Discover the Beauty of Guilin on These Scenic Hikes

Guilin, a jewel in China's Guangxi region, is renowned for its surreal karst landscapes, winding rivers, and lush greenery. While cruising the Li River is a classic way to experience its beauty, hiking offers an intimate, immersive alternative. Here’s your guide to the most breathtaking trails that showcase Guilin’s natural splendor.

The Best Hiking Trails in Guilin

1. Xingping to Yangdi: The Li River Classic

This 16-kilometer hike along the Li River is a must for first-time visitors. The trail winds through rice paddies, bamboo groves, and traditional fishing villages, offering postcard-perfect views of karst peaks like Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal.

Highlights:
- Stop at Lao Zhai Shan for a panoramic river vista.
- Watch cormorant fishermen at work—a centuries-old tradition.
- End your hike in Yangdi, where you can reward yourself with a bowl of Guilin rice noodles.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid midday heat and catch the soft morning light for photography.

2. Moon Hill: A Short but Strenuous Adventure

Named for its natural moon-shaped arch, this 800-step climb rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the countryside. The trail is steep but well-paved, taking about 30–45 minutes to reach the summit.

Why It’s Worth It:
- The arch frames stunning sunsets—ideal for Instagram shots.
- Nearby, the Butterfly Spring offers a serene detour.

Local Insight: Vendors sell cold coconuts at the base—perfect for rehydrating post-hike.

3. Longji Rice Terraces: A Cultural Trek

Venture two hours outside Guilin to the Longsheng area, where the Dragon’s Backbone Terraces sprawl across mountain slopes. The Ping’an Village to Dazhai route (10 km) takes you through Zhuang and Yao minority villages, with wooden guesthouses serving spicy bamboo rice.

Don’t Miss:
- "Seven Stars Around the Moon"—a cluster of terraces resembling stars.
- Yao women’s waist-length hair, a cultural symbol showcased in performances.

Seasonal Tip: Visit in late September for golden harvest views or spring for mirror-like water-filled paddies.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Trails

4. Yangshuo Countryside: Secret Paths Less Traveled

Escape the crowds with a self-guided walk through Jiuxian Village or along the Yulong River. Rent a bike to extend your exploration, passing hidden waterfalls and limestone caves like Silver Cave.

Hidden Gems:
- Fuli Bridge: A quiet spot to watch locals farming with water buffalo.
- Chaolong Ancient Village: A 600-year-old settlement frozen in time.

5. Cat Mountain: For the Bold

Near downtown Guilin, this steep, unofficial trail (with ropes for assistance) leads to a bird’s-eye view of the city and Elephant Trunk Hill. It’s challenging but takes less than an hour.

Caution: Slippery after rain—wear sturdy shoes!

Practical Tips for Hiking in Guilin

When to Go

• Spring (March–May): Mild temps; blooming flowers.
• Autumn (September–November): Clear skies; ideal for photography.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing.
• A reusable water bottle (fill up at guesthouses).
• Cash (small villages may not accept cards).

Cultural Etiquette

• Ask before photographing locals.
• Support small businesses by buying handmade souvenirs like Yao embroidery.

Beyond Hiking: Extend Your Adventure

• Try rock climbing: Yangshuo is Asia’s premier limestone climbing destination.
• Take a cooking class: Learn to make beer fish, a local specialty.
• Raft the Yulong: Bamboo rafting offers a lazy-day alternative.

Guilin’s trails are more than walks—they’re gateways to a landscape that feels plucked from a Chinese ink painting. Whether you’re chasing sunrise from a peak or strolling through emerald rice fields, every step reveals why this region has inspired poets for centuries.