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"The Five Ridges are all scorching, but Guilin alone is pleasant." Guilin's landscapes are renowned worldwide, so much so that the very image that springs to mind is the misty Li River, shrouded by shrouded hills, offering a refreshing and refreshing feeling. Indeed, Guilin's average summer temperature is around 22-28°C, with an annual average of 19°C, making it quite comfortable. The hottest months are July and August, with monthly average temperatures around 28°C and highs not exceeding 39°C.
Guilin's rainy season has just ended, bringing with it the arrival of summer. The abundant water and clear waters of the Li River add to its charm. Lush green rice paddies lining the roads and clear skies add a "Hayao Miyazaki-esque" filter to photos, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Summer vacation is always the peak season for tourism in Guilin, but if you approach it the wrong way, you might face the challenges of high temperatures and dense crowds...
Generally speaking, cities with higher latitudes and terrain tend to have relatively cooler temperatures. In Guilin, the mountains tend to rise in altitude the further north you go. Examples include Longji Rice Terraces (1,100 meters above sea level, with an average summer temperature of 20°C) and Maoer Mountain (over 2,000 meters above sea level, with an average summer temperature of 19°C). Evening temperatures in mountainous areas often drop by 1-2 degrees Celsius, making for a very comfortable experience. Those who have visited this area in the past summer often say they don't want to leave.
The central part of Guilin and Yangshuo is mainly composed of hills and plains (200-500m above sea level, average temperature in summer is 26.5℃).
The Yulong River, stretching 40 kilometers, is the largest tributary of the Li River and is often called the "Little Li River." Its waters are crystal clear year-round. As bamboo rafts drift along its banks, the idyllic scenery of rolling green hills, ancient bridges, and waterwheels unfolds like a picture scroll.
Due to the long river, the government set up seven docks here: Jinlong Bridge Dock, Yulong Bridge Dock, Jiuxian Dock, Jima Dock (formerly Chaoyang Dock), Shuiedi Dock, Wanjing Dock (formerly Gongnong Bridge Dock), and Qing'e Ferry Dock.
Currently, there are 6 channels open. If you want to travel the entire route, you need to buy separate tickets. It takes about 5-6 hours, and it is not recommended to drift the entire route. Just experience the highlights.
Each bamboo raft is now equipped with a parasol, providing full shade. While the temperature in the Yulong River area is similar to the average temperature in Yangshuo, bamboo rafting is a great way to get close to the water. China-TravelNote often thoughtfully provides water-related amenities to help you beat the summer heat.
Yulong Bridge, a locally protected cultural relic with over 600 years of history, is a short walk across the bridge, offering a sense of history. The quaint bridge is entwined with vines, and the ancient camphor trees on both sides are still in full bloom. The bustling crowds of tourists might even make you feel like you've traveled back to the Ming Dynasty in Guangxi.
Jiuxian Village is rarely visited by tour groups. It is indeed the most representative of the local ancient villages and is very suitable for friends who like quietness.
The residential buildings are built with southern blue bricks, gray tiles, and horse-head walls. They have high eaves, carved beams and painted buildings, and marble masonry, which is very antique. The style of the closed manors of the Ming and Qing dynasties is still preserved here, which is rarely seen elsewhere.
If you take a bamboo raft to raft down the lower reaches of the Yulong River, the Wanjing Wharf where you disembark at the end is the Gongnong Bridge in the Ten-Li Gallery. Cyclists can immediately and seamlessly connect to continue their tour along the Ten-Li Gallery towards the Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill, or ride back to Yangshuo County towards Butterfly Spring.
Tips:
Business hours: Jinlong Bridge Wharf: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Yulong Bridge Wharf, Shuei'erdi Wharf, Wanjing Wharf: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Note: Children under 1m tall, people over 65 years old, and pregnant women are not allowed to ride bamboo rafts.
Best viewing period: April to November, during the flood season. During the rainy season, the water will turn slightly yellow due to heavy rainfall.
Transportation Guide: Public transportation is underdeveloped. It is recommended to charter a car, bus or ride a bicycle to the various terminals.
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With so many different sections, those with a knack for choosing between them will undoubtedly face another headache, not to mention the need to find their own transportation. China-TravelNote offers a small tour with a minimum of two people, with a driver and guide taking you on a Yulong River adventure: cycling along the Yulong River, rafting on a bamboo raft, and afternoon tea at an ancient residence in Jiuxian County. Enjoy the pure joy of the trip, no shopping required, and let your time be wasted on beautiful things.
"Visiting Silver Cave will ensure you'll never lack money." Wandering through the shimmering wonders of the cave, you might understand the origin of its name. The cave is home to a diverse collection of stalactites, formed over different geological eras, cascading down like a waterfall.
The most representative attractions are: the "Three Treasures" Buddha Preaching, the Single Pillar Supporting the Sky, and the Hunyuan Pearl Umbrella; and the "Three Wonders" Music Stone Screen, Water Mirror Reflections, and Silver Diamonds.
▲Music Stone Screen
▲Silver Diamond (Photo source: Yinziyan official website)
Because the cave's temperature is covered by layers of soil and rock, direct sunlight doesn't reach the cave's interior. The deep, narrow cave has poor air circulation, so the temperature generally remains constant (around 21°C), keeping it warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The scenic area also features a misting system, so even in the summer, visitors can enjoy the cave without feeling overly hot.
The rural scenery outside the cave is tranquil and serene, with lush green rice paddies swaying gently in the breeze, creating a natural and picturesque scene. Here, you can also enjoy the nationally renowned lychee and taro banquet, featuring special dishes such as candied taro, braised pork belly, and pearl glass rolls.
In addition to Silver Cave, Guilin also has other caves to choose from, such as Reed Flute Cave, Crown Cave, and Seven Star Cave. It is also very pleasant to play in any of them. I have made a comparison chart for everyone, so you can choose the corresponding cave according to your travel needs.
▲Comparison of various caves in Guilin
▲The lights at Reed Flute Cave are stunning
▲Guanyan water cave entrance and slide (Source: Guanyan official website)
Tips:
Business hours: 10:00-17:00 all year round; the specific time is subject to the scenic spot’s public notice
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Unlike other waterfalls that can only be admired from afar, Gudong Waterfall is small yet beautiful, allowing for close encounters and play. The waterfall complex boasts a 90-meter drop, and its scenery changes as it gradually grows higher due to calcium-activated sedimentation. Climbing the waterfall is like climbing a rock in the water: where the current is gentle, it caresses your feet like wading through a stream, while where it surges, it reaches your calves.
In terms of safety, the scenic area is equipped with a full set of hydrophilic measures, such as: non-slip straw sandals, shoe covers, raincoats, safety helmets, and waterproof mobile phone bags; there will be iron chains and steps to assist during the climbing process.
In addition, you can also experience boat rides, jungle leaps and other activities in the scenic area. The ecological environment of the scenic area is also very good. Friends who like insects and plants may find surprises here.
Image source: Gudong Scenic Area official website
Tips:
Opening hours: 8:30-16:30 every day (visit time is about 2 hours)
Ticket price: 55 yuan/person, same price for adults and children. Water-friendly suit 15 yuan/person
Getting There: From Guilin Bus Station, take the Guilin-Guanyan bus (10 RMB), the Guanyan-Gudong bus (5 RMB), or the Gudong-Guilin bus (7 RMB). Alternatively, you can charter a car, drive yourself, or take a bus.
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Everyone knows about the Li River, but do you know its source? If there's a place that deserves to be called Guilin's last secret, the Li River Source Grand Canyon is definitely on the list.
The lack of publicity doesn't mean the scenery isn't stunning. Here, the water is like jasper, the mountains are dark blue, and the endless bamboo sea feels like a place you've stumbled upon. Lush green bamboo leaves sway in the breeze, and insects crawling on the grass are each preoccupied with their own little world.
As the source of the beautiful Li River, the water here is naturally of superb quality. It's light green in shallow areas and deep blue in deep water. The water is crystal clear, a jelly-like color, earning it the nickname "Guilin's Little Jiuzhaigou." The average summer temperature is a mere 19°C! Many visitors never want to leave; it's truly a summer resort.
Image source: Manniu Team Leader
Hike into the Grand Canyon, where you'll find many natural pools to explore, such as Dragon Pond and Rhino Back. Brave souls can even try some wild diving. However, the area is quite remote, so it's best to have a guide or someone familiar with the route.
Tips:
Location: Lijiang River Source Grand Canyon, Gaozhai Village, Xing'an County, Guilin City (2.5 hours drive from Guilin)
Transportation: There is a direct bus from the bus station to Maoer Mountain. It is relatively convenient to drive yourself or charter a car.
Opening hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket price: 30 yuan/person
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If foreign tourists want to visit the Lijiang River Source Grand Canyon, it is still recommended to join a tour group for two reasons:
1. The transportation here is inconvenient, there is no public transportation to get there directly, and the mountain roads are rugged. It is relatively safer for experienced drivers to drive;
2. The Grand Canyon is still relatively pristine, so hiking with a local guide is safer. If you want to avoid the heat and crowds in the summer, this is a good option.
Maoer Mountain (over 2,000 meters above sea level), as the pinnacle of southern China, is naturally a great escape from the summer heat. The weather here is unpredictable, with strong winds. Even in summer, the temperature on the mountain dips into the low teens. To watch the sunrise and sea of clouds from the mountain, you'll need a down jacket and hat. Windproof is a must!
▲The picture was taken in August
Sunrise and sea of clouds
Recommended viewing spot: South China Summit Observation Deck
Besides being a great escape from the summer heat, the sunrise over Maoer Mountain with its sea of clouds is truly breathtaking! The deep blue sky is gradually ripped open by the sun's rays, revealing a pink-purple morning glow. As the sun's rays grow stronger, the colors of the morning glow change, becoming increasingly fiery the closer you get to the sun, creating a stunning gradient. Such stunning views are also incredibly fragile; if the clouds are too strong, the sun might be completely obscured. Regardless of the scenery, it's truly beautiful if you truly appreciate it.
Watch the Milky Way at night
Recommended viewing spots:
Abandoned helipad/TV station on the mountain (5-10 minutes walk from Yunfengge Mountaintop Hotel)
Gaozhai Village at the foot of the mountain (since there is a village at the foot of the mountain, it is unlikely to see the Milky Way, but the starry sky can still be seen)
Because Maoer Mountain is relatively free of human construction and pollution, the night sky is dotted with stars, and with a bit of luck, you can even see the beautiful Milky Way. The moment you look up at the night sky here, you'll feel the earth spinning and the sky above you, and you'll even feel like you can reach out and touch the stars.
There is also a dedicated camping area on the top of the mountain. The store and hotel can basically meet the needs of hot water and other supplies, which is very suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Image source: Manniu Team Leader
Besides being the pinnacle of South China, Maoer Mountain also boasts a hidden gem: a national nature reserve, perfect for nature lovers. It boasts numerous unique protected plants and animals, including the relict southern hemlock (now infertile) and the beautiful Guilin Three Golds (Fronted Babbler, Golden-breasted Babbler, and Golden Parrotbill). These birds form a remarkable gene pool. A word of caution: foreigners are not allowed here.
▲The unique crown of the southern hemlock is shy
▲ One of Guilin’s three golden treasures: Golden-breasted Babbler
In spring every year, the mountains and plains are covered with rhododendrons, and in winter it is a world of ice and snow.
Image source: Guilin Maoer Mountain Scenic Area
There are beautiful scenery hidden here. Since it is nearly a 3-hour drive from Yangshuo, there are not many tourists arriving even in the peak season. However, the hidden beautiful scenery and unique flora and fauna are enough to drive us there to see its original beauty before being bombarded by publicity.
Tips:
Opening hours: May-October, 7:30-18:00; November-April, 8:00-17:30
Transportation within the park: Sightseeing buses operate from 8:00 to 15:00, and the fee is included in the ticket price. They transport you up and down the mountain.
Ticket price: 85 yuan/adult, half price for children
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In recent years, the Longji Rice Terraces have gradually become popular due to their beauty. In the midsummer, the layers of rice fields on the Longji Rice Terraces form a vast expanse, and paired with the blue sky and white clouds, it is easy to take fresh photos!
The magnificent lines extend infinitely, embracing the ancient Zhuang village and pine and fir forests. Due to the high altitude of the terraced fields, the temperature is naturally 2-3 degrees lower than that in the city during the night stay, but it is still inevitable to feel hot while climbing the mountain at noon.
Image source: tourists@桑子Aka
Besides the terraced fields, the Clothes-Drying Festival, held annually on the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, is the Longji Red Yao's most ceremonious traditional festival, besides the Spring Festival. On this day, the village is bustling with guests. Married daughters carry ducks, wine, and gifts, and their children back to their in-laws' homes for a reunion dinner.
Every household prepares zongzi (rice dumplings) for the festival. Every household unloads their flowery clothes, ornaments, and skirts from the bottom of their boxes to dry in the sun. The vibrant array of red, green, and yellow clothes lining the drying racks and corridors of each household evokes a dazzling display, giving the festival its name.
In the evening, the entire village, young and old, dressed in their finest attire, gathers for a grand bonfire party on the Song and Dance Terrace. A blazing bonfire ignites, and people sing and dance around it, reveling in the festivities. At night, torches are lit across the Longji Rice Terraces, transforming the terraces into a magnificent landscape. Fireworks are also set off above the terraces, creating a dazzling display that adds a touch of charm to the Yao village's nightscape.
Tips:
Location: Heping Township, Longsheng County, Guilin City
Opening hours: 8:00-22:00
Ticket price: 140 yuan/person (ticket + scenic shuttle bus), children's ticket price is half the price of the scenic shuttle bus, and children under 1.1m are free of charge
Tips: If you need to stay in the mountains, you can leave your luggage at the service center or store at the foot of the mountain for about 20 yuan per piece. If you need to carry luggage up the mountain, it will be tiring. There are locals who carry backpacks for tourists along the way, and the price is about 50 yuan per piece.
In addition, there is Longji Gorge rafting in the Longji Terraces Scenic Area. The rafting section is 4.8 kilometers long with a drop of 300 meters. The rafting time is about 2.5 hours. The adult ticket is 60 yuan per person.
The river valley is lined with towering cliffs and terraced fields, and from the foot of the mountain to the top, there is lush green primeval forest. The boat swerves left and right, forward and backward, through canyons, across dangerous rapids, across rapids, around whirlpools, and over surf peaks.
Tips:
Location: Dazhai Village, Longji Rice Terraces Scenic Area
Opening hours: 9:00-17:30
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If you want to visit Guilin in the summer, you might want to refer to the above recommendations. Avoiding the high temperatures and crowds will make your trip more comfortable.
Of course, Guilin is a great place to visit year-round, with different attractions offering unique charms in different seasons. Still unsure of where to go? Follow China-TravelNote! Explore these off-the-beaten-path attractions, offering a pure, no-shopping experience for a truly memorable experience!
