Guilin & Yangshuo Travel Guide: Li River, Karst Peaks & Rice Terraces

Why Guilin Has the Best Scenery Under Heaven

For 2,000 years, Chinese poets and painters have called Guilin the most beautiful place on Earth. The karst peaks rising from misty rivers are so iconic they appear on the 20 RMB note. Here's how to plan a perfect visit.

The Li River Cruise — China's Most Scenic Boat Ride

The 83km cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo takes 4-5 hours. You'll pass bamboo groves, water buffalo, cormorant fishermen, and formations like "Nine Horse Fresco Hill" and "Yellow Cloth Reflection." Pro tips: Book the morning departure (9am) for best light. Bring your 20 RMB note for the photo! Lunch is included on board. Arrive in Yangshuo by 1:30pm.

Yangshuo: Two Wheels in Paradise

Yangshuo is best explored by bicycle or electric scooter. The Yulong River path takes you through rice paddies under limestone peaks. Stop at Moon Hill (800 steps to the arch), the 1,400-year-old Big Banyan Tree, and riverside villages. A half-day cycling trip costs about 30 RMB to rent a bike.

Longji Rice Terraces — The Dragon's Backbone

2 hours from Guilin, these 650-year-old rice terraces cascade 800 meters from summit to river. Best times: May-June (water-filled terraces mirroring the sky), September-October (golden harvest). Stay overnight at a Zhuang minority guesthouse. Sunrise at "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers" viewpoint is unforgettable.

What to Eat

Guilin Mifen (rice noodles): The city's signature breakfast — rice noodles in pork bone broth with pickled beans, peanuts, and chili. Beer Fish: Yangshuo specialty — whole river fish braised in local beer with tomatoes and peppers. Lipu Taro with Pork: A banquet dish of sliced taro and pork belly steamed together.