Written by Natalia |
AsĀ one of the top ten scenic spots in China,Ā Guilin karst landscape was included in the World Natural Heritage List in 2014. For thousands of years, the karst landscape in Guilin has allured numerous visitors with its a variety of spectacular formations like peak clusters, peak forests, remnant peaks, and underground caves. All these natural wonders are distributed along the Li River and its branches, making Guilin city area and Yangshuo countryside two main hot places for natural enthusiasts. So many wondered, should we choose to stay in Guilin or Yangshuo for overnightĀ on our Guilin trip?Ā You will find your answers in this ultimate guide.
GuilinĀ city areaĀ has convenient transportation, complete supporting facilities, concentrated attractions, and unique cityscapeĀ and historical relics.Ā Yangshuo, on the other hand, is a rural leisure resort with beautiful natural scenery and rich travelingĀ experiences. The accommodation choices in Guilin orĀ YangshuoĀ are essentially a balance between āurban efficiencyāĀ and āpoetic landscapeā. You can flexibly choose where to stayĀ based on your Guilin travelĀ needs, preferences,Ā and budget.
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- Guilin vs Yangshuo – Quick Overview
- Why Stay Overnight in Guilin
- How Many Nights Should You Stay in Guilin?
- Why Stay Overnight in Yangshuo
- How Many Nights Should You Stay in Yangshuo?
- Stay in Guilin or Yangshuo – Which Is Better for You?
- Where to Stay in Guilin?
- Where to Stay in Yangshuo?
- Other Recommended Areas to Stay during Your Guilin Tour
- Sample Itineraries with Both Guilin and Yangshuo
- FAQs About Staying in Guilin or Yangshuo
- Explore Guilin with China Xian Tour
Guilin vs Yangshuo – Quick Overview
āThe river flows like a silk ribbon, the mountains rise like jade hairpinsā. The unparalleled landscapes of Guilin have left the world in awe. But why is there a dilemma of choosingĀ toĀ stay in Guilin or Yangshuo?Ā Because there are significant differences between the two places: āhustling urban hub for efficiencyā versus āpicturesque landscapes and in-depth experienceā, and the demands of tourists also vary.
Ā |
Guilin |
Yangshuo |
Iconic Attraction |
Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed FluteĀ Cave, Jingjiang PrinceĀ Palace, Two Rivers and Four Lakes |
Yulong River, Ten-MileĀ Gallery, Yangshuo West Street, Xingping Ancient Town, Impression Liu Sanjie Show |
Suitable for |
Seeking convenient transportation, urban prosperity,Ā historical culture, as well as first-timers |
LovingĀ rural natural scenery, slow-paced leisure experience, outdoor activities and photography |
Ideal Stay |
1-2 nights |
2-3+ nights |
Why Stay Overnight in Guilin
The Gateway to Li River Cruise
Most classic Li River cruisesĀ (to Yangshuo) depart from Mopanshan Pier (for a three-star cruise ship) or Zhujiang Pier (for a four-star cruise ship) , about 40 minutes from downtown Guilin. Staying in Guilin ensures you make an early morning departureĀ (first run ship at 08:00 am).
Popular Guilin Tour
Spectacular Cityscapes & Night Cruises
Staying overnight in GuilinĀ city centerĀ (Xiangshan District and Xiufeng District) allows you to make efficient use of the evening time to exploreĀ multiple attractions, especially the Two Rivers and Four LakesĀ cruiseĀ at night. Guilin night views, city lights and skyline, such asĀ the Sun and Moon Twin TowersĀ and Elephant Trunk HillĀ at night, etc.,Ā are extremely beautiful and splendid. You can take a Guilin city walk along the lake/river after dark.
Convenient Transportation
Guilin is a majorĀ transport hub with an airportĀ – Liangjiang International Airport, which covers major cities in China, twoĀ train stations (Guilin & Guilin North)Ā – important in the Southwestern railway network, and long-distance busĀ stations. Itās ideal for an overnight stopover.
Urban Comfort
Guilin City has dense supporting living facilities such as shopping malls, supermarkets,Ā and hospitals. There are more diverse and vibrantĀ night markets and food streetĀ cultures. For instance, the Zhengyang Pedestrian StreetĀ or East-West LaneĀ offersĀ Guilinās famous rice noodles and other local delicacies.
How Many Nights Should You Stay in Guilin?
Guilin attractionsĀ are relatively concentrated, it is recommended to arrange 1-2 nights to stay in Guilin. Staying for one night allows you to explore city landmarks and take a Li River cruiseĀ more conveniently. Staying for two nights makes the journey more relaxedĀ and in-depth, or you can also set asideĀ a separate day to visit Longji Rice Terraces.
Recommended Guilin Tour: 5 Days Guilin and Yangshuo Tour with Club Med Resort
Why Stay Overnight in Yangshuo
Wake Up in a Painting: Sunrise & Sunset
StayingĀ in Yangshuo, youĀ can see the beautiful and peaceful sceneryĀ outside yourĀ window in the morning. Wake up early to see the morning mist at the YulongĀ River, and watch (photograph certainly) the sunrise at Xianggong Hill.Ā In the evening, you can enjoy the sunset (at YulongĀ BayĀ International Camp orĀ Ruyi Peak) and fishing lights (at Xingping orĀ Baisha).
Recommended Guilin Yangshuo Tour
Outdoor Adventure Playground
Yangshuo is the perfect base for outdoor adventure, such as cycling through rice paddies, bamboo rafting on the calmer Yulong River, hiking, and rock climbing.Ā Staying in Yangshuo, you donāt needĀ to get up early to hurry, and you can also avoid the tourist rush.
Lively West Street Nightlife & Culture
Taste authentic local cuisine and snacks at the lively Yangshuo West StreetĀ Night Market, experience folk bars, cafes, live music, stroll through souvenir shops, and relax in theĀ slow time. You can also witnessĀ the magnificent Impression Liu Sanjie show at night. Participate in the daily life of villagers and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Authentic Countryside Immersion
Stay in a boutique guesthouse or hotel nestled among the fields to fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature and the countryside. Yangshuo is truly worth an overnight stayĀ to upgrade your āaccommodationā to ālandscape aesthetic experienceā.
How Many Nights Should You Stay in Yangshuo?
Yangshuo featuresĀ natural scenery and leisure experiences. It is recommended to stay in YangshuoĀ for 2-3 days or moreĀ to doĀ the YulongĀ RiverĀ drafting, Ten-Mile GalleryĀ bicycling, and the West StreetĀ night tour. If you have plenty of time, you can stay a few more nights to relax and take photos. Donāt miss out on the Impression Liu SanjieĀ show, Xingping Ancient Town Fishing Lights, Xianggong HillĀ sunrise, Yinziyan Cave, and more.
Recommended Guilin Yangshuo Tour: 5 Days Guilin, Yangshuo and Terrace Field Photography Tour
Stay in Guilin or Yangshuo – Which Is Better for You?
Stay in Guilin If You Want…
To fully explore Guilin attractions and enjoy the cityās prosperity and convenience (transportation hub), pursuing cost-effectiveness. Suitable for first-timers toĀ Guilin, quick overnight stops, orĀ āefficiency enthusiastsā.
Stay in Yangshuo If You Wantā¦
To pursueĀ unique landscape experiences, enjoy photography, get close to nature, and countrysideĀ vacations, and prefer nightlifeĀ and folk culture. Suitable for slow-paced adventurers who love natural scenery.
Best Strategy – Split Your Time Between Guilin and Yangshuo
The best answer to stay in Guilin or Yangshuo is dynamic allocation. You can join a Guilin and Yangshuo tour with overnight stays in both destinations, so you can enjoy the cityās bustling and convenience while immersing yourself in the natural tenderness and tranquility.
For example, if you choose aĀ 3-day classic Guilin tour, you can stay in the GuilinĀ city centerĀ for the first night. We recommend hotels in theĀ Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, which are convenient for taking aĀ night cruiseĀ or visiting Longji Terraces.
The next night, stay in Yangshuo. It is recommended to stay near West Street, by the Yulong River, or in the Xingping Ancient TownĀ for convenient drifting on the Yulong River,Ā cycling at the Ten-Mile Gallery, etc.
Note: Guilin accommodation during the peak season from May to October (especially during the summerĀ holiday) requires advance booking, and some hotel prices may increase.
Where to Stay in Guilin?
For first timers, it is highly recommended to live in the city center. Specifically, the area near Two Rivers and Four Lakes. It is close to the main attractions inside the city and offers great convenience for shopping, dining and transportation. More high-end hotels, mid-end chain hotels and special homestays can be found.
For budget travelers or visitors who stay for a short time, living near transportation hubs, like train station or bus station, will be a better choice. There are more cost-effective economical hotels and it is very convenient to transfer between cities.
Best Guilin Hotels
- Sheraton Guilin Hotel
- Grand Waterfall Hotel, Li River
- Atour Hotel
- Hilton Hampton Xiufeng Hotel, Guilin
- Boyin Li River Retreat (ę¼ę±ę³éé åŗ)
- Poetry & Beyond (SYYF) Li River Courtyard Hotel (čÆäøčæę¹syyfĀ·ę¼ę±é¢åé åŗ)
Where to Stay in Yangshuo?
During the Yangshuo tour, the West Street area is most recommended for most travelers. It is right in the center of Yangshuo County, so life will be more convenient. Meanwhile, it is close to Li River and boasts abundant nightlife. The hotels here range from high-end, comfortable to economical ones.
Another popular area is near Yulong River and Ten-mile Gallery. The essence of landscapes in Yangshou gathers here and the rural scenery is very charming with a tranquil environment. There are more boutique resort homestays, designer hotels, hot spring hotels, etc. Some hotels themselves are unique and attractive landscapes.
Best Yangshuo Hotels
- Banyan Tree Yangshuo
- Huashan Yunshe Retreat (ē»å±±äŗč)
- Yangshuo Tang She Hotel (ē³č)
- Past & Present Retreat (ęę¶ä»č)
- Hilton Garden Inn, Yangshuo
- Rice Paddy Resort (ę°“ēØ»ē°åŗ¦åé åŗ)
Other Recommended Areas to Stay during Your Guilin Tour
Besides the above area, here are other recommended living areas in Guilin, which also offer a better travel experience.Ā Xingping Ancient TownĀ is preferred by many tourists, because it is in the most beautiful section of Li River and is relatively close to Yangshuo train station. There are many river-view hotels and homestays.
It will be unforgettable to live inside the Longji Rice Terrace Scenic Area. Tourists can stay overnight in the local stilted house. Outside the window is the spectacular scene of rice terraces. You will have the chance to appreciate the morning mist, sunrise and sunset.
Sample Itineraries with Both Guilin and Yangshuo
Guilin is almost synonymous with the most beautiful scenery of China. So during your China tours, be sure to travel to GuilinĀ and YangshuoĀ for 3-4 days to explore its picturesque karst landscapes, and experience its stunning blend of nature and culture!
3 Days Classic Guilin Tour with Yangshuo
Day 1: Elephant Trunk Hill, Two Rivers and Four Lakes;
Day 2: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo County, West Street;
Day 3: Xingping Ancient Town, Laozhai Mountain
3 Days Guilin Tour with Longji Terrace
Day 1: Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, Seven Star Park;
Day 2: Longji Terrace Field;
Day 3: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo County, West Street
4 Days Guilin Culture and Scenery Tour
Day 1: Guilin arrival;
Day 2: Daxu Ancient Town, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave;
Day 3: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo County, West Street;
Day 4: Yulong RiverĀ Bamboo Rafting, back to Guilin
FAQs About Staying in Guilin or Yangshuo
Which Place isĀ Better As a Base for the Li River Cruise?
Regarding the issue of whether to stay in Guilin or Yangshuo, Guilin is the prime choiceĀ for Li River cruise.Ā Because the most classic and complete route of Li River cruise starts from Guilinās Mopanshan PierĀ (or Zhujiang Pier) and glides downstreamĀ to the Longtoushan Pier of Yangshuo County. The whole journey is about 83Ā kilometers, covering more than 90% of the Li RiverĀ breathing scenery. Moreover, Guilinās pierĀ facilities are more advanced, voyageĀ options are more diverse, and follow-up adventuresĀ are more reasonable.
Is It Possible to HaveĀ a Day Trip to Yangshuo from Guilin?
Yes,Ā takingĀ a one-day trip from Guilin to Yangshuo is completely feasible, but it requires smartĀ tour planningĀ of time and itinerary. For instance,Ā depart earlyĀ (in dawn), choose the fastest way of transportation (Li River cruise paired with high-speed train), and focus onĀ visiting iconicĀ attractions such as the Li RiverĀ itself, Xingping Ancient Town, the serene Yulong River, Ten-MileĀ Gallery, the lively Yangshuo West Street, etc.
Recommended Guilin Tour:
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1 DAY
How Many Days Do I Need to ExploreĀ Guilin and Yangshuo?
Typically, we recommend planning 3-5 days for your Guilin and Yangshuo tour. With 3 days, you can arrange a time-efficient journey to cover its essential landscapes, such as Li RiverĀ cruise, Elephant Trunk Hill, Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Ten-Mile Gallery, Yulong River, Yangshuo West Street, etc.Ā With more time available, you can move further and add more in-depth experiences, such as the Longji Terraced Fields and Xingping Ancient Town.
What Local Dishes Should I Try?
Guilin Rice Noodles, Yangshuo Beer Fish, Lipu Taro BraisedĀ PorkĀ Belly, Quanzhou Vinegar Blood Duck, Gongcheng Oil Tea, Stuffed River Snails, Duck Feet Clay Pot, Marinated Noodles, Stewed Old Duck with GingkoĀ Nuts, Osmanthus Cake, ArtemisiaĀ Leaf Baba, and NunāsĀ VegetarianĀ Noodles…Ā Guilin cuisine are a delicious reflection ofĀ hills and riversĀ in Southwest China, blending diverse flavors of Han, Zhuang, Yao, and otherĀ ethnic groups.
What Is the Best OptionĀ to TravelĀ from Guilin to Yangshuo?
There are four main ways to get from Guilin to Yangshuo:
- By Li River Cruise (Most classic and scenic way): Suitable for tourists who want to enjoy the scenery of the Li River and have plenty of time. It takes about 4 hours.
- By High-speed Train (Fastest way): Take the high-speed train from Guilin Railway Station to Yangshuo, then transfer via a bus or taxi to Yangshuo County, which takes a total of about 1.5 hours.
- By Bus (Most budget-friendly way): Take a bus from Guilin South Bus Station to Yangshuo, which costs about RMB 25 and takes approximately 1.5 -2 hours.
- By self-driving or car chartering (Most Free Way): Approximately 75 kilometers away, you can stop and take photographs at any time. More suitable for families or friends traveling to Guilin together.
Explore Guilin with China Xian Tour
After reading this article, you already know whether you want to stay in Guilin or Yangshuo during your trip. Welcome to join our Guilin tour group to enter this fairyland carved by nature, one of the most beautiful places in China! With over 15 years of experience, China Xian Tourās professional team will guarantee you a relaxing and memorable Guilin trip.
