travel window with comfortable temperatures and less rain.

Mild but damp and occasionally foggy; daytime temperatures are cool but rarely freezing. Some rural services may be reduced, but crowds are thinner and prices lower.

The ethnic majority in Guilin city and surrounding areas; urban population includes students, government workers and service-industry employees.

The largest ethnic minority in Guangxi with significant presence in rural areas; known for distinctive cultural traditions, costumes and festivals.

Smaller communities in the hills and terraces around Guilin, offering unique handicrafts, music and cultural practices that can be experienced in village visits.

A significant seasonal population of hospitality workers, tour guides and expatriates concentrated in Guilin and Yangshuo catering to domestic and international visitors.

Widely played by all ages in urban parks and schoolyards — a popular recreational sport.

Common indoor sports with many public courts and community centers hosting casual play and matches.

Yangshuo is a world-renowned limestone climbing destination, attracting international climbers and local enthusiasts.

Traditional fishing on the Li River and leisure activities such as bamboo rafting are popular tourist and local pastimes.

Vegetarian options exist (tofu dishes, stir-fried vegetables, noodles with pickles), but many broths are meat-based. Carry a note in Chinese explaining 'no meat, no fish, no chicken broth' to show staff. Markets and vegetarian restaurants (素食) in larger towns can help.

Vegan choices are more limited — ask about broths and sauces, and be cautious with oyster/soy sauces. Urban cafes and specialty vegetarian restaurants are the best bet.

Rice-based dishes (rice noodles, steamed rice dishes) are usually safe, but soy sauce contains gluten. Communicate needs clearly and avoid fried foods unless you can confirm the batter is gluten-free.

Carry allergy translation cards in Chinese and be cautious about peanuts and shellfish in street food and shared kitchens.