You may have heard the famous Chinese saying that “East or West, Guilin scenery is the best”. But do you know why? What are the best things to do in a Guilin tour? How to travel like a native? Do you feel bothered by these questions?
Relax, here we listed the 9 top things to do in Guilin based on our real experience. They are not simply collected from web blogs, nor trendy check-in spots found online, but sourced from our guests’ experiences.
From cruising along the pastoral Li River, to cycling on the countryside paths around Yangshuo and the spectacular live performance of “Impression Liu Sanjie” — every experience is worthy of your time. Follow this guide to ensure a hassle-free trip to Guilin, particularly if you visit for the first time.
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- 1. Take a Li River Cruise Through Guilin’s Iconic Karst Landscape
- 2. Hike the Longji Rice Terraces and Venture Deep Into Ethnic Minority Villages
- 3. Experience the Slow-Paced Countryside Life of Yangshuo
- 4. Enjoy the Live Landscape Performance of “Impression Liu Sanjie”
- 5. Explore the Underground Karst Wonder – Reed Flute Cave
- 6. Take in the Night View of Guilin on the Two-River & Four-Lake Cruise
- 7. Stroll Along Yangshuo West Street and Soak up the Vibrant Nightlife
- 8. Watch Cormorants Fishing in Xingping Ancient Town
- 9. Sample the Unique Cuisine of Guilin
- Guilin Travel Tips
- Explore Guilin with China Xian Tour
1. Take a Li River Cruise Through Guilin’s Iconic Karst Landscape
If your schedule only allows one thing to do in Guilin, it must be a cruise on the Li River. The ship sails from Mopanshan Pier in Guilin, taking four hours downstream to Yangshuo.
Along the way, you will pass by many classic scenic spots including the Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal, the landscape featured on the back of the 20-yuan RMB banknote.
How to choose from 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star cruises?
- 3-Star Cruise: The most economical option, ideal for budget-conscious tourists, with standard cabins and simple meals served at noon.
- 4-Star Cruise (most recommended): The most cost-effective option, more comfortable, with large viewing space and high-quality buffet.
- 5-Star Luxury Cruise: Fewer passengers, better service, perfect for couples, families, or those seeking a more luxurious experience.
What can you eat on board?
The cruises usually provide a lunch (the level varies by star rating). You can also order some seasonal river delicacies such as Stir-fried Fresh Li River Shrimps, Beer Fish, and River Snails. Guangxi-style rice noodles are also worth a shot.
It’s recommended to prepare some snacks and beverage in advance. The sightseeing area on the deck is the best spot to take pictures.
Recommended Tours:
5 Days Guilin, Yangshuo and Terrace Field Photography Tour
Li River Cruise Day Tour of Guilin and Yangshuo
2. Hike the Longji Rice Terraces and Venture Deep Into Ethnic Minority Villages
The Longji Rice Terraces, located about a 2-hour drive from Guilin, are one of the most spectacular terraced fields in China.
The nearby villages, inhabited by Zhuang people and Yao people, are a window to catch a glimpse of their daily life. For these reasons, Longji Rice Terraces are excellent places for taking photos, light hiking, and cultural experiences.
Every year, from late October to early November, the terraced fields turn gold as the harvest season approaches. Some villages will open up for tourists to experience reaping rice and carrying rice with bamboo basket. This is undoubtedly one of the most popular seasons of a year for Longji.
Other things to do: Hike through Ping’an Village or Jinkeng Dazhai Rice Terraces; visit Zhuang and Yao ethnic villages; watch the long-hair combing performance (the longest hair can reach up to 2 meters); learn to make bamboo tube rice; take photos in folk costumes of ethnic minorities.
Recommended Tour
Cruise the iconic Li River through breathtaking karst peaks to Yangshuo, then hike the stunning dragon-backbone rice terraces of Longji carved into misty mountain slopes.
3. Experience the Slow-Paced Countryside Life of Yangshuo
Yangshuo is more suitable than Guilin for a slow-paced travel. It’s far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, but rich in jutting karst peaks, vast rice fields, small rivers, and ancient villages. They together compose a stunning natural landscape painting. If time permits, stay at least one night in Yangshuo.
What you should not miss:
Yulong River bamboo raft drifting
This is one of best things to do in Yangshuo, quieter than the Li River cruise.
Please note:
- Children below 1 meter are not recommended to take bamboo raft for safety reasons.
- During the rainy season or flood seasons, it may close temporarily.
- It’s better to do in the morning, with less tourists and softer lighting.
Cycling in the countryside
Rent a bicycle or electric bike and cycle along the countryside trails. You can stop anytime you like to explore the Moon Hill, Ten Mile Gallery, Yulong River, endless rice paddies, and small villages, just like the former US president Jimmy Carter.
Rock climbing (suitable for outdoor enthusiasts)
Yangshuo is one of the most famous destinations in Asia for rock climbing, with hundreds of natural routes. Even if you are a beginner, you can sign up for a half day experiential course led by a professional coach.
Guilin Cuisine cooking class
Many local boutique inns and schools offer half-day cooking courses. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the food market, purchasing ingredients, and learn to cook Beer Fish and Guilin Rice Noodles. It’s a perfect option for families.
Recommended Tours:
5 Days Guilin Hiking & Cycling Tour
6 Days Guilin School Tour for Students
4. Enjoy the Live Landscape Performance of “Impression Liu Sanjie”
If you ask a native what to see in Guilin at night, almost everyone would recommend this performance. It’s directed by the famous Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou, and the stage backdrop is formed by the Li River, surrounding rolling karst peaks, and natural nightscape.
Hundreds of local fishermen and ethnic minority villagers perform together to tell the legendary story of Liu Sanjie. It is considered one of the grandest outdoor live performances in China.
Tips:
- Book a ticket online in advance.
- It’s best to watch the performance in summer and autumn.
- The performance is subject to adjustment or cancellation on rainy days.
5. Explore the Underground Karst Wonder – Reed Flute Cave
In case the weather isn’t that fine, why not visit the indoor attraction Reed Flute Cave? The stalactites, stalagmites and underground river formed over millions of years, earning it the nickname “the Palace of Natural Arts.”
The whole trip requires only one hour, suitable for both the elderly and children. It feels like an adventure to a primitive underground cave, highlights include the Crystal Palace, “Lion Ridge in Morning Glow” sight, and colorful light show.
6. Take in the Night View of Guilin on the Two-River & Four-Lake Cruise
The beautiful mountains and rivers of Guilin are the focus of our daytime trip, so what’s the best thing to do at night? Absolutely, the answer is the cruise taking you through four lakes and two rivers, i.e., Li River and Peach Blossom River.
During the journey of about 1.5 hours, you will pass by the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas, ancient bridges, and antique architectural complex illuminated by colorful lights. That’s where the real charm of Guilin’s night lies! Take the cruise after 7pm if possible for a better view.
7. Stroll Along Yangshuo West Street and Soak up the Vibrant Nightlife
The West Street of Yangshuo is quite time-honored with a history spanning over 1,400 years. Nowadays, it has become one of the most popular blocks in Guilin among foreign visitors. The most important of all, the street is free to enter, not requiring a ticket.
During the day, it’s a pleasure to wander around the elegant cafes, souvenir and handicraft shops, and outdoor equipment stores.
At night, the West Street shows a completely different side — vibrant with live houses, music bars, rooftop pubs, and mouth-watering snack stalls. You won’t want to miss it if you enjoy nightlife.
Recommended Tour
A 2-day Guilin highlight tour visiting Elephant Trunk Hill, the 180-million-year-old Reed Flute Cave, and cruising down the Li River to the charming West Street of Yangshuo.
8. Watch Cormorants Fishing in Xingping Ancient Town
Xingping Ancient Town, lying on the bank of Li River, dates back over 1,400 years. It’s also where the most reputed sights along the Li River gather. At the riverside, you can see the well-trained cormorants catch fish on bamboo rafts poled by fishermen. It’s one of the most impressive scenes showing the traditional life in Guilin.
It should be mentioned that the town is also the filming location for the scenery on the back of 20-yuan RMB banknote of China. Sunrise, dusk, and misty morning are all golden time for photography.
Recommended Tour
Cruise the iconic Li River through karst peaks, cycle Yangshuo's rice paddies, and discover Xingping Ancient Town's 20-yuan banknote viewpoint.
9. Sample the Unique Cuisine of Guilin
A Guilin tour is not only about admiring the scenery, the delicious local food is equally worthwhile. Locals eat Guilin Rice Noodles almost everyday for breakfast. The common varieties include gravy rice noodles with braised vegetables, beef rice noodles, and spicy sour noodles.
Beer Fish is a signature dish of Yangshuo cuisine. The freshly-caught fish from the Li River is the main ingredient, stewed with beer, and seasoned with tomatoes, peppers, and spices. The meat tastes extremely fresh and tender, making it a perfect dish to go with rice.
If you join our tour group, your private guide — who has lived in Guilin and Yangshuo for over 20 years — can take you to the most authentic restaurants hidden deep in the valley.
Guilin Travel Tips
What should I avoid doing in Guilin?
- Avoid going to hot scenic spots during holidays. Many tourists throng to Guilin in May Day and National Day holidays, so it’s recommended to book cruises, entrance tickets and hotels in advance.
- Don’t ignore the weather. It often rains in Guilin, thus lightweight raincoats and non-slip shoes are necessary. If travelling in summer, don’t forget to take sunscreen products and mosquito repellent.
- Say no to the unsolicited cut-price day tours offered on the street. Instead, book tours through legitimate platforms or travel agencies to avoid rip-offs and itinerary cut.
Is Guilin safe for tourists?
Overall, Guilin is one of the safest tourist destinations in China. It enjoys a good public order and low crime rate. The scenic spots are well organized and managed. Even if you travel independently, or together with families, you don’t need to worry too much about safety.
Things good to know:
- Avoid going to less-crowded areas after drinking at night.
- The mountain trails are always wet and slippery during the rainy season from May to July. Please wear non-slip hiking shoes.
Explore Guilin with China Xian Tour
Guilin is not merely known for its prominent karst landscapes, but also for the rustic charm, captivating ethnic culture, savory cuisine, and rich outdoor activities. However, for its wide popularity, booking tickets or hotels and be a bit challenging especially if this is your first visit to Guilin.
China Xian Tour is here helping you manage everything in this tour. From private transfer to making bookings, we’ll take care of all the details so that can fully feel the unique charm of this picturesque city.
