Guilin Travel Guide: What you must know when you first arrive in Guilin

Guilin is located in the northeastern part of Guangxi and is a world-renowned scenic tourist city and historic cultural city, famous for its “scenic beauty that ranks first under heaven.” This area features typical karst topography, shaped by millions of years of weathering and erosion, creating unique landscapes with towering peaks and wondrous caves and rocks. Guilin has a mild climate with distinct seasons, and April to October are the best times for tourism, although there are more visitors during “May Day” and “National Day.”

In the natural landscape, the Lijiang River is the soul of Guilin’s mountains and waters. The 83-kilometer stretch winds its way, making it feel like “a journey through a painting” when you drift downstream by boat or bamboo raft. The Longji Terraces are grand in scale, with lines flowing like clouds, reflecting a clear mirror in spring and turning golden in autumn, truly the “crown of terraced fields.” Mount Mao’ er is the highest peak in Guangxi, majestic and rich in vegetation, serving as the source of multiple rivers including the Lijiang. The Tianhe Waterfall Scenic Area combines primeval forests, waterfalls, and Yao ethnic culture, featuring an 88-meter waterfall that is awe-inspiring.

The cultural landscape is equally impressive. The Ming Dynasty Jingjiang Palace in Duxiu Peak Wangcheng Scenic Area is well-preserved, offering a panoramic view of the entire city from its peak; Dawei Ancient Town boasts over 1,800 years of history, with old streets, arcades, and historical sites exuding an ancient charm; Guilin’s Millennium Sentiment showcases the city’s thousand-year historical changes through song and dance; Zhengyang Pedestrian Street is bustling with activity, offering everything from shopping to dining.

In terms of cuisine, Guilin rice noodles have a delicate texture and a unique flavor from the broth; Yangshuo beer fish features tender meat with a rich aroma of beer; Lipu taro-stuffed pork is soft, sweet, and not greasy despite its richness; Gongcheng oil tea is fragrant and spicy, offering health benefits. Additionally, traditional festivals such as the March 3rd Song Festival and the Pan King Festival of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities are also steeped in rich ethnic charm.