Guilin Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Guilin is renowned for its landscape of water and mountains throughout the whole country. With clear water shimmering in the sun, the Li River is surrounded by green mountains and oddly shaped boulders. You can take a bamboo raft to enjoy the natural beauty. Guilin is also famous for Elephant Trunk Hill, Jingjiang Princes’ Palace as well as Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Spot featuring beautiful surroundings. Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area also depicts an awesome night view. The Li River section of Yangshuo offers idyllic countryside views. You can ride a bike or go hiking here. As one of the best places for rock climbing in China, Yangshuo has attracted numerous tourists. What's more, natural terraced fields and magical caves are also worth exploring.

1. Cruise and Raft the Li River 
Embark on a scenic cruise along the Li River to soak in Guilin's iconic karst landscape and riverside villages. For a quieter experience, opt for a bamboo-style rafting trip — a more intimate way to glide past dramatic limestone peaks.

2. Wander Through the Longji Rice Terraces
Hike through the Longji Rice Terraces, known as the "Dragon's Backbone," and marvel at their sweeping, layered beauty. Shaped by the Zhuang and Yao communities, they're a must-visit for photographers and those drawn to Guilin's rural highland scenery.

3. Explore Guilin's Natural Wonders
Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the city's most recognizable landmark, where a rock formation resembles an elephant drinking from the river. Head up Yao Mountain for panoramic views, descend into Reed Flute Cave to marvel at its colorful stalactites, or stroll through Seven Star Park among karst peaks said to mirror the Big Dipper.

4. Discover Ancient Towns and Hidden Gems
Wander the cobblestone streets of Daxu Ancient Town for a glimpse into traditional architecture and local life. In the evening, capture the Sun and Moon Pagodas glowing in the reflection of Shanhu Lake.

5. Experience Local Arts and Festive Culture
Be captivated by Impression Sanjie Liu, a large-scale outdoor performance set against the river landscape. Try a traditional Chinese fan painting workshop, or time your visit with the Guilin International Tourism Festival for parades and cultural performances.

6. Savor Authentic Flavors and Nightlife
Dive into Guilin's local cuisine — from signature rice noodles to beer fish and osmanthus wine. Explore lively night markets for street food and souvenirs, or browse Xicheng Pedestrian Street for shopping and local handicrafts.

Guilin is a picturesque city renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, serene river cruises on the Li and Yulong Rivers, culturally rich Longji Rice Terraces, and the historical and natural beauty of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes system and Duxiu Peak Palace Destination.

Two Rivers and Four Lakes in Guilin is an urban water system that weaves through the city, offering cruises that showcase the region's mountains, water scenery, and historical architecture. The Sun and Moon Pagodas are a highlight and particularly mesmerizing at night. Walking along the lake banks or taking a cruise, visitors can enjoy tranquility and cultural performances. This creates a harmonious blend of nature and urban life.

The Li River is known for its karst mountains and serene rivers flowing from Guilin to Yangshuo, boasting views of bamboo groves, verdant hills, and limestone peaks reflected in the water. Visitors can experience the river's beauty in all weathers, with misty hills on rainy days and clear landscapes on sunny days. The seceney is a cultural icon, featured on the Chinese currency 20 Yuan. The Li River is most visited in spring, summer and autumn.

Solitary Beauty Peak·Prince City Scenic Area is a combination of Guilin's natural splendor and rich history. Visitors can overlook Guilin from the iconic Solitary Beauty Peak and discover historical pavilions and temples. The adjacent Jingjiang Prince Mansion provides a glimpse into the Ming dynasty's grandeur, while the Peace Cave and other sites feature remarkable stone inscriptions and carvings. This destination is a record of Guilin's cultural heritage and natural wonders.

The Longji Rice Terrace, a cultural and historical landscape, offers a dynamic visual experience that shifts from the reflective waters of spring to the golden harvest of autumn. Walking through it, you will marvelled at the agricultural mastery of the Zhuang and Yao people and immersed in photographic views and various beauty unique to each season.

Yulong River Park, the "Little Li River，" is like a tranquil haven where visitors can take a bamboo rafting to explore the idyllic scenery of karst hills and verdant bamboo groves. Ancient Yulong Bridge and Fuli Bridge highlight the park's history and rich cultural heritage. Optimal visitation is from April to October, with early mornings and evenings offering the most enchanting views for photographers.

Renowned for its distinctive flavors and meticulous preparation techniques, Guilin's culinary ranges from its traditional rice noodles to freshly made beer fish. Local specialties, like Gongcheng oil tea and sweet caramelized taro, each highlights the area’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Guilin noodles are a distinctive local snack celebrated for their unique flavors. This dish primarily consists of noodles, a specially seasoned brine, and various toppings such as vegetables, peanuts, and chopped green onions. Crafting Guilin noodles involves a careful process where high-grade rice is ground into a paste, shaped into dough, and then cooked. The dough is subsequently pressed into cylindrical strands or slices. These noodles are characteristically white and silky, served with a savory broth concocted from beef, pork, Sichuan pepper, licorice, and other ingredients, creating a memorable and lingering taste sensation.

Beer battered fish is a renowned dish in Yangshuo, celebrated for its tender and finely textured fish. The cooking process is meticulous, featuring distinct ingredients. Fresh carp or spinefoot from the Li River are seasoned with salt and cooking wine, then fried in a blend of peanut oil and raw tea oil from the northern Guilin mountains. Enhanced with a stir-fry of green and red peppers and tomatoes, the dish is delicious and succulent.

Gongcheng Oil Tea: For breakfast, long-time residents of Guilin like Gongcheng oil tea, a regional variation renowned for its distinct flavor. These days, several local eateries offer oil tea as a complimentary appetizer. The preparation of oil tea is somewhat intricate, involving a process of simmering lard or bone broth, and thereafter infusing it with scallions. It's customarily served with stir-fried puffed rice, crispy fried snacks, peanuts, and roasted soybeans for a uniquely satisfying taste.

Caramelized sweet potato: Taro is bountiful in Guilin, known for its delightfully sweet and tender texture. This makes caramelized sweet potato a local favorite. The dish is best enjoyed hot, allowing for the sugar to be drawn into strands. Upon immersing in cold water, these strands snap, leaving behind a delicately sweet flavor with a crunchy sugar shell.

Guilin is a critical tourism and transportation hub in South China, accessible by air, rail, bus, or road.

By Air

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL): The primary gateway, located ~28 km (17 miles) west of downtown. It serves both international and domestic flights.

To City Center from KWL: Airport Shuttles run every 30–60 minutes to downtown drop-off points (~50 minutes). Taxis and private transfers are available for direct travel to the city center or nearby Yangshuo.

By Train

Guilin North Railway Station: The largest hub for high-speed trains connecting to other major cities. 

Guilin Railway Station: Most centrally located station, convenient for downtown access.

Guilin West Railway Station: Primarily handles long-distance high-speed transit routes.

To City Center: All stations are integrated with the local public bus network and taxi stands.

By Bus

Regional bus services provide easy access to nearby scenic destinations.

Guilin North Bus Terminal serves as a key departure point for intercity routes.

Yangshuo: Frequent express buses depart from areas near Guilin Railway Station and the North Bus Terminal, taking approximately 1.5 hours.

Longji Rice Terraces: Direct tourist buses run to the Heping ticket office and onward to villages such as Dazhai and Ping’an, with a travel time of 2.5–3 hours.

City-bus: Guilin's public bus system is extensive, with over 150 lines covering the main urban areas and some counties like Yangshuo. The buses are equipped with Chinese and English stop announcements, making them tourist-friendly. Fares range from CNY1-5, and buses typically operate from early morning until late evening.

Taxi: Taxi in Guilin is a convenient option for city travel, with around 3,000 taxis available. Drivers generally use meters for in-town trips, but for longer distances, it's advisable to agree on a fare beforehand. Online car-hailing apps like Didi are also an option for securing a ride.

Bicycle: Cycling is a popular and economical way to explore Guilin's compact cityscape and surrounding rural areas. Bikes can be rented from hotels, shops, or via mobile apps, with rates varying based on rental duration and bike type. Recommended cycling routes are available for tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty at their own pace.

Guilin, known for its stunning karst landscapes, is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city's accommodation options cover several key areas, each offering unique experiences and conveniences for travelers.

West Street, located in the heart of Yangshuo County, is a hub of cultural exchange and a magnet for international visitors. Known as the oldest street in Yangshuo, it is famous for the blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern amenities. The street is lined with a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants, offering everything from local crafts to international cuisine. At night, West Street becomes a lively spot where tourists can experience the local nightlife, including bars and cafes with unique decorations. The street's proximity to the Li River adds to its charm, making it an ideal place for those expecting to feel a vibrant cultural atmosphere and enjoy the convenience of having numerous dining and entertainment options right at their doorstep.

The Two Rivers and Four Lakes area is a picturesque part of Guilin that includes the Li River, Taohua River, and the interconnected lakes of Mulong, Gui, Rong, and Shan. This area is perfect for travelers who want to seek a serene environment with easy access to cultural landmarks. Accommodations here offer views of tranquil waters and lush landscapes. Visitors can enjoy strolls along the lakeshores or take a boat cruise to admire the illuminated scenery at night. There are many cultural heritages in this area such as the Sun and Moon Pagodas and the Ancient South Gate. Travelers can have a peaceful stay here while still being close to Guilin's natural and historical sites.

Shili Scenery Gallery, stretching from the outskirts of Yangshuo to Moon Hill, is a corridor of natural beauty that resembles a landscape painting. This region is ideal for travelers who prefer a tranquil rural setting and wish to be surrounded by picturesque countryside. The area is suitable for tours, with cycling being a popular way to explore the scenic spots along the road. Visitors can experience the local culture at attractions like the Totem Ancient Trail and Butterfly Spring Park. The proximity to the Yulong River also offers opportunities for bamboo raft tours. Accommodations in Shili Gallery cater to those looking to escape the city's hustle and enjoy the simplicity and charm of rural Guilin.

The best time to visit Guilin is from April to October, as this period offers a blend of warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and the most comfortable weather for exploring the enchanting natural scenery. April and May provide the opportunity to experience the Li River's beauty after the drizzle, while July and August are perfect for hiking and capturing the lush greenery. September and October are ideal for witnessing the golden terraced fields at sunset, and the autumn months offer less rain with hot-to-mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the golden autumn paddy fields. However, it is advisable to avoid Chinese public holidays due to large crowds and higher costs.

Guilin, a city in China, predominantly speaks Mandarin Chinese, the official language of the country. Travelers to Guilin are encouraged to learn basic Chinese phrases to enhance their experience, as English is not widely spoken outside major cities. Translation apps and carrying hotel business cards with Chinese instructions can aid in communication. Guilin's multilingualism is limited, but some locals in tourist areas may speak English. To overcome language barriers, use gestures, maps, and facial expressions.

Alipay: Widely used for convenient payment and transport options, supporting integration with other services like Didi for efficient travel.

WeChat: Essential for communication, and social networking, and also acts as a digital wallet, allowing for various transactions and services accessibly.

Didi Chuxing: Popular for ride-hailing, offers integrated payment through Alipay, ensuring ease of transport without a local number.

MetroMan: Useful for navigating metro systems across major cities, helps plan routes and calculates travel costs effectively.

Baidu Maps: The primary choice for accurate, real-time navigation within China, surpassing other map applications.

Mobile data packages for immigrants in China are available through local carriers such as China Mobile and Unicom. China Mobile offers prepaid data SIM cards with unlimited text messages and calls within China, and high-speed connections, sometimes even 5G. Unicom provides SIM cards with data packs that include unlimited music applications, and both do not require long-term contracts. Prices for eSIMs with unlimited data start at just $6 for China.

Public WiFi in China is widely available in places like airports, restaurants, coffee shops, and malls. However, connecting to these networks often requires a Chinese phone number for text verification, which can be a challenge for travelers without a local SIM card. Global WiFi devices like Skyroam can be a convenient alternative, offering the ability to connect multiple devices and requiring no additional setup upon arrival in China.

Guilin features a monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and long, hot, humid summers. The city experiences significant rainfall, particularly from April to June, and is prone to occasional heavy rains and typhoons. Travelers should pack light, breathable clothing for the summer, with rain gear such as umbrellas or waterproof jackets. During winter, warm layers including sweaters and coats are advisable. Due to the varied weather, it is recommended to wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking in all seasons. For protection against the sun and insects, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent are essential, especially during the summer months.

In Guilin, popular payment methods include wire transfer, credit card, PayPal, and WeChat Pay.

Wire transfers are commonly used, but be aware it may take up to 2 weeks for funds to reach the account, with a recommendation to use the Bank of China for faster processing. Credit card payments are accepted with an additional service fee of approximately 3%, and major cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. PayPal is also an option, with an extra service fee of around 3.5% to 4%. WeChat Pay is suggested for expats in China and now allows foreign travelers to link their credit cards for mobile payments.

When making payments, always confirm bank details and transaction fees, and notify your travel consultant of the payment to secure your booking.