Published : 2025-05-08
Guilin, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, has long been famous both at home and abroad for its enchanting landscapes. It is one of the must-visit cities in Guangxi.
Recently, a Hong Kong airline has launched regular direct flights to Guilin, taking less than two hours to reach the destination, making it a potential new choice for Hong Kong residents for quick trips to mainland China.
This article will list 3 must-visit attractions in Guilin, along with recommendations for local delicious food. Let's start our journey right away!
Lijiang: The poetic and picturesque karst landscape
When it comes to the essence of Guilin’s landscapes, the Lijiang River is undoubtedly the highlight.
It is not only one of the first national key scenic spots but also the largest and most beautiful karst landscape area in the world, enjoying an esteemed reputation.
Lijiang Scenic Area, centred on Guilin City, starts from the Lingqu Canal in Xing'an in the north and ends in Yangshuo in the south.
The picturesque river runs along the route, with towering and majestic peaks on both sides, forming the unique karst landscape - soluable rocks shaped by water erosion and dissolution over millennia.
There are generally three ways to tour the Li River: by cruise ship, bamboo raft, or hiking.
The official "Li River Essence Tour" water route has been established, stretching 60 kilometers from Mopan Mountain Wharf (Zhujiang Wharf) to the Yangshuo section of the Li River.
The journey concludes at Yangshuo Longtou Mountain Wharf and takes approximately four hours.
Along the route, visitors can admire highlights of the Li River"s extraordinary karst landscapes and crystal waters, including scenic spots like Yellow Ox Gorge, Immortal Stone of the Waiting Wife, Nine Oxen and Three Islets, Crown Cave, Embroidery Hill, and Yellow Cloth Reflection.
Notably, the "Yellow Cloth Reflection" landscape serves as the iconic scenery featured on the 20 RMB banknote.
Read more: How many places featured on the RMB have you visited?
Longji Rice Terraces: A breathtaking seasonal landscape
Another must-see attraction in Guilin is the Longji Rice Terraces, also known as Longsheng Rice Terraces.
They were first built during the Yuan Dynasty, nearly 700 years ago, and are located at altitudes ranging from 300 metres to 1,100 metres. It takes about an hour's drive from Guilin city centre to reach the terraces.
The Longji Rice Terraces are primarily divided into three scenic areas: Ping'an Zhuang Rice Terrace Scenic Area, Jinkeng Rice Terraces (Dazhai Yao Scenic Area), and Longji Ancient Zhuang Village Terraces.
The ancient Zhuang village terraces are the origin of Zhuang rice terraces.
Besides its rich cultural heritage, the most captivating aspect of the Longji Rice Terraces is its stunning scenery throughout the four distinct seasons.
For example, from July to September is the best time to admire the sea of flowers, and from late September to November, you can enjoy the impressive sight of mountains covered with golden rice ears.
In winter, it's as if you’ve entered a snowy paradise, which is romantic and enchanting.
Read more: What are the "Four Treasures" of the Longji Rice Terraces in Guilin?
The Sun and Moon Pagodas: The world's largest bronze towers
Located in the centre of Guilin city and adjacent to the famous scenic spot Elephant Trunk Hill, the Sun and Moon Pagodas are unique antique-style bronze towers.
One is to the east (Moon), and one is to the west (Sun), symbolizing the sun and the moon respectively.
Don't be deceived by the seeming simplicity of the Sun and Moon Pagodas; they actually have notable distinctions, holding three world records!
They are the tallest bronze structures in the world, the tallest water tower in the world, and the tallest bronze tower in the world.
The Sun Tower, located to the south, stands 41 metres tall with 9 stories. Its walls are decorated with magnificent bronze murals, giving it a grand appearance.
The Moon Tower, to the east, stands 35 metres tall with 7 stories, featuring bronze craftsmanship with elegant, ancient-style bronze doors and windows and flying eaves, making it distinct, also known as the coloured glaze tower.
Every evening at dusk, the Sun and Moon Pagodas illuminate with the Sun Tower glowing golden and the Moon Tower emitting a silvery-white light, reflecting beautifully in the lake.
It is recommended to visit the Sun and Moon Pagodas from dusk to evening, where you can climb the towers and enjoy the splendid night view of Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes from above, a feast for the eyes.
When you arrive in Guilin, you certainly can't miss the internationally renowned Guilin Rice Noodles!
Although there are two ways to enjoy Guilin Rice Noodles - dry or soup-based, the dry version is actually more authentic. The spicy, flavorful rice noodles, paired with a bowl of bone broth, just the thought of it makes one drool.
Beer Fish is also one of the must-eat authentic dishes in Guilin. As the name implies, Beer Fish is fish cooked with beer.
After being deep-fried at high temperatures, the fish becomes golden and crispy, accompanied by the aroma formed by the blend of beer and various spices.
One bite allows you to enjoy the dual taste sensation of the scent of beer and the freshness of fish!
