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Guilin Mountains are one of the most beautiful in China. It is famous for its wonderful natural monuments and is situated on the bank of the Li River in the Southern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Guilin's beauty inspired people to give very poetic names to some of the local places of interest, such as Elephant Trunk Hill, Xianggong Mountain, Folded Brocade Hill, and Green Lotus Peak. These are just a few of Guilin's sights.
The Elephant Trunk Hill is located in the city center. It’s the symbol of Guilin. Due to the Karst formations, the soluble rocks are easily broken down by water. It has formed an arched cave in the hill. The hill looks like an elephant is drinking water from the Li River, therefore it’s called Elephant Trunk Hill. There are well set-up stone steps leading to the top of the hill. It’s a good place to have a bird’s eye view of the city and Li River. The Guilin Sanhua Liquor Cultural Museum is also located in this park. The museum showcases the great brewing history of Sanhua liquor. Guilin Sanhua liquor possesses a unique aroma and mellow taste, attracting tourists from home and abroad.
Elephant Trunk Hill is a must-see attraction in Guilin. Located in the Xiangshan Scenic Area, it is just a 5-minute walk away, offering fantastic opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. If you're interested, you can also enjoy a bamboo raft ride here or climb to the top of the hill to admire the Puxian Pagoda and take in the panoramic view.
Xianggong Hill is located beside the Li River. It’s the only hill that you can climb to the top of in this area. The hill is regarded as the most popular landscape photography spot in Guilin. There are hundreds of photographers and tourists visiting this hill every single day. Standing on the top of the hill, you can take a picture of the Li River and those stand-alone peaks. It’s a good place for a sunrise shooting. If you are lucky, you can see the sea of clouds as well. It only takes about 20 minutes to climb to the top. Prepare a flashlight if you want to shoot a sunrise, as no road-light is available there.
1. From Xingping Town to Xianggong Mountain: It is about 5km from Xingping Town to the pier on the east bank of the Li River. From there, you can take a ferry to cross the river. Sightseeing buses and private cars are available to transport you to Xianggong Mountain, which is just a 15-minute drive away.
2. From Guilin to Xianggong Mountain: It is roughly 62km from downtown Guilin to Xianggong Mountain, and the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
3. To visit Xianggong Mountain, you will need to hike up the hill for about 15 minutes. The entire path is equipped with steps, making the ascent easy. The observation deck consists of four levels, with each higher level offering a better panoramic view.
4. Photography Tip: Please be aware that the space on the observation deck is limited. If you wish to secure a prime spot for watching the sunrise or capturing the sea of clouds, it is recommended to begin the ascent before 5 o'clock.
Yao Mountain is the highest mountain in this city. Located about 10km from Guilin, Because of the height, it’s one of the most popular landscape photography spots. You can have a bird’s eye view of the hundreds of thousands of stand-alone peaks. Some of the peaks appear like a ‘Sleeping Buddha’ which is the highlight of the view. April to June is the peak season to visit when the azaleas are in bloom. There are three options to get to the top of the mountain. You can take a chairlift, which is the most efficient way. Or you can drive or hike to the top. You also can pay a visit to the Jingjiang Mausoleum which is located at the foot of the Mountain. Jiangjiang King Tombs Complex includes 11 tombs for Kings and over 300 tombs for generals, lieutenants, imperial clans, imperial Kinsmen, and vassal's relatives.
You are recommended to take the cable car up, which covers a distance of 3km, offering a cloud-walking experience. After getting off the cable car, it takes around an hour to reach the highest peak of Yaoshan, Yuhuang Jidi, via the Feiyun Cliff Path. Along this route, you'll come across various scenic spots like the Rhododendron Valley, Changlang Path, and Lansheng Terrace. For the descent, you can enjoy an exciting slide ride.
Cuiping Hill is really an off-the-beaten-path spot which is special for photographers only. It’s a new scenic spot which was first found by local photographers. There are some steps leading to the top of the hill. It’s an ideal place to have a bird’s eye view of the peaks, local villages, zigzag rivers and farm lands. It’s one of the best places to shoot a sunset with the picturesque peaks. To climb the hill, you will walk through Zhuge village, and it’s a great chance to visit a local village and see local people’s life.
Diecai Mountain (叠彩山), located in Guilin downtown, stands at an elevation of 223 meters and offers a 360-degree panoramic view from its summit. There is a stone monument that reads "Climbing Diecai Mountain, living up to 130 years".
Enchanting visitors with its natural wonders, Diecai Mountain boasts an array of captivating attractions. The exquisite stones of Diecai Pavilion captivate the eye, while Fengdong Cave reveals awe-inspiring cliff carvings and statues. From Wangjiang Pavilion, one can feast their eyes upon the enchanting views of the meandering Li River and the serene beauty of the Four Lakes. For an unparalleled perspective, ascend to the peak of Mingyue Mountain, where a bird's-eye view of Guilin unveils its breathtaking charm. Another gem awaits at Xianhe Peak, where the picturesque Xianhe Cave presents an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs. It takes about 1 hour to climb the mountain.
Moon Hill is a must see if you are travelling to this town. There is a huge natural arch on the hill. It’s like a moon-shaped hole, so it’s named ‘Moon Hill’. To get the full view of Moon Hill, you need to take photos from afar or at the lookout point at the bottom of the hill. It will take about 20 to 30 minutes to climb to the top and have a close look at the hole. Because of the Karst formations with some small cracks on the cliff, the cave is a natural base for rock climbers. It is a nice hike through the calm rustling leaves of a bamboo forest. The well maintained path is easy to follow and navigate. Please wear comfortable walking shoes or trainers. There is a great photo opportunity from the top. It’s a view of the surrounding areas, farm lands, stand-alone peaks and valley.
1. Enjoy a Biking Ride to Moon Hill in Yangshuo: The most popular way is to take a bike ride along the Ten-mile Gallery from Yangshuo West Street and explore along the way to Moon Hill. You can appreciate the fantastic scenery and Moon Hill from a distance.
2. Visit the Moon Hill Scenic Area: It takes about 20-25 minutes to climb up the approximately 900 steps to reach the "Moon Palace" where you can have a close-up view of the "Moon Cave" and observe various forms of stalactites clearly. The view is expansive, surrounded by mountains layered upon each other, resembling a picturesque ink painting with shades of blue and green. It's a beauty that cannot be captured in photographs.
Solitary Beauty Peak is located within the Jingjiang Wangcheng in the center of Guilin City. It stands 216 meters tall and is surrounded by the Diecai Mountain and Fubo Hill, forming a majestic trio. The peak rises abruptly, steep and towering, exuding a magnificent aura, earning it the title of "the Pillar of Southern Heaven." When bathed in the morning light or illuminated by the glow of the sunset, the solitary peak appears as if adorned in a purple robe and golden attire, hence it is also known as Zishe Mountain. The earliest poetic verse of "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven" is engraved on Solitary Beauty Peak.
Your visit to Solitary Beauty Peak will include Jingjiang Prince's City, which boasts a rich history dating back to the late 14th century, making it older than Beijing's Forbidden City. Once the official residence of Zhu Shouqian, a great-nephew of the first Ming Dynasty emperor, it served as a haven for scholars who achieved the highest rank in the imperial examinations. If you want to explore the history of Guilin, you can pay a visit to Jingjiang Prince's City and Solitary Beauty Peak.
Fubo Mountain is located on the banks of the Li River in Guilin downtown, close to Jingjiang Prince’s City. It is a solitary peak surrounded by beautiful water. During the Han Dynasty, General Fubo, Ma Yuan, passed through this area during his southern expedition, hence the name Fubo Mountain. The majestic Fubo Mountain stands tall, partially leaning on the land and partially inserted into the river, obstructing the surging currents, earning it the beautiful title of "Fubo Scenic Area".
The park is small yet exquisite, offering beautiful views of the Li River. It integrates mountains, water, caves, pavilions, cultural relics, cliff carvings, and courtyards. Behind the mountain, there is a statue of Buddha, and many Buddha statues can be found on the interior walls of the mountain. Inside the mountain, there is a cave that runs through it, acting as a natural air conditioner during the summer, providing a cool and comfortable environment. The view of the city from the mountaintop is truly spectacular.
When you visit Xingping Town, if you have enough time, you can explore the wonders of Laozhai Hill (老寨山) and experience its awe-inspiring sunset. As you ascend the hill, you will be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the picturesque scenery that stretches along both banks of the Li River. Immerse yourself in the spectacle of a magnificent sunset, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Standing atop the mountain peak, you can indulge in the breathtaking sight of an infinite panorama, where stunning landscapes unfold before your eyes.
Want to explore the highest peak in Guangxi and the pinnacle of South China? Then come to Mao'er Mountain (猫儿山)! Mao'er Mountain is located in the northeast of Guilin downtown, about 115 km away. It is the main source of the two rivers, Zijiang and Li River, with an elevation of 2142 meters. Not only is it the highest peak in Guangxi, but it is also the highest peak in South China.
It is said that the peak of the mountain resembles a crouching cat, hence its name. There are vast stretches of pristine forests here, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts! The water is clear and transparent, making it a great destination for diving and water activities to beat the summer heat! When it comes to Mao'er Mountain, the sunrise and sunset are must-not-miss moments. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the sea of clouds. The combination of mountains, sea of clouds, sunrise, and sunset presents a stunning and picturesque view.
Guilin's karst hills offer a delightful experience throughout the year, each season presenting its unique scenery and activities.
The breathtaking landscapes of Guilin harmoniously blend karst hills and meandering rivers. In spring and summer, abundant rainfall nourishes the rivers, resulting in the most captivating views. It is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Li River and marvel at the majestic karst formations. Additionally, summer offers a refreshing escape as you indulge in water activities, taking full advantage of the cool waters. As autumn arrives, rainfall subsides, bringing a different charm to the region. While the water flow decreases, it provides an excellent opportunity for hill climbing enthusiasts.
In winter, the karst hills take on a new beauty, sometimes cloaked in mist and at other times dusted with snow. Though chilly, it is an excellent time for photography enthusiasts to capture unique winter scenes. No matter the season, Guilin's hills never fail to enchant with their breathtaking beauty and adventures.
Travelers typically spend 3 days to immersing themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of Guilin and Yangshuo, where majestic mountains, winding rivers, and serene waters await exploration. However, to truly delve into the essence of this enchanting destination, it is highly recommended to extend your stay to 4 to 6 days. Take inspiration from the following itineraries to craft your ideal Guilin trip.
Attractions include: Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, Yangshuo Countryside, Yulong River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave
On day one, upon your arrival in Guilin, take some time to settle in. Explore downtown Guilin at your leisure, strolling along bustling streets, discovering local shops, and indulging in delicious cuisine.
On the second day, take an unforgettable Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, a journey that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the karst landscapes. Marvel at the towering peaks, verdant hills, and meandering river as you sail through this natural wonder. Upon reaching Yangshuo, venture into the countryside, where idyllic rice paddies, traditional villages and Yulong River await. Explore the famous West Street, known for its lively atmosphere, quaint shops, and vibrant mix of cultures.
On your final day, visit two iconic attractions in Guilin. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural landmark resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River. Next, explore the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, adorned with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites, creating a magical underground world.
Attractions include: Longji Rice Terraces, Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, Yangshuo Countryside, Yulong River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, West Street
On day one: Arrive in Guilin and explore downtown area;
On day two: Enjoy a day tour to the Longji Rice Terrace. Marvel at the stunning terraced fields that cascade down the hillsides, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient farming techniques. Explore the Yao and Zhuang ethnic villages nestled among the terraces, immerse yourself in the local way of life, sample traditional cuisine, and witness captivating ethnic performances.
On day three: Experience the beauty of the Li River on a scenic cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. Explore the Yangshuo countryside in various ways. Visit the famous West Street in Yangshuo.
On day four: Head to downtown Guilin to visit Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave before departure.
Attractions include: Longji Rice Terraces, Karst Cave Exploration, Glass Rice Terraces, Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, Yangshuo Countryside, Yulong River, Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, West Street, Xingping Town
Day 1: Arrival in Guilin and downtown exploration
Day 2: Head to Huixian Town for an exciting wild cave exploration. Delve into the mysterious underground world and marvel at the natural wonders within. Afterward, visit the Glass Rice Terraces, known for their unique beauty. In the evening, make your way to Xingping Town and enjoy an overnight stay, taking in the charm of this riverside village.
Day 3: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Li River by climbing a Karst hill and capturing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visit the famous site depicted on the 20 Yuan banknote and witness the mesmerizing sight of fishermen with their cormorant birds and lanterns along the banks of the Li River in Xingping Town.
Day 4: Explore in the picturesque Yangshuo countryside. Choose from options such as bamboo rafting, hiking, or biking to explore the scenic landscapes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. In the afternoon or evening, visit West Street.
Day 5: say goodbye to Yangshuo and Guilin as you prepare for departure.
Based in China, with our office conveniently located in Guilin, Guangxi, the local team at Travel Tour China is dedicated to providing exceptional service to ensure an unforgettable experience for those who visit this beautiful Guilin. We offer a variety of carefully designed Guilin tours, including Classic Guilin Tours, Li River Tours, Yangshuo Tours, and Longji Rice Terraces Tours, tailored to meet your needs and desires. Whether you prefer a private tour with a flexible itinerary or a small group tour without compromising on quality, Travel Tour China has the perfect tour for you, ensuring that your journey to Guilin is a worry-free vacation.
If you're looking to extend your stay in Guilin into a longer vacation, Us also offers a range of inspiring ideas through China Tour Packages with Guilin. Our professional travel consultants are ready to assist you in customizing a tailor-made Guilin Tour at the best local price. Don't hesitate to contact us to start planning your dream trip to Guilin today!
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