China · Region
Guilin
Guilin is southern China's iconic karst landscape hub, where jagged limestone peaks rise dramatically over the Li River and surrounding countryside. Its scenery has inspired Chinese art and poetry for centuries and remains a top draw for river cruises to Yangshuo and the wider Guangxi countryside.
Top attractions
attraction Reed Flute Cave: Guilin Travel Guide
Reed Flute Cave, on the northwest edge of Guilin city, is a 240-million-year-old limestone cave strung with neon-colored lights that turn its stalactites and reflecting pools into surreal underground scenery.
attraction Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin Travel Guide (4.3★)
Elephant Trunk Hill sits where the Li River and Taohua (Peach Blossom) River meet in central Guilin, a short taxi or bike ride from most downtown hotels. 4.3★ (373 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Yangshuo Park: Guilin Travel Guide (4.5★)
Yangshuo Park sits on Diecui Lu on the edge of Yangshuo town, and it's free and open 24 hours, so there's no ticket line to plan around. 4.5★ (1,207 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
Top-rated things to do in Guilin
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Where to stay in Guilin
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Plan your trip to Guilin
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Frequently asked questions about Guilin
How do I get to Guilin?
Most travellers fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL), located about 28 km (17 mi) southwest of the city center, or arrive by high-speed rail via Guilin North Railway Station or the more central Guilin Railway Station, both connected to the Hunan Guangxi High Speed Railway and Guiyang Guangzhou High Speed Railway. From the airport or stations, buses and taxis run into the city center; onward travel to Yangshuo is typically by bus, taxi, or connecting train.
How many days should I spend in Guilin?
Plan for ~3-4 days to cover central Guilin's karst-hill sights and a Li River cruise, with an extra day or two if extending south to Yangshuo's countryside and rural scenery.
What is Guilin known for?
Guilin is southern China's iconic karst landscape hub, where jagged limestone peaks rise dramatically over the Li River and surrounding countryside. Its scenery has inspired Chinese art and poetry for centuries and remains a top draw for river cruises to Yangshuo and the wider Guangxi countryside.