Guilin's ethereal limestone peaks rising from misty rivers have defined the Chinese landscape imagination for centuries. The Li River journey from Guilin to Yangshuo is considered one of the world's most beautiful cruises.
Top Sights in Guilin
Li River Cruise
An 83km cruise through the heart of karst country — the scenery featured on the 20 RMB banknote.
Reed Flute Cave
A spectacular 180-million-year-old limestone cave with multicolored illumination — the "Palace of Natural Art".
Elephant Trunk Hill
Guilin's iconic symbol — a natural rock arch resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River.
Longji Rice Terraces
The "Dragon's Backbone" — 66 sq km of spectacular rice terraces built over 650 years by Zhuang and Yao minorities.
Yangshuo Countryside
Postcard-perfect karst peaks, bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, and cycling through rice paddies.
Best Time to Visit
April–October. The Li River is most beautiful May–July (greenest). September–October offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Transportation
High-speed train to Guilin (from Guangzhou 2.5h, Shenzhen 3h). The Li River cruise takes 4-5 hours to Yangshuo. Biking is the best way to explore Yangshuo.
Guilin Cuisine
Guilin Rice Noodles (Mifen), Beer Fish (Yangshuo specialty), Lipu Taro Pork, Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
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