Guilin & Yangshuo Attractions: Complete Visitor Guide
8 must-visit sites in Guilin & Yangshuo — tickets, hours, transport, and tips for foreign tourists.
Quick Jump:
1Must-Visit Attractions
Must VisitLi River Cruise
漓江游船
One of the world's most iconic river journeys, winding 83 km from Guilin to Yangshuo through a dreamlike landscape of limestone karst peaks, bamboo groves, and water buffalo grazing on riverbanks. The scenery on the ¥20 banknote was painted from here.
Must VisitFree EntryYangshuo West Street
阳朔西街
The vibrant heart of Yangshuo, a 1,400-year-old cobblestone street lined with cafes, bars, and shops catering to travelers from around the world. Surrounded by towering karst peaks, it is the perfect base for exploring the Yangshuo countryside by bike or bamboo raft.
Must VisitLongji Rice Terraces
龙脊梯田
Breathtaking terraced rice paddies carved into steep mountainsides over 700 years by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. The cascading terraces climb from 300 m to 1,100 m elevation, transforming with the seasons from flooded mirrors to emerald green to golden harvest fields.
2Popular Attractions
PopularReed Flute Cave
芦笛岩
A spectacular natural limestone cave system over 180 million years old, filled with extraordinary stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations illuminated by colorful lights. Known as the 'Palace of Natural Arts,' it has been a Guilin attraction for over 1,200 years.
PopularFree EntryElephant Trunk Hill
象鼻山
Guilin's most recognizable landmark, a natural karst hill that perfectly resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River. The iconic arch between the trunk and body creates the 'Water Moon Cave' that frames the river beautifully.
PopularTwo Rivers Four Lakes
两江四湖
A spectacular waterway system connecting the Li River, Peach Blossom River, and four city lakes (Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake) into one continuous scenic loop through downtown Guilin. The night cruise past illuminated pagodas and bridges is unforgettable.
3Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Hidden GemFree EntryXingping Ancient Town
兴坪古镇
A quiet, beautifully preserved ancient fishing town on the Li River where the famous ¥20 banknote scene was photographed. Far less commercialized than Yangshuo, Xingping offers authentic riverside life, century-old stone streets, and the most dramatic karst scenery along the Li River.
Hidden GemSeven Star Park
七星公园
Guilin's largest and oldest park, named after its seven karst peaks arranged like the Big Dipper constellation. A peaceful urban retreat combining caves, bridges, pavilions, and lush greenery with a resident troop of wild macaque monkeys.