Guilin and Yangshuo are two of the most iconic destinations in southern China, both offering breathtaking natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences. But if you’re wondering whether to visit Guilin or Yangshuo first, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explain why it’s recommended to visit Guilin before heading to Yangshuo, covering transportation, sightseeing, and activities to help you plan the perfect trip.
Transportation Tips
When traveling from Guilin to Yangshuo, it’s important to understand the transportation options. The Li River cruise (漓江游船), one of the most popular ways to travel between the two cities, only operates one way—from Guilin to Yangshuo. There are no return cruises, meaning you’ll have to take a bus or high-speed train back to Guilin.
- Cruise Details: The Li River cruise departs from Guilin’s city center. You can easily catch a bus from the city to the pier, or take a taxi, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to book your tickets 2 days in advance through the official “Li River Ticketing Office” (漓江售票处) WeChat account. The cruise has three classes: three-star, four-star, and five-star. I personally recommend the three-star class, which is spacious and comfortable. There are bathrooms and luggage storage on the lower deck.
- Cruise Schedule: Previously, cruises only departed in the morning (9-10 AM), but now there are additional departures at 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM.
- Seating Tips: Tickets are sold without assigned seats, but you’ll receive a seating message the day before the cruise (between 8:00 and 9:00 AM). I suggest picking the first row on the second deck, as it offers the best views. Note that you can’t book two seats at once, so you’ll need to select each seat separately.
Scenic Views
It’s no secret that “Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven” (桂林山水甲天下), but Yangshuo’s landscape is even more stunning. The natural beauty in Yangshuo is the essence of what makes Guilin’s scenery famous, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers. If you visit Yangshuo first, Guilin may feel less impressive by comparison. On the other hand, visiting Guilin first offers a gradual buildup of scenic awe, and the grand finale of Yangshuo’s landscape will leave you truly amazed.
Things to Do in Guilin
Guilin offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, with delicious local food, scenic spots, and historical sites. You can explore the city at your own pace, taking in the sights and sampling local dishes. Guilin’s food is more affordable than Yangshuo’s, and the city offers better facilities. For travelers arriving from distant places, it’s a good idea to rest in Guilin for a night before taking the Li River cruise to Yangshuo the next day.
- Recommended Guilin Route:
- Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山): A famous symbol of the city, this picturesque hill resembles an elephant drinking water from the river.
- Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas (日月双塔): Located on Shan Lake (杉湖), the pagodas are beautifully lit at night, offering a romantic setting.
- Riverside Walking Street (滨江路步行街): Take a stroll along the river, enjoy the local shops, and relax.
- Xiaoyao Tower (逍遥楼): A historic tower with great views of the city.
- East and West Alleys (东西巷): These quaint, narrow alleys offer a glimpse of Guilin’s old charm. The total walking distance is just 850 meters, taking around 10-15 minutes to complete.
- Other Tips:
- If you’re taking the Li River cruise, you’ll disembark at Longtou Mountain Pier (龙头山码头) in Yangshuo. Be careful when buying souvenirs or fruit here, as many sellers overcharge.
- A short 600-meter walk will take you to Fengming Transportation Center (凤鸣集散中心). From here, you can take a shuttle to the Yulong River (遇龙河) for a bamboo rafting experience. I recommend the water route from Shui’er Di (水厄底) to the Comprehensive Pier (综合码头), as it’s smooth and has four rapids for an exciting adventure. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes!
Things to Do in Yangshuo
Yangshuo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities in a stunning natural setting. From scenic bike rides to river rafting and exploring the famous West Street (西街), there’s plenty to keep you busy.
- Recommended Yangshuo Route:
- Yulong River Bamboo Rafting (遇龙河竹筏): A peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the countryside.
- Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊): This stretch of road is surrounded by picturesque fields, karst mountains, and charming villages. It’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride or photoshoot.
- Yangshuo West Street (阳朔西街): This lively street is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s great for experiencing the local nightlife.
- Xiang Gong Mountain (相公山): If you’re an early riser (around 4 AM), head to Xiang Gong Mountain to catch a beautiful sunrise and stunning sea of clouds.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit both Guilin and Yangshuo is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, be mindful that these destinations can be quite crowded during peak seasons, so plan accordingly for a more relaxed experience.