Guilin is a beautiful city located in southern China that is known for its stunning scenery, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With its unique blend of natural beauty and historical attractions, Guilin offers visitors a wide range of things to see and do. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do in Guilin, China.
1. Cruise Along the Li River
One of the most popular things to do in Guilin,China is to take a cruise along the Li River. The Li River is a stunning waterway that winds through the breathtaking karst mountains, offering visitors a chance to take in the natural beauty of Guilin from a different perspective. The cruise typically takes around four hours and offers incredible views of the unique landscape, including the famous Elephant Trunk Hill.
2. Explore Reed Flute Cave
Reed Flute Cave is a must-visit attraction in Guilin. It is an underground cave system that is over 180 million years old and features a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations that are illuminated in various colors, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and marvel at the natural beauty of the cave’s formations.
3. Visit the Longji Rice Terraces
Located in Longsheng County, the Longji Rice Terraces are a scenic area that is famous for its stunning rice paddies that terrace up the hillsides. The terraces were built over 600 years ago by the Zhuang people and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life in rural China. Visitors can hike through the terraces and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Explore Guilin’s Night Market
Guilin’s night market is a bustling hub of activity that offers visitors a chance to experience the local culture and sample some of the delicious street food on offer. The market is filled with vendors selling everything from local snacks to handmade crafts, and visitors can spend hours exploring the various stalls and soaking up the lively atmosphere.
5. Visit the Guilin Tea Institute
China is famous for its tea, and the Guilin Tea Institute is a great place to learn about the country’s tea culture. The institute is located in Seven Star Park and offers visitors a chance to see the tea-making process firsthand, as well as sample some of the different types of tea produced in the region.
6. Hike Through Yangshuo County
Yangshuo County is located just outside of Guilin and is known for its stunning natural scenery. Visitors can hike through the area’s rice paddies, bamboo forests, and karst mountains, taking in the incredible views along the way. There are also several caves and waterfalls in the area that are worth exploring.
7. Visit the Elephant Trunk Hill
The Elephant Trunk Hill is one of Guilin’s most iconic landmarks. It is a natural rock formation that is shaped like an elephant drinking water from the Li River. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.
8. Learn About Guilin’s History at the Guilin Museum
The Guilin Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Guilin area. The museum features exhibits on the region’s geology, flora and fauna, and ethnic minorities, as well as a collection of artifacts from Guilin’s long and rich history.
9. Relax in a Hot Spring
There are several hot springs located in and around Guilin that offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind. The hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties and are a great way to soothe sore muscles after a long day of sightseeing.
10. Visit the Fubo Hill
Fubo Hill is another popular attraction in Guilin. It is a scenic spot that offers visitors a chance to see a variety of rock formations, including the famous “Returning Pearl” pagoda. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the Li River and the surrounding karst mountains.
11. Take a Cooking Class
Guilin is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local food culture. Visitors can take a class at a local cooking school and learn how to make dishes such as Guilin rice noodles, bamboo rice, and stir-fried snails.
12. Explore the Yaoshan Scenic Area
The Yaoshan Scenic Area is located just outside of Guilin and offers visitors a chance to see some of the region’s stunning natural scenery. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding area.
13. Visit the Xianggong Mountain
Xianggong Mountain is another popular spot for visitors to Guilin. It offers stunning views of the Li River and the surrounding karst mountains and is a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
14. Attend a Traditional Minority Performance
Guilin is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Zhuang and Yao people. Visitors can attend a traditional performance and learn about the customs and traditions of these minority groups.
15. Visit the Seven Star Park
The Seven Star Park is the largest park in Guilin and offers visitors a chance to see a variety of attractions, including the Flower Bridge, the Camel Hill, and the Seven Star Cave. Visitors can also see a variety of wildlife, including pandas and monkeys.
In conclusion, Guilin is a beautiful city that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you want to cruise along the Li River, explore underground caves, or hike through stunning landscapes, there is something for everyone in Guilin. With its rich history and delicious cuisine, Guilin is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to China.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Guilin?
The best time to visit Guilin is in the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.
- How long should I plan to stay in Guilin?
We recommend planning to stay in Guilin for at least three to four days to fully explore the city and its surrounding attractions.
- Is it safe to travel to Guilin?
Yes, Guilin is a safe city for tourists to visit. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
- What is the local cuisine like in Guilin?
Guilin is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as Guilin rice noodles, bamboo rice, and stir-fried snails.
- Are there any special customs or traditions to be aware of when visiting Guilin?
When visiting Guilin, it is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites and remove their shoes before entering someone’s home.
Hey Singapore 