Best of Guilin Attractions & Luxury Tours, China

Considered to be China’s most picturesque city, Guilin provides stunning views of mountains and unique limestone rock formations riddled with caves, all nestled amongst two beautiful rivers, the Li and Zhongshan Lu. In Guilin, ranked second out of 10 best China destinations, you can behold stone forests and the Karst (limestone) caves within this subtropical region which allows for a wonderful and memorable China tour.

Sail along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes of Guilin and behold its gorgeous modern and natural views whose routes can be enjoyed at both day and night hours. Take in the beauty of the Li River on a tour that offers breathtaking scenery which has attracted artists and poets for centuries as well as such celebrities as Bill Gates and former US Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton.

Because of its unique limestone structure, many exotic caves exist in Guilin. Explore the massive Water Cave which is the longest in the region, extending through three mountains and was used by the locals during WWII as a refuge from Japanese soldiers. Gaze upon the natural gallery of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites in the popular Reed Flute Cave where you will enjoy touring with such modern sightseeing conveniences as yachts, a small train, elevator and slow moving roller coaster.

Behold Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural tunnel structure within the city on the Li River that is considered to be the symbol of Guilin. Venture to Folded Brocade Hill where you can view incredible surroundings and enjoy dozens of ancient stone carvings which exist inside Wind Cave.

You might also want to visit Fubo Hill which jets out into the Li River and contains Pearl-Returning cave and the Thousand-Buddha Cave housing 250 Buddhist statues and numerous wall inscriptions. Kuishui Pavilion is located at the top where visitors can capture amazing views of the Li River.

Yulong River tours offer incredible glimpses of limestone (Karst) scenery which you can enjoy while reclining on lounge chair built onto a local raft. There exist various swimming holes along the river so be sure to take along a swimsuit and towel. This tour will also carry you under the Yu Long Bridge which lies along a road leading to Yangshuo village.

Within Guilin, experience the beauty of Seven Star Park which is the largest in Guilin and has gorgeous rock formations, caves, rivers and hills to explore. Don’t miss visiting the Seven Star Cave which, along with Reed Flute Cave, is the largest in China. Visit Daxu Ancient Town, established at the start of the Song dynasty, and take walking tours amongst its ancient buildings which include architectural achievements from the Qing and Ming dynasties. A variety of interesting shops exist in this area as well.

Two hours outside of Quilin lay the Longji Terraces which are worth a day trip. Built into the hillsides for efficient land usage and irrigation, the rice terraces run around the existing hillsides like a long chain of ribbons.

Special Culinary Experiences

Gouwei Wang – This restaurant specializes in Guilin local cuisines where you can dine surrounded by beautiful cultural decorations.

Yiyuan Restaurant – For those who enjoy spicy dishes, Yiyuan serves a variety of dishes made with chilis and garlic, served in a quaint and antique atmosphere.

Meiyou – A featured restaurant and bar experience while in Guilin, enjoy both Oriental and Western dishes in the midst of a bright and lively atmosphere. You might want to enter Meiyou in the evening when the bustling nightlife begins.

Interesting/Unique Accommodations

Lijiang Waterfall Hotel – For the absolute best luxury accommodations while visiting Guilin, book at the Lijiang which is conveniently located near downtown, 3 kilometers from the railway station and 25 kilometers from the Guilin Liangjiang International Airport.

Guilin Park Hotel – This beautiful hotel sits poetically on the edge of Gui Lake and close to Laoren Hill offering its guests incredible views and a quiet environment. The establishment’s stunning Chinese architecture and close proximity to travel hubs adds to its allure.

Royal Garden Hotel – A wonderful Guilin hotel situated on the banks of the scenic Li River and facing the impressive Fubo Mountain and Piled Silk Hill. This 5 star luxury hotel is located near downtown and provides a tennis court, fitness area with sauna and swimming pool. It also houses a garden café where guests can dine on Cantonese, Japanese, Sichuan and Western cuisines.

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