Guilin is the gateway; Yangshuo is where the landscape gets good. The Li River between them is the classic journey, but the quieter days happen on bikes and scooters in the countryside around Yangshuo.
Give this area three or four days. One day for the river, one for the countryside, one for Longji’s rice terraces if you are willing to go further.
What is actually worth your time
Editor’s shortlistLi River cruiseThe four-hour Guilin–Yangshuo route is the classic; book a small boat if possible.
Yulong RiverBamboo rafts and cycling paths; quieter than the Li.
Xianggong HillThe sunrise viewpoint; arrange a driver the night before.
Longji rice terracesA full day from Guilin; best in spring or autumn.
Yangshuo countrysideRent a bike and follow the Yulong River paths.
Eat this
- Guilin rice noodles. Breakfast of champions; mix in the pickles and chilli.
- Beer fish. Yangshuo’s signature dish; best shared.
- Stuffed river snails. A local snack; messy and worth trying.
Where to stay
- Guilin city. Gateway, transport hub and the Two Rivers & Four Lakes area.
- Yangshuo town. Convenient, touristy, close to the river.
- Xingping. Quieter base with the best karst views.
First-timer notes
- Do not skip Yangshuo by staying only in Guilin; the landscape is south of the city.
- Book the Li River cruise through your hotel and confirm the boat type and pickup.
- Bring cash for village stalls and small raft operators.
Honest skip list
- Skip the “impression” night show if you are tired; the countryside at sunrise is better.
- Skip a one-day Guilin city tour; the city is not the reason you came.
On the map
Map data © Google. Centred on Yangshuo, Guilin, China.
Open in Google MapsRead before you go
Sources & further reading
Last checked October 2026. Opening hours, tickets and transit change; confirm before you travel.
