Guilin Karst Circuit
China
The mountains of Guilin were so improbable they became the default landscape of Chinese ink painting for a thousand years. This circuit links the Li River, the Dragon's Backbone rice terraces, and the karst hills of Yangshuo into the most visually dramatic drive in southern China.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Guilin
The karst capital on the Li River, where Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave's crystal grottoes define southern China's iconic landscape.
- Dragon's Backbone Terraces
Terraces carved by Zhuang and Yao peoples over 650 years, rippling up steep hillsides in the most sculpted agricultural landscape in China.
- Yangshuo
Karst peaks erupt 300 m from flat paddies along the Li River. Cycle the country lanes between peaks or watch cormorant fishing at dusk.
- Moon Hill
A 380-m karst pinnacle with a perfect circular arch near its summit, framing views across the paddy-and-peak landscape south of Yangshuo.
- Xingping
A Han-dynasty river town on the Li's most famous bend, the scene printed on China's 20-yuan note. Dawn on a bamboo raft here is transcendent.
- Guilin
The circuit returns to Guilin along the Li River corridor, closing a loop through the landscapes that defined Chinese landscape painting for centuries.
Where to Eat
- Zhenyang Roast GooseLocal Specialty
Renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat, this roast goose is a Guilin delicacy.
- Shouzi Rice NoodlesStreet Food
A popular local dish featuring rice noodles in a flavorful broth with various toppings.
- Lao You Tian RestaurantTraditional Chinese
Offers authentic Guilin cuisine in a traditional setting.
- Cloud 9 RestaurantChinese
Serves a variety of Chinese dishes with a scenic view of Yangshuo's karst mountains.
Things to Do
- Li River CruiseScenic Boat Tour
Experience the stunning karst landscapes along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo.
- Impression Sanjie LiuCultural Performance
An outdoor night show on the Li River showcasing local culture and folklore.
- Silver CaveCave Exploration
Explore a magnificent karst cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- West StreetShopping and Nightlife
A bustling street in Yangshuo known for its shops, cafes, and vibrant nightlife.