Guilin China

Located in the southern region of China, only a few hours away from the exciting city of Beijing, Guilin China is one of the most picturesque cities in the area. Renowned for its limestone karst hills, beautiful mountains, and scenic winding rivers that add special definition to Guilin tours. These wonderful geographic elements present plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure. One of the best times to visit is during autumn when the changing colors along throughout the hillsides and valleys create a brilliant panorama.

Guilin China is the capital of the Guangxi Province and is named after the lovely fragrance of the Osmanthus tree. First established as a city during the first century BC, and once a prominent trading post under the Ming Dynasty, Guilin is situated on the western banks of the River Kuei. Culture and history are extremely important aspects during Guilin tours. The history of Guilin dates back more than 2,000 years making it an economic, cultural, and political cornerstone of Guangxi province. With twelve ethnic groups making up a city of more than one million people, culture is one of the most fascinating aspects of the historic city.

Travel to Guilin is popular and there is a large number of attractions to explore. Within the area around beautiful Guilin Peak, there are more than thirty spectacular scenic areas to see during vacations to Guilin. Elephant Trunk Hill is the most notable of all Guilin attractions and is considered the main attribute of the city. Standing elegantly in the heart of the city, travel to Guilin isn't complete without a visit to this majestic site. The hill, shaped as it's name implies, is found at the junction of Peach Blossom and Li River and is one of the most important stops during vacations to Guilin. With two fascinating caves to explore in the area, and Puxian Pagoda standing proudly on the top of the hill, this is one of the most beautiful and scenic spots in the area boasting the best of things to do in the area.

Pagoda Hill is another of the famous attractions to visit during travel to Guilin. Located in the southern section of the city, the pagoda has a hexagonal shape and is home to a large collection of interesting stone Buddha figures. Notable for its special shape, Pagoda Hill is beautifully reflected in the Xiaodong and Lijiang Rivers, creating quite a sight. Though not as spectacular or ornate as famous Lama Temple, Pagoda Hill is a unique and beautiful site to visit.

Renowned for its incredible stone pillars, stalagmites, stone curtains, flora, and fauna, Reed Flute Hill is another must-see during travel to Guilin. Located only five kilometers northwest of the city's core, this ethereal attraction is known as "the Palace of Natural Arts." Inside, the scene is breathtaking, with the natural formations creating a visual effect of glistening colors. Other excellent Guilin attractions to note include the Guilin Art Museum, sprawling Seven Star Park, and the incredible Jingjiang Palace & Mausoleum where history is alive during a walk throughout.

The most popular of all tours in Guilin is a cruise along the Lijiang, or Li River to Yangshuo. Much like visiting The Great Wall or the site of the Terra Cotta Warriors, a cruise down the Li River is a must-do when visiting China. With many China cruises leaving Guilin daily, this scenic day trip sails by many of the most dramatic spots in the surrounding area. With more than thirty miles to cover, impressive hills, pagodas, cliffs, and peaks are passed along the river. Upon arriving to Yangshuo, visitors get a chance to explore the one-thousand-year-old village before heading back to Guilin. The best time to go to Guilin for a Li River cruise is during the months of April, May, September, and October when water levels are sufficient. From April through August the rainy season is in full swing so be sure to arrive prepared with rain gear.

Guilin's most popular area with tourists is thriving Zhengyang Pedestrian Street. This pedestrian thoroughfare is in downtown Guilin and is surrounded by Guilin hotels, scenic areas, theaters, and many flourishing commercial establishments. There are many things to do and see while walking around the tourist hub with shopping and dining taking the lead. For those looking for exciting nightlife, Zhengyang Pedestrian Street is the place to go.

Travel to Guilin via air is the most popular way to get there with the train coming in second. Regular flights from Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and Macau are available and often quite affordable. The larger hotels in the city provide shuttles from the airport for guests while CAAC Shanghai Road offers shuttle service for those heading to the airport. Once you've arrived, transportation around Guilin is easy and convenient. Bicycles and taxis are the most affordable means of getting around during vacations to Guilin. Exploring on bicycle presents one of the best opportunities to see the city. An in-depth look at the lives of locals is much more attainable when cycling through the many alleys and charming streets. Stopping for a meal at a local restaurant, poking your head into small shops and stalls and taking in the backdrop offers an intimate way to see areas of Guilin China off the beaten path.