Introducing Two Rivers and Four Lakes
The "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" refer to the urban sections of the Li River and the Taohua River; the "Four Lakes" refer to Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake in the city center. A map of Guilin shows that the "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" constitute the city's main water system. Today, the "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" complement the world-renowned Guilin landscape, becoming a captivating attraction for both Chinese and international tourists.
The beautiful lakes and coastal scenery fully demonstrate Guilin's characteristic of "the city in the scenery and the scenery in the city". It is an extremely wonderful experience to take a boat tour of the two rivers and four lakes under the charming lights.
In the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area, tourists can take a boat ride not only to visit the three main scenic areas, each with its own characteristics, namely the Chinese classical garden - Rongshan Lake Scenic Area, the ecological garden of harmony between man and nature - Guihu Lake Scenic Area, and the Song Dynasty Historical and Cultural Park - Mulong Lake Scenic Area, but also to appreciate the newly built Famous Bridge Expo Park, Famous Flower, Tree and Grass Expo Park, Pavilion and Tower Expo Park and Sculpture Expo Park in the scenic area. In addition, tourists can also enjoy more than ten traditional famous mountains around the water system, such as Xiangshan, Fubo Mountain, Diecai Mountain, Yaoshan, Baoji Mountain, Laoren Mountain, etc. on the boat.
Climate and best time to travel
The best time to visit the Two Rivers and Four Lakes is from 19:00 to 22:00
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Tickets
Night Cruise on Two Rivers and Four Lakes (Luxury Boat)Adult ticket: 210 yuan/person, child ticket: 105 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
Open all day
Night cruise time is from 19:30 to 21:30
Most Popular FAQs for Two Rivers and Four Lakes
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area is a connected waterway system in Guilin, designed to showcase the city’s natural karst landscape, lakes, and historical architecture, enhancing urban tourism and cultural appreciation.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in central Guilin, Guangxi Province.
- Accessible by taxi or ride-hailing services directly to the scenic area entrances.
- Several local bus routes stop near key entry points.
- Walking is convenient within the scenic loops around the lakes and rivers.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Daytime: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by season).
- Night cruises generally operate from 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM.
- Best visiting months: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and clear skies.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Walking around the lakes and rivers is generally free.
- Boat cruises: 100–150 RMB per adult, depending on duration and type.
- Tickets can be purchased online or at ticket counters near docks.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for night cruises, ideally 1–3 days before weekends or holidays.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 2–3 hours for a full walking or cycling loop around the lakes.
- 1–2 hours for a boat cruise; combine both for a half-day experience.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Sun and Moon Pagodas on Shanhu Lake.
- Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park.
- Decorative bridges and lakeside gardens.
- Evening lights reflecting on the rivers and lakes.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Audio guides may be available for major sites along the lakes.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Sun and Moon Pagodas from the lakeside docks.
- Bridges with illuminated night reflections.
- Panoramic shots from riverside parks.
- Boat cruises for water-level perspectives of the city and mountains.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at Zhengyang Pedestrian Street → walk or cycle along Shanhu Lake → visit Sun and Moon Pagodas → continue along Mulong Lake and Ronghu Lake → optional night cruise on lakes → end near city center.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night cruises with illuminated bridges and pagodas.
- Seasonal cultural performances near key lakes.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
- Early morning or late evening offers the most peaceful experience.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public restrooms and benches along walking paths.
- Restaurants, cafes, and snack stalls near popular lakes and docks.
- Souvenir shops and small convenience kiosks along tourist areas.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Most paths are flat and accessible for children and elderly; some docks and boats may require assistance for mobility-impaired visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at ticket counters, restaurants, and shops.
- Having some cash is useful for small vendors.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Lakeside cafes and restaurants offering local Guilin cuisine.
- Street food vendors along pedestrian areas.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are common; vegan or halal options may require checking with specific restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and guesthouses in central Guilin, near the lakes and rivers.
- Luxury riverside hotels with lake views.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Elephant Trunk Hill.
- Seven Star Park.
- Reed Flute Cave.
- Guilin pedestrian streets for shopping and local culture.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Shops sell postcards, local crafts, Guilin rice noodles, and small souvenirs.
- Traditional Chinese artworks and karst landscape-themed items.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or ride-hailing services to other Guilin attractions.
- Local buses connecting city center and tourist sites.
- Bike rental for nearby urban exploration.
