Guilin, often described as “the best scenery under heaven,” is one of China’s most iconic and breathtaking travel destinations. Nestled in the southern Guangxi region, Guilin boasts awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, and vibrant ethnic traditions. A trip to Guilin promises visitors a unique blend of stunning landscapes, ancient history, and cultural experiences. Here are 4 reasons why Guilin should be at the top of your travel list.
A Living Chinese Landscape Painting
Guilin is home to some of the world’s most remarkable karst landscapes, featuring dramatic limestone peaks that rise sharply from the flat, fertile plains. These peaks, shaped by millions of years of erosion, form a spectacular “forest of mountains,” creating a landscape that resembles a traditional Chinese ink painting. The picturesque Li River winds gracefully between these peaks, reflecting the jagged cliffs and lush greenery along its banks, offering an ever-changing vista of tranquility and grandeur.
The region’s unique karst topography is not only beautiful but also diverse. The stunning mountains, hidden caves, and jade-green rivers blend together seamlessly, creating the famous “Guilin landscape” that has captured the imagination of artists and poets for centuries. Visitors can embark on a river cruise along the Li River, where they will witness some of the most iconic sights, including the legendary “Nine Horse Fresco Hill” and the breathtaking “Yellow Cloth Shoal.” It is easy to see why Guilin’s landscapes have earned it global recognition and the saying: “Guilin’s scenery is the best under heaven.”
Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage
Guilin is not only renowned for its natural beauty but also for its rich history and deep cultural roots. With a history spanning over 2,100 years, the city has played a significant role in China’s development and boasts numerous cultural landmarks. The city’s long history is reflected in its many historical sites, such as the Ling Canal, built over 2,000 years ago to connect the Yangtze and Pearl River systems, playing a crucial role in the region’s agricultural and commercial success.
In addition, the Ming-era Jingjiang Princes’ City, the Solitary Beauty Peak, and ancient Confucian temples offer visitors a glimpse into Guilin’s royal past. The region is also known for its stunning cliffside carvings and stone inscriptions, which tell the stories of ancient scholars and poets inspired by Guilin’s beauty. For those interested in religious culture, the city is dotted with Buddhist temples like the West Hill and Seven Star Park, where visitors can explore ancient rock carvings and statues.
Guilin’s cultural heritage is a vibrant tapestry that encompasses pre-historic cultures, such as the Zengpiyan ruins, water conservation works like the Ling Canal, and the enduring legacy of poets, scholars, and artists who have been inspired by the city’s beauty for centuries.
Enchanting Rice Terraces
The Longji Rice Terraces, or “Dragon’s Backbone” terraces, are a must-see for visitors looking to experience the agricultural beauty of Guilin. These terraces, located in the nearby hills, are considered some of the most spectacular in the world. From a distance, the terraces look like ribbons of land weaving up the mountainside, creating a mesmerizing pattern of steps that seem to climb into the clouds.
In the spring and summer, the terraces are filled with water, creating an ethereal mirror effect that reflects the sky and the surrounding hills. In the fall, the golden rice fields are ready for harvest, providing a breathtaking display of nature’s abundance. This harmonious blend of nature and human ingenuity is a sight to behold and offers a perfect opportunity for photographers and nature lovers to capture the essence of rural China.
Colorful Ethnic Traditions
Guilin is also a vibrant hub of ethnic diversity, home to several minority groups, including the Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong peoples. Each of these groups has maintained its unique traditions, clothing, festivals, and customs, which add a rich cultural layer to Guilin’s natural and historical beauty.
Visitors to Guilin can experience the lively and colorful local festivals, such as the Yao people’s Long Hair Festival or the Zhuang people’s Song Festival. Many villages around Guilin still preserve traditional ways of life, offering travelers a glimpse into rural China, with locals welcoming visitors to participate in their customs, sample their food, and enjoy their music and dances.