Guilin

About Guilin

The karst mountains and winding Li River of Guilin have inspired Chinese artists and poets for centuries. The image on the 20 yuan note comes from here. Take a bamboo raft through the limestone peaks, cycle through Yangshuo's countryside rice paddies, and explore illuminated caves. Guilin offers some of Asia's most breathtaking natural scenery.

Top Attractions in Guilin

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Impression Liu Sanjie

Directed by Zhang Yimou, this spectacular outdoor performance uses the Li River as its stage with twelve karst peaks as backdrop. Over 600 performers in traditional Zhuang and Miao costumes perform on bamboo rafts with stunning lighting effects. The 70-minute show brings to life the legend of Liu Sanjie, a folk song goddess, in the world's largest natural theater.

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Longji Rice Terraces

Carved into mountainsides over 650 years ago, these spectacular terraces reach 880 meters elevation. The Dragon's Backbone terraces snake around contours like ripples in water. Ping'an and Dazhai are the main villages, home to Zhuang and Yao minorities. The terraces transform with seasons - flooded mirrors in spring, green carpets in summer, golden waves in autumn.

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Two Rivers Four Lakes

Guilin's spectacular waterway system connects the Li and Peach Blossom rivers with four central lakes: Shan, Rong, Gui, and Mulong. A night cruise showcases illuminated pagodas, traditional bridges, and the famous Sun and Moon Pagodas reflecting in the water. The 7.5km route passes key landmarks and offers the most magical way to see Guilin after dark.

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Yulong River Scenic Area

A smaller, quieter alternative to the Li River, the Yulong (Dragon) River winds through classic karst scenery near Yangshuo. Bamboo raft trips drift past water buffalo, farmers, and ancient bridges. The most famous section passes under the 600-year-old Yulong Bridge. Cycling along the riverbank offers equally stunning views with more flexibility.

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