Discover the Perfect Accommodation Areas in Guilin

When planning a trip to Guilin, choosing the right area to stay can make all the difference. Whether you’re here for the iconic Li River landscapes, vibrant culture, or mouthwatering cuisine, Guilin offers diverse neighborhoods to suit every traveler’s needs. Let’s explore the top regions to base yourself during your adventure!

Li River
Nestled in rural Guangxi, this area boasts karst peaks, winding rivers, and terraced fields. Traditional fishermen use cormorants, creating timeless scenes resembling Chinese ink paintings. Cruise or hike amid serene nature, away from city crowds.

Which Areas Offer the Best Accessibility in Guilin?

For first-time visitors, staying near Zhongshan Middle Road (the city center) is a smart choice. This bustling area is packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, and it’s just a short walk from the Li River. Many mid-range hotels and hostels line this street, making it budget-friendly. Plus, the nearby bus and metro stations connect you to attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave within minutes.

Li River
Nestled in rural Guangxi, this area boasts karst peaks, winding rivers, and terraced fields. Traditional fishermen use cormorants, creating timeless scenes resembling Chinese ink paintings. Cruise or hike amid serene nature, away from city crowds.

If you prefer a quieter vibe but still want easy access to transportation, Lianglut Mountain Area is ideal. Perched along the Li River, it’s slightly farther from downtown but offers stunning river views and peaceful walks. Luxury resorts here often include private boat docks, perfect for early-morning cruises.

Li River
Nestled in rural Guangxi, this area boasts karst peaks, winding rivers, and terraced fields. Traditional fishermen use cormorants, creating timeless scenes resembling Chinese ink paintings. Cruise or hike amid serene nature, away from city crowds.

Where Should Nature Lovers Stay?

For those obsessed with Guilin’s famous karst mountains and river scenery, Yangshuo is a no-brainer. This town, located 65 kilometers south of Guilin, is surrounded by rice paddies, limestone peaks, and the Yulong River. Stay in West Street (Xijiepai) for a lively atmosphere filled with bars, craft shops, and outdoor cafes. Budget backpackers love the hostels here, while couples often opt for riverside boutique hotels.

West Street
Ancient cobblestone street in Guilin’s karst landscape, blending Ming-Qing architecture with lively bars, beer fish stalls, and lantern-lit nights. Foreigner-friendly vibes.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting during the Li River Golden Week Festival (October), book accommodations in Yangshuo months ahead. The town gets packed with photographers chasing sunrise shots!

Li River
Nestled in rural Guangxi, this area boasts karst peaks, winding rivers, and terraced fields. Traditional fishermen use cormorants, creating timeless scenes resembling Chinese ink paintings. Cruise or hike amid serene nature, away from city crowds.

How Do I Choose Between Guilin City and Yangshuo?

Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Guilin City: Best for first-timers, cultural landmarks, and convenient airport/train station access. Ideal if you’re short on time.
  • Yangshuo: Perfect for nature lovers, outdoor activities (like biking or bamboo rafting), and immersive small-town charm.

Still unsure? Consider splitting your stay: 2–3 nights in Guilin to explore urban highlights, then 3–4 nights in Yangshuo to unwind in nature.

What Are the Hidden Gems Near Guilin?

Skip the crowds and discover these underrated spots:

  1. Anxin Weekend Resort: A 45-minute drive from downtown, this lakeside retreat has cabins, bonfire areas, and hiking trails. Great for families.
  2. Longji Rice Terraces: While not close to Guilin, spending a night in a local guesthouse here lets you wake up to mist-covered terraces. Book through Deep China Travel for guided homestay experiences.
  3. Mandui Ancient Town: Stay in a restored Ming-era house near Xingping Town. It’s pricier but worth it for history buffs.
Longji Rice Terraces
Guangxi’s terraced wonder: Massive mountain rice paddies, ethnic Yao/Zhuang villages, mirror-like sunrises, and lush seasonal hues. Hike, photograph, and taste farm-fresh culture!

How Can I Experience Guilin’s Cuisine Like a Local?

Guilin’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes! For authentic eats:

  • Night Stalls on Binjiang Road: Try guilin mifen (rice noodles) with sour beans and crispy pork. Pair it with liuyu (sweet osmanthus wine).
  • Riverside Restaurants in Yangshuo: Order beggar chicken (baked in clay) or river fish hotpot. Ask locals for their favorite spots—they’re usually happy to share tips!
  • Street Markets: Buy snacks like youcha (oil-fried dough) or songhua dangao (pine flower cake) for a sweet treat.

Final Tips for Your Guilin Stay

  • Wi-Fi: Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but rural areas might have spotty service. Download offline maps before exploring.
  • Transport: Use DiDi (China’s Uber) for rides between Guilin and Yangshuo. Alternatively, take the scenic bus for ~¥25.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Always carry cash—some markets don’t accept cards. And learn a few phrases of Mandarin; locals appreciate the effort!

Ready to dive into Guilin’s magic? Let Deep China Travel customize your itinerary, from luxury river cruises to hidden village tours. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!