Tourism in Guilin can trace its roots back to the ancient times when it was already recognized for its unique and tranquil landscape. The concept of "Shanshui" (mountain-water) which portrays the harmony of nature, has long been celebrated in Chinese culture, with Guilin's scenery epitomizing this philosophy. It wasn't until the 20th century, particularly after the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, that Guilin started to gain prominence as a tourism destination. The government recognized Guilin's potential and began to develop it as a showcase of natural beauty.
Over the decades, consistent efforts were made to harness the aesthetic potential of Guilin. The Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area is a water network that was created by linking the naturally existing Li River (Li Jiang) and Peach Blossom River (Tao Hua Jiang) with Guilin's four lakes: Rong Lake (Rong Hu), Shan Lake (Shan Hu), Gui Lake (Gui Hu), and Mulong Lake (Mulong Hu). The creation of this scenic area spearheaded the city's tourism growth and brought a dramatic change to Guilin's urban landscape. This development was completed in the 21st century, becoming a key attraction and a prime example of urban ecological restoration.
Visitors to Guilin can now enjoy the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area via a range of activities. The most popular is the night cruise that showcases a mesmerizing play of lights on the water, bridges, and lakeside architecture. The scenic area has also greatly benefited from the growth of China's high-speed rail network, which made Guililn more accessible to domestic and international travelers.
In recent years, sustainable tourism has shaped the latest trends, with Guilin being no exception. Efforts are being made to balance tourism growth with environmental conservation. The city has initiated eco-friendly practices including pollution control and garbage management to preserve the pristine quality of the rivers and lakes. Moreover, Guilin has seen the rise of experiential travel, where tourists engage more with local culture through activities like guided village walks and traditional cormorant fishing demonstrations. The global trend of digital nomadism has also reached Guilin, with the picturesque city attracting remote workers who seek inspirational environments.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges to the global tourism industry, and Guilin was not spared. Travel restrictions resulted in a substantial drop in visitors. Nevertheless, the city has been proactive in its recovery efforts, putting in place health and safety protocols to reassure and welcome back tourists. Furthermore, with the gradual lifting of restrictions, Guilin is seeing a resurgence of domestic tourism, with the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area continuing to be a significant pull factor.
From its ancient roots to a modern-day urban oasis, the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area symbolizes Guilin's enduring appeal and its continual transformation. As Guilin embraces new trends and adapts to global changes, its tourism legacy continues to thrive, ensuring that visitors from around the world can experience the city's magnificent blend of nature, culture, and hospitality for years to come.
Historical Places (3)
Island (1)
Gardens (1)
