Things To Do
in Guilin
Guilin, China, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscape characterized by dramatic limestone karst hills, making it a quintessential example of China's natural beauty. The Li River, flowing through the city, offers iconic cruises that present a panoramic view of the picturesque scenery, including ancient villages and bamboo groves.
Guilin's rich cultural heritage, together with its unique geological formations, caves, and parks like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill, attracts visitors from around the world, making it a top destination for nature lovers and photographers.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic boat ride along the Li River, taking in breathtaking views of limestone karsts. Don’t forget to capture stunning photos of the landscape.
Visit the quaint village of Yangshuo after the boat ride. Explore its markets and try local delicacies for lunch.
In the evening, take a stroll along the Yu Long River. Enjoy the beautiful sunset views and relax at a riverside café.
Travel to the Longji Rice Terraces and take in the stunning views. A guided tour will enrich your understanding of the local culture and farming methods.
Hike through the terraces and visit the local villages. Stop for a traditional meal in one of the ethnic minority restaurants.
Return to Guilin and unwind in a local hot spring. Relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with limestone karst mountains and the Li River.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with ancient towns and traditions.
- Pleasant climate, ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
- Affordable cost of living and travel compared to many Western destinations.
- Strong food culture, offering a variety of local and regional dishes.
- Overcrowding during peak tourist seasons can diminish the experience.
- Language barrier; not all locals speak English, making communication challenging.
- Limited public transportation options outside the city center.
- Pollution in some areas may affect air quality.
- Tourist-focused development can lead to commercialization of local culture.
Best Activities in Guilin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a scenic cruise along the Li River to enjoy the picturesque karst mountains and lush countryside.
Explore the stunning countryside and rural villages of Yangshuo by renting a bike and taking a leisurely ride.
Embark on a hike through the beautiful Longji Rice Terraces to experience the stunning landscape and local culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guilin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guilin
Visit one of these nice places.
Cruise or hike along the Li River to capture stunning views of the karst mountains reflected in the water.
Explore the scenic countryside of Yangshuo, with its beautiful rice paddies, limestone peaks, and winding rivers.
Visit the Longji Rice Terraces to photograph the breathtaking tiered landscape and witness local Zhuang and Yao minority culture.
Food in Guilin
Guilin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish consisting of rice noodles served in a flavorful broth with various toppings such as minced pork, peanuts, pickled beans, and chili sauce. Best enjoyed at Xiaoyang Lou, a renowned restaurant located in the city center.
Must-Try!
A popular local specialty featuring fresh fish cooked in a savory beer-based sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and chili. It is highly recommended to savor this dish at the Shanshui Renjia restaurant, known for its authentic preparation of beer fish.
Fresh river shrimps stir-fried with garlic, scallions, and chili peppers, showcasing the flavors of the region's pristine rivers. Visitors can relish this dish at Chunji Roast Goose & Li River Shrimps, an esteemed eatery in Guilin.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guilin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling street lined with food stalls offering a wide array of local delicacies, from savory rice snacks to grilled skewers and exotic fruits. It's a paradise for street food enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Guilin's culinary scene.
A nighttime destination for food lovers, where one can discover a myriad of street food options like spicy barbecue, fried insect delicacies, and sweet treats like sesame balls and taro cakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guilin, it's important to show respect for elders by using formal language and avoiding direct eye contact as a sign of respect.
Hospitality is highly valued in Guilin, so it's important to reciprocate gestures of kindness and be polite when engaging with locals.
Being culturally sensitive is key in Guilin, so it's important to learn about local customs, traditions, and taboos to avoid unintentional disrespect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guilin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guilin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Guilin, China. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for most services. However, leaving a small tip for exceptional service in upscale establishments may be appreciated, but it is not a customary practice.
In Guilin, China, cash is widely used for daily transactions, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Major credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops in tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to rural areas or smaller towns where credit card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guilin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Guilin with comfortable temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect crowded tourist spots.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rain. Good for outdoor activities but can be crowded.
Mild weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures. Ideal for exploring the outdoors.
Cool weather with occasional fog and drizzle. Fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to visit.
Guilin at Night
Hiking in Guilin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Explore various hiking trails in Yangshuo which offer stunning views of karst mountains and the Li River.
Hike through the picturesque Longji Rice Terraces, experiencing beautiful landscapes and local minority cultures.
Embark on a hike to the peak of Xiangong Mountain for panoramic views of the Li River and surrounding scenery.
Enjoy walking trails in Seven Star Park, featuring limestone hills, caves, and a beautiful natural environment.
A scenic hike offering beautiful views over Guilin and the surrounding landscapes, with lush foliage and serene pathways.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guilin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Guilin by plane.
The primary airport serving Guilin, China, with various domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Nanning, around 300 km from Guilin, this airport serves as a hub for international and domestic flights.
Approximately 130 km from Guilin, this airport provides domestic flights and some international services.
Located about 600 km from Guilin, it is one of the largest airports in Southwestern China, offering numerous international and domestic connections.
Situated around 1000 km from Guilin, it serves as a major international gateway to Yunnan Province and connections to Southeast Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Guilin, making up about 90% of the population. They have a rich cultural heritage and dominate the region's language and lifestyle.
The largest minority ethnic group in Guangxi province, with a significant presence in Guilin. They have their own language and cultural practices.
Another significant ethnic minority in Guilin, known for their distinct customs, clothing, and agricultural practices.
This ethnic group is recognized for their colorful dress and vibrant festivals. They are found in smaller numbers in the region.
Known for their unique architecture and singing traditions, the Dong people are another minority group present in Guilin.
Includes smaller groups like Hui, Yi, and others, who contribute to the cultural diversity of Guilin.
The Soul of Guilin
Discover the essence of Guilin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is very popular among youth and is played in schools and public courts throughout Guilin.
Table tennis is a widely enjoyed sport in China, including Guilin, with many recreational and competitive options available.
Badminton is a popular sport in Guilin, known for its accessibility and is played in both indoor and outdoor facilities.
Soccer is a widely followed sport in Guilin, with many local clubs and competitions for different age groups.
Traditional Chinese martial arts are practiced in Guilin, contributing to the cultural heritage and physical fitness of the community.
Given Guilin's scenic landscapes, cycling is a popular activity for both locals and tourists, often used for leisure and tourism.
With its stunning karst mountains and natural scenery, hiking attracts many enthusiasts to explore the beautiful terrains in and around Guilin.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guilin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Guilin's culinary landscape is predominantly meat-centric, vegetarian and vegan travelers can find suitable options at select Buddhist vegetarian eateries like Guan Yin Ge and at several international restaurants in the city center.
Locating gluten-free options can be challenging due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients. However, upscale hotels and some health-conscious eateries offer gluten-free alternatives, and it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Guilin with these cultural adventures.
