Guilin, Guangxi Travel Guide

Truly living up to its reputation as having the "finest scenery under heaven"! My 4-day, 3-night trip to Guilin and Yangshuo showed me the most breathtaking natural landscapes🏞️. Here's a hands-on guide to help you plan your itinerary wisely, avoid crowds, and experience the essence of Guilin!

🌊Day 1: Classic Highlights in Guilin City
📍Elephant Trunk Hill Park (¥50 admission): A must-see city emblem! Best visited in the morning for fewer crowds and better photos. The park is small - 1 hour is sufficient.
📍Dongxi Alley (Free): A Ming-Qing style pedestrian street, especially beautiful when lit at night. Try the Old Street Danzi Rice Noodles here.
📍Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise (¥210 boat ticket): Highly recommended! Stunning night views. Arrive early to secure a good spot for photographing the Sun and Moon Pagodas.

🌿Day 2: Yangshuo's Scenic Beauty
Morning Li River Cruise (Mopanshan Pier to Yangshuo, 4 hours): Choose the 9am departure for fewer crowds and better views. Box lunches on board cost ¥35 - better bring snacks.
Afternoon electric bike rental (¥30/day) for Ten-Mile Gallery ride: Stop at attractions like Butterfly Spring and Big Banyan Tree for photos.
Evening Impression Liu Sanjie show (¥198 standard ticket): An impressive outdoor performance - don't forget mosquito repellent.

⛰️Day 3: Longji Terraces Day Trip
(Recommended to join a local tour - 4-hour roundtrip)
Golden terraces in October are spectacular! Wear anti-slip shoes as reaching viewpoints requires hiking. Must try the bamboo tube rice in the villages.

🍜Food Recommendations:
✅Guilin Rice Noodles (Lao Dongjiang Main Store): Incredible value at ¥5 for 100g!
✅Yangshuo Beer Fish (Sister Xie's Beer Fish): Freshly prepared Li River fish
✅Oil Tea: Unique Dong ethnic snack - might take some getting used to

📌Practical Tips:
1. Book Li River cruise tickets 3 days in advance - upper deck seats offer better views
2. Apply sunscreen for Ten-Mile Gallery bike ride - bargain at fruit stalls along the way
3. October is peak season at Longji Terraces - arrive at viewpoints before 7am to avoid crowds
4. All tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance on Ctrip than at the gate