Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Guilin by taking a Li River Cruise, which is considered one of the world's top watery wonders. The cruise offers a visual feast of the unique karst landscape that has inspired poets and painters for generations. The journey typically starts from Guililn and ends in the quaint town of Yangshuo. Along the way, travelers witness fishermen using trained cormorants to fish, water buffalo bathing, and local life on the banks of the river. The picturesque scenery includes limestone peaks, serene clear waters, lush bamboo groves, and terraced rice paddies. The highlight of the cruise is undoubtedly the glimpse of the iconic Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the view that appears on the 20 RMB note. This experience offers not just natural beauty but also a window into the tranquil rural life in this part of China.
Elephant Trunk Hill is a famous tourist attraction in Guilin, emblematic of the city's karst landscape. Resembling an elephant drawing water from the river with its trunk, it is a marvel of natural sculpture and a symbol of Guilin. Exploring this area provides an opportunity to not only appreciate this unique formation but also to visit Water Moon Cave, Pagoda Hill, and Puxian Pagoda, which add to the rich cultural experience. From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Guilin city and the meandering Li River, which makes for a memorable photo opportunity. The site often features locals practicing Tai Chi, adding to the serene ambiance. With lush surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere, a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill is a must for those looking to savor Guilin's natural and cultural essence.
Reed Flute Cave, also known as 'The Palace of Natural Arts,' is a magnificent limestone cave situated in Guilin. Named for the reeds growing outside it, which are used to make flutes, the cave has attracted visitors for over 1200 years. Inside the cave, visitors are greeted by a vast array of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations in surreal shapes and sizes, all illuminated by colorful lights. The cave hosts numerous inscriptions from ancient times, testifying to the long-lasting allure of this natural wonder. Walking through the cave, one feels transported to a different world, with each turn revealing another striking scene. To deepen your understanding, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the cave's history, geology, and the myths behind various formations. This activity is a feast for the eyes and a chance to cool off underground while delving into the earth’s depths.
Experience the captivating rural landscapes of Guilin by cycling through the countryside of Yangshuo. This activity offers a wonderful escape from the bustle of the city and a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the natural environment. The cycling route mainly follows flat and well-maintained paths, making it accessible for riders of most skill levels. As you pedal your way through the countryside, you’ll pass by emerald-green paddy fields, charming villages, and striking limestone karst formations. It's an opportunity to interact with friendly locals and glimpse rural life, including farmers tending to their crops and duck herders guiding their flocks. Cyclists can stop at local markets, take pictures of the scenic vistas, and enjoy the fresh air. This activity is not only a gentle workout but also a way to connect with the serene and pastoral side of Guilin’s landscape.
The Impression Liu Sanjie is a spectacular outdoor night show set against the natural backdrop of the Li River in Yangshuo, Guilin. Directed by famous Chinese director Zhang Yimou, this performance employs the water as its stage with the karst mountains illuminated as an enchanting backdrop. Over 600 performers, mostly local fishermen and farmers, present their culture and folklore through impressive choreography and folk songs, telling the story of the legendary Liu Sanjie, a Zhuang minority songstress. The show incorporates the natural surroundings, ethnic music, and vibrant costumes to create a mesmerizing experience that captivates audiences. The blend of traditional culture with innovative stage techniques makes this an unmissable event for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying an audio-visual feast under the stars.
The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone, are a must-see natural wonder located a few hours from Guilin. These centuries-old terraces cascade down the mountains like ribbons and are a testament to human ingenuity and harmony with nature. A tour to Longji offers panoramic views of the terraces, which change with the seasons, from the water-filled mirrors in spring to the golden waves of grain in autumn. Visitors can hike along the scenic paths, visit the Zhuang and Yao minority villages, and learn about their unique culture and way of life. Photography enthusiasts will find the vistas particularly awe-inspiring. Visiting the Longji Rice Terraces is an opportunity to witness rural China and traditional agriculture thriving in the modern age, providing a peaceful retreat from urban landscapes.
Seven Star Park is Guilin's largest and most popular park, named for its seven peaks that resemble the Big Dipper constellation. It is a comprehensive attraction offering picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and recreational activities. Visitors can explore the Seven Star Cave, which boasts stunning rock formations, and the awe-inspiring Guilin Zoo, home to rare animal species like the Giant Panda. The park also features landscaped gardens, peaceful lakes, and several historical sites including ancient inscriptions and bridges. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, take a boat ride on the lake, or climb the peaks to get a splendid view of Guilin. Seven Star Park is an amalgamation of natural beauty and leisure entertainment, serving as a perfect getaway within the city for tourists of all ages.
Venture into the tranquil Guilin countryside and immerse yourself in the world of Chinese tea at a local tea plantation. The plantations around Guilin boast terraced fields and a serene environment. During a guided tour, visitors learn about the traditional methods of tea cultivation and processing. You'll have the opportunity to pick tea leaves alongside the farmers, understand the different types of tea, and watch the process of withering, oxidizing, and roasting to produce the final aromatic product. The experience culminates with a tea-tasting session where you can savor the fresh flavors of the plantation's tea. Visiting a tea plantation is not only educational but also a cultural experience that brings you closer to the agricultural heritage of the region and the importance of tea in Chinese society.
Fubo Hill is a distinctive geological formation rising above the banks of the Li River in Guilin. It is known for its sheer cliffs and the artful blending of nature's majesty with historical culture. Climbing Fubo Hill rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Guilin cityscape and river, as well as a closer inspection of the 'Sword Testing Stone,' a rock sliced cleanly into two parts, as legend has it, by a powerful general's sword. Inside the hill lies the Thousand Buddha Cave, adorned with intricate Buddha carvings and inscriptions that date back over a thousand years. The climb can be steep at times, but steps and pathways make it accessible. Exploring Fubo Hill offers not only a physical workout but also a journey through the rich tapestry of myth and history that surrounds Guilin.
Xingping Ancient Town, nestled along the Li River, is an unspoiled gem with a history dating back over 1,000 years. A stroll down its cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses, ancient banyan trees, and quaint shops transports visitors back in time. The town is surrounded by stunning karst peaks and you can explore landmarks such the 20 RMB viewpoint, which offers a vista so iconic that it graces the Chinese currency. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely hike to the top of Laozhai Hill for a panoramic view of the Li River meander or take a bamboo raft ride for a closer look at the verdant riverbanks and local fishermen at work. Xingping is a window to rural Chinese culture and heritage and offers a tranquil escape from the modern world.
