Information
Landmark: Guilin Two Rivers and Four LakesCity: Guilin
Country: China
Continent: Asia
Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Guilin, China, Asia
Overview
Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes (桂林两江四湖, Guìlín Liǎng Jiāng Sì Hú) stretch through the heart of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, where willow branches trail in the water and every turn reveals a postcard view.This one-of-a-kind spot weaves together rivers and lakes linked by winding canals, revealing a breathtaking scene of shimmering water, rich cultural traditions, and centuries-old architecture.This area draws visitors with its jagged karst peaks, stone bridges worn smooth by time, ancient pagodas, and thick green hillsides, making it one of Guilin’s top attractions.One.The Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area sits right in the heart of Guilin, so it’s just a short stroll or quick ride to spots like the Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Seven Star Park.The name “Two Rivers and Four Lakes” points to the Li River (漓江, Lí Jiāng) and the Peach Blossom River (桃花江, Táo Huā Jiāng), plus four lakes-Shanhu, where water gleams like glass, Ronghu, Guihu, and Mulong.This picturesque spot blends winding rivers, towering karst peaks, and graceful traditional Chinese buildings, giving visitors a fresh way to take in Guilin’s beauty-like watching sunlight spill over limestone cliffs at dawn.Number two sat there in bold black ink, simple and unshakable.The Li River, winding through jagged limestone peaks, is one of China’s most celebrated waterways, admired around the world for its striking scenery.It winds through Guilin, framed by jagged karst peaks that rise like stone towers, then drifts south toward Yangshuo.Winding through the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, the Li River serves as the main waterway, where quiet boats glide past willows dipping their branches into the water.The river curves through the heart of the city, giving you sweeping skyline views and glimpses of green trees swaying along its banks.The Peach Blossom River (Taohua Jiang) winds past Guilin, its name inspired by the blush-pink blossoms that burst open each spring, turning the banks into a painter’s dream.The river winds lazily through the city, linking up with the Four Lakes, where the water catches the light and the whole scene feels calm and a little romantic.Willow trees trail their branches into the river’s still water, where old pavilions cast long shadows, making it an ideal spot for a slow boat ride at dawn or as the light fades.Three.Shanhu Lake (杉湖) sits in the heart of Guilin, just a short stroll from Ronghu Lake’s calm, green waters.People love it for its warm, inviting charm and the still, glassy water that catches the light at sunset.Ancient bridges, quiet pavilions, and weathered temples ring the lake, giving visitors a vivid glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage.At night, Shanhu Lake glows with soft, shimmering lights, drawing people out for quiet strolls along the water or slow boat rides under the stars.The lake holds the graceful Ronghu Bridge and the striking Twin Pagodas, their golden lights flickering on the water-both beloved landmarks of Guilin.Ronghu Lake (榕湖) sits in the heart of the city beside Shanhu Lake, its calm waters reflecting willow branches that trail lazily in the breeze.The lake’s known for its Two Pagodas-the golden Sun Pagoda (日月塔, Rìyuè Tǎ) and the silver Moon Pagoda (月亮塔, Yuèliàng Tǎ) that gleams softly at night.At night, the pagodas glow softly, casting warm light that makes the whole landscape feel enchanted.Willow trees sway along Ronghu Lake’s edge, with pavilions and traditional Chinese gardens tucked between them, creating a perfect spot for a slow walk or a quiet boat ride.Guihu Lake (桂湖) is another beautiful spot in Guilin, its name drawn from the city’s famous 桂 (Gui) character, a nod to the region’s karst peaks rising like stone sails above the water.Compared to the other lakes, it feels a bit quieter and emptier, with space to breathe and the soft ripple of water setting a calm mood for visitors.Traditional boats often drift across the lake, their wooden hulls catching the sun, while ancient temples and graceful pagodas rise along the shore.Guihu Lake rests in calm silence, its still waters reflecting rolling green hills and the soft curve of willow branches.Mulong Lake (木龙湖) sits quietly apart from the busier spots, its still water reflecting willows and offering a calm retreat far from the crowds.Calm blue water laps against the shore, framed by thick, green trees, making it a perfect place to take a boat tour.Traditional bridges ring the lake, while mountains rise in the distance, their peaks fading into a soft blue haze that deepens the area’s beauty.It’s linked to the other lakes, forming a web of winding waterways that tie the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area together like one continuous, shimmering ribbon.Number four stood alone, small and steady, like a single chalk mark on a dark board.Key features and attractions include the Sun and Moon Pagodas, two striking towers rising from the still waters of Ronghu Lake.The Sun Pagoda rises nine stories high, its golden tiles catching the light, while the Moon Pagoda stands shorter at seven graceful tiers.These pagodas represent the Sun and Moon, their shapes rising like quiet markers of light and shadow, adding rich cultural meaning to the place.At night, the pagodas glow brilliantly, their light shimmering across the still, glassy lake.Boat tours are one of the best ways to see the Two Rivers and Four Lakes-glide past willow-lined banks and watch the water sparkle in the sun.You can choose from several boat cruises, each giving you a fresh view of the landscape-sunlight flashing off the waves as you glide across the water.On these tours, you’ll drift past jagged karst peaks, weathered stone bridges, graceful pagodas, and quiet Chinese gardens, the air carrying a faint scent of pine and still water.Evening boat tours draw the biggest crowds, with lanterns glowing on the lakes and light shimmering across the pagodas, casting a warm, romantic spell.Historic Bridges and Pavilions: As you wander the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, you’ll come across graceful stone bridges and elegant pavilions, each adding its own touch to the region’s old-world charm.These structures showcase the elegance of ancient Chinese architecture, with rooftops curling like waves, carvings so fine you can trace each line, and courtyards that feel utterly still.Traditional Gardens: This area boasts several Chinese gardens, where bamboo rustles in the breeze, stone rockeries rise like sculptures, and water glimmers beside bright flower beds.These gardens follow the traditional Chinese style, with curved bridges and quiet ponds that invite you to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the calm of nature.Five.The Two Rivers and Four Lakes are at their finest in spring, from March to May, and again in autumn, September through November, when the air feels soft and the banks glow with fresh green leaves.From June to August, summer brings thick heat and sticky air, yet it’s when the streets buzz with the most visitors.From December to February, winter brings cooler air and a calmer pace, yet the sights stay stunning-especially when you can wander without the crush of crowds.Number six.Getting there from Guilin Railway Station is simple-it’s about a 10‑minute drive or a 20‑minute walk, just enough time to notice the scent of street food drifting from nearby stalls.From Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, it’s about a 30‑minute drive by car or taxi-just enough time to watch the hills rise in the distance.City buses, trams, and trains-public transport that rumbles through town every day.
