If you’re short on time but want to experience the essence of Guilin, a one-day city tour is the perfect way to explore its iconic landmarks, historical sites, and local cuisine. From the famous Elephant Trunk Hill to the charming pedestrian streets, this guide outlines a recommended itinerary that will take you through the heart of the city and show you the best of Guilin in just one day.
Route Overview:
- Take a taxi at your hotel
- Elephant Trunk Hill (3rd Gate)
- Exit from 2nd Gate and walk
- Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas
- Zhengyang Pedestrian Street
- Lunch at Chuanji Roast Goose
- Enter Jingjiang Princes’ City from the North Gate
- Dongxi Alley (East and West Alley)
- After dinner, visit Xiaoyao Tower and Liberation Bridge for the night view
- Walk back to the hotel.
1. Start with Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山)
Begin your day early by visiting the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, located in the city center. The 3rd Gate entrance opens at 7:00 AM, and entrance is free—just scan the QR code for booking. Elephant Trunk Hill is famous for its shape, which resembles an elephant drinking water from the Li River.
- What to Do:
- Take a 10-minute electric bamboo raft ride for 50 RMB per person, where you can take photos with the hill’s unique rock formations. The raft fits up to 4 people, and it’s usually not crowded, so you may get the raft all to yourself.
- Visit the souvenir shop nearby, where you can get a free stamp in your book (a nice souvenir!).
- For a fun experience, take a photo with a cormorant on the bamboo raft for an extra 10 RMB, or rent a traditional outfit for 20 RMB.
After exploring the hill, exit from the 2nd Gate and walk for about 5 minutes to Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas. Although the pagodas are currently undergoing repairs due to damage from a recent typhoon, they still make for a great photo opportunity from the outside.
2. Stroll through Zhengyang Walking Street (正阳步行街)
From the pagodas, take a short walk (a few hundred meters) to Zhengyang Walking Street, a bustling pedestrian area where you can enjoy a relaxed stroll and browse through local shops. It’s usually less crowded during the day, which makes it an ideal spot to explore and discover small shops offering local goods and souvenirs.
3. Lunch at Chunjiji Roast Goose (椿记烧鹅)
Next, take a taxi to Chunjiji Roast Goose, a local restaurant known for its delicious Cantonese-style roast goose. It’s a great place to refuel with authentic flavors that will leave you ready for the rest of your sightseeing day.
4. Visit Jingjiang Princes’ City (靖江王府)
After lunch, walk to Jingjiang Princes’ City, an ancient royal palace complex. You can enter through the North Gate (ticket: 100 RMB per person, free for children under 1.2 meters). Once inside, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore the historic buildings and learn about the stories of the princes.
- What to Expect:
- Take the shuttle bus to the South Gate, where you can join a guided tour with headphones for an informative two-hour exploration.
- During the tour, you may visit a few souvenir shops. The prices can be high, but you’re not obligated to buy anything.
- You’ll also visit the Examination Hall, where you can get a free experience of traditional paper rubbing (take a name or Chinese character as a souvenir). If you wish, you can purchase a commemorative photo taken by a professional photographer inside the hall for 20 RMB.
Though the experience has some touristy elements, the historical insights are valuable, especially for families looking to learn more about Guilin’s rich heritage.
5. Climb to Duxiu Peak (独秀峰)
After the palace, it’s time to get some exercise! Head to Duxiu Peak, also known as the Single Pillar Peak. It’s worth the climb, even though the stairs can be steep, so be cautious. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Guilin, including the majestic Elephant Trunk Hill and the surrounding karst mountains.
6. Explore East and West Alley (东西巷)
Once you descend from the peak, head to East and West Alley, a commercial area with traditional architecture. Here, you can wander around and experience a mix of local shops, street vendors, and some modern commercial spaces. It’s a pleasant place for a quick browse before your evening activities.
7. Dinner and Night Views at Xiangyao Tower and Liberation Bridge (逍遥楼解放桥)
For dinner, find a spot along the commercial streets or inside the nearby mall, where you can try more local dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Li River to Xiangyao Tower and Liberation Bridge to enjoy the night views. This area is particularly picturesque at night, with lights reflecting off the river and the distant silhouette of Elephant Trunk Hill. Many locals enjoy fishing by the river, adding to the peaceful ambiance.
8. Walk Back to Your Hotel
After taking in the beautiful night views, stroll back to your hotel to unwind. The walk will give you a final chance to enjoy the serene atmosphere of Guilin’s riverside, reflecting on a day full of sightseeing and delicious food.