Travel guide · China
Guilin and Yangshuo: what to see and when to go
Guilin and Yangshuo, in southern China, are famous for the karst scenery printed on the 20-yuan note: hundreds of green limestone peaks rising from rice fields and the Li River. It is a region for cycling, bamboo rafting and village life, an easy high-speed train or flight from Guangzhou, Hong Kong or Shanghai.
What to see and do in Guilin and Yangshuo
Li River cruise
The classic boat trip from Guilin to Yangshuo between karst peaks.
Xingping
The bend in the river shown on the 20-yuan note, and a hilltop viewpoint at sunset.
Yulong River
Bamboo rafting and cycling past rice fields and old stone bridges.
Longji rice terraces
Mountains terraced by the Zhuang and Yao peoples, about two hours north of Guilin.
Reed Flute Cave
A limestone cave in Guilin lit in bright colours.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Nov – Dec.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 12 hr, 15 min | ≈ €590 · See flights |
| New York | 17 hr | ≈ €690 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 15 hr, 30 min | ≈ €660 · See flights |
| Dubai | 7 hr, 45 min | ≈ €450 · See flights |
| Singapore | 4 hr | ≈ €240 · See flights |
| Sydney | 10 hr, 30 min | ≈ €540 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €790 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- China
- Currency
- Chinese Yuan
- Good for
- nature · mountains · food · calm
- How long to stay
- 4–6 days
- Where to stay
- Yangshuo, and especially the countryside around it, for a relaxed base; Guilin for the airport and the train station.Find a place to stay in Guilin and Yangshuo
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Guilin and Yangshuo, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €590 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Guilin and Yangshuo (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- CarPick it up at the airport (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Guilin and Yangshuo and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Nov – Dec. Average highs range from 15° in January to 32° in July.
How many days do you need in Guilin and Yangshuo?
4 to 6 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Guilin and Yangshuo cost?
Accommodation runs at around €70 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €790 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 12 hr, 15 min.
Where should you stay in Guilin and Yangshuo?
Yangshuo, and especially the countryside around it, for a relaxed base; Guilin for the airport and the train station.
