Visiting Guilin all you need to know

Guilin, a city in the northeast of China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique karst landscapes. The city is located on the banks of the Li River, which winds its way through the area and is surrounded by lush, green mountains that are dotted with caves, grottoes, and unique rock formations.

The history of Guilin dates back over 2,000 years, with the city playing an important role in both the cultural and economic development of the region. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Guilin was a major center for trade and commerce, and it was during this time that the city's famous landscapes began to take shape. Many of the city's historical sites and landmarks, such as the Seven Star Park and the Elephant Trunk Hill, date back to this period.

The climate in Guilin is subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are from September to November and from March to May, when the weather is milder and the landscape is at its most vibrant.

Tourist attractions in Guilin include the Li River, which is considered one of China's most beautiful waterways, and is a must-see destination for visitors. Other popular attractions include the Reed Flute Cave, a limestone cave system that is filled with stunning rock formations, and the Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural limestone formation that is shaped like an elephant's trunk.

Some of the main places to visit nearby Guilin include Yangshuo, a small town located about 70 km downriver from Guilin. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Chinese architecture. Another popular destination is Longsheng, famous for its terraced rice paddies and traditional Zhuang villages. Both Yangshuo and Longsheng can be reached by boat or by car.

In terms of dining and entertainment, Guilin is famous for its local cuisine, which features a variety of dishes made from freshwater fish and seafood. Some of the best restaurants in the city include Lao Jie, a popular spot that serves traditional Guilin-style dishes, and Siji Minfu, a restaurant that specializes in the region's famous rice noodle dishes. For a more Western-style dining experience, visitors can head to the trendy bars and restaurants of the Yangshuo West Street.

Getting around Guilin is relatively easy, with the city offering a variety of transportation options such as bus, taxi and bike rental. Public bus services are a cheap and convenient way to get around the city, and many of the popular tourist destinations are easily accessible by bus. Taxis are also readily available, although it's recommended to have the name and address of your destination written in Chinese, to avoid any communication problems. Bike rental is another popular way to explore the city and nearby towns like Yangshuo, as it allows visitors to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Overall, Guilin is an ideal destination for those looking to experience China's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's historical sites and landmarks, or simply want to relax and take in the stunning landscapes, Guilin has something to offer for everyone.