Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes | Guilin

Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes (桂林两江四湖, Guìlín Liǎng Jiāng Sì Hú) is a picturesque scenic area in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. This unique attraction consists of a network of rivers and lakes that are interconnected by waterways, creating a stunning landscape that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historic architecture. The area is known for its karst mountain scenery, traditional bridges, ancient pagodas, and lush greenery, making it one of the most popular attractions in Guilin.

1. Overview:

• Location: The Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area is located in the center of Guilin, making it easily accessible from the city’s main attractions, such as Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Seven Star Park.
• Name: The term "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" refers to the Li River (漓江, Lí Jiāng) and the Peach Blossom River (桃花江, Táo Huā Jiāng), which are the two rivers, as well as four lakes: Shanhu Lake (杉湖), Ronghu Lake (榕湖), Guihu Lake (桂湖), and Mulong Lake (木龙湖).
• Significance: This scenic area is celebrated for its combination of water, karst mountains, and traditional Chinese architecture, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Guilin from a unique perspective.

2. The Two Rivers:

Li River (Lijiang):

• The Li River is perhaps the most famous river in China, known worldwide for its limestone karst peaks and scenic beauty. It flows through Guilin, surrounded by dramatic karst mountain landscapes, and continues southward toward Yangshuo.
• In the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, the Li River is a major waterway, providing the setting for a serene and picturesque boat cruise. The river winds through the city, offering fantastic views of the city skyline and natural scenery.

Peach Blossom River (Taohua Jiang):

• The Peach Blossom River flows near Guilin and gets its name from the peach blossoms that bloom in spring, creating a stunning natural scene. This river meanders through the city and is connected to the Four Lakes area, adding a romantic and peaceful atmosphere to the landscape.
• The river’s tranquil waters are often lined with willow trees and ancient pavilions, and it is a perfect place for a relaxing boat ride, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.

3. The Four Lakes:

Shanhu Lake:

• Shanhu Lake (杉湖) is located in the heart of Guilin, near Ronghu Lake. It is known for its charming atmosphere and serene waters. The lake is surrounded by historical landmarks, including ancient bridges, pavilions, and temples, which give visitors a sense of the city’s cultural heritage.
• Shanhu Lake is often beautifully illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for evening walks and nighttime boat rides. The lake is also home to the Ronghu Bridge and the Two Pagodas, which are iconic symbols of Guilin.

Ronghu Lake:

• Ronghu Lake (榕湖) is another central lake located next to Shanhu Lake, known for its charming and scenic beauty. The lake is famous for its Two Pagodas: Sun Pagoda (日月塔, Rìyuè Tǎ) and Moon Pagoda (月亮塔, Yuèliàng Tǎ). These pagodas are illuminated at night, adding a magical atmosphere to the landscape.
• Ronghu Lake is surrounded by willow trees, pavilions, and traditional Chinese gardens, making it an ideal location for leisurely walks or boat rides.

Guihu Lake:

• Guihu Lake (桂湖) is another scenic lake in Guilin, named after the city's famous 桂 (Gui) character, symbolizing the region’s connection to the karst landscape. It is slightly more peaceful and less crowded than the other lakes, offering a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
• The lake is often dotted with traditional boats and is framed by ancient temples and pagodas. The natural environment around Guihu Lake is tranquil, with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

Mulong Lake:

• Mulong Lake (木龙湖) is a beautiful and less-explored lake compared to the others in the area, providing a peaceful escape from the crowds. It features serene waters and lush greenery, making it a great spot for boat tours.
• The lake is surrounded by traditional bridges and mountainous views, adding to the scenic beauty of the area. It is also connected to the other lakes, creating a network of interlinked waterways that provide a sense of unity throughout the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area.

4. Key Features and Attractions:

Two Pagodas (Ronghu and Shanhu):

• The Sun and Moon Pagodas are two beautiful pagodas situated in Ronghu Lake. The Sun Pagoda is a 9-story tower, while the Moon Pagoda is a 7-story tower. These pagodas are designed to symbolize the Sun and Moon, adding a layer of cultural and symbolic significance to the area.
• The pagodas are particularly breathtaking when illuminated at night, reflecting off the calm waters of the lake.

Boat Tours:

• One of the best ways to explore the Two Rivers and Four Lakes is by boat. Various boat cruises are available, offering visitors a chance to experience the stunning scenery from the water. These tours take you past karst peaks, ancient bridges, pagodas, and traditional Chinese gardens, providing a peaceful and immersive experience.
• Evening boat tours are especially popular, as the lakes and pagodas are illuminated, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.

Historic Bridges and Pavilions:

• Throughout the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, visitors will find traditional Chinese bridges and pavilions that add to the area’s historic charm. These structures reflect the architectural style of ancient China, with intricate carvings, decorative roofs, and peaceful environments.

Traditional Gardens:

• The area is home to several Chinese gardens, filled with rockeries, bamboo groves, flower beds, and water features. These gardens are designed in the traditional Chinese style, offering a tranquil space to relax and enjoy nature.

5. Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit the Two Rivers and Four Lakes is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the landscape is lush and vibrant.
• Summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, although this is also the peak tourist season.
• Winter (December to February) tends to be quieter and cooler, but the attractions remain beautiful, especially with fewer tourists around.

6. How to Get There:

• From Guilin Railway Station: The Two Rivers and Four Lakes area is about a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Guilin Railway Station.
• From Guilin Liangjiang International Airport: The scenic area is around 30 minutes by car or taxi from the airport.
• Public Transport: Public buses and taxis are readily available throughout Guilin to reach the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area.

7. Entry Fees:

• There is an entrance fee to visit the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area. The price covers the cost of the boat tour and entry to the major attractions. It is best to check the fees before visiting as prices can vary based on different seasons or tour options.

8. Conclusion:

The Two Rivers and Four Lakes in Guilin is an enchanting and tranquil area that showcases the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re taking a leisurely boat ride, exploring traditional Chinese gardens, or enjoying the stunning views of karst peaks and historic architecture, this area offers something for everyone. The area’s serene waters, picturesque pagodas, and scenic landscapes make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Guilin.