Guilin is renowned for its stunning landscapes, characterized by karst mountains and picturesque rivers. But beyond the natural beauty, Guilin offers a wide range of activities, from traditional river cruises to thrilling adventures like rock climbing and bungee jumping. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, there’s plenty to do in this beautiful region.
Hot Springs
After a day of exploring Guilin’s scenic attractions, there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot spring to unwind. Bathing in natural hot springs can help relieve muscle tension and provide therapeutic benefits for cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, skin conditions, and more. Many visitors enjoy taking a dip in the healing waters as part of their wellness routine, helping them relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing.
Recommended places to visit:
- Longsheng Hot Springs: Known for its beautiful natural surroundings and therapeutic waters, Longsheng is a popular choice for visitors looking to relax.
- Danxia Hot Springs in Ziyuan County and Yanjing Hot Springs in Quanzhou are also excellent options for those wanting a more tranquil experience.
- Jinzhongshan Hot Springs in Yongfu County is another great spot to enjoy the natural beauty while soaking in warm waters.
Bamboo Rafting
One of the most iconic activities in Guilin is bamboo rafting on its serene rivers. The dramatic karst landscape combined with the tranquil water creates a magical atmosphere. Drifting down the Li River or Yulong River, surrounded by lush green mountains, is an unforgettable experience. For those seeking more excitement, some sections of the river offer thrilling rapids that add a sense of adventure to the trip. Whether you opt for a peaceful float or a more thrilling ride, bamboo rafting is a must-do when visiting Guilin.
Recommended places to experience:
- Longjing River Rafting: For an exhilarating experience with rapids set against a stunning backdrop of karst peaks.
- Shier Tan Rafting: Another popular spot for adventurous rafting enthusiasts.
- Wupai River Rafting: Known for its challenging rapids and exciting twists.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in Guilin’s natural beauty. With its endless green hills, hidden valleys, and crystal-clear rivers, the region offers hikers a chance to explore a living Chinese landscape painting. Walking through the scenic trails gives you an up-close view of the karst mountains and an opportunity to experience Guilin’s natural wonders at your own pace. It’s a perfect way to combine physical exercise with an appreciation of the area’s remarkable landscape.
Recommended places to hike:
- Li River Hike: The hike from Yangdi to Xingping is one of the most scenic trails in Guilin. Along this route, you’ll pass by beautiful spots like Langshi Village and Yellow Cloth Shoal. The natural beauty along this stretch of the Li River is unmatched.
- Other great hiking trails include Qianjiadong, Mao’er Mountain, Tianshengqiao, Motianling, and Huaping, which all offer different levels of difficulty and diverse scenic views.
Cycling
Exploring Guilin’s countryside by bicycle is an excellent way to take in the area’s breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. Cycling around Yangshuo’s winding roads, with karst mountains on either side, allows you to visit local villages, farms, and hidden attractions. The fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and freedom to stop wherever you please make cycling one of the most popular activities in the area.
Recommended places to cycle:
- Ride along Totem Ancient Trail or explore the Butterfly Spring and Big Banyan Tree routes, which take you through some of the most picturesque spots in Yangshuo. You’ll pass through green valleys, rice paddies, and along riverbanks as you experience the charm of rural Guilin.
Rock Climbing
For thrill-seekers, Guilin offers some of the best rock climbing spots in China. The unique karst terrain creates steep cliffs and overhangs that are ideal for climbers of all skill levels. With its natural beauty and solid limestone formations, Yangshuo has become a top destination for climbers from around the world. The diverse climbing routes, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges, make Yangshuo a haven for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Recommended places to climb:
- Golden Cat Cave, Wine Bottle Mountain, and Thumb Peak offer exciting routes with varying levels of difficulty.
- Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill are other popular spots for climbing in Yangshuo, with routes that cater to climbers of all abilities.
Conclusion
From bamboo rafting and hot springs to hiking and rock climbing, Guilin offers a wide range of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in its unique landscapes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the city’s stunning natural beauty and modern entertainment options ensure that there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a peaceful night cruise through Guilin’s lakes or a thrilling day of rock climbing in Yangshuo, the adventures in Guilin are as diverse and captivating as its landscapes.