Guilin is the classic gateway to southern China's limestone-peak country and the launch point for Li River cruises down to Yangshuo. It's also the base for the famous Longji terraced rice fields.
History & culture
Praised in Chinese verse for over a millennium — 'Guilin's scenery is the finest under heaven' — the city sat on a Qin-dynasty canal linking the Yangtze and Pearl river systems, making it a strategic southern hub.
What to see & do
- ◆Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
- ◆Longji (Dragon's Backbone) terraced fields
- ◆Reed Flute Cave's illuminated formations
- ◆Elephant Trunk Hill on the river
- ◆Two Rivers and Four Lakes evening walk
What to eat
- ●Guilin rice noodles
- ●Beer fish
- ●Stuffed Li River snails
Getting there
Guilin Liangjiang Airport and two high-speed rail stations connect widely. Buses and tours run to Longji and Yangshuo.
Avoid the pitfalls
- Confirm whether your Li River cruise is the full Guilin–Yangshuo route or a short version.
- Longji terraces are most photogenic when flooded (spring) or golden (autumn).
- Skip overpriced in-city 'parks'; the river and terraces are the real draw.
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