Top attractions in Guilin, China

According to the Chinese, Guilin has “the finest landscape under heaven” and the surrounding scenery has inspired Chinese landscape paintings for centuries. It even features on the Chinese 20 Yuan banknote. If you are having plan to Guilin, here are 6 attractions for you.

Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

In May, the still-unplanted terraces of water will mirror the white clouds and color of the sky above, yielding some of the best opportunities for photographers to shoot the sunrise. As harvest season approaches in early fall, venturing out onto the mountain slopes gives travelers the chance to witness Zhuang farmers covering the slopes, bending down into the harvest and tending to the intricate bamboo and earthen irrigation systems which give life to the mountainside.

Li River

Cruising from Guilin to Yangshuo, a water way around 80 km (50 miles), is also called Li River Essence Tour. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Guilin. Along the way, the blue sky, green mountains with strange rocks and the clear water compose a beautiful painting. Boarding on a comfortable cruise to appreciate the attractions like Yellow Cloth Shoal which was printed on the note CNY 20 will really be an unforgettable experience.

Bamboo Rafting Yangshuo

Bamboo rafting along the Yulong River was definitely one of the highlights of our Guilin trip. This Yangshuo River is a small tributary of the great Li River and bamboo rafting along here is one of the most popular things to do in Yangshuo.

You can cycle through the countryside to reach the bamboo rafting launch site, but be aware that you first need to navigate the city traffic and so you will need to decide if you are comfortable doing this with your kids on board.

Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill is located in the center of Guilin City and it is one of the most famous landmark sceneries. The shape of the hill is like a giant elephant sucking the water from Li River with its nose. That is why its name is Elephant Trunk Hill. On the hill, there is a brick tower Puxian Pagoda which was built in Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644). Another good place to see the Hill is Love Island which is to the north of the Hill. You cannot miss the interesting Elephant Trunk Hill and it deserves one of the best places to visit in Guilin.

The Reed Flute Cave

A natural beauty and a must-see if you are looking for more things to do in Guilin. A 15-minute taxi ride away, the Reed Flute cave area offers fantastic views and a fun day out.

You pay a 120RMB entrance fee which is pretty high, but you will probably spend a few hours there so you will get your money’s worth. The caves themselves are situated relatively high up. You will either need to jump on the train and pay 35RMB or walk up the steep stairs. The stair option gives you the chance to view your surroundings, but you will be knackered by the end of it!

Pedestrian Street

Photo Cavinteo

Most cities have these but each will be different. You will always find at least one thing that will interest or shock you. About a ten minute walk from Guihu Lake, the pedestrian street is buzzing with food, clothes and toy stalls.

Lined with shops, bars and restaurants too, you are guaranteed to find somewhere you will want to check out. There are turnings off the main street, wander down here and you will find more authentic restaurants and bars.

Source Internet