Guilin 桂林
Karst peaks over the Li River. Life by bike, by boat and at a slow pace.
What you will see
Our hotels in Guilin
Green, pleasant. Blue, cold. Red, hot. Grey, many rainy days. 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration.
Extras to add to your trip
Itineraries that include Guilin
Metro and bus in Guilin
There is no metro. Get around by DiDi or bus, with the Alipay code or cash. Step by step
What to eat in Guilin
Allergies or vegetarian? You have cards in Chinese to show at restaurants in the My trip kit.
Questions about Guilin
Should I stay in Guilin or Yangshuo?
Yangshuo. That is where the karst views, bike rides and charming riverside hotels are. Guilin is where you arrive and where the cruise starts. Three days covers the Li River, the Yulong River and a village or two.
How does the Li River cruise work?
It leaves Mopanshan pier, about 28 km from Guilin, and sails down to Yangshuo in 4 to 5 hours. A three-star boat is 215 yuan. Book with your passport, about 7 days ahead in high season. It drops you in Yangshuo, so no backtracking.
When is the best time to go?
April to October, when everything is green and the river is high. April to June is rainier. From January to March the water drops and the full cruise is replaced by a short stretch between Yangdi and Xingping. Avoid the first week of October.
How do I get to Yangshuo?
From Guilin airport there is a direct coach to Yangshuo, about 90 minutes. Be careful with the bullet train. Yangshuo station is over 30 km from town, near Xingping. It catches many people out. If you arrive late, book a transfer.
Is it good with kids?
Very good. Cycling by the Yulong River, bamboo rafts and caves. The Li River cruise works too, but it lasts 4 to 5 hours, so bring something to keep them busy.
What should I eat? Is there vegetarian food?
Try Guilin rice noodles and Yangshuo beer fish. Vegetarians will find plenty of cafés with meat-free dishes in Yangshuo, and anywhere you can ask for stir-fried greens by saying "wǒ chī sù".
