Guilin, one of the most picturesque cities in southern China, is often celebrated for its karst mountains, winding rivers, and postcard-worthy countryside. But beyond the tourist-heavy hotspots like Li River cruises or Yangshuo’s scenic bike trails, Guilin is also home to an impressive collection of serene urban parks. These green spaces provide a more local and peaceful experience—perfect for morning strolls, afternoon picnics, and quiet contemplation. Whether you’re in town for a few days or just need a break from the busier tourist routes, here are some of the best city parks in Guilin that are ideal for relaxing walks.
As the largest and most famous urban park in Guilin, Seven Star Park is both a cultural and natural landmark. The park spans more than 130 hectares and is named after the seven karst peaks inside that resemble the Big Dipper constellation.
Paved trails wind through bamboo groves, alongside rivers, and around dramatic limestone hills, offering varied scenery.
The Flower Bridge and Camel Hill provide photogenic spots to pause and enjoy the view.
There are hidden caves, like Seven Star Cave, if you want to combine your walk with some light exploration.
Despite being a popular attraction, the park has enough space to find solitude, especially in the early morning or on weekdays.
This interconnected water system weaves through Guilin’s city center and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped walking paths and urban greenery. Although it's more known for its night cruises, the pathways are open for free public strolling.
Walkways are well-lit and safe at night, ideal for romantic or reflective evening walks.
The Sun and Moon Pagodas along Shan Lake provide a dramatic architectural backdrop.
A loop around all four lakes—Rong Lake, Shan Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake—can take 1.5 to 2 hours on foot, providing a satisfying urban nature workout.
Benches, viewing decks, and cafés line the route, making it easy to take breaks and soak in the views.
Located close to the heart of the city and not far from the Li River, this modern city park is more about greenery and tranquility than iconic views. It's popular with locals for tai chi, group dancing, and casual jogging.
Offers flat, wide trails perfect for those seeking a less rugged walking experience.
The park is filled with flower gardens, pavilions, and small ponds, making it feel like a relaxing urban retreat.
Quiet and largely free from tourist traffic, offering a more local, authentic vibe.
In the early morning or late afternoon, you'll often find elderly locals playing erhu, reading newspapers, or just enjoying the breeze.
While technically a hill and not just a flat park, Diecai Hill is famous for its stunning rock formations and elevated views over Guilin’s cityscape. There’s still plenty of space around the base for flat walking trails.
If you enjoy mixing light hiking with walking, this park gives you the option to ascend for panoramic views or just wander the serene base gardens.
The Lianhua (Lotus) Cave and Wind Cave are located within easy reach for those who enjoy a bit of natural discovery.
Less crowded than other scenic spots, it feels personal and meditative.
It’s a favorite for locals who want a quick escape into nature without leaving the city.
This park surrounds the scenic Rong Lake and is one of the best-maintained green spaces in downtown Guilin. Its centerpiece is the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas, but it’s also known for its willow-lined paths and stone bridges.
Gorgeous waterside walkways with occasional bridges and ornamental rock gardens.
Ideal for sunset strolls, when the lighting turns golden and the pagodas reflect beautifully in the water.
The park is clean, peaceful, and often filled with musicians, painters, or casual readers.
You’ll often see elderly locals walking their birds in bamboo cages, a charming cultural sight that adds to the park’s ambiance.
Located where the Peach Blossom River meets the Li River, Xiangshan Park is home to the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill—shaped like an elephant drinking water.
Though the elephant-shaped hill draws crowds, the surrounding gardens and river walkways are usually quiet and lush.
Stone-paved paths follow the riverbanks and are shaded by weeping willows, making for a relaxing route.
Morning walks are particularly enjoyable when the light mist floats over the Li River.
There’s also a Buddhist temple inside the park if you want a moment of spiritual calm.
This lesser-known urban park lies in the southern part of the city and is a real hidden gem. Nanxishan, or South Stream Hill, is often skipped by tourists, which is precisely what makes it great for walking.
Offers a blend of nature and ruins, including small pavilions and abandoned Qing Dynasty-era structures.
Fewer people means more solitude—ideal for reading, sketching, or silent walks.
Small lakes with lotus flowers and stone bridges complete the Zen-like setting.
Even locals regard it as one of Guilin’s most relaxing parks.
Located in the north of Guilin, Yushan Park surrounds Yushan Hill and is home to historical relics including a temple built during the Tang Dynasty. Though it has cultural significance, the park itself is ideal for casual walks.
The ancient stone paths and corridors transport you to another era.
It’s rarely crowded, offering clean air and quiet surroundings.
The presence of old cypress trees and bamboo groves adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
It’s a great park for slow, meditative walking, especially in the early morning.
Part of the Four Lakes scenic system, Mulong Lake is perhaps the quietest and most culturally rich of the four. The surrounding park includes replicas of Tang Dynasty buildings and stylized bridges.
The architecture blends beautifully with nature, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
The walk around the lake is short but richly textured with changing scenery and elevation.
At night, the lake is illuminated, and the reflections of the pavilions and stone bridges are magical.
It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to wind down after a long day of sightseeing.
Guihu means "Osmanthus Lake," and this charming little park is a sanctuary in the city. Famous for its seasonal osmanthus blossoms, it has shaded paths, ancient trees, and winding canals.
The smell of osmanthus in late summer and autumn is an unforgettable experience.
Stone walkways follow tranquil waterways that feed into the nearby lakes.
It’s small but incredibly peaceful, offering a quick nature fix without a big time commitment.
There’s also a small tea house where you can rest with a cup of local brew after your walk.
Best time to go: Early mornings (before 9am) or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a small umbrella in case of unexpected rain.
Watch for local culture: Many parks have spaces where locals gather to play music, dance, or practice tai chi. Don’t be afraid to respectfully observe or even join.
Safety: Guilin is generally safe, but always keep personal belongings secure, especially in parks with a lot of foot traffic.
Guilin isn’t just about karst peaks and Li River cruises. Its urban parks offer a refreshing and underrated way to connect with the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a cultural encounter, or just a shady place to stretch your legs, Guilin’s parks deliver a tranquil experience steeped in natural beauty. A morning walk through Guihu Park, an evening stroll by the Moon Pagoda, or a lazy afternoon at Central Park can become some of the most memorable parts of your trip.
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Author: Guilin Travel
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