Difficult decision. Yangshuo V Guilin

I arrive in Yangshuo on a Thursday evening end of October) - have 3 nights booked there. Train from Guilin late Tuesday evening.

My question is do I stay in Yangshuo and do a trip to Guilin for sightseeing or is it better to change location on Sunday?

thanks

Your decision between staying in Yangshuo for the whole period or moving to Guilin depends on how you prefer to balance relaxation, scenery, and sightseeing logistics.

If you stay in Yangshuo for all three nights, you will enjoy a more relaxed pace and immerse yourself in the stunning karst landscape, which is the main highlight of the area. Yangshuo offers:

  • Scenic activities like cycling through the countryside, bamboo rafting on the Li River, and visiting Moon Hill or Yulong River.
  • A lively but charming West Street area with restaurants, cafes, and evening entertainment.
  • Less hassle with packing and moving hotels; you can use Yangshuo as a base and do a day trip to Guilin if desired.

Alternatively, changing location on Sunday to Guilin has some advantages:

  • You will be closer to Guilin’s main attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and Seven Star Park without needing a long day trip from Yangshuo.
  • It reduces the stress of catching your late Tuesday evening train from Guilin, as you’ll already be in the city.
  • It allows you to experience both the tranquil countryside of Yangshuo and Guilin’s urban sights more comfortably.

Practical suggestions:

  • If your main interest is scenic countryside, adventure, and relaxation, stay in Yangshuo and make a day trip to Guilin on Monday.
  • If you prefer convenience for catching your train and seeing Guilin’s urban attractions, move to Guilin on Sunday and explore Yangshuo thoroughly over the first few days.
  • Traveling between Yangshuo and Guilin is straightforward (about 1.5 hours by bus or shuttle), so either option is feasible.

In conclusion, staying in Yangshuo for the entire period is ideal for a relaxed, scenic experience, while moving to Guilin offers convenience for city sightseeing and train departure logistics. Your choice should depend on whether you prioritize scenery or logistical ease.


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