Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its lush mountains, winding rivers, and unique limestone formations, it’s no wonder that Guilin is a popular tourist destination. In this post, we will provide a guide to some of the most recommended routes for tourists visiting Guilin, including the Li River Cruise, Longji Rice Terrace, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Reed Flute Cave.
Route 1: Li River Cruise
The Li River Cruise is a must-do for any tourist visiting Guilin. The cruise takes you along the Li River, which is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and picturesque rural landscapes. The cruise starts in Guilin and ends in Yangshuo, a small town known for its picturesque West Street and vibrant night market.
During the cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the area’s most iconic sights, such as Elephant Trunk Hill, a limestone formation that looks like an elephant drinking water, and Crown Cave, a limestone cave with a unique arch-like shape. You’ll also pass by small villages and farms where you can see local people going about their daily lives.
To make the most of your Li River Cruise experience, we recommend taking the early morning cruise to avoid the crowds and to catch the best light for photography. It’s also a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater, as the boat can get chilly.
Route 2: Longji Rice Terrace
The Longji Rice Terrace is another must-see destination in Guilin. Located in the Longsheng County, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Guilin, the terraces are a series of terraced rice paddies that are built along the steep slopes of the mountains. The terraces are divided into three main areas: Dazhai, Ping’an, and Jinkeng.
The best time to visit the Longji Rice Terrace is from May to October, when the rice is growing and the terraces are a lush green. During this time, you’ll also have the opportunity to see local people working in the fields. If you visit in the off-season, the terraces will be dry and brown.
To fully appreciate the beauty of the terraces, we recommend taking one of the hiking trails that lead to the top of the mountain. From the top, you’ll have a panoramic view of the terraces and the surrounding mountains.
Route 3: Elephant Trunk Hill
Elephant Trunk Hill is one of Guilin’s most iconic sights. As the name suggests, the hill is shaped like an elephant drinking water. The hill is located in the center of Guilin and is easily accessible by foot.
The best time to visit Elephant Trunk Hill is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is best for photography. There is a small park at the base of the hill where you can relax and take in the views.
Route 4: Reed Flute Cave
The Reed Flute Cave is a limestone cave located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of Guilin. The cave is known for its stunning rock formations and colorful lighting.
The cave is open all year round, but the best time to visit is at night when the cave is lit up with colorful lights. Inside the cave, you’ll see a variety of rock formations, including “crystal palace,” “lions,” and “flower and fruit mountain.”
To fully appreciate the beauty of the cave, we recommend taking the guided tour, which will provide information about the history and formation of the cave.
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Conclusion
Guilin is a city with a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, and these four recommended routes are just a small sampling of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re cruising down the Li River, hiking through the Longji Rice Terrace, admiring the Elephant Trunk Hill, or exploring the Reed Flute Cave, Guilin is sure to leave a lasting impression.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend planning ahead, researching the best times to visit each attraction, and bringing comfortable shoes for walking and hiking. And don’t forget to also explore other parts of Guilin such as the city’s many temples, parks, and shopping streets.
With its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and friendly locals, Guilin is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
