Guilin

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, where you can capture stunning views and learn about its legendary significance. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Li River, enjoying the serene landscapes and fresh morning air. Stop by a local café for a traditional Chinese breakfast of rice noodles and tea.

Make your way to the Guilin Central Square, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the daily life of the residents. Visit the beautiful Fubo Hill, which offers a moderate hike and breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding karst mountains. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ancient Reed Flute Cave, adorned with extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites.

As the sun sets, head to the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area for a scenic boat ride that showcases the illuminated landscapes of Guilin. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling local specialties like Guilin rice noodles and beer fish. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the lakes, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and beautiful reflections.

Begin your day with an early breakfast before boarding a cruise along the Li River, one of China’s most picturesque waterways. As you glide downstream, marvel at the towering karst formations and lush green hills that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep your camera ready for the stunning photo opportunities that await at every bend of the river.

During the cruise, enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch served onboard while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Stop at small villages along the way, where you can interact with locals and learn about their traditional way of life. After the cruise, arrive in Yangshuo, where you can explore the bustling West Street, filled with shops and eateries.

As night falls, enjoy a performance of 'Impression Liu Sanjie', a spectacular outdoor show set against the stunning backdrop of the Li River and mountains. Delve into Yangshuo’s vibrant night market, sampling street food and picking up unique souvenirs. Wind down the evening at a local bar, sipping on a cocktail while enjoying live music.

After a hearty breakfast, rent a bike and embark on a scenic ride through Yangshuo’s stunning countryside, passing rice paddies and quaint villages. Stop at the famous Moon Hill, where you can hike to the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. The fresh mountain air invigorates your spirit as you embrace the beauty of nature.

Take a break for lunch at a local eatery, savoring authentic Yangshuo dishes like beer fish and fresh vegetables. Spend your afternoon rock climbing or taking part in a bamboo rafting experience on the Yulong River, where you can enjoy a leisurely float while marveling at the picturesque scenery. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of the karst peaks that frame the river.

As the day comes to an end, treat yourself to a lively cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare local dishes with fresh ingredients. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share a delicious meal with fellow travelers and new friends. Wrap up your evening by watching the stars emerge over the tranquil countryside.

Visit the Guilin Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, featuring exhibits on local ethnic minorities and ancient artifacts. Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Seven Star Park, where you can enjoy its beautiful gardens and unique rock formations. The park is also home to the impressive Seven Star Cave, which you can explore for a glimpse into Guilin’s geological wonders.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant famous for its dumplings, providing a tasty introduction to Guilin's culinary scene. Afterward, head to the local tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties of tea while overlooking the scenic hills. Engage in a tea ceremony and appreciate the rich flavors and aromas of this ancient beverage.

Explore the vibrant night market in Guilin, where you can taste a variety of street foods and shop for local handicrafts. Enjoy a casual dinner at one of the charming street-side eateries, sampling dishes like stir-fried vegetables and spicy chicken. End your day with a leisurely walk along the riverside, taking in the beautiful city lights reflecting on the water.

Take an early morning trip to the Longji Rice Terraces, an extraordinary feat of agricultural engineering showcasing thousands of layered rice fields. Hike along the trails that wind through the terraces, offering stunning views and opportunities to interact with the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. Experience the serenity of the rural landscape as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by local families, featuring organic vegetables and rice grown in the terraces. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint villages in the area, learning about their customs and traditions while taking in the breathtaking views from various viewpoints. Capture the essence of rural life and the stunning landscapes with your camera.

As the sun sets, return to Guilin and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes that highlight the region’s culinary diversity. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the city center, where you can soak in the atmosphere and perhaps catch a local performance. Conclude your day with a peaceful moment by the river, reflecting on the beauty you've experienced.

Start your day at the Guilin Central Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and sample fresh produce and local snacks. Engage with friendly vendors as you browse traditional handicrafts and unique souvenirs to take home. The lively atmosphere and rich aromas create an unforgettable sensory experience.

After exploring the market, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in local dishes such as Guilin rice noodles. Spend your afternoon visiting the local silk factory, where you can learn about the silk-making process and shop for exquisite silk garments and accessories. This enriching experience gives you insight into one of China's most treasured crafts.

As evening descends, visit the nearby night market, where you can sample a variety of street foods ranging from skewered meats to sweet treats. Enjoy a casual dinner at one of the stalls, indulging in local flavors while mingling with locals and other travelers. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the illuminated streets, enjoying the lively ambiance of Guilin at night.

Take a leisurely morning hike in the nearby Yangshuo countryside, surrounded by stunning karst formations and lush greenery. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the rural landscape as you connect with nature, stopping to take in the breathtaking views. A packed breakfast will provide nourishment as you embrace the beauty around you.

After the hike, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a charming café that offers local delicacies and freshly brewed tea. Spend your afternoon at a local spa, indulging in traditional Chinese treatments like foot reflexology or a soothing herbal massage. This rejuvenating experience will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset picnic by the river, soaking in the tranquil surroundings while sharing stories with fellow travelers. After your picnic, head to a cozy local bar for a drink, where you can reflect on your adventures and plan for the days ahead. Let the calming sounds of nature accompany your evening as you unwind and relax.

Gear up for an adrenaline-filled morning with an exciting session of white-water rafting on the Yulong River, navigating through beautiful landscapes and thrilling rapids. Feel the rush of the water as you paddle through stunning karst scenery and enjoy the camaraderie with fellow adventurers. This exhilarating experience will leave you feeling invigorated and ready for more.

After a fun morning, refuel with lunch at a riverside restaurant featuring local delicacies. Spend your afternoon rock climbing or paragliding, taking advantage of the stunning views from the heights. Whether scaling cliffs or soaring through the air, you’ll create unforgettable memories in the breathtaking landscape of Yangshuo.

As the sun sets, return to Guilin and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a restaurant known for its spicy dishes. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and lively chatter as you share your day's adventures with new friends. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the city, admiring the illuminated karst formations that surround you.

Start your day with a visit to a local food market to explore the fresh ingredients that make up the region’s cuisine. Engage with vendors and learn about the different spices, vegetables, and meats used in traditional dishes. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will awaken your senses and spark your culinary curiosity.

Join a cooking class where you will learn to prepare classic Guilin dishes like rice noodles and sour fish, guided by a local chef. After cooking, enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created, tasting the unique flavors that define the region's cuisine. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the art of Chinese cooking.

As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the city, visiting eateries that offer a variety of local specialties. Sample street food delicacies at night markets while interacting with locals and fellow travelers. Wind down your culinary journey with dessert, indulging in sweet treats that showcase the region's flavors.