Are There Banks in Guilin That Exchange Foreign Currency? If you’re visiting Guilin and wondering where to exchange your foreign currency, you’re in luck. Several banks and authorized exchange points across the city cater to travelers. The most reliable options include Bank of China (BOC) and China Construction Bank (CCB), which have branches in downtown areas like Xiu Peak District and near Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. These banks offer competitive rates for major currencies like USD, EUR, and JPY. Additionally, international hotels (e.g., Shangri-La, Sheraton) often provide exchange services, though rates may be less favorable. For convenience, smaller exchange kiosks are also available at popular tourist spots like Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave, but double-check fees before proceeding.
Can I Use ATMs in Guilin for Cash Withdrawals?
Yes, but with some caveats. ATMs in Guilin are widely available, especially in tourist hubs. However, not all machines accept foreign cards, and those that do might charge high withdrawal fees (e.g., 3%-5% per transaction). HSBC, Citibank, and Bank of East Asia ATMs are more likely to support international cards. Pro tip: Notify your bank of overseas travel plans to avoid card blocks. For zero-fee withdrawals, consider using UnionPay debit cards (common in China) or withdraw larger sums fewer times.
How Much Cash Should I Carry When Visiting Guilin?
While mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate urban Guilin, having 100-200 RMB daily is wise for small vendors, rural areas, or emergencies. Here’s a rough breakdown of costs:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Meal at a restaurant | 50-150 RMB per person |
| Local snack/street food | 10-30 RMB |
| Taxi ride (city) | 15-30 RMB |
| Entry ticket (attraction) | 50-150 RMB |
For budget travelers, 300-500 RMB/day covers most needs. Luxury shoppers or group travelers should plan extra.
Are There Safety Concerns About Exchanging Money in Guilin?
Stick to official channels to avoid scams. Street money changers (often found near train stations) may advertise “no commission” but use lower exchange rates or counterfeit bills. Always verify receipts and count cash immediately. Keep your passport handy, as some banks require it for large transactions. A safer bet: use rated exchange apps (e.g., XE) to compare rates beforehand.
What Attractions Near Guilin Require Cash Payments?
Most big-ticket attractions (e.g., Li River cruises, Longji Rice Terraces) accept cards, but smaller sites like Yangshuo’s West Street stalls or countryside homestays prefer cash. For rural bike tours or karst-mountain hikes, carry 50-100 RMB for entrance fees, tips, or bottled water. Pro tip: Join a guided tour (like those offered by Deep China Travel) to streamline payments—guides often handlevendor negotiations for you.
By planning your currency needs ahead, you’ll spend less time worrying about money and more time soaking in Guilin’s stunning landscapes. Safe travels!