Guilin | China

Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, is one of the country's most famous tourist destinations, known for its breathtaking karst landscapes, picturesque rivers, and rich cultural heritage. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Guilin has long been celebrated as one of China’s most beautiful cities, often described by the phrase: “桂林山水甲天下” ("Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven").

Geography

Guilin is situated on the Li River (漓江), surrounded by spectacular karst mountains, limestone peaks, caves, and lush green countryside. These unique landscapes were formed over millions of years through water erosion, creating the famous tower-like peaks that characterize the region. The city’s natural beauty makes it a top destination for photographers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a peaceful escape.

• Li River (漓江) – The most iconic natural feature of Guilin, stretching 437 km (271 miles) through Guangxi.
• Karst Mountains – Unique limestone formations that give the region its stunning, dreamlike appearance.
• Caves and Underground Rivers – Many hidden caves with dramatic stalactites and underground streams.

History

Guilin has a history dating back over 2,000 years, with records of settlements from the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BC). During the Tang (618–907 AD) and Song (960–1279 AD) dynasties, the city became an important cultural and economic center in southern China. It later gained fame as a military stronghold and a center for trade between China and Southeast Asia.

During World War II, Guilin was an important base for Chinese resistance against Japanese invasion, and its strategic location made it a key transport and communication hub.

Culture

Guilin is home to several ethnic groups, including the Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong peoples, each with their unique traditions, festivals, music, and clothing.

• Zhuang Ethnic Culture – The Zhuang are China’s largest ethnic minority and have a strong presence in Guilin, with their distinctive songs and dances being a highlight of local festivals.
• Dong Minority’s Wooden Villages – Traditional Dong villages feature beautifully designed wooden houses without nails.
• Yao People’s Red Clothes Festival – A vibrant celebration of Yao culture, featuring elaborate embroidery and music.

Traditional Chinese poetry and painting often depict Guilin’s landscapes, and the city has inspired countless poets and artists for centuries.

Top Attractions

Guilin is filled with natural and cultural landmarks, making it a paradise for visitors.

1. Li River (漓江) and Yangshuo (阳朔)

One of the most famous river journeys in the world, a cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo offers some of the most iconic landscapes in China. The trip showcases dramatic karst peaks, fishing villages, and lush greenery.

• Best way to explore: Li River cruise or bamboo rafting.
• Nine Horses Fresco Hill (九马画山) – A famous cliff where the natural rock patterns resemble nine horses.
• Xingping Town (兴坪古镇) – A scenic village along the Li River, appearing on the back of China’s 20-yuan banknote.

2. Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山)

• Guilin’s most famous landmark, resembling an elephant drinking water from the Li River.
• Home to Water Moon Cave, a scenic arch under the hill.
• Best visited at sunset when the hill is beautifully illuminated.

3. Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩)

• A spectacular karst cave filled with colorful stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools.
• Named after the reed plants growing outside the cave, which locals use to make flutes.

4. Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田)

• Also known as Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, these stunningly layered terraces are cultivated by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups.
• Best time to visit: Spring (for flooded terraces) or Autumn (for golden rice fields).
• Traditional villages like Ping'an and Dazhai offer a glimpse into rural Chinese life.

5. Seven-Star Park (七星公园)

• The largest park in Guilin, featuring caves, rivers, hills, and a zoo.
• Home to Seven-Star Cave, filled with fascinating rock formations.

6. Fubo Hill (伏波山)

• A scenic karst hill offering panoramic views of Guilin.
• Contains ancient inscriptions and the Pearl-Returning Cave, linked to Chinese legends.

7. Daxu Ancient Town (大圩古镇)

• A well-preserved 1,000-year-old town along the Li River.
• Famous for stone-paved streets, wooden buildings, and traditional Chinese culture.

Cuisine

Guilin’s cuisine is known for its use of fresh river fish, rice noodles, and spicy flavors. Some of the must-try local dishes include:

• Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉) – The city’s signature dish, served with marinated pork, peanuts, scallions, and spicy sauce.
• Beer Fish (啤酒鱼) – A specialty from Yangshuo, featuring fresh fish cooked in local beer.
• Lipu Taro Pork (荔浦芋扣肉) – A flavorful dish made of taro and braised pork belly.
• Stuffed River Snails (酿田螺) – A delicacy where snails are filled with minced pork and spices.

Tea culture is also strong in Guilin, with Osmanthus Tea (桂花茶) being a local favorite.

Economy

Guilin's economy is primarily based on tourism, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

• Tourism – The city receives millions of visitors annually, making it one of China’s top travel destinations.
• Agriculture – Guilin is famous for producing oranges, persimmons, taro, and medicinal herbs.
• Pharmaceuticals – Traditional Chinese medicine plays an important role in the local economy.

Guilin is also part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with growing trade and investment links.

Transportation

• Guilin Liangjiang International Airport – Provides flights to major Chinese cities and international destinations.
• High-speed rail – Connects Guilin to Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
• Local buses and taxis – Affordable ways to explore the city.

Bicycles and electric scooters are popular modes of transport, especially in Yangshuo, where cycling along the Yulong River is a highlight.

Climate

Guilin has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by:

• Spring (March-May): Mild with frequent rain.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with occasional typhoons.
• Autumn (September-November): Best season for travel, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): Cool and damp, with occasional frost but no heavy snow.

Conclusion

Guilin is a city that perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. With its world-famous karst mountains, scenic rivers, ethnic minority culture, and delicious cuisine, it offers a truly unique experience for travelers. Whether cruising down the Li River, exploring ancient towns, or hiking through rice terraces, Guilin remains one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable destinations in China.