Guilin China
Discovering the Natural Beauty of Guilin, China
Guilin, a city in southern China, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning karst landscape, picturesque rivers, and rich cultural heritage. This blog post will guide you through the must-visit attractions, delicious local cuisine, comfortable accommodations, and exciting activities to experience in Guilin.
Must-Visit Attractions
1. Li River Scenic Area
Take a leisurely boat ride along the Li River, which winds its way through towering karst mountains and picturesque villages. The scenic area stretches for over 80 kilometers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Reed Flute Cave
Explore the magnificent Reed Flute Cave, a massive limestone cave featuring stunning rock formations, underground pools, and ancient inscriptions.
3. Elephant Trunk Hill
Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, a iconic landmark in Guilin featuring a hill that resembles an elephant’s trunk. The hill offers panoramic views of the city and is surrounded by picturesque gardens.
4. Fubo Hill
Fubo Hill, also known as the “Wave-Subduing Hill,” is a popular spot for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Seven Star Park
Spend an afternoon exploring the beautiful Seven Star Park, which features several lakes, gardens, and walking trails.
Delicious Local Cuisine
Guilin is renowned for its delicious Cantonese cuisine, which often features fresh ingredients from the surrounding countryside. Be sure to try:
1. Guilin Rice Noodles
Savor the local specialty, Guilin rice noodles, which are made from rice flour and served in a variety of flavors.
2. Stewed Snails with Garlic
Indulge in this popular dish, which features snails cooked in a flavorful garlic sauce.
3. Oil-Fried Chicken
Enjoy crispy fried chicken marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices.
4. Guilin-style Wontons
Taste the local wontons, which are typically served in a light broth or stir-fried with vegetables.
Comfortable Accommodations
Guilin offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include:
1. Shangri-La Hotel Guilin
Experience luxurious comfort at the Shangri-La Hotel Guilin, which features stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Guilin Bravo Hotel
Stay at the Guilin Bravo Hotel, a comfortable mid-range option offering spacious rooms and a convenient location.
3. Lazybones Hostel Guilin
Budget travelers will appreciate the friendly atmosphere and affordable prices at Lazybones Hostel Guilin.
Exciting Activities
Guilin offers a range of activities to suit all interests, including:
1. Bamboo Rafting
Take a leisurely bamboo raft ride along the Li River, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.
2. Hiking and Rock Climbing
Explore the stunning karst landscape by hiking or rock climbing in the surrounding hills and mountains.
3. Cooking Classes
Learn the secrets of Cantonese cuisine with a cooking class, where you can learn to prepare local dishes like Guilin rice noodles and stewed snails with garlic.
4. Cycling Tours
Join a guided cycling tour to explore the picturesque countryside and villages surrounding Guilin.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: While many locals in Guilin speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your travel experience.
- Currency: The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or withdraw cash from ATMs.
- Weather: Guilin has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
- Transportation: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport offers flights to major cities in China, while buses and taxis are available for local transportation.
Conclusion
Guilin, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in hiking, cooking, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Guilin has something to offer. So why not start planning your trip today?