Top 10 Things to Do in Guilin with Best Places

Guilin, in southern China's Guangxi region, is famed for its breathtaking karst landscapes, winding rivers, and rich cultural heritage. You'll find no shortage of ways to explore, from cruising past karst peaks and cycling through rural landscapes to uncovering hidden gems in ancient towns. In this guide, we've rounded up the top 10 things to do in Guilin to help you experience the city's natural beauty, cultural charm, and unique local flavors.

Top 10 things to do in Guilin

1. Take a Li River Cruise

Beautiful Li River in Yangshuo, Guilin

• Top Places: The essence part of the Li River (Guilin to Yangshuo)

A Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is one of the most iconic experiences in the region, offering about 4 hours of breathtaking scenery. Departures are available from either Zhujiang Pier or Mopanshan Pier in Guilin, and along the way, you'll drift past tranquil waters where water buffalo graze, towering karst limestone hills, and remarkable rock formations that seem straight out of a traditional Chinese painting.

Travel Tips

• The upper deck offers the best photo opportunities, regardless of taking photos of or with the view. But be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as it's fully exposed to the sun.
• Lunch is available on board. Four-star and five-star ships offer a complimentary buffet lunch. But on three-star ships you'll need to pay for it yourself, so you can also consider bringing your own food.
• Cruises usually end in the wharf nears Yangshuo West Street around early afternoon, giving you time to explore the town or continue your journey to nearby attractions.

2. Get Close to Nature in Yangshuo Countryside

Our guests cycle in the countryside of Yangshuo

• Top Places: Yangshuo Countryside and Yulong River

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Yangshuo's scenic countryside, thanks to its well-maintained bike paths that take you far from busy roads. Popular routes include peaceful trails along the Yulong River and quiet paths winding through the fields near the Li River.

Bike rentals are easy to find throughout Yangshuo and are very affordable. You can choose between regular bicycles and electric bikes, depending on your comfort and how far you plan to ride.

Not into cycling? No problem. You can still enjoy the beautiful countryside on foot. Consider walking along the Yulong River or the surrounding fields to experience the peaceful rural charm of Yangshuo. What's more, you may take a bamboo rafting on Yulong River to enjoy the picturesque view more leisurely.

The pace is unhurried, allowing you to fully soak in the atmosphere - it feels as if you're floating through a living Chinese landscape painting.

Travel Tips

• Mornings or late afternoons are the best times to do outdoor activities, as the light is softer and the temperature more comfortable, especially in summer. Don't forget to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat!
• If you plan to go cycling, it's best to have a local guide with you. They know the routes well, so you won't miss out on the surrounding scenery by constantly checking your map.
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3. Visit Longji Rice Terraces

Ethnic houses at Longji Rice Terraces

• Top Places: Ping'an Zhuang Village and Jinkeng Yao Village

After arriving at the Longji Rice Terraces, you can begin your hike through the picturesque landscape that surrounds Longsheng. The trail is well-paved and follows the curves of the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the iconic rice terraces as you make your way through the area.

As you walk, keep an eye out for rice paddies that double as fish ponds; this traditional method of raising fish and cultivating rice together is a fascinating part of local agricultural life.

If you're seeking authentic experience, we can help arrange visiting a local family at Longji Rice Terraces site. It's a great way to connect with the region's culture.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as some parts of the trail may be uneven.
• Mornings or late afternoons are ideal for hiking, offering cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.
• Don't forget your camera - every turn on the trail reveals a new, breathtaking view.
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4. Discover Karst Caves

Stalactites in Reed Flute Cave

• Top Attractions: Reed Flute Cave, Silver Cave, Yanzi Cave

Guilin is a classic example of karst topography, known for its abundant underground water systems, which have given rise to numerous caves. Among them, three caves are especially recommended: Reed Flute Cave, Silver Cave, and Yanzi Cave.

Reed Flute Cave and Silver Cave are well-developed for tourism, with paved walkways and staircases inside. The cave walls are illuminated by colorful lights, creating a unique and stunning atmosphere.

If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, consider visiting Yanzi Cave in Huixian Town. This is a wild cave that remains largely untouched by human development - there are no lights or smooth paths inside. Don't worry, we will provide all the safety equipment, including a helmet with a headlamp, and protective gear to explore the cave. And, there will be an experienced guide accompany you to complete the challenge.

Travel Tips

• The temperature inside the caves is quite low. Even during the peak of summer, it stays at around 10-15°C (50-59°F), so be sure to wear warm clothing before entering to avoid catching a cold.
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5. Admire Two Rivers and Four Lakes

The Sun & Moon Twinkle Pagodas

• Top Attractions:
  Two Rivers: The Branch of Li River in Guilin city, the Peach Blossom River;
  Four Lakes: Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake

"Two Rivers and Four Lakes" is a collective name for several rivers and lakes in downtown Guilin. It's not only a popular attraction for tourists but also a favorite spot for local residents to take evening walks and exercise. At night, colorful lights illuminate the lakeside, creating a beautiful night view. To fully enjoy the nighttime scenery, it's highly recommended to take a boat cruise, which allows you to admire the entire Two Rivers and Four Lakes area in one go. The experience is quite different from walking along the shore - boat tours have a fixed number of passengers, so it's less crowded compared to the riverside paths.

If you prefer to walk, the best route is to start near Elephant Trunk Hill and head toward the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas. Along the way, you can also explore Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and try some local snacks. This area offers the most beautiful night views, and the other rivers and lakes are relatively far from here.

Travel Tips

• At Rong Lake, you may see locals doing group dances for exercise. Feel free to join in!

6. Enjoy Watery Activities (in Summer)

Kids have fun in water in Guilin

• Top Places: Li River

When visiting Guilin in the summer, one of the best ways to enjoy the region is through water-based activities. While the summer heat can be intense, Guilin's cool waters - usually between 15 to 20°C - offer the perfect natural escape. Whether you're looking for excitement or relaxation, there are lots of water activities to suit every kind of traveler.

For thrill-seekers, kayaking on the Longjing River or in the Shiertan area is a great option. These rivers feature fast-moving currents and occasional drops, making for an adrenaline-pumping experience. You'll be paddling through dramatic scenery, surrounded by towering karst cliffs and thick greenery.

Travel Tips

• You might see some locals swimming in the river - that's a common way for them to cool off during the summer. However, we don't recommend doing this yourself, as you're not familiar with the water conditions. And, unlike previous activities, there are no lifeguards or safety personnel nearby to ensure your safety.
• Remember to bring a change of clothes, water shoes, and waterproof phone protection for watery activities.

7. Visit Xingping Ancient Town

A theater at Xingping Ancient Town

• Top Places: Xingping Ancient Town

Xingping Ancient Town is a charming destination in Yangshuo, known for its deep cultural roots and well-preserved architecture. Strolling through its narrow flagstone alleys, you'll pass by traditional homes made of grey bricks and tiles - reminders of the town's long and storied history.

One of the highlights of your visit is the walk down to the Li River, where you'll find the famous 20 Yuan banknote viewpoint. This is the exact location featured on the back of the 20 RMB note. Take a moment to compare the note with the landscape in front of you - the match is striking and makes for a memorable photo opportunity.

After exploring the town, head to Xingping Pier to board an electric bamboo raft to Yangdi. The electric bamboo rafts are quiet and eco-friendly, and the journey to Yangdi typically takes about 50 minutes. This scenic ride covers one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of the Li River, with dramatic karst mountains, peaceful waters, and reflections that seem to belong in a classical Chinese painting.

Travel Tips

• If you want a quieter environment, try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Also, it's wise to bring small cash if you want to buy local snacks or souvenirs from the street vendors in the old town.

8. Try Guilin Rice Noodles

A bowl of Guilin Rice Noodles

• Top Places: Any Rice Noodles restaurants on the street in Guilin

Guilin Rice Noodles are a beloved local dish and an essential part of daily life in the city. They're typically served in a bowl with a light soy sauce-based broth infused with aromatic spices, topped with thin slices of savory braised meat. A variety of optional toppings are available, including crunchy peanuts, spicy chili oil, and a mix of fermented vegetables such as pickled cowpeas, mustard greens, and diced dried radish - all adding layers of flavor and texture.

One of the best things about Guilin Rice Noodles is their availability and price - you can find them at nearly every street corner or small eatery across the city, usually for just 4.5 to 5 RMB per bowl.

Travel Tips

• The portions are generally small, which makes them especially popular as a breakfast choice for locals. If you're feeling extra hungry, don't hesitate to order a second bowl or pair them with a braised egg or fried dough stick.

9. Climb Xianggong Mountain

See sunrise on Xianggong Mountain

If you plan to stay in a hotel at Xingping Ancient Town, don't miss the stunning sunrise view from Xianggong Mountain! While a Li River cruise will pass by its base, you won't see the most iconic view of Guilin's karst peaks from the water. The real magic reveals itself from above - after a short climb, you'll reach a 50-meter-high viewing platform that offers a panoramic sweep of the Li River winding among layers of misty karst peaks.

Travel Tips

• Arrive early - well before sunrise - to secure a good spot, as photographers and travelers often gather here for the golden hour.
• Bring a flashlight or headlamp if you're going up before dawn.
• On clear mornings after rainfall, you may be rewarded with an ethereal sea of clouds floating between the peaks.

10. Watch Impression Sanjie Liu

Enjoy Impression Sanjie Liu

• Top Places: Impression Sanjie Liu Theatre

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Yangshuo is watching the Impression of Liu Sanjie show by the Li River. This open-air performance, directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, uses the natural landscape as its stage - real karst mountains serve as the dramatic backdrop, while the river itself becomes part of the performance. Blending ethnic traditions, music, and striking lighting effects, the show brings local legends to life in a truly magical setting.

Travel Tips

• The performance lasts around 70 minutes and is held at night only, making it a perfect activity to enjoy after dinner. There are usually two shows each evening, but the start times can vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
• Tickets sell out fast, especially during weekends and holidays, so it's best to book in advance. If you've booked your ticket already, pack a light jacket or scarf in your suitcase, as it can get cool by the riverside in the evening, even during warmer months.

Travel to Guilin With Us

With so many unforgettable experiences to choose from, Guilin is a destination that truly deserves a spot on your travel list. Whether you dream of drifting down the Li River, wandering through timeless villages, or tasting authentic local dishes, we can help bring your ideal trip to life. Contact us or let us know what your like via emaling to trip@odynovotours.com to create a customized Guilin itinerary tailored to your interests. Our travel experts will handle all the details, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.