Guilin and Yangshuo, Walking Among the Peaks

Guilin and Yangshuo sit in southern China, where karst peaks rise above the rivers. The classic route is the Li River cruise from Guilin down to Yangshuo. This guide pairs the cruise with village time.

Guilin city has Elephant Trunk Hill and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, while Yangshuo splits into West Street, Yulong River rafting, and the Ten-Mile Gallery bike loop.

The bottom line: split the cruise and the stay in Yangshuo

Take the Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, then stay a day or two in Yangshuo. Add a day if you want the Longji rice terraces.

Key sights: the Li River and Yangshuo

The Li River cruise runs from Guilin to Yangshuo in a little over four hours, passing the stretch famous for appearing on a banknote.

• West Street in Yangshuo is the town's best-known lane.
• Bamboo rafts run on the Yulong River.
• The Ten-Mile Gallery is a bike loop.

Guilin city and the Longji terraces

In Guilin itself, Elephant Trunk Hill and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, known for its night lights, are the highlights.

The Longji rice terraces lie about two hours toward Longsheng and are known for walks between the paddies. The large Ping'an and Dazhai villages are the main bases.

Getting there: air and rail

Guilin is served by Liangjiang International Airport, about 40 minutes from the city. High-speed trains leave from Guilin North and Guilin stations.

Getting around in the city and Yangshuo

Guilin city runs on buses and taxis, while bikes and e-scooters are handy in Yangshuo. Taking the cruise means you do not have to carry your luggage from Guilin to Yangshuo.

Suggested 5-day itinerary

Food and practical notes

Guilin's signature dish is Guilin rice noodles. In Yangshuo, try beer fish and local vegetable dishes.

• In the May-June rainy season, Li River water levels can affect cruise schedules.
• Summers are hot and humid.
• Check safety gear for rafts and bikes.