Guilin China 4 Day Itinerary

Guilin, China 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin - Offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the Li River. Website
  • Mid-range: Sheraton Guilin High-Tech Zone Hotel - Centrally located and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. Website
  • Budget: Joy Guest House - A clean and affordable hostel in a convenient location. Website

Things to Do

  • Elephant Trunk Hill - One of the most iconic landmarks of Guilin, featuring a natural rock formation resembling an elephant drinking water. Location
  • Fubo Hill - A hill with beautiful views over the city and Li River, featuring pagodas and carved Buddha statues. Location
  • Rickshaw Tour - Explore the old town area in a rickshaw for an authentic experience. Tour Operators

Where to Eat

  • Li’s Restaurant - Known for its traditional Cantonese and Yunnan dishes. Location
  • Yangshuo Jinghui Restaurant - Offers delicious local dishes like fish cooked in a bamboo tube and rice noodles. Location

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer - Taxis are available outside the airport, or you can book a private transfer in advance.
  • Getting Around - Taxis and motorized rickshaws are widely available. Consider purchasing a Guilin Pass if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Day 2: Li River Cruise & Yangshuo

What to Do

  • Li River Cruise - A scenic cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing through beautiful karst landscapes. Tour Operators
  • Yangshuo West Street - A lively pedestrian street with plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Location

Where to Stay (if you decide to stay overnight in Yangshuo)

  • Luxury: The Banyan Tree Yangshuo - A luxurious resort with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Website
  • Mid-range: Newton Hotel Yangshuo - A comfortable hotel in a convenient location, with excellent service and facilities. Website
  • Budget: Lazy Fish Hostel - A popular hostel with affordable private rooms and dorms. Website

Day 3: Yangshuo Activities & Return to Guilin

What to Do

  • Bamboo Rafting - Drift down the Yulong River on a traditional bamboo raft and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Tour Operators
  • Outdoor Activities - Try rock climbing, caving, or cycling in the beautiful countryside around Yangshuo. Activity Providers

Return to Guilin

  • Bus - Public buses run regularly between Yangshuo and Guilin, taking approximately 2 hours.
  • Private Transfer - You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Day 4: Departure

  • Airport Transfer - Taxis are available for airport transfers or you can arrange a private transfer through your hotel.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Currency Exchange - Guilin has several banks with currency exchange services, as well as numerous money changers in the city center.
  • Tipping - Tipping is not customary in China, but it is appreciated if you choose to do so.
  • Internet Access - Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and many public places.
  • Mobile Data - Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable WiFi device for easy internet access during your trip.