Guillin is the second-largest city in Guangxi located in southern China and has been celebrated for its natural beauty for centuries. It has the hallmarks of most Chinese megalopolises but has a more relaxed feel due to its incredible location among the jagged-peak limestone karsts encompassing it. It was the first city in China to develop tourism after 1949, and children’s textbooks proclaimed ‘Guilin’s landscape as the best under heaven’ for decades. Politicians in China adored it, and the star city gladly welcomed visiting dignitaries. And today, Guilin travels are a sought after experience and the abundance of nature continues to astound.
Limestone cliffs
Guilin’s remarkable karst scenery is well-known around the globe. Its recognisable limestone mountains and complex cave systems are testaments to the creativity of nature. Millions of years of geological development produced the limestone mountains. These massive peaks rise sharply from the ground, resembling something from a classic Chinese painting with their jagged edges and lush vegetation. Because of these mountains’ distinctive look, Guilin has been included in several works of art and has piqued the curiosity of both geologists and nature enthusiasts.
The Reed Flute Cave is one of the most notable caves in Guilin. This cave, which the locals refer to as “The Palace of Natural Arts,” is a breathtaking place unto itself. The cave’s interior, lit up by vibrant artificial lighting, is home to various naturally formed stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years. Many of these formations have remarkable resemblances to animals and mythical creatures, transforming the cave into a subterranean wonderland of natural sculptures.
The Elephant Trunk Hill, located where the Li River and Peach Blossom River merge, is another well-known landmark in Guilin. The unique shape of this hill – which strikingly resembles an elephant lowering its trunk into a river – gives rise to its name. This natural wonder serves as both a breathtaking sight and a sombre reminder of Guilin’s seamless fusion of natural beauty and cultural significance. For many years, the hill served as a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and photographers. It is still a popular destination for visitors to the city.
Folded Brocade Hill (Diecai Hill)
One of Guilin’s most well-known beautiful locations is Folded Brocade Hill, also known as Diecai Hill. It’s a feature of the city’s famously attractive scenery and is recognised for both its natural beauty and historical significance. The hill’s layered look, reminiscent of folded brocade, a lavishly ornamental silk fabric, gave rise to the name “Folded Brocade Hill”. The hill is part of the larger karst landscape that characterises Guilin and is made up of a series of peaks and rocks with unique and intricate formations.
Diecai Hill is made up of many individual peaks, each with a unique viewpoint. Among the most famous are Bright Moon Peak, Siwang Hill (All-Kings Hill), and Yuyue Hill. These peaks are popular locations for sightseeing and photography because they offer expansive views of the Li River, the Guilin city, and the surrounding karst landscape. A diverse range of plants and lush greenery decorate the hill. Bamboo and other native plants line the trails that ascend the hill, creating a tranquil and lovely setting that is enjoyable to stroll through.
Several historical and cultural sites are scattered around the hill, including temples, pavilions, and ancient inscriptions. The structures enhance the hill’s historical appeal and shed light on the area’s past. A notable feature of Diecai Hill is the Wind Cave, which runs through one of the peaks. The cave is home to various stalactites, stone pillars, and rock formations. Due to natural ventilation, the cave stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Unlike some scenic spots that are far from urban areas, Folded Brocade Hill is located near the centre of Guilin city. For travellers wishing to combine their discovery of natural beauty with the conveniences and experiences of the city, this makes it a handy location.
Xingping Town
Xingping has a history spanning over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest towns along the Li River. The town is full of well-preserved examples of antique architecture, including homes and streets that are reminiscent of its illustrious history. The town is surrounded by breathtaking karst mountains, which are comparable to those in Guilin but are sometimes regarded as being much more beautiful. Guilin mountains in China are crisscrossed by the Li River, which forms a scene that perfectly embodies Guangxi’s natural splendour.
Many people claim that the Xingping region is among the most photographed in China, particularly the view from the Li River close to the town. Even the Chinese currency 20 Yuan note features this viewpoint. Xingping attracts photographers and nature lovers because of its breathtaking scenery and the chance to capture the spirit of rural China. Xingping is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, yet it still maintains the charm of a peaceful fishing village. The centuries-old practice of fishermen utilising cormorants to capture fish is still evident, adding to the town’s charm.
Xingping allows visitors to fully experience the local culture. Featuring local products and traditional crafts, the town’s marketplace provides an insight into rural China’s way of life. Hiking, bamboo rafting on the Li River, and touring neighbouring sites like the famous Nine Horses Fresco Hill and the historic fishing hamlet are all available in Xingping for people who enjoy the outdoor activities.
Lijiang Folk Customs Garden
The Lijiang Folk Customs Garden is a cultural theme park that showcases the rich ethnic heritage and traditional customs of the Lijiang River area; it’s one of the best things to do in Guilin. The Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong cultures are highlighted, honouring the many ethnic groups who call the area home. The park gives guests a comprehensive cultural experience by giving them a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles, customs and practices. The park showcases traditional buildings typical of the local ethnic communities. This includes wind and rain bridges, drum towers, meticulously designed wooden homes, and other buildings that showcase the local artisans and architectural traditions.
The variety of cultural performances and demonstrations at the Lijiang Folk Customs Garden is one of its primary attractions. These consist of folk storytelling, traditional music and dance performances, and exhibitions of regional handicrafts and artistic expressions. These shows offer a vibrant and captivating approach to comprehending and valuing regional cultures. The park also acts as a display of the area’s traditional arts and handicrafts. Watch artists at work as they create anything from silver jewellery and ceramics to elaborate needlework and batik. These crafts provide visitors with unique keepsakes in addition to serving as a representation of the communities’ creative legacy.
The garden is surrounded by picturesque magnificence, such as lush foliage and the serene Lijiang River, and is set against the backdrop of Guilin’s breathtaking natural setting. This setting improves the whole experience of visiting the park. The garden often provides participatory experiences to its guests, including traditional games and craft-making classes. Through active participation, guests can fully immerse themselves in the local way of life.
Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park
This park is especially well-known for its two pagodas, which have come to represent the city as iconic icons: the Sun Pagoda (Riyue Ta) and the Moon Pagoda (Shuangta Ta). At around 41 metres, the Sun Pagoda is the highest in the world, constructed entirely of copper. It’s painted gold and shines brilliantly in the sunlight, symbolising the sun. Alternatively, the Moon Pagoda is around 35 metres high, composed of marble, and coated in a moon-like finish. Along with being stunning pieces of architecture, these pagodas have important symbolic and cultural connotations. They are designed to reflect elements of traditional Chinese architecture and cultural beliefs, particularly the yin and yang philosophy, with the sun representing ‘yang’ and the moon representing ‘yin’.
One intriguing feature of these pagodas is that an underwater tunnel connects them, passing beneath Shanhu Lake. Visitors can stroll through this tunnel and take in the lake’s distinctive submerged perspective. The pagodas are especially beautiful at night. It’s an attractive spot for nighttime strolls and photography due to the striking reflection of the pagodas’ contrasting colours generated on the lake. With its expansive views of the surrounding region, the park showcases the natural beauty of Guilin’s landscapes, the lake, and the city’s traditional architecture.
From the iconic karst limestone formations that rise dramatically from the earth to the meandering Li River, Guilin’s landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. A Guilin tour offers the opportunity to cruise along the tranquil waters of the Li River, where every bend reveals a new vista of mist-shrouded peaks and emerald-green rice paddies. Meanwhile, exploring the ancient streets of Guilin’s city centre immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Chinese history and culture.
As you venture through Guilin, China, you’ll discover a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, leaving an indelible impression on all who visit. So, embark on a trip to Guilin and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this enchanting corner of China.
