Li River & limestone mountains
Guilin
Guìlín · Karst peaks & river dreams
The landscape on the back of the 20-yuan note. Guilin and neighboring Yangshuo cradle the Li River in a dreamscape of jade karst peaks, bamboo rafts and mist — some of the most iconic scenery in China.
Top sightsSights
Li River cruise
Drift from Guilin to Yangshuo past the postcard karst peaks — the definitive journey.
Yangshuo & West Street
A backpacker hub of cafes, cycling routes and river villages amid the peaks.
Longji Rice Terraces
Sculpted mountainsides of shimmering terraces tended by Zhuang and Yao villages.
Reed Flute Cave
A vast, floodlit limestone cavern of surreal stalactites.
Elephant Trunk Hill
Guilin's emblem — a hill shaped like an elephant drinking from the river.
What to eatFood
Guilin rice noodles
Silky noodles in savory broth — the local staple, morning to night.
Beer fish
Yangshuo's signature — fresh river fish braised in beer and chili.
Stuffed Li River snails
River snails stuffed with pork and herbs.
Good to know
- Base in Yangshuo for the best peaks, not just Guilin city.
- Cruises and terraces are best April–October; winter can be misty.
- Rent a bike or e-scooter to explore the countryside lanes.
Getting there
Guilin Liangjiang Airport (KWL) and high-speed rail to Guangzhou (2.5h) and Nanning (2h).
Next city
Xi'an