Guilin's Activities

Best Activities in Guilin, China:

Guilin, located in southern China’s Guangxi Province, is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Asia. Famous for its karst mountains, serene rivers, and picturesque landscapes, Guilin offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re cruising down the Li River, hiking through rice terraces, or exploring ancient caves, Guilin promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Here’s your guide to the best activities in Guilin, China.

1. Take a Li River Cruise – The Most Iconic Guilin Experience

A Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the highlight of any trip. The journey offers stunning views of limestone karst peaks, bamboo groves, and fishing villages, creating one of the most famous landscapes in China.

Top Highlights:

• Spectacular scenery between Guilin and Yangshuo

• Xingping Village and the famous CNY 20 Yuan banknote view

• Fishermen using traditional cormorant fishing methods

Departure: Zhujiang Wharf, Guilin
Duration: 4–5 hours
Travel Tip: Book a morning cruise to enjoy clear views and fewer crowds.

2. Explore the Reed Flute Cave – A Natural Masterpiece

Known as the “Palace of Natural Art”, the Reed Flute Cave is filled with colorful stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations illuminated by vibrant lights. It’s one of Guilin’s oldest and most famous attractions.

Top Highlights:

• Stunning limestone formations shaped over millions of years

• Ancient inscriptions dating back more than 1,000 years

• Spectacular lighting effects inside the cave

Location: Northwest Guilin, 5 km from downtown
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Travel Tip: Bring comfortable shoes as the cave paths can be slippery.

3. Visit the Longji Rice Terraces – A Cultural and Scenic Wonder

Located about 100 km north of Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces) are one of the most beautiful man-made landscapes in China. Built by local minority groups, they showcase the harmony between humans and nature.

Top Highlights:

• Visit minority villages like Ping’an and Dazhai

• Experience local Zhuang and Yao cultures

• Best time to visit: Spring for planting season or Autumn for harvest colors

Location: Longsheng County
Best Time to Visit: May – October

4. Discover Elephant Trunk Hill – Guilin’s Famous Landmark

Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan) is Guilin’s most recognizable landmark, resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River. It’s a symbol of Guilin and a must-see attraction for photography lovers.

Top Highlights:

• Climb to the top for panoramic river views

• Visit Water Moon Cave beneath the trunk

• Evening light shows along the riverside

Location: Downtown Guilin
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

5. Visit Yangshuo – The Adventure Capital of Guangxi

After your Li River Cruise, spend time in Yangshuo, a lively town surrounded by karst mountains and rice fields. It’s perfect for cycling, rock climbing, and bamboo rafting.

Top Activities in Yangshuo:

• Bamboo Rafting on the Yulong River

• Cycling through the countryside and exploring Moon Hill

• Impression Liu Sanjie Show, a spectacular outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou

Location: 65 km south of Guilin
Travel Tip: Stay overnight to experience the relaxed rural charm.

6. Hike up Fubo Hill – For Panoramic Views of Guilin

Fubo Hill (Wave-Subduing Hill) rises along the Li River and offers one of the best viewpoints of Guilin. Inside the hill, you’ll find ancient Buddhist carvings and the famous Sword Testing Rock.

Top Highlights:

• Panoramic city and river views from the summit

• Buddhist stone carvings from the Tang Dynasty

• Hidden caves and natural rock formations

Location: Binjiang Road, Guilin
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

7. Explore Seven Star Park – Guilin’s Largest Urban Park

Seven Star Park (Qixing Park) combines nature, culture, and history in one large scenic area. With rivers, caves, temples, and wildlife, it’s a great place for a family-friendly visit.

Top Highlights:

• Visit Seven Star Cave, one of Guilin’s largest karst caves

• See the Flower Bridge and Camel Hill

• Relax at the zoo or take a stroll through the bamboo groves

Location: Central Guilin
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

8. Take a Night Cruise on the Two Rivers and Four Lakes

To experience Guilin’s beauty after dark, take a night cruise through the city’s scenic waterways. The reflections of bridges and pagodas on the water create a magical atmosphere.

Top Highlights:

• See Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas beautifully illuminated

• Glide past ancient bridges and riverside parks

• Perfect for evening photography

Departure: Central Guilin Pier
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Travel Tip: Book an early evening cruise to enjoy the lights at their brightest.

9. Discover Daxu Ancient Town – Step Back in Time

A short drive from Guilin, Daxu Ancient Town is a well-preserved riverside settlement dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Its stone-paved streets, traditional wooden houses, and local markets offer a glimpse of old China.

Top Highlights:

• Explore old architecture and the 600-year-old Longevity Bridge

• Visit antique shops and teahouses

• Learn about local customs and traditions

Location: 18 km southeast of Guilin
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

10. Try Local Guilin Cuisine – A Taste of Southern China

No visit to Guilin is complete without tasting its unique regional cuisine. The food here is mild, flavorful, and often noodle-based, reflecting the region’s southern charm.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Guilin Rice Noodles (米粉 – Mifen) – The city’s signature dish

• Beer Fish (啤酒鱼) – Famous in Yangshuo

• Stuffed Snails and Lotus Leaf Sticky Rice

Best Areas for Food: Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and Night Market Street

Discover the Magic of Guilin

Guilin is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in China, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. From Li River cruises and mountain hikes to ancient towns and vibrant markets, every moment in Guilin feels like stepping into a painting.