Zoella Last updated 08 Sep 2026
Guilin and Yangshuo represent some of China's most breathtaking natural scenery. The Li River winds through dramatic karst limestone peaks that have inspired Chinese painters for centuries, creating a landscape that looks like it belongs in a traditional scroll painting. This Guilin Yangshuo travel guide covers everything you need to know for exploring this stunning region in southern China, including what to see in Guilin and how to make the most of your visit to Yangshuo and Guilin.
Whether you're cruising down the Li River, cycling through rice paddies around Yangshuo, or exploring the caves and peaks of Guilin itself, you'll find practical information about what to see, where to stay, and how to make the most of your visit to China.
About Guilin & Yangshuo
Guilin and Yangshuo are located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China. If you're wondering where exactly Yangshuo, Guilin, China, is, it's about 65 kilometers downstream from Guilin city in the northeastern part of Guangxi. Guilin is the larger city and transportation hub, while Yangshuo is a smaller town that serves as the base for exploring the most scenic parts of the Li River.
The Guilin Yangshuo region's karst landscape formed over millions of years as water eroded the limestone bedrock, creating the dramatic peaks, caves, and underground rivers that define the area today. This unique geology has made Yangshuo, Guilin, China, one of the country's most popular destinations for nature lovers and photographers.
Guilin has been famous for its scenery since the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), when poets and artists began celebrating the landscape in their work. Today, the area attracts millions of visitors annually, both domestic and international, drawn by the opportunity to experience one of the world's most distinctive natural landscapes.
Multi-Day Tours of Guilin and Yangshuo
Getting There and Getting Around
How to Get to Guilin
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) receives flights from major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. The airport is located 28 kilometers from downtown Guilin. Airport buses and taxis connect to the city center in about 40 minutes.
High-speed trains connect Guilin to major cities. From Guangzhou, the journey takes 2.5-3 hours. From Beijing, it's 8-10 hours. From Shanghai, it's 6-8 hours. Guilin has two main railway stations: Guilin Station (serving slower trains) and Guilin North Station (serving high-speed trains).
Getting from Guilin to Yangshuo
The most popular way to travel from Guilin to Yangshuo is by Li River cruise, which takes 4-5 hours and passes through the most scenic part of the river. Cruise tickets cost 215-280 yuan depending on seat class. The cruise departs from Zhujiang Pier in Guilin and arrives in Yangshuo.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Guilin to Yangshuo, which takes about 1.5 hours and costs 25-30 yuan. Buses depart from Guilin Bus Station every 30 minutes. For more flexibility, hire a private car, which costs 200-300 yuan and takes about 1.5 hours.
Getting Around the Region
In Guilin, the metro system has three lines covering major attractions. A single ride costs 2-6 yuan. Taxis start at 7 yuan for the first 2 kilometers. Ride-hailing through Didi works well.
In Yangshuo, the town is small and walkable. For exploring the countryside, rent a bicycle (10-20 yuan per day) or an electric scooter (40-60 yuan per day). This is the best way to experience the rural landscape at your own pace. Local buses connect Yangshuo to nearby villages and attractions. Top Attractions and Must-Sees
If you're wondering what to see in Guilin and Yangshuo, the region offers plenty of remarkable attractions. From the famous Li River cruise to countryside cycling and ancient towns, here are the must-see highlights that make this region one of China's most popular destinations. Many Guilin tours include these attractions.
The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the highlight of any visit to the region. The 83-kilometer journey takes 4-5 hours and passes through some of China's most photographed scenery. Thousands of limestone karsts rise dramatically from the river banks, creating a landscape of otherworldly beauty.
The cruise departs from Zhujiang Pier in Guilin at 9:00-9:30 AM and arrives in Yangshuo around 1:00-2:00 PM. Along the way, you'll pass famous peaks like Nine Horse Mural Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal (featured on the 20 yuan note), and the Reflection of the Moon in the River. The scenery changes constantly, with mist often clinging to the peaks in the early morning, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Book your cruise ticket in advance, especially during peak season (April-October). The cruise includes a simple lunch box, but you can bring your own food and drinks. Upper deck seats cost more but offer better views and photography opportunities. Yangshuo Countryside Cycling: Exploring by Bike
Cycling through the Yangshuo countryside is one of the most popular activities in the region. The flat terrain, well-maintained roads, and dramatic scenery make it perfect for leisurely bike rides. You'll pass through rice paddies, small villages, and along the Yulong River, with karst peaks rising in every direction.
The most popular cycling route follows the Yulong River from Yangshuo to Gongnong Bridge, a distance of about 15 kilometers one way. Along the route, you can stop at villages, swim in the river, or simply enjoy the views. The entire ride takes 3-4 hours at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for stops and photos.
Rent bicycles from shops in Yangshuo for 10-20 yuan per day. Electric scooters are also available for 40-60 yuan per day if you prefer not to pedal. Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and bring water and snacks.
Yulong River Bamboo Rafting: A Peaceful Alternative
While the Li River cruise is the most famous water experience in the region, bamboo rafting on the Yulong River offers a more intimate and peaceful alternative. The Yulong is a smaller, quieter river that winds through the same dramatic karst landscape but with far fewer tourists.
Bamboo rafts are poled by local boatmen who navigate the shallow waters with skill. The most popular section runs from Jima Wharf to Gongnong Bridge, covering about 10 kilometers and taking 1.5-2 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through locks where the water level changes, creating a unique experience. The rafts are traditional bamboo constructions, though modern safety features have been added.
Bamboo rafting costs 200-250 yuan per raft (seats 2 people). The experience is weather-dependent and may be cancelled during heavy rain or high water levels. Book in advance during peak season.
Reed Flute Cave: Guilin's Underground Wonder
Reed Flute Cave is Guilin's most famous cave, a massive limestone cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations illuminated by colored lights. The cave extends 240 meters underground and takes about 40 minutes to walk through.
The cave gets its name from the reeds growing outside the entrance, which can be made into flutes. Inside, you'll see formations with names like "Dragon Pagoda," "Forest of Lions," and "Crystal Palace." The colored lighting creates a surreal atmosphere, though some find it overly commercialized.
The cave is located 5 kilometers northwest of Guilin city center. The entrance fee is 90 yuan. Allow 1-1.5 hours for a complete visit, including travel time. The cave maintains a constant temperature of about 18°C year-round, making it a good option on hot summer days.
Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin's Iconic Landmark
Elephant Trunk Hill is Guilin's most recognizable landmark, a hill that resembles an elephant drinking from the river with its trunk. The hill is located at the confluence of the Li River and Peach Blossom River, creating a photogenic scene that has become synonymous with Guilin.
You can climb to the top of the hill for views of the city and rivers, or simply admire it from the park at the base. The hill contains a small cave called Water Moon Cave, which creates a circular reflection in the water that looks like a full moon when viewed from certain angles.
The entrance fee is 65 yuan. The park is open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Allow 1-2 hours for a visit. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
West Street: Yangshuo's Tourist Hub
West Street (Xi Jie) is the main tourist strip in Yangshuo, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops catering to international visitors. The street has a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere and is particularly lively in the evening.
While some criticize West Street as overly commercialized, it's still worth a visit for its energy and variety of dining options. You'll find everything from local Guilin noodles to Western cuisine, craft beer bars, and live music venues. The street is a good place to meet other travelers and get tips on activities in the area.
West Street is most atmospheric in the evening when the lights come on and the street fills with people. During the day, it's quieter and better for shopping and cafes.Best Areas to Explore
When exploring the Guilin Yangshuo travel guide, you'll find several distinct areas worth visiting. Each offers a different perspective on the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Guilin's city center offers a mix of urban attractions and natural scenery. The Two Rivers and Four Lakes area is a network of waterways connecting the Li River and four lakes (Shanhu, Ronghu, Guihu, and Mulong). You can walk along the lakeside paths or take an evening boat tour (185 yuan) to see the city illuminated at night.
The Seven Star Park is Guilin's largest park, featuring caves, peaks, and gardens. The park is home to Seven Star Cave, another impressive limestone cavern. The park costs 75 yuan to enter.
Yangshuo Town: Small-Town Character
Yangshuo town itself is small and walkable, with a relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the busy energy of larger Chinese cities. Beyond West Street, you'll find quiet lanes, local markets, and traditional architecture. The town sits right on the Li River, and walking along the riverside path offers striking views, especially at sunset.
The town is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Most accommodations, restaurants, and activity providers are concentrated here, making it convenient to plan day trips and activities.
Xingping Ancient Town: Off the Beaten Path
Xingping is a small ancient town located about 30 kilometers north of Yangshuo, situated along the Li River. The town has preserved much of its traditional architecture and offers a quieter alternative to the touristy atmosphere of Yangshuo.
Xingping is famous for the "20 yuan note view," the scenic spot depicted on the back of the 20 yuan banknote. You can visit the exact spot and take your own photo. The town also serves as a starting point for hiking along the Li River and exploring nearby villages. Where to Eat
Guilin Specialties: Local Flavors
Guilin cuisine is known for its spicy flavors and unique local dishes. Guilin rice noodles are the city's signature dish, featuring thin rice noodles in a flavorful broth with various toppings. The dish costs 10-15 yuan at local shops and is commonly eaten for breakfast.
Other local specialties include beer fish, a dish of freshwater fish cooked in beer with tomatoes and peppers, and stuffed river snails, snails filled with minced pork and herbs. These dishes are widely available in restaurants throughout Guilin and Yangshuo.
Yangshuo Dining: International and Local Options
Yangshuo offers a surprising variety of dining options, from local Guangxi cuisine to Western restaurants catering to international tourists. West Street and the surrounding area have dozens of restaurants serving everything from pizza and burgers to Italian pasta and Indian curries.
For authentic local food, venture away from West Street to smaller restaurants in the lanes. Look for places with plastic stools and menus in Chinese, where you'll find the best value and most authentic flavors. Beer fish is particularly popular in Yangshuo, with many restaurants specializing in the dish.Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Guilin and Yangshuo is April to October, when the weather is warm and the landscape is lush and green. The Li River has higher water levels during this period, making cruises more reliable. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clearest skies for photography.
Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 35°C and frequent rain. However, the rain can create dramatic misty scenes in the karst landscape, which many photographers love. Winter (November-March) is cooler and drier, with lower water levels that can affect river cruises. The landscape is less green but still beautiful, and you'll encounter far fewer tourists.
What to Bring
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring caves and hiking. If you plan to cycle, bring or rent appropriate clothing. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential, especially during summer. Bring a rain jacket or umbrella, as weather can change quickly.
For photography, bring a good camera with a zoom lens to capture the distant peaks. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Bring extra memory cards and batteries, as you'll take many photos.
How Long to Stay
Most visitors spend 2-3 days in the Guilin and Yangshuo region. One day for the Li River cruise and exploring Yangshuo, one day for cycling and bamboo rafting, and one day for Guilin's city attractions. If you enjoy outdoor activities and photography, you could easily spend 4-5 days exploring the countryside and smaller villages. Conclusion
Guilin and Yangshuo offer a completely different side of China compared to the imperial cities of Beijing and Xi'an. Here, the focus is on natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life. The karst landscape is unlike anything else in the country, and the opportunity to cycle through rice paddies or cruise down the Li River creates memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you're exploring independently or booking a guided tour, Tours4fun has options to suit your travel style. For a more comprehensive experience, check out Guilin vacation packages that combine multiple attractions with accommodations and transportation. Tours4fun's experienced guides ensure you don't miss the highlights of this stunning region.
You can also explore Yangshuo vacation packages for a complete experience of this stunning region. Tours4fun makes it easy to experience the best of Guilin and Yangshuo without the hassle of planning everything yourself.
Ready to experience one of China's most beautiful landscapes? Start planning your Guilin and Yangshuo adventure today. FAQ
How many days do you need in Guilin and Yangshuo?
You need 2-3 days to see the main attractions in Guilin and Yangshuo. One day for the Li River cruise and Yangshuo exploration, one day for cycling and bamboo rafting, and one day for Guilin's city attractions like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. For a more relaxed pace or to explore smaller villages, add another 1-2 days.Is the Li River cruise worth it?
Yes, the Li River cruise is absolutely worth it and is the highlight of any visit to the region. The 4-5 hour journey passes through some of China's most spectacular scenery, with dramatic karst peaks rising from the river banks. The landscape is unique and unlike anything else in China. Book in advance and choose upper deck seats for the best views.Can you swim in the rivers around Yangshuo?
Yes, you can swim in the Yulong River and other smaller rivers around Yangshuo, though you should be cautious of currents and only swim in designated areas. The water is generally clean but can be cold, especially in spring and autumn. Many cyclists stop for a swim during their rides. Avoid swimming in the Li River itself, as boat traffic makes it dangerous.How do you get from Guilin to Yangshuo?
The most scenic way to get from Guilin to Yangshuo is by Li River cruise, which takes 4-5 hours and passes through the most beautiful part of the river. Alternatively, you can take a bus (1.5 hours, 25-30 yuan) or hire a private car (1.5 hours, 200-300 yuan). The cruise is highly recommended for the experience, but buses and cars are faster if you're short on time.Is Yangshuo better than Guilin?
Yangshuo and Guilin offer different experiences. Guilin is a larger city with urban attractions like caves and parks, while Yangshuo is a smaller town focused on countryside exploration and outdoor activities. Most visitors prefer Yangshuo for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the best scenery. If you have limited time, prioritize Yangshuo and the Li River cruise over Guilin's city attractions.
