Exploring the picturesque city of Guilin becomes a delightful experience when you understand its efficient and varied transportation options. With its well-developed bus network, convenient taxis, and unique modes of transport like scenic cruises and bicycle rentals, Guilin offers travelers a seamless way to visit its famous attractions, such as Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山) and Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩). Whether you’re looking to enjoy the city’s charming streets or venture onto the serene Li River (漓江), this guide will provide everything you need to make the most of your transportation options in Guilin.
Public Buses: Affordable and Scenic Options
Guilin’s public buses are reliable and cover the city’s main attractions, commercial areas, and major streets. Many buses are double-deckers, offering a great way to enjoy the sights while traveling.
Tourist Sightseeing Line 1
This route passes through Guilin’s iconic attractions, including Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山), Fubo Hill (伏波山), Diecai Hill (叠彩山), and the “Two Rivers and Four Lakes” area (“两江四湖”), while also covering bustling streets like Zhongshan Road (中山路) and Liberation Road (解放路).
- Bus Type: Double-decker luxury buses with air conditioning and tour guides on board.
- Starting Point: Tian’etang (天鹅塘).
- Operating Times: Fixed departures at 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM daily.
- Cost: ¥2 per ride (a one-way loop from the starting point back).
Free Shuttle for 4A Scenic Spots
Visitors who purchase tickets for any of Guilin’s 4A scenic spots at designated ticket offices can use the free shuttle service provided by the Guilin Tourism Development Company. These buses depart every 15 minutes from Seven Star Park (七星公园) and stop briefly at each attraction.
- Departure Times:
- Early bus: 8:15 AM from Seven Star Park (七星公园), 9:15 AM from Reed Flute Cave (芦笛岩).
- Last bus: 4:20 PM from Seven Star Park, 5:20 PM from Reed Flute Cave.
- Convenience: Onboard tour guides ensure a smooth and informative ride.
Tips for Public Buses in Guilin
- Free buses, identified by routes starting with “5,” can take longer due to high demand and crowding.
- Travelers on tight schedules are advised to opt for regular buses instead.
- Keep your belongings secure, especially on crowded buses.
Taxis: A Quick and Flexible Choice
Guilin has plenty of taxis, making it easy to travel around the city, especially if you’re short on time or visiting multiple locations.
Taxi Fares
- Daytime (6:00 AM–11:00 PM): ¥9 for the first 2 kilometers, then ¥1.9 per additional kilometer.
- Nighttime (11:00 PM–6:00 AM): ¥11 for the first 2 kilometers, then ¥2 per additional kilometer.
- Waiting Charges: No fee for the first 3 minutes during stops or low-speed driving (under 12 km/h). Beyond 3 minutes, waiting fees are calculated as a percentage of the distance fare.
- Peak-Time Charges: During evening rush hours (5:00 PM–7:00 PM), waiting fees increase to 40% of the distance fare.
Taxi Tips
- Avoid taking taxis directly from train station plazas, as some drivers may try to guide you to specific hotels. Instead, flag a taxi from the nearby streets and ensure the driver uses the meter.
- Guilin taxi hotlines: 0773-541000, 0773-5850889.
Unique Local Transport Options
Guilin’s distinctive transportation methods are perfect for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the city’s unique charm and scenic beauty.
River Transport: Li River Cruises
A Li River cruise is the best way to experience Guilin’s iconic karst landscape. Cruises depart from two main docks:
- Mopanshan Dock (磨盘山码头)
- Primarily serves domestic tourists.
- Address: Lingchuan Mopanshan Dock, Guilin City (桂林市灵川县漓江景区灵川磨盘山码头).
- Contact: 0773-3900893.
- Zhujiang Dock (竹江码头)
- Designed for international travelers.
- Address: At the eastern end of County Road 091, Yanshan District, Guilin (桂林市雁山区091县道东首).
- Contact: 0773-3828712.
- Tickets: Purchase one day in advance from the dock or through tour agencies.
- Official Website: Li River Cruise.
Cycling and Electric Scooters
With most attractions within close proximity, cycling is an excellent way to explore Guilin at your own pace.
- Rental Locations: Eco-friendly bike rental stations are available throughout the city.
- Cost: Around ¥30 per day.
- Experience: Ride through scenic spots and picturesque streets for an enjoyable and environmentally friendly tour.