Guangxi Guilin

1.Li River

Li River,the crown jewel of Guilin's natural wonders!Flowing gracefully through towering karst mountains,this 83-kilometer-long river is like a living Chinese ink painting.As we cruise along its emerald waters,you'll be mesmerized by the surreal landscape-jagged peaks draped in mist,bamboo groves swaying in the breeze,and water buffaloes lazily grazing along the banks.

The Li River is famous for its poetic scenery,inspiring countless artists and poets for centuries.Highlights include the iconic Nine Horses Fresco Hill,where imagination brings ancient rock patterns to life,and Xingping Town,the very spot featured on China's 20-yuan banknote.Keep your cameras ready-every turn reveals a postcard-worthy view!

For adventure lovers,bamboo rafting on the Yulong River (a Li River tributary) offers an intimate experience with nature.Meanwhile,local fishermen and their cormorant birds showcase a tradition dating back over 1,000 years.

As the saying goes,Guilin's shānshuǐ jiǎ tiānxià-Guilin's mountains and water are the finest under heaven. So relax,breathe in the fresh air,and let the Li River's magic unfold before your eyes.Any questions?I'm happy to share more!

2.Yulong River

Yulong River,often called the "Little Li River" for its pristine beauty-but with a charm all its own!Nestled in the heart of Yangshuo's countryside,this 35-kilometer-long river is a hidden paradise of tranquility,where emerald waters wind through lush rice paddies,ancient bridges,and dramatic karst peaks.

Unlike the bustling Li River,the Yulong offers a more intimate experience.Here,we drift on bamboo rafts,poled by local fishermen-just you,the gentle lapping of water,and nature's symphony.Highlights include the Ancient Fuli Bridge,a 600-year-old stone arch,and the thrilling "Dragon Bridge" Rapids,where your raft bounces playfully over small waves!

Farmers tending their fields,water buffalo cooling off in the shallows,and butterflies dancing over wildflowers-this is rural China at its most poetic.The river's name,Yulong,means "Encountering a Dragon," inspired by a local legend of a dragon hiding in these waters.

For the adventurous,cycling along the Yulong River Bike Trail rewards you with postcard-perfect views at every turn.Or,visit in spring when golden rapeseed flowers blanket the valleys,or autumn when the air is crisp and clear.

As we float past scenes unchanged for centuries,you'll understand why poets call this "a land to heal the soul." So sit back,dip your fingers in the water,and let the Yulong's magic carry you away.

3.Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill,this 55-million-year-old natural wonder isn't just a hill;it's a masterpiece of karst geology and Chinese legend come to life.

As you can see,the hill's namesake feature is its giant natural arch-resembling an elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River.According to folklore,this was a celestial elephant sent to help farmers,but when it fell in love with Guilin's beauty,it refused to return to heaven!The "elephant" and its reflection create a perfect moon-shaped silhouette,inspiring the poetic nickname "Elephant Drinking from the River."

Climb up the stone steps to discover hidden treasures:the Puxian Pagoda atop the elephant's "back," shaped like a sword hilt to symbolize subduing the mythical beast,and the Water Moon Cave,where poets have gathered for centuries to admire the "moon in the water" during sunsets.

Fun fact-this very scene appears on China's 2005 5-yuan commemorative coin!At night,the hill transforms into a dreamy spectacle with colorful lights dancing across the water.

4.Reed Flute Cave

Reed Flute Cave,nature's underground masterpiece and Guilin's "Palace of Natural Art"!This 180-million-year-old limestone wonder has been dazzling visitors for over 1,200 years-even Tang Dynasty poets wrote about its beauty.

As we enter this 240-meter-long cavern,you'll see why it's called nature's grandest theater!The cave gets its name from the reeds growing outside that were once used to make flutes.But the real music here is the drip-drip of water that's been sculpting these formations for centuries.

Marvel at the rainbow-lit "Crystal Palace",a colossal chamber large enough to hold 1,000 people-its stalactites create a dreamy "stone forest" upside down!Don't miss the iconic "Pine in the Snow" formation,where white calcite resembles a snow-covered tree.The "Lion Rock" and "Tower Mushroom Hill" show how imagination brings these formations to life.

During World War II,this hidden gem served as an air raid shelter-look for the historical calligraphy inscriptions from the 1940s!Today,the cave's clever lighting system transforms it into an underground wonderland,with reflections in the underground pools doubling the magic.

5.Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise

Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise,As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle,we'll glide through a dreamy waterway system that transforms Guilin into a luminous painting.

Our journey connects the Li River,the Taohua (Peach Blossom) River,and four stunning lakes-Ronghu (Banyan Lake),Shanhu (Cedar Lake),Guihu (Osmanthus Lake),and Mulonghu (Wooden Dragon Lake).Each bend in the water reveals a new wonder:ancient bridges lit like jewels,pagodas glowing against the night sky,and lush banks alive with the sounds of nature.

Highlights include passing under the Rainbow Bridge,where arches of light dance on the water,and floating by the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas-Guilin's iconic symbols,one in gold (sun) and one in silver (moon),perfectly reflected in the lake.Keep an eye out for performers on the shores,where traditional music and dance bring the night to life!

This 7-kilometer cruise isn't just beautiful-it's a 1,000-year-old water network restored to its Song Dynasty glory!The lakes are linked by clever locks that adjust water levels,a marvel of ancient engineering.

So relax,feel the gentle breeze,and let the city's lights guide us.As locals say,See Guilin's mountains by day,but its waters by night.

6.West Street

West Street,where East meets West in the most colorful way!This 1,400-year-old street is more than just a marketplace;it's a cultural melting pot,a foodie paradise,and the perfect place to soak up Yangshuo's lively spirit.

As we stroll down this 500-meter-long pedestrian street,you'll feel the unique blend of traditional Chinese charm and international flair.Notice the ancient Qing Dynasty architecture now housing cozy cafés,funky bars,and souvenir shops?That's West Street's magic-old-world charm with a modern twist!

Food lovers,rejoice!Here you can snack on beer fish (Yangshuo's famous dish),crispy stuffed snails,or even wood-fired pizza.Thirsty?Sip a cocktail at a rooftop bar or try local osmanthus tea while people-watching.

At night,the street truly comes alive with neon lights,live music pouring from every corner,and artists painting under lantern glow.Don't miss the "Impression·Liu Sanjie" ticket stalls if you want to book tomorrow's must-see light show!

Bargain hunters-this is your playground!From silk scarves to minority embroidery,prices are flexible if you smile and negotiate.And morning visitors-catch the street's quiet charm when shopkeepers sweep their doorsteps as mist rises from the Li River.

7.Longji Terraced Fields

Longji Terraced Fields nestled in the mountainous region of Longsheng,about two hours from Guilin,the Longji (Dragon's Backbone) Terraced Fields are one of China's most breathtaking agricultural landscapes.Built over 650 years ago by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities,these terraces curve along the mountains like giant dragon scales,creating a mesmerizing pattern that changes with the seasons.In spring,the water-filled paddies shimmer like mirrors;in summer,lush green rice shoots blanket the slopes;by autumn,golden harvests paint the hills in warm hues;and in winter,frost dusts the terraces with a silvery glow.

The area is divided into two main sections:Ping'an Terraces (developed for tourism but retaining authentic charm) and Jinkeng Terraces (more remote,home to the Red Yao people).Hiking trails wind through villages,offering panoramic views and glimpses into local life-women with long hair,traditional wooden stilt houses,and the scent of bamboo rice cooking over open fires.

For the best experience,climb to viewpoints like "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers" or "Seven Stars Around the Moon," where you'll witness the terraces' grandeur.Whether you're a photographer,nature lover,or culture seeker,Longji is a masterpiece of harmony between humans and nature.

8.Duxiu Peak & Royal Palace Scenic Area

Duxiu Peak & Royal Palace Scenic Area is a captivating blend of natural beauty and imperial history.As one of the city's most iconic landmarks,this site offers a perfect harmony of towering karst peaks,ancient architecture,and fascinating cultural heritage.

Duxiu Peak,meaning "Solitary Beauty Peak," rises dramatically 66 meters above the ground,providing breathtaking panoramic views of Guilin.Known as the "Pillar of Southern Sky," its steep cliffs and lush greenery have inspired poets and painters for centuries.Climbing the 306 stone steps to the summit rewards visitors with a stunning vista of the city and winding Li River.

At the base of the peak lies the Prince Jingjiang's Royal Palace,a magnificent complex built during the Ming Dynasty (1372 AD).Once the residence of imperial princes,it showcases traditional Chinese palatial architecture,including grand halls,serene courtyards,and intricate stone carvings.Today,it also houses Guangxi Normal University,adding a scholarly charm to the historic grounds.

Don't miss the Exam Cave,where ancient scholars carved their wishes for success in imperial exams,or the Zhongshan Memorial,honoring Dr.Sun Yat-sen.The site also features cultural performances,such as Qing Dynasty-style ceremonies,bringing history to life.

Whether you're drawn by nature,history,or culture,Duxiu Peak & Royal Palace promises an unforgettable journey through Guilin's glorious past.

9.Seven-Colored Danxia

Seven-Colored Danxia in Guilin!Nestled in the heart of Guangxi's stunning karst landscape,this geological wonder is a feast for the eyes,where vibrant hues paint the rolling hills in shades of red,orange,yellow,and even purple.

Formed over millions of years through erosion and mineral deposits,these rainbow-like ridges are a rare example of Danxia landforms outside China's more arid regions.Unlike the towering karst peaks Guilin is famous for,the Seven-Colored Danxia offers a softer,wave-like terrain that changes color with the sunlight-most magical at sunrise or sunset!

As we walk along the viewing platforms,keep an eye out for the unique patterns in the rock layers,each telling a story of Earth's ancient past.Don't forget your camera-every angle is a postcard-worthy shot!

10.Diecai Mountain

Diecai Mountain,known as the "Mountain of Folded Brocade," this scenic gem earned its name from the layered rocks that resemble stacks of richly colored silk.Standing at 223 meters tall,it offers not just breathtaking views but also a journey through history,poetry,and stunning geology.

As we climb,you'll notice the unique layered limestone formations,carved by wind and water over millions of years.The mountain is divided into four peaks-Moon Peak,Wind Peak,Cloud Peak,and the main summit-each offering its own spectacular panorama.From the top,you'll see the Li River winding through Guilin's karst peaks,a view so inspiring that poets and artists have celebrated it for centuries!

Don't miss the Wind Cave,a natural tunnel where a cool breeze flows year-round,or the Ming Dynasty rock carvings that tell tales of ancient travelers.And if you're feeling adventurous,the 100-Buddha Cave features delicate stone carvings of Buddhist figures hidden within the cliffs.

Whether you're here for the history,the hike,or the sunset over Guilin's skyline,Diecai Mountain promises an unforgettable experience.

11.Elephant Trunk Hill & Fubo Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill!This natural limestone masterpiece resembles a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River,as if drinking the crystal-clear water.Legend says it's a celestial elephant sent to help farmers,turned to stone by the Jade Emperor.Climb up to explore ancient caves like Water Moon Cave,where the river reflects a glowing moon-shaped arch,or visit the Puxian Pagoda atop the hill,shaped like a sword hilt.Don't forget to snap a photo at sunrise-the misty river and golden light create a fairy-tale scene!

Next,we head to Fubo Hill,named after a Han Dynasty general who "pacified the waves" (Fubo) here.This rugged hill by the river blends history and adventure.Inside,the Returned Pearl Cave hides a charming tale of a poor fisherman returning a luminous pearl to the Dragon King.Marvel at the Thousand Buddha Cliff with its 200+ Tang Dynasty carvings,or brave the cliffside path for panoramic views of Guilin's karst landscape.At its base,the Fubo Spring offers sweet-tasting water-locals believe it brings longevity!

These hills are more than just rocks-they're storytellers of Guilin's myths,nature,and history.Elephant Trunk Hill charms with its playful shape,while Fubo Hill thrills with cultural treasures.Together,they showcase why Guilin is called "the finest scenery under heaven."

12.Seven Star Park

Seven Star Park,the largest and most scenic comprehensive park in Guilin!Nestled along the eastern bank of the Li River,this park is named after its seven karst peaks arranged in the pattern of the Big Dipper.With its lush greenery,fascinating caves,and cultural landmarks,it's a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

As we stroll through the park,you'll be amazed by the stunning landscapes.The Seven Star Cave,also known as "Underground Art Palace," dazzles visitors with its glittering stalactites and stalagmites.Nearby,Camel Hill,a natural rock formation resembling a kneeling camel,is a perfect photo spot.Don't miss the Flower Bridge,an ancient stone bridge adorned with blooming flowers-a serene place to enjoy the Li River's reflections.

Beyond nature,the park is steeped in culture.The Seven Star Rock Carvings,dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties,showcase centuries-old calligraphy and poetry.At the Guilin Zoo inside the park,you can meet the adorable giant pandas,a symbol of China's wildlife conservation efforts.

Whether you're hiking to the summit for panoramic city views,exploring hidden caves,or simply relaxing by the lotus ponds,Seven Star Park offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

13.Silver Cave

Silver Cave located about 85 kilometers from downtown Guilin,this breathtaking karst cave is often called the "Crown of Karst Landscapes" for its dazzling formations.As we enter,you'll be amazed by the shimmering stalactites,stalagmites,and stone waterfalls that glisten like silver under the lights-hence its poetic name.

The cave stretches over 2 kilometers,featuring three unique sections:the "Lucky Zone," the "Grand Hall," and the "Snow-Capped Mountains." Each chamber is a masterpiece sculpted by water and time over millions of years.Highlights include the "Music Columns," which produce melodic tones when gently tapped,and the "Buddha's Meditation," a serene rock resembling a seated figure.Don't miss the "Golden Waterfall," a glittering cascade of calcite that looks frozen in motion!

Beyond its beauty,Silver Cave holds cultural significance too.Locals believe its formations bring luck and prosperity,and the cool,misty air inside is said to have healing properties.Whether you're a nature lover,photographer,or simply curious,this mystical underground realm promises an unforgettable adventure.

14.Daxu Old Town

Daxu Old Town,one of Guangxi's most well-preserved ancient towns and a hidden gem along the Li River.With over 1,800 years of history,this quaint riverside town was once a bustling trade hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties.As we wander its cobblestone streets,you'll feel the whispers of the past in every weathered brick and wooden doorway.

Daxu's long flagstone street,stretching nearly 2.5 kilometers,is lined with traditional Qing-era buildings,tea houses,and ancestral halls.Notice the unique "horse-head walls"-a classic feature of southern Chinese architecture designed to prevent fires.Along the way,we'll meet local artisans crafting handmade bamboo wares,soy sauce brewers,and perhaps even a friendly granny selling sweet glutinous rice cakes-a must-try snack!

Don't miss the 13-step ancient wharf,where merchants once loaded ships with spices,silk,and tea.The old bank vault and Gaozu Temple are also fascinating stops,revealing Daxu's rich commercial and spiritual heritage.If you're lucky,you might catch a quiet sunset over the Li River,painting the town in golden hues-a photographer's dream!