Is Getting Around Guilin Easy? Your Transportation Guide
Guilin, famous for its stunning karst landscapes and serene rivers, is also a breeze to navigate thanks to its well-organized transportation system. Whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or bus, the city offers multiple options to explore its iconic spots like Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, and the Li River. But how convenient is intra-city travel? Let’s break it down.
Public buses are the backbone of Guilin’s transportation network. With over 50+ routes covering tourist hotspots, digital payment (via apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay) simplifies fares. Buses are labeled in English and Chinese, making route planning straightforward. For short trips, shared electric scooters (e.g., LimeBike, Ofo) are scattered across the city—just scan a QR code to ride!
Is Public Transport in Guilin Reliable?
Yes, but with a few caveats. Buses run from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM, though frequencies drop after 8 PM. Tourist areas like Songtian Lake or Solar-and-Moon-Crater have dedicated shuttle buses during peak seasons. For late-night arrivals, taxis or ride-hailing apps (Didi Chuxing) are safer bets.
Are Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps Trustworthy?
Taxis are plentiful and metered, with most drivers speaking basic English. Always ask for the metered rate (“Please use the meter”) to avoid overcharging. Ride-hailing apps like Didi (China’s Uber) offer transparency—set your destination in English, and track prices pre-ride. A trip from the Guilin Two Rivers Airport to downtown costs around ¥80–¥120 (~\(11–\)17).
Can I Explore Guilin by Bike?
Absolutely! Guilin’s flat terrain and scenic waterfront paths make cycling a joy. Rent a bike from ¥20–¥50 per day at shops near Xiangshan Park or Liurong Bridge. For flexibility, e-bikes (with battery assistance) let you cover more ground—ideal for visiting Yangshuo (a 1.5-hour ride away) or rural rice fields.
What About Walking? Is It Practical?
Central Guilin is compact enough for walking. The Two Rivers and Four Lakes area (a UNESCO-listed canal network) is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, as some attractions, like Fubo Hill, require climbs. Avoid walking in remote areas after dark, as lighting can be sparse.
How Do I Get Between Guilin’s Key Attractions?
Use this quick reference:
| Route | Best Option | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Center → Elephant Trunk Hill | Taxi/Bus #10/#11 | 20 mins | ¥15–¥30 |
| Guilin → Yangshuo (Karst Countryside) | Bus/Train/Private Transfer | 1.5–3 hrs | ¥30–¥150 |
| Airport → Downtown | Airport Bus/Taxi | 40 mins | ¥20–¥100 |
For day trips to Longji Rice Terraces, book a tour or take a ¥50 bus from Qinqiu Bus Station (daily at 9:00 AM).
Pro Tips:
- Download offline maps (Google Maps works in China with VPN setup).
- Carry cash for rural areas—digital payments aren’t universal.
- During Golden Week or holidays, book transport weeks ahead to avoid crowds.
With these tools, navigating Guilin is stress-free. Now, go explore those limestone wonders!