Guilin, known for its stunning karst landscapes and winding rivers, offers multiple ways to access maps and travel guides. Start by visiting the Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, where tourism information counters distribute free city maps and brochures. Most hotels, especially those in the Xiangshan or Two Rivers and Four Lakes areas, provide guests with complimentary maps and guides. For digital options, download the “Guilin Tourism” app (available on iOS and Android) or visit the official website guilintravel.gov.cn, which includes interactive maps and real-time updates on attractions.
What Are the Top Attractions Near the Li River?
With your map in hand, head to the Li River Corridor, the heart of Guilin’s natural beauty. The Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan) and Reed Flute Cave are must-visits. For a deeper adventure, take a day cruise from Mopanshan to Yangshuo—the 83km route reveals towering limestone peaks and rural villages. A popular stop is Xingping Town, famous for its “currency exchange” scene (fishermen trading money for photo ops). Pair this with a hike to Moon Hill in Yangshuo for panoramic views.
How Do I Navigate Public Transport in Guilin?
Guilin’s transport system is tourist-friendly. The Li River Cruise is the easiest way to explore scenic routes, with tickets available at docks or online. For land travel, use the Guilin Bus App (Chinese/English) to track routes. The No. 10 Bus connects the airport to downtown, while Bus 2 links Yangshuo to Xingping. Budget travelers can rent bikes (~¥20/day) to cycle along the Yulong River Path. Here’s a quick reference:
| Transport Type | Cost (≈USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Li River Cruise | \(40–\)100 | Scenic routes |
| City Bus | $0.50 | Budget travel |
| Bike Rental | $3 | Flexibility & exercise |
Where Should I Eat Like a Local in Guilin?
Foodies will love Nanning Road and Diecui Market, where street vendors serve Guilin rice noodles (around $2 per bowl). For a sit-down meal, try McGuilin Restaurant near Seven-Star Park—their beer fish (braised carp with rice beer) is a star dish. Vegetarians can explore Veggie Heaven in Lungfeng District, which offers mock meat dishes. Don’t miss Osmanthus Cakes from Zhongshan Middle Road bakeries—a sweet, fragrant treat.
What Cultural Experiences Should I Add to My Itinerary?
Beyond landscapes, immerse yourself in Dong and Yao minority cultures. Visit Anlu Zhaoyang Village (40km from Guilin) to witness traditional cormorant fishing on the Li River. In Yangshuo, book a cooking class to learn making youcha (oil-tea camellia) snacks. For art lovers, explore West Street in Yangshuo, lined with galleries selling Li River watercolor paintings. Cap off your trip with a Liu Sanjie folk performance at Guilin Theatre—a vibrant show blending music, dance, and lights.
With these tools and tips, you’ll navigate Guilin like a pro. For personalized itineraries or guided tours, Deep China Travel specializes in crafting experiences that go beyond the map—think bamboo rafting with locals or private photography sessions at sunrise. Safe travels!