Guilin

Guilin is located in southern China, in the Guangxi Autonomous Region, and is famous for some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the country. The city is surrounded by karst mountains covered in lush vegetation rising alongside rivers and green fields, creating a unique landscape that has inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries. The nearby Li River and the rural villages of the region offer some of the most iconic views in China, making Guilin one of the most well-known and photographed natural destinations in the country.

What to see?

Li River
The Li River is one of the most famous landscapes in China. A cruise between Guilin and Yangshuo offers views of the spectacular karst mountains, rural villages and green fields that form one of the most iconic landscapes in the country.

Elephant Trunk Hill
One of the symbols of Guilin. This rock formation by the river resembles an elephant drinking water and is one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon's Backbone)
Located in the mountains north of Guilin, these agricultural terraces create a stunning landscape that changes colour with the seasons.

Recommended experiences

Cycling through Yangshuo
Cycling among rice paddies, rivers and small traditional villages is an ideal way to discover the natural landscape of the area.

Watching the rice terraces at sunrise
The Longji terraces offer spectacular views at sunrise or sunset, when the light illuminates the mountains and the stepped fields.

Exploring the caves of Guilin
The Reed Flute Cave is one of the most impressive places to discover unique geological formations in the region.

Culture & fun facts

One of the most famous landscapes in China
Guilin's karst mountain landscape is so iconic that it is depicted on the Chinese 20-yuan banknote, showing the famous stretch of the Li River near Yangshuo.

Inspiration for traditional Chinese art
For centuries, Guilin's landscapes have inspired poets, painters and artists. Its mountains and rivers frequently appear in traditional Chinese painting.

Cultural diversity in the mountains
The mountains surrounding Guilin are inhabited by various ethnic minorities, such as the Zhuang, Yao and Miao, who preserve their own traditions, architecture and clothing.

Local cuisine

Guilin's cuisine stands out for its fresh, simple flavours using local ingredients from the Guangxi region. The most famous dish is Guilin mifen, a rice noodle soup served with meat, pickled vegetables and spices, very popular in both restaurants and street stalls. Dishes prepared with Li River fish, fresh vegetables and different types of rice and tofu are also common. The regional cuisine combines influences from local ethnic minorities and southern Chinese cooking, offering authentic and traditional flavours.

Tips for travellers

Guilin has an international airport and a high-speed train station, making it easy to reach from cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen or Shanghai. To enjoy the region at a relaxed pace, it is recommended to spend two to four days, especially if you want to take the Li River cruise, visit Yangshuo and explore the Longji rice terraces. Many of the best experiences are found in the surroundings of the city, so it is common to combine Guilin with Yangshuo, where you can enjoy natural landscapes and outdoor activities.