Guilin Tours & Travel

Why Visit Guilin?

Guilin has inspired poets and painters for over a thousand years. Its otherworldly karst peaks, mirror-like rivers, and ancient rice terraces create a landscape that feels lifted from a traditional scroll painting. Cruise the legendary Li River, explore subterranean caves adorned with stalactites, and wander through Yangshuo's countryside on a bicycle.

Beyond the scenery, Guilin is home to vibrant Zhuang and Yao ethnic cultures, centuries-old fishing traditions with cormorants, and some of China's most distinctive regional cuisine — from the famous Guilin rice noodles to the fiery beer fish of Yangshuo.

Plan Your Trip

Explore Guilin

Discover the best attractions, culture, and cuisine this enchanting city has to offer

Must See

Li River

The iconic 83-kilometre waterway winds through surreal karst peaks, bamboo groves, and water buffalo pastures. A sunrise cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is one of China's most celebrated scenic journeys.

Natural Wonder

Reed Flute Cave

Known as the "Palace of Natural Arts," this limestone cave dazzles with multicoloured lighting illuminating ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations shaped like mythological creatures.

Landmark

Elephant Trunk Hill

The symbol of Guilin, this natural limestone arch resembles an elephant drinking from the Li River. The Moon Water Cave between the trunk and legs creates a perfect reflection at dusk.

UNESCO

Longji Rice Terraces

Carved into steep hillsides over 650 years ago, these tiered rice paddies climb like stairways to heaven. The Dragon's Backbone terraces offer breathtaking panoramas in every season.

Day Trip

Yangshuo

A laid-back riverside town framed by dramatic limestone peaks. Cycle through rice fields, climb Moon Hill, catch the Liu Sanjie light show on the river, and unwind in West Street's cafés.

Heritage

Zhuang & Yao Ethnic Cultures

Guilin is home to China's largest Zhuang minority and the Yao people, known for intricate silver jewellery, traditional batik textiles, and wooden drum dances. Visit villages around Longji for authentic minority life.

Tradition

Cormorant Fishing Tradition

For over a thousand years, local fishermen have used trained cormorants to catch fish by lantern light. Today this ancient art is preserved as a living cultural heritage performance on the Li River at dusk.

Art

Guilin Landscape Painting

The mist-shrouded karst scenery of Guilin has been immortalised in Chinese ink wash painting for centuries. Local artists continue the tradition, and travellers can try brush painting in Yangshuo studios.

Performance

Impression Liu Sanjie

Directed by Zhang Yimou, this spectacular open-air show on the Li River features hundreds of local performers against a backdrop of illuminated karst mountains — a highlight of any Guilin visit.

Must Try

Guilin Rice Noodles

The city's most beloved breakfast — silky rice noodles in a rich bone broth, topped with pickled beans, peanuts, scallions, and tender braised pork. Every shop has its own secret recipe.

Signature

Beer Fish

A Yangshuo specialty: fresh Li River carp braised in local beer with tomatoes, peppers, and garlic. A fragrant, mildly spicy stew with flaky fish and a tangy, umami-rich sauce.

Local

Yangshuo Yuba

Delicate tofu skin made by skimming the creamy film from simmering soy milk, then drying it into golden sheets. Rehydrated and stir-fried with vegetables or braised in savoury broths.

Street Food

Stuffed Li River Snails

Tiny river snails hollowed out and stuffed with minced pork, mint, and spices, then simmered in a peppery broth. A beloved street snack that pairs perfectly with local rice wine.

Tradition

Oil Tea

A traditional Yao and Zhuang beverage made by pounding tea leaves with ginger, garlic, and peanuts, then brewing with oil and hot water. Salty, aromatic, and deeply warming — a ritual of hospitality in the mountain villages.

Guilin Tours & Deals

Curated holiday packages that include this stunning destination

Luxury 10% Deposit available

15 days

China Grand Tour

Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Guilin, Shanghai & more

TourFlightsRail

The ultimate China adventure — pandas, the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and stunning Li River landscapes

Includes Return International Flights & High-Speed Rail

Dates: 5 Apr 2026 - 15 Oct 2027

10% Deposit available

5 days

Guilin & Yangshuo Escape

Guilin, Yangshuo, Longji Rice Terraces

TourFlights

A deep dive into Guilin's dreamscape — Li River cruise, Reed Flute Cave, Yangshuo cycling, and the awe-inspiring Dragon's Backbone terraces

Includes Return International Full-Service Flights

Dates: 12 Mar 2026 - 20 Nov 2027

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Guilin?

April to October offers the best weather, with lush greenery and clear river waters. Spring brings misty, atmospheric landscapes, while autumn offers golden rice terraces and comfortable temperatures.

How long should I stay in Guilin?

We recommend 3–5 days to explore Guilin city, cruise the Li River to Yangshuo, and visit the Longji Rice Terraces. Our 5-day Guilin & Yangshuo Escape covers all the highlights at a relaxed pace.

Is the Li River cruise suitable for all ages?

Yes, the Li River cruise is a gentle, scenic boat journey suitable for travellers of all ages. The boats are comfortable with covered seating, restrooms, and a small café on board.

Do I need a visa for a Guilin tour?

Yes, US passport holders require a Chinese visa. We can assist with the visa application process as part of your booking. A 144-hour visa-free transit policy is also available for certain eligible itineraries.

What type of accommodation is included?

We use carefully selected 4-star hotels in Guilin and Yangshuo, all chosen for comfort, location, and views. Specific hotels are confirmed upon booking, with upgrade options available.

Guilin — Nature's Masterpiece