Day 1
Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩)
Known as the “Palace of Natural Arts,” Reed Flute Cave is a natural limestone cave filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and illuminated formations that create a surreal atmosphere.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
15–20 RMB from downtown Guilin (10–15 minutes).
By Bus:
Take Bus 3, 213, or 58 to Reed Flute Cave Station (芦笛岩站).
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 90 RMB (includes a guided tour).
Opening Hours
8:30 AM–5:30 PM.
What to Do
1. Join a guided tour to learn about the legends and history behind the formations.
2. Explore the Rainbow Bridge, Crystal Palace, and other illuminated areas.
3. Take photos of the colorful reflections in the water pools.
Tips
• Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be slippery.
• Visit early or late in the day to avoid large tour groups.
Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山)
This iconic hill resembles an elephant drinking water from the Li River and is a symbol of Guilin.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
10–15 RMB from downtown Guilin (5–10 minutes).
By Bus:
Take routes 2, 16, or 23 to Elephant Trunk Hill Park Station (象鼻山公园站).
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 75 RMB.
Opening Hours
7:00 AM–6:30 PM.
What to Do
1. Walk to the “trunk” archway and take iconic photos.
2. Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Guilin.
3. Visit the nearby Water Moon Cave and Puxian Pagoda.
Tips
• Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photos.
• Combine with a walk along the riverfront for a relaxing experience.
Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise (两江四湖夜游)
This cruise offers a serene tour of Guilin’s waterways, with illuminated bridges, pagodas, and landscaped gardens creating a magical nighttime atmosphere.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
Most cruises depart from Jiefang Bridge Wharf or Wenchang Bridge Wharf, reachable by taxi for 15–20 RMB.
Tickets and Costs
• Ticket Price: 190–260 RMB depending on the type of boat and seating.
• Cruise Duration: ~1.5 hours.
What to Do
1. Marvel at the illuminated Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas.
2. Pass through beautifully lit bridges and parks.
3. Enjoy live commentary or music on some boats.
Tips
• Book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Dress warmly during winter evenings.
Day 2
Li River Cruise (漓江游船)
A must-do experience in Guilin, the Li River Cruise travels through breathtaking karst landscapes, bamboo groves, and ancient villages.
How to Get There
• Cruises depart from Zhujiang Wharf (竹江码头), about 30 minutes from downtown Guilin.
By Taxi:
50–80 RMB.
By Shuttle Bus:
Provided by some tour operators.
Tickets and Costs
• Ticket Price: 450–550 RMB, depending on boat class. Lunch is usually included.
• Cruise Duration: 4–5 hours.
What to Do
1. Spot landmarks like Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal.
2. Take photos of the karst peaks along the riverbanks.
3. Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch onboard.
Tips
• Choose an upper-deck ticket for the best views.
• Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy on the boat.
West Street in Yangshuo (阳朔西街)
West Street is a lively pedestrian street in Yangshuo filled with boutique shops, cafes, and bars. It is known for its vibrant nightlife and mix of Eastern and Western cultures.
How to Get There
By Foot:
Located in central Yangshuo, it’s easily accessible from most hotels.
By Taxi:
10 RMB from nearby locations.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry: Free.
What to Do
1. Shop for souvenirs like handmade jewelry, silk products, and local art.
2. Try street food like fried rice noodles or mango sticky rice.
3. Relax at a café or bar with live music.
Tips
• Visit during the evening for a more vibrant atmosphere.
• Bargain politely when shopping.
Impression Liu Sanjie Light Show (印象刘三姐)
This outdoor performance takes place on the Li River, using the natural karst hills as a backdrop. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the show combines traditional folk songs and dances.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
15–20 RMB from central Yangshuo.
By Bike:
A scenic 20-minute ride.
Tickets and Costs
• Ticket Price: 198–680 RMB, depending on seating.
• Show Duration: 1.5 hours.
What to Do
1. Enjoy a visually stunning performance of folk culture.
2. Watch local performers use the river and lights creatively.
Tips
• Arrive 30 minutes early to secure your seat.
• Dress warmly in winter, as the performance is outdoors.
Day 3
Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田)
Known as the “Dragon’s Backbone,” these terraced fields offer breathtaking views and showcase the ingenuity of the Zhuang and Yao minorities.
How to Get There
By Car:
2.5 hours from Guilin (private car hire costs 300–500 RMB round trip).
By Bus:
Take a bus from Guilin to Longsheng County, then transfer to a local shuttle bus to the terraces.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 80 RMB.
• Optional Shuttle Bus: ~40 RMB round trip.
What to Do
1. Hike between Ping’an Village and Dazhai Village for stunning views.
2. Learn about the Zhuang and Yao cultures through their clothing and food.
3. Try local dishes like bamboo rice and chicken.
Tips
• Visit in spring (green fields) or autumn (golden harvest season).
• Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water for hiking.
Attraction Details
All information is subject to change.