Guilin / Yangshuo

Guilin is situated in Southern China, in the Guangxi province.  It is a medium sized city, with population of 1.3mn people.  The city is known for its natural scenary (mountains and rivers), and is a popular tourist destination.  Popular quote: 桂林山水甲天下 – Guilin’s scenary is the best under heaven.

Planning the Trip

Getaway for 4 to 5 days is ideal.  Guilin as a city is not that interesting…  I would suggest splitting your time between Guilin and Yangshuo.  You can imagine Guilin as the new town, and Yanghsuo as the old town. 

Most economical way of traveling will be to book through a travel agent.  They can get flight/hotel package much cheaper than if you book separately. 

Getting There

Frequent flights from Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and other domestic airports. 

When to Go

Anytime but Winter.  And definitely avoid the week-long national holidays when Guilin/Yangshuo will be floaded with local tourists.  Scenary in Longsheng changes with season.  Early June or Sept are said to be two good times. 

Weather is quite mild – It rarely goes below 40F even in winter months, and highs are in the low-90s.  It does rain a bit during the spring/summer months however.  See climate details here.

Things to Do

Longsheng – The Longsheng Rice Terraces is a must go.  These terraces exist for 500+ yrs.  You might consider taking a day hike across the terraces; it is truely breathtaking.  The elevation is a few hundred meters, so not particularly strenous if you take it slow…  Along the way, you will also witness the daily lives of the Miu and Zhuang Clans.   

Li River – River connection several towns.  Tour ferries run daily between Guilin and Yangshuo, giving some breathtaking views along the way. 

Yangshuo – Yangshuo is the jewel of Guilin in terms of scenary.  The town is under preservation so much of the features/landscapes are preserved.  Of course, it is very much commercialized but still worth thet trip.  If you stay overnight, you might also wish to see the “Impressions” show, directed by Zhang Yimou, and is staged outdoors among the backdrop of the Li River.   If you have extra time, biking around Yangshuo countryside is refreshing.

Ludi (Reed Flute Cave) – Spectacular geological formations.  Skip the guided tours if you can – they are a bit annoying and lack in information.  All they talk about is what those formations look like (turtles, tigers, etc.). 

Where to Stay

Sheraton Hotel in Guilin – This is the only international-level hotel in Guilin.  It is said to be 5-stars, but it is 4-stars at best. Still, comfortable enough, and convenient location.

Yangshuo Paradesa Resort – This is a 3-4 star hotel, but with amazing character.  The website really doesn’t do it justice.  The location is also perfect, right by the West street close to restaurants and shops.  Since the hotel is surrounded by a lake/river, once you step inside the complex, it is extremely quiet.  Difficult to describe.

Yangshuo Mountain Retreat Hotel - If you’re looking for tranquility, this might be the choice.  I’ve never been, but the website looks amazing.