Guilin, a city renowned for its captivating karst landscapes, boasts numerous scenic spots that attract tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the must - visit attractions in Guilin in 2025.
Li River
The Li River is the epitome of Guilin's scenery. The 83 - kilometer waterway from Mopanshan Wharf to Yangshuo Longtou Mountain connects more than 20 classic landscapes, including the Nine - Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow - Cloth Reflection. Travelers can take a three - star or four - star cruise ship (with meals included) or take a bamboo raft to experience the Yangdi - Xingping section. It is advisable to book in advance. A hidden way to enjoy the Li River is to bring a 20 - yuan RMB note and take a photo at Xingping Ancient Town, where the background pattern of the note is located. Additionally, you can climb Laozhai Mountain to overlook the First Bend of the Li River, but make sure to wear non - slip shoes as it requires some physical effort.
Elephant Trunk Hill
As the symbol of Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill extends 108 meters into the Li River, looking like an elephant drinking water. During the day, visitors can admire the "Elephant - Trunk - in - Water Moon" wonder. At night, a light show transforms the mountain into a dynamic canvas. Although there is a bamboo - raft project in the scenic area, it is recommended to view the hill from afar to avoid low - value - for - money experiences.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes
Taking a night cruise through the Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake, visitors can enjoy more than 10 landscapes such as the Sun - Moon Twin Towers and the Glass Bridge. It is recommended to choose an open - air seat on the lower deck for better photo - taking. For those who prefer a free - of - charge option, there is a viewing platform near Wenchang Bridge where you can capture the classic scene of the tower's reflection in the water.
Yangshuo
- Yulong River Bamboo - Rafting: The Jinhuaqiao - Jiuxian section has 9 drops, and the Shui'edi - Wanjing section has 4 drops. The latter is recommended as it takes about 1 hour. The cycling path along the Yulong River is known as the "Most Beautiful Cycling Route in China", and renting an electric bike allows you to explore freely.
- Xingping Ancient Town: It is the shooting location of the 20 - yuan RMB note's background. Ming and Qing - style buildings such as the ancient stage and Guandi Temple are well - preserved here. It is suggested to visit in the early morning or evening to avoid the tourist crowds. You can also dress in Hanfu to take photos in the ancient alleys or rent a fisherman's costume to experience the "Li River Fishing Fire".
- Yangshuo West Street: This thousand - year - old street combines modern business with a rich cultural heritage. The aroma of beer - cooked fish and coffee fills the air. It is recommended to visit the night market to watch intangible cultural heritage performances such as the Third Sister's Antiphonal Singing and the Li River Fisherman's Drum.
Longsheng
- Longji Terraced Fields: In April, the terraced fields are filled with water, looking like mirrors; in June, they are covered with green waves; and in October, they are covered with golden ears of rice. It is recommended to stay in Ping'an Village or Jinkeng Dazhai to experience the Yao ethnic group's culture. You can watch the sunrise at the Seven - Star - with - the - Moon Viewing Platform in the early morning and participate in the long - drum dance bonfire party in the evening.
- Huangluo Yao Village: Known as the "Longest - Haired Village in the World", the average length of women's hair in the village is 1.6 meters. Visitors can experience intangible cultural heritage items such as Yao embroidery and Yao medicine foot - baths, or rent ethnic - group costumes for photos.