Guangxi is where mountains rise from the river and traditions live among them.
The landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo are among the most recognizable in China.
Cruise along the Li River between limestone peaks, cycle through the countryside around Yangshuo, and slow down beside villages where life still follows the rhythm of the landscape.
But the scenery is only half the story.
In the region's Yao communities, traditional Yao embroidery preserves patterns, stories and cultural identity through intricate handwork.
The craft is more than decoration. Motifs, colors and techniques connect clothing and textiles with community traditions passed down through generations.
Guangxi is also home to diverse ethnic cultures, including the Zhuang, Yao and Dong peoples, each with their own music, festivals, architecture and traditions.
Listen to local songs, explore village crafts, and take the time to understand the communities behind the landscape.
The Li River may bring you to Guangxi. Its people and traditions give you a reason to stay.
Patterns, Stories & Living Heritage
Travel into the Yao communities around Guangxi and discover the intricate art of traditional Yao embroidery. Meet local artisans, learn the meaning behind the patterns and colors, and try simple embroidery techniques to experience how stories and identity are preserved through textile.
Songs, Stories & Local Voices
Visit a local village and experience traditional songs performed by members of the Zhuang, Yao or Dong communities. Listen to the melodies, learn about the stories behind them and, with your hosts, try a simple local song as part of the experience.
Beyond the Landscape
Leave the main tourist routes behind and spend time in a traditional village surrounded by mountains and farmland. Walk through the community with a local guide, meet residents, discover local customs and share a simple meal to experience everyday life at a slower pace.
China's Iconic River Landscape
Cruise along the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo and experience one of China's most recognizable natural landscapes. Limestone peaks rise dramatically from the water, creating the scenery that has inspired Chinese artists for centuries.
Mountains, Rivers & Rural Life
Explore the countryside around Yangshuo by bicycle or on foot, passing rice fields, small villages and winding rivers beneath the karst mountains. It is one of the best places to experience Guangxi beyond the main tourist sights.
Guilin's Natural Landmark
Named for its distinctive shape, Elephant Trunk Hill rises beside the Li River in central Guilin. Walk through the surrounding park and enjoy one of the city's most recognizable views.
Mountains Shaped by Generations
Stretching across the mountains north of Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces were created and cultivated by local communities over generations. Walk through the terraces to see how agriculture, landscape and village life have developed together.
The Landscape Behind the Picture
Located along the Li River near Yangshuo, Xingping is surrounded by some of the region's most famous karst scenery. Walk through the old streets or take a short boat ride to experience one of the most beautiful sections of the river.
Guilin's food culture is closely connected to the flavors and ingredients of southern China. Rice noodles, river fish, local sauces and fresh produce create a cuisine that is simple, fragrant and deeply rooted in everyday life.
Soft rice noodles are served with a rich meat-based broth or sauce and topped with braised meat, peanuts, pickled vegetables and herbs. Mix everything together before eating so the noodles absorb the layers of flavor.
Fresh river fish is cooked with beer, tomatoes, peppers and local seasonings to create a rich and aromatic dish. Share it at the table and enjoy it with steamed rice or other local specialties.
Tender pork belly is paired with locally grown taro and slowly cooked until the flavors come together. Take a little of both the pork and taro in each bite to balance the richness and soft texture.
Fresh river snails are prepared with aromatic herbs, spices and carefully selected local ingredients. Take the time to enjoy the filling slowly and experience one of Guilin's more distinctive regional specialties.
➢ Guilin City Center— A practical choice for first-time visitors who want easy access to restaurants, shopping, transport connections and Guilin's main city attractions.
➢ Two Rivers & Four Lakes — Ideal for travelers who want to stay close to Guilin's famous waterways, parks and evening scenery while remaining within the city center.
➢ Yangshuo — A good choice for travelers who want to slow down among karst mountains, rivers, villages and countryside landscapes. It also provides easy access to cycling, river cruises and outdoor experiences.
➢ Near Longji Rice Terraces — Best for travelers seeking a more immersive rural experience, with mountain scenery, traditional villages and panoramic views of the rice terraces.
➢ Luxury Riverside & Mountain Retreats — High-end properties with views of the Li River, karst mountains or surrounding countryside, often featuring spacious rooms, gardens and wellness facilities.
➢ Boutique Riverside Hotels — Intimate properties with terraces, balconies and outdoor spaces designed to connect guests with the surrounding landscape.
➢ Chinese Contemporary Design Hotels — Modern stays combining natural materials, clean architecture and subtle elements inspired by traditional southern Chinese aesthetics.
➢ Village & Nature Retreats — Peaceful properties surrounded by mountains, rice fields or traditional villages, ideal for travelers looking to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Navigating Guilin: Scenic, Relaxed & Best Explored Beyond the Road
Guilin is well connected to major cities in China, while many of the region's most beautiful landscapes lie outside the city itself. Combining high-speed rail, private transportation, boats and cycling allows you to experience the area at a more natural pace.
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport is the city's main airport, with connections to major cities across China and selected international destinations. Private airport transfers can be arranged directly to your hotel.
Guilin North Railway Station · Guilin Railway Station · Yangshuo Railway Station
High-speed rail connects Guilin with major destinations across China. Yangshuo Railway Station is located outside the town itself, so private transfers are often the most convenient way to continue the journey.
Private transportation is particularly useful when combining Guilin with Yangshuo, Longji Rice Terraces and surrounding villages. A private driver allows you to stop at viewpoints, villages and local experiences that are difficult to reach by public transportation.
A Li River cruise from Guilin toward Yangshuo is one of the region's signature experiences. Rather than simply being a way to get from one place to another, the journey itself offers changing views of karst peaks, riverside villages and rural landscapes.
The countryside around Yangshuo is particularly well suited to cycling. Follow small roads between villages, rice fields and limestone peaks, stopping along the way for local food, photographs and quiet moments beside the river.
Beyond
the Landmark
Living Heritage
Experiences
Tailored
Journeys
Local Stories,
Real Connections
Thoughtful
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We will use it as the first thread in a journey designed around you.
