Guilin, renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 10,000 years. From the early Neolithic settlements to its role in ancient Chinese dynasties and modern historical events, Guilin has been a vital cultural and political hub throughout the ages. This city’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance has shaped its identity as a major center of trade, religion, and culture. Join us on a journey through time to explore the key milestones that have made Guilin the historical treasure it is today.
Neolithic Era
Guilin’s history dates back over 10,000 years, with archaeological discoveries from sites like Baoji Rock and Zengpiyan Cave providing evidence of early human activity. The Zengpiyan people were part of a matriarchal society, a hallmark of the Neolithic period. The discovery of Fuzi Rock in recent years further revealed remnants of ancient cultures. This site, which includes cave, mountain, and slope settlements, dates from the late Neolithic period to the Shang and Zhou dynasties. The remains found at these sites demonstrate that Guilin was an important settlement area in prehistoric China, with early inhabitants making use of the region’s caves and mountainous terrain.
Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE)
Guilin’s importance grew significantly during the Qin Dynasty, especially with the construction of the Lingqu Canal in 214 BCE. This canal connected the Xiang River to the Li River, facilitating trade and communication between northern China and the Lingnan region. The canal was one of the greatest engineering feats of ancient China and helped Guilin become a strategic military and economic hub. After the Qin Dynasty unified southern China, Guilin’s political and economic prominence increased. It was during this period that Guilin earned its name, derived from the region’s abundance of osmanthus trees (桂树), marking the beginning of the city’s formal history. However, the capital of the region was not located in present-day Guilin during this era.
Tang Dynasty (618–907)
During the Tang Dynasty, Buddhism flourished in Guilin, as it did throughout China. The city became home to several significant temples, including more than ten major monasteries. One of the most notable figures in this period was Jianzhen, a Buddhist monk who stayed at Guilin’s Kaiyuan Temple for a year during his journey to Japan, where he propagated Buddhist teachings. Jianzhen’s presence helped elevate Guilin’s status as a cultural and religious center. Additionally, in 621 CE, the military general Li Jing reinforced the city by constructing fortifications south of Duxiu Peak, further solidifying Guilin’s importance.
Song Dynasty (960–1279)
The Song Dynasty saw the construction of many cultural landmarks in Guilin, including the Huaqiao (Flower Bridge), built during the Jiaxi Era (1237–1240). This bridge was later renamed due to the lush flora surrounding it. In 1262, the establishment of Xuancheng Academy—Guilin’s first official academy—marked an important cultural development. Founded by Zhu Sisi, the academy received a plaque from the emperor himself, enhancing its prestige as an educational institution. It became a cornerstone of learning and scholarship in the region.
Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368–1912)
Guilin reached new heights during the Ming Dynasty, especially when Zhu Shouqian, a nephew of the Ming Emperor, was appointed as the Jingjiang Prince and established a princely state in the city. The construction of the Jingjiang Princes’ Palace began in 1372, along with the city’s fortifications. The princely state lasted until the Southern Ming period, enduring over 280 years. Guilin became a major political and cultural center during this time, with its influence extending far beyond the city itself.
In the Qing Dynasty, Guilin was home to prominent scholars, especially those associated with the Tongcheng School, a literary movement that had significant cultural influence across China. Three of the school’s most important figures hailed from Guilin, adding to the city’s intellectual legacy.
Modern Era
In the 20th century, Guilin became a focal point of modern Chinese history. In 1921, Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China, arrived in Guilin during his military campaign. He set up his headquarters in the Jingjiang Palace, where he regrouped and planned his northern expedition to reunite China.
During the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945), Guilin played a key role in the anti-Japanese resistance. As northern and eastern China fell to Japanese forces, many intellectuals and cultural figures fled to Guilin, turning it into a center of resistance and patriotism. The city became a hotbed of cultural activity, with writers, artists, and academics contributing to the war effort through their work.
In 2013, Guilin entered a new era with the opening of the high-speed rail connection to Beijing, integrating the city into China’s modern transportation network. This development marked a new chapter in Guilin’s history, further boosting its status as a major tourist destination and economic hub in southern China.