Hidden Gems of Local Life and Nature Day Trip to Guilin

Guilin , China

Hidden Gems of Local Life and Nature Day Trip to Guilin

Active

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Carve out a day and immerse yourself in the everyday rhythm of Guilin, where tradition and modern life intertwine. This tour blends an immersive morning city walking experience with an afternoon sightseeing tour.

Stroll vibrant streets, engage with locals, and uncover hidden gems before exploring Guilin’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking views.

Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or culture enthusiast, this tour offers an authentic and unforgettable glimpse into Guilin.

Highlights:
• Join locals in their morning workouts, soaking in the energy.
• Experience the hustle and bustle of daily life and the wisdom of Chinese herbal medicine.
• Savor Guilin’s signature oil tea and rice noodles.
• Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the city’s most famous landmark.
• Ride the Yaoshan Mountain Cable Car for panoramic views.

Please Note:
• The tour includes multiple stops; time at each varies.
• Approx. 5km of walking involved.

Available options

Hidden Gems of Local Life and Nature Day Trip to Guilin

Pickup included

What's included

Taxi/Ride-hailing(DiDi) from city to Yaoshan Mountain Cable Station (round trip)

Bottled water

Private English-speaking tour guide

Guilin rice noodles

Taxi/Ride-hailing(DiDi) from hotel to starting point

Detailed itinerary

Start your journey at Shan Lake, passing the remnants of the ancient Ming Dynasty city wall. Touch the weathered bricks and stones, and listen to the whispers of Guilin’s rich history.

Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Ancient South Gate offers a glimpse into Guilin's rich history.

Stroll along Rong Lake and admire the reflection of karst peaks on the water’s surface. This popular spot comes to life in the morning as locals practice tai chi, sword dancing, and other exercises. Join in or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Uncover Guilin: Local Market & Herbal Medicine Shop

Step into a bustling local market filled with fresh vegetables, fruits, and regional specialties. Engage with vendors and soak in the lively atmosphere of daily market life.

Continue your journey at an authentic Chinese herbal medicine shop, where a pharmacist will introduce the uses and benefits of various herbs. Discover the charm and wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine.

Explore the narrow alleys of a traditional residential neighborhood, where historic houses and small shops line the streets. Listen to elderly residents chatting, watch children at play, and experience the rhythm of everyday life in Guilin.

Take a detour to a back street to savor Guilin’s signature flavors.

Enjoy a bowl of authentic Guilin rice noodles, served with a rich marinade and topped with an array of flavorful toppings.—each bite bursting with local flavor.

Then, treat yourself to traditional snacks like horse-hoof-shaped rice cakes, glutinous rice cakes flavored with brown sugar, and a bowl of Guilin oil tea. (Snacks and oil tea are at your own cost.)

(Please note: restaurant choices are determined per daily plan.)

Walk the winding bluestone paths past ancient arcades, traditional handicrafts, and local snacks while admiring Ming-Qing architecture and Guilin’s folk culture.

Stop 7

Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin’s most famous landmark, shaped like an elephant drinking from the river. Admire its natural beauty and picturesque surroundings.

Take a cable car up Yao Mountain for panoramic views of Guilin and its breathtaking landscapes.

Feeling tired after your walk? You can opt for a Chinese foot massage to relax and rejuvenate. This traditional experience offers unique benefits and is available at an additional cost.

What's not included

Return transfer from the city's endpoint to the hotel.

Foot massage experience

Cable car tickets

Dinner

Breakfast

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travelers with severe respiratory problems

Not recommended for travelers with recent surgeries

Not recommended for travelers with chronic joint pain

Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness for walking

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Participants are responsible for assessing their own fitness level. Consult your physician if you have any health concerns.

The tour operator reserves the right to refuse participation based on health conditions.

About Guilin

Guilin is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, with the Li River meandering through picturesque peaks and lush greenery. This city offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination in southern China.

Top Attractions

Li River Cruise

A scenic cruise along the Li River, offering breathtaking views of karst peaks, lush greenery, and traditional villages. The cruise typically starts from Guilin and ends in Yangshuo, covering a distance of about 83 kilometers.

Nature 4-5 hours for the full cruise Moderate (¥150-300 depending on the type of cruise)

Elephant Trunk Hill

A famous landmark in Guilin, shaped like an elephant drinking water from the Li River. The hill offers hiking trails, a scenic cave, and panoramic views of the city and river.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (¥30-50)

Reed Flute Cave

A stunning limestone cave with a history of over 1,800 years. The cave is known for its intricate rock formations, colorful lighting, and ancient inscriptions.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (¥80-100)

Longji Terraced Fields

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.

Nature Full day trip Moderate (¥100-200 for transportation and entrance fees)

Yangshuo

A picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. Yangshuo is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Nature Half day to full day trip Budget to Moderate (depending on activities)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)

A local specialty made from rice, served with various toppings and broths. The noodles are thin, chewy, and often served with ingredients like pickled vegetables, peanuts, and meat.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu)

A local delicacy featuring fish marinated in beer and deep-fried, served with a spicy sauce. The dish is known for its crispy texture and unique flavor.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten (beer)

Liangpi (Cold Noodles)

A refreshing and light dish made from rice flour, served cold with a variety of toppings and sauces. It is a popular street food and a great option for hot summer days.

Snack/Lunch Vegetarian options available

Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Bing)

A traditional sweet made from glutinous rice flour, osmanthus flowers, and sugar. The cake has a unique fragrance and a soft, chewy texture.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Rock climbing Rafting and kayaking Hiking Li River cruise Tea house visits Spa and wellness Visiting ethnic minority villages Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lush greenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Cantonese, Zhuang (local dialect)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Guilin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Bargain for souvenirs and street food, and be cautious of overpriced or fake goods

Getting there

By air

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport • 27 km from city center

By train

Guilin Railway Station, Guilin West Railway Station

By bus

Guilin Long-Distance Bus Station, Guilin South Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient, with routes covering most of the city and connecting to popular tourist spots.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zhengyang District Xiangshan District Qixing District

Day trips

Yangshuo

65 km from Guilin • Half day to full day trip

Yangshuo is a picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a variety of adventures, from biking and rock climbing to rafting and kayaking.

Longji Terraced Fields

70 km from Guilin • Full day trip

Xingping Ancient Town

25 km from Guilin • Half day trip

A well-preserved ancient town along the Li River, known for its traditional architecture, historic sites, and scenic views. The town is famous for its appearance on the back of the 20 RMB note.

Festivals

Li River Festival • September Guilin Tea Culture Festival • March Zhuang Ethnic Minority Festival • Varies (usually in spring or autumn)

Pro tips

Take a Li River cruise at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds
Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages or historic sites
Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture
Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors, tips, and small purchases
Use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenient and affordable transportation, but ensure you have a local SIM card or eSIM