Things To Do
in Guli
Guli is a riverside town in Zhejiang Province, known for its quiet lanes and canal-adjacent homes. It blends traditional architecture with modern cafes and markets that hum with daily life. The town center revolves around a historic market street where locals shop, chat, and share tea.
Visitors can wander on foot or by bike, enjoying waterways, gardens, and nearby rural landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Guli Old Town, where the architecture reflects centuries of history. As you stroll through the ancient streets, take time to explore quaint shops selling local crafts and snacks. Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic temples that dot the area, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the region.
After a traditional lunch at a local eatery, continue your exploration by visiting the Guli Museum, which showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that highlight Guli’s history and folklore. As the afternoon sun warms the cobblestone streets, find a cozy café to enjoy a cup of locally brewed tea.
As the sun sets, head to the riverside promenade for a leisurely walk along the water. The evening air is filled with the sounds of local musicians, and you can enjoy street performances that capture the essence of Guli's culture. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local delicacies while enjoying the view.
Begin your morning with a hike up to the nearby Guli Mountain, where panoramic views of the surrounding landscape await. The fresh mountain air invigorates your senses as you explore lush trails adorned with vibrant flora. Take plenty of photos to capture the breathtaking scenery that spreads before you.
After descending from the mountain, enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated area surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon at the Guli Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through themed gardens and learn about native plant species. The serenity of the garden is perfect for relaxation or quiet reflection.
As dusk approaches, return to the town for a culinary experience at a popular local restaurant. Feast on dishes made from fresh, local ingredients while chatting with friendly locals. End your evening with a visit to a nearby tea house, where you can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and learn about the art of tea preparation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧆Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming waterways and canal-side scenery
- Excellent local Zhejiang cuisine and tea culture
- Can be crowded on weekends and holidays
- Smaller nightlife and limited public transport within town
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "不好意思" - Excuse me / sorry
- "厕所在哪里" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱" - How much is this?
- "请问需要帮助吗" - Could you help me?
- "可以刷信用卡吗" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "你能推荐吗" - Can you recommend?
Places to Visit in Guli
Visit one of these nice places.
A quiet bridge over the canal as morning mist lifts, perfect for tranquil reflections and soft light.
Narrow historic lanes with red lanterns and traditional facades, ideal for moody street photography.
Gentle hillside tea terraces offering geometric rows and distant town views, great for landscape shots.
Colorful boats and waterfront architecture along the winding canal, ideal for action and composition shots.
Food in Guli
Guli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Hangzhou dish; fresh river fish gently poached in a sweet-sour vinegar sauce, served with a bright glaze and seasonal greens.
Must-Try!
Shrimp stir-fried with Longjing tea leaves; light, fragrant, and a hallmark of Zhejiang cuisine.
Clay-baked chicken wrapped in lotus leaves, aromatic and juicy with earthy notes from the cooking method.
Tofu braised with tea aromas to hint at the local tea culture while remaining light and comforting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area with riverfront stalls offering fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, and street snacks.
Stalls along the canal serving fried dumplings, rice cakes, and savory snacks perfect for an evening bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a nod or a simple 你好. Address elders with respect in conversation.
Dress modestly, remove hats, and ask for permission before taking photos of religious ceremonies.
Use chopsticks properly; avoid pointing feet at people or taking seats reserved for others.
Safety
Tipping in Guli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most places; rounding up the bill or small tips in tourist areas is appreciated but not required.
Cash and mobile payments are widely accepted; WeChat Pay and Alipay are common, credit cards may be less accepted in small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain showers; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade in markets and teahouses.
Pleasant temperatures with lower humidity and clear skies; excellent for walking, photography, and outdoor dining.
Cool to chilly with possible mist; layer clothing and enjoy warm tea houses and indoor attractions.
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; ideal for markets, parks, and hillside walks among new greenery.
Guli at Night
Hiking in Guli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike among elevated tea fields with views of the town valley.
A longer trek to a hilltop with panoramic town and river scenery.
A flat riverside trail ideal for a gentle stroll or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Guli by plane.
Major gateway to Zhejiang; easy transfers by rail or highway to Guli.
Regional airport offering domestic and some international flights; access via highway or rail to nearby towns.
Major international hub within reasonable day trip distance; provides long-haul connections and onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are retirees, with a rich tradition of community gatherings.
Traditional households with daily routines centered around markets and temples.
Some residents commute from nearby towns for work and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in community centers and schools; many locals play casually in parks.
Common in gyms and clubs; inexpensive and accessible for travelers.
Morning practice in parks and square spaces; peaceful and social.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable dishes labeled 素 or ask for 素食. Many places can accommodate with tofu, mushrooms, and greens; specify 不吃鱼 (no fish) if needed.