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