The saying "Guilin's landscapes are the finest under heaven" has long been celebrated. Located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin captivates millions of visitors with its magnificent karst limestone peaks reflected in the tranquil Li River, creating a vivid and ethereal ink-wash painting come to life. Indeed, this beauty is so spectacular that the Chinese government chose to feature it prominently on the reverse side of the 20-yuan banknote.
Guilin, China
What Makes Guilin a Magnet for Travelers Worldwide?
Spectacular Karst Landscapes: Thousands of limestone peaks in diverse shapes reflect in clear blue waters, all enveloped by lush, year-round greenery.
The "20-Yuan Note" Landmark: Experience a bamboo raft ride to view the real-life scenery featured on China's 20-yuan banknote.
Cultural Atmosphere and Dazzling Nightlife: Explore bustling ancient districts and enjoy spectacular live-action performances directed by the renowned Zhang Yimou.
Must-Visit Destinations in Guilin
Li River Cruise - Viewing the "20-Yuan Note" Landmark
A Li River cruise is the highlight of the trip. As your boat drifts gently along the cool waters, you will pass Huangbu Beach, the exact spot offering the view that matches the image on the back of the 20-yuan banknote. The sight of mountain peaks emerging through the mist creates an ethereal atmosphere, making you feel as though you have wandered into a fairyland.
Yangshuo Ancient Town and West Street
Yangshuo is a charming destination offering a peaceful pace of life by day and a vibrant atmosphere by night. With a history spanning over 1,400 years, Yangshuo’s West Street features a unique blend of traditional Guangxi architecture and modern, Western-style bars and cafes that come alive with dazzling lights after dark.
Elephant Trunk Hill - The Symbol of Guilin
Situated at the confluence of the Li and Peach Blossom Rivers, this natural limestone formation bears a striking resemblance to a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the water to drink. It is the city's most famous landmark, frequently featured on postcards of Guilin.
Reed Flute Cave - A Magical Labyrinth of Stalactites
Dubbed "Nature's Art Palace," Reed Flute Cave transports visitors into a realm of stalactites formed over millions of years, displaying a myriad of fascinating shapes. A colorful lighting system transforms the cave's interior into a mystical, labyrinthine world.
Longji Rice Terraces
Visiting the Longji Rice Terraces during the irrigation season (May) or the golden harvest season (September - October) treats you to a magnificent spectacle: cascading tiers of rice fields that curve steeply along the mountainside, cultivated by the local Yao and Zhuang ethnic communities.
Ly River
Guilin Cuisine - Must-Try Delicacies
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Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen): A quintessential local specialty featuring soft yet chewy rice noodles served with crispy-skinned roast pork or beef, fried tofu, and pickled bamboo shoots, all topped with a rich, savory bone broth.
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Yangshuo Beer Fish: Fresh fish caught from the Li River is lightly fried and then braised with beer, tomatoes, chili peppers, and signature spices; the fish's natural sweetness blends with the beer's subtle bitterness, creating a flavor that pairs perfectly with rice.
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Bamboo Tube Rice: Fragrant, sticky rice cooked inside a sealed bamboo tube over glowing charcoal, accompanied by smoked pork and mung beans.
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Osmanthus Tea: Savor a cup of osmanthus tea, renowned for its delicate, soothing fragrance, the perfect way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
Que Lam Fermented Fish Noodle Soup
HANDY TRAVEL TIPS:
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Have a 20-Yuan note ready: Don't forget to carry a crisp, clean 20-Yuan note to use as a photo prop, hold it up to compare directly with the actual scenery on the Li River!
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Best time to visit: Autumn (September to November) is ideal, offering dry, cool weather and calm, clear blue river waters.
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What to wear: Pack vibrant outfits (red, yellow, or white) to stand out against the lush green mountains and river, and bring comfortable sneakers for easy walking in Yangshuo.
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Simple procedures: Bon Bon Travel’s all-inclusive tours facilitate quick group visa processing for China; all that is required is a photo of your passport and a portrait photo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is proof of financial means required for a visa to visit Guilin?
Not at all! Travelers joining Bon Bon Travel’s group tours use a simplified group visa, so there is no need to provide proof of income or assets.
Is the "Impression Sanjie Liu" live-action show worth the price?
Absolutely! This is a spectacular outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, featuring a cast of over 600 actors and utilizing the Li River and twelve surrounding peaks as a natural stage.
The breathtaking landscape of Guilin is a priceless gift bestowed by nature upon China. Contact Bon Bon Travel today to book an all-inclusive Guilin-Yangshuo tour and create unforgettable memories!