Don't Go to Guilin This Summer! Because It's Just Too Amazing!!!

Unlock the Hidden Gems of Guilin's Landscapes! This Complete Travel Guide Helps You Experience Luxury

People always say "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven," but without a reliable guide, you might miss the essence of even the most beautiful landscapes! As a travel expert who has explored Guilin in depth multiple times, I'm sharing my insider tips. If you're preparing for your trip, save this guide now!

Must-Read Pre-Departure Essentials!

Documents and Equipment

- Documents: Always carry your ID card; students, teachers, and military personnel should bring relevant credentials for special discounts at certain attractions
- Electronic devices: Besides standard chargers and power banks, consider bringing a tripod (perfect for night photography) and waterproof phone cases (essential for river rafting)
- Sun protection: Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV400 sunglasses, and breathable sun-protective clothing; those concerned about tanning should also bring arm sleeves and face covers

Transportation Guide

- By air: Fly directly to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, then take the airport shuttle (20 yuan/person) or taxi (about 50 yuan) to downtown
- By high-speed rail: Guilin has three major stations
- Guilin Station: The traditional downtown station with plenty of food options nearby, just 1.5 kilometers from Elephant Trunk Hill
- Guilin North Station: Larger with more train options, ideal for travelers coming from northern China
- Guilin West Station: Fewer trains but convenient for those heading to the Longji Rice Terraces

A Taste of Guilin! Local Food Map

1. Guilin Rice Noodles 2.0: Don't just order the basic version! Locals love adding crispy pork belly, braised eggs, and pickled beans, topped with secret sauce—mix well before slurping for the best flavor
2. New way to enjoy Yangshuo Beer Fish: Try it with "sword bone fish," which has firm meat with fewer bones; stewed in Lijiang beer and paired with Lijiang river shrimp, it's incredibly delicious
3. Hidden delicacy: Order "boat cake" at oil tea shops and dip it in savory oil tea—unlock the secret to a happy Guilin breakfast
4. Night market must-tries: Stuffed snails at Zhengyang Walking Street, bamboo tube rice at Nuoxiang Station, and Wen Ji snails on Chongshan Road—each bite bursting with local flavor

Immersive Experience! 4-Day 3-Night In-Depth Itinerary

Day 1: City Walk Through the Old Town

- Morning: Stroll around Rong Lake and Shan Lake, visit the glass bridge, photograph the "Sun and Moon Pagodas" reflections
- Noon: Slurp noodles at Chongshan Rice Noodle Shop, add pork trotters for extra satisfaction
- Afternoon: Explore the Ming and Qing architecture in East-West Alley, enjoy a panoramic city view from Xiaoyao Tower
- Evening: Take a night cruise on the Two Rivers and Four Lakes; recommended: Zhiyin cruise ship to experience the collision of light and landscapes

Day 2: Karst Wonders Day Trip

- Morning: Climb Xianggong Mountain for a bird's-eye view of the first bend of Li River; photographers should arrive early for morning mist shots
- Noon: Try small Li River fish at Xingping Ancient Town, visit the scenic spot featured on the 20 yuan banknote
- Afternoon: Explore Silver Cave with its colorful stalactites; locals say "visit Silver Cave and never lack money in your lifetime"
- Evening: Bar-hopping on West Street; recommended: listen to folk music at Da Bing's House and experience Yangshuo nightlife

Day 3: Cycling Through Landscape Paintings

- Morning: Rent an electric bike and ride along the Ten-Mile Gallery, with key stops at Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree
- Noon: Dine at Chun Ji Roast Goose, must-try dishes include crispy roast goose and custard buns
- Afternoon: Choose the "Golden Dragon Bridge to Jiuxian" section for Yulong River rafting with 9 exciting dams; the bamboo raft guides are excellent photographers
- Evening: Enjoy beer fish dinner on West Street; recommended: Master Chef's award-winning beer fish

Day 4: Exploring Hidden Gems

- Morning: Visit Huixian Glass Fields, which rival Yunnan's Yuanyang during rainy season with mirror-like reflections
- Noon: Taste lotus leaf steamed pork at a nearby farmhouse
- Afternoon: Before heading home, browse East-West Alley for souvenirs like osmanthus cake and monk fruit

Insider Tips! Secrets Locals Won't Tell You

1. Bamboo rafting: Remember to bargain for Yulong River rafting—you can negotiate from 255 yuan/raft down to 200 yuan during non-holiday periods
2. Tourist area spending: Be cautious when buying fruit from stalls near attractions; better to shop at Baisheng Supermarket downtown
3. Transportation tip: For Yangshuo to Xingping, shared cars (20 yuan/person) are more time-efficient than buses
4. Best photo spot: The best angle to photograph Elephant Trunk Hill is from Zizhou Park, with 270° unobstructed views

Save this guide to measure Guilin's landscapes with your footsteps and taste the flavors of Guangxi with your palate. You'll surely fall in love with this poetic city! 🌟

Post by Butler Jacqueline Jacq | Apr 22, 2025

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