Guilin 桂林 is a relatively small scenic town in the South of China. It’s known for its surrounding rivers and lakes with picturesque backdrops of karst mountains. They are only found within Asia throughout Vietnam, Thailand, and the South of China.
There are so many outdoor activities to admire the beautiful scenery, these are my top 5 must-see things to do in Guilin, China!
Li River Cruise
A trip to Guilin wouldn’t be complete without a cruise along the iconic Li River. It’s famous not only for it’s remarkable views but also for being printed on the back of the 20 yuan note.
Li River Cruise tours get booked far in advance. We booked ours a month prior and still almost missed it! Book online here to make sure you don’t miss this iconic cruise in China.
Floating down the Li River is the best way to see the natural beauty of the area; the vibrant and lush greenery contrasts the incredible jagged karst mountains.
Visit Yangshuo
Yangshuo is an hour away and the best way to get there is by taking a cruise down the Li River. Yangshuo’s countryside is popular for hiking, biking, and bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. It’s a great day trip but many people often spend a few extra days around Yangshuo as well. I attended a Yoga and Tai Chi retreat in Yangshuo and it is the perfect location for these 2 relaxing activities.
Raft on the Yulong River
This is such a unique experience! Hire a local to guide you down the Yulong River on a bamboo raft. The locals use these rafts as transportation between villages and to transport goods but it has also become a new form of tourism. Drift along the river and take in the beautiful scenery around you.
Cycle through the Countryside
Join a tour and hop on a bike to ride through the quaint countryside. You’ll pass through local villages along the Yulong river and enjoy the stunning views on two wheels. Plus there are plenty of places to stop for a picnic and even a swim!
Sun and Moon Towers
Built in the style of Buddhist pagodas, the Sun and Moon towers are best viewed at night when they shine silver and gold over the dark water of the Shān Lake. The Sun Tower is constructed from copper, while the Moon Tower is made of marble. An underwater tunnel connects the two towers, giving visitors a unique view of the lake as they pass through. The towers are said to represent the bright future of Guilin and are a must-see for any traveler.
Heading to China? Check out more of my guides below to some of China’s best-kept secrets.
