Guilin

Overview of Guilin’s Night Markets

Guilin’s night markets are lively, colorful, and bustling with activity. They are a great place to experience local culture, try authentic street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the city’s nightlife. The most popular night markets in Guilin include:

1. Zhengyang Pedestrian Street Night Market

   • Location: Near the city center, close to the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill.
   • Highlights: A mix of modern shops and traditional market stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and snacks.
   • Atmosphere: Family-friendly, vibrant, and tourist-oriented.

2. Xicheng Pedestrian Street Night Market

   • Location: West of the city center.
   • Highlights: A more local experience with fewer tourists, offering authentic street food and affordable shopping.
   • Atmosphere: Less crowded, more laid-back.

3. Guilin Night Market (Jiefang East Road)

   • Location: Jiefang East Road, near the Li River.
   • Highlights: A traditional night market with a focus on local snacks, handmade crafts, and inexpensive clothing.
   • Atmosphere: Bustling and lively, with a mix of locals and tourists.

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Shopping Options

Guilin’s night markets are a treasure trove for shoppers. Here’s what you can expect to find:

1. Souvenirs and Handicrafts

   • Items: Painted fans, embroidered silk, jade jewelry, bamboo carvings, and traditional Chinese calligraphy.
   • Cost: Small souvenirs range from ¥10–¥50, while higher-quality handicrafts can cost ¥100–¥300.

2. Clothing and Accessories

   • Items: Trendy clothing, scarves, hats, and handmade jewelry.
   • Cost: Clothing items typically range from ¥50–¥200, depending on quality and bargaining skills.

3. Local Specialties

   • Items: Osmanthus tea (桂花茶), Guilin chili sauce (桂林辣椒酱), and rice noodles (桂林米粉) in packaged form.
   • Cost: Tea and sauces range from ¥20–¥100, depending on the brand and packaging.

4. Knockoff Goods

   • Items: Imitation designer bags, watches, and electronics.
   • Cost: Prices vary widely, but expect to pay ¥50–¥300 for most items. Be cautious about quality.

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Dining and Street Food

Guilin’s night markets are a paradise for food lovers. Here are some must-try dishes and snacks:

1. Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉)

   • Description: A local specialty made with rice noodles, pickled vegetables, peanuts, and a savory broth.
   • Cost: ¥5–¥15 per bowl.

2. Grilled Skewers (烧烤)

   • Description: Meat, seafood, and vegetables grilled on skewers and seasoned with spices.
   • Cost: ¥2–¥10 per skewer.

3. Osmanthus Cake (桂花糕)

   • Description: A sweet, fragrant cake made with osmanthus flowers and rice flour.
   • Cost: ¥5–¥20 per piece.

4. Fried Dumplings (煎饺)

   • Description: Crispy dumplings filled with pork, vegetables, or shrimp.
   • Cost: ¥10–¥20 for a small plate.

5. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)

   • Description: A popular drink with chewy tapioca pearls.
   • Cost: ¥10–¥25 per cup.

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Entertainment Options

While shopping and eating are the main attractions, Guilin’s night markets also offer entertainment:

1. Street Performances

   • Expect to see musicians, dancers, and even traditional Chinese opera performers. Performances are usually free, but tipping (¥5–¥20) is appreciated.

2. Cultural Displays

   • Some markets feature artisans demonstrating traditional crafts like paper cutting, calligraphy, or painting. You can often purchase their work on the spot.

3. Games and Activities

   • Carnival-style games like ring toss or dart throwing are common. Prizes are usually small toys or trinkets.
   • Cost: ¥10–¥30 per game.

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Typical Costs

Here’s a breakdown of what you might spend at a night market in Guilin:

• Snacks and Drinks: ¥20–¥50 per person for a light meal.
• Souvenirs: ¥50–¥200 for a few items.
• Entertainment: Free to ¥50, depending on activities.
• Total Budget: ¥100–¥300 for a casual evening.

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Local Customs and Procedures

1. Bargaining

   • Bargaining is expected at most stalls, especially for souvenirs and clothing. Start by offering 50–70% of the asking price and negotiate from there.
   • Be polite and smile during negotiations.

2. Cash vs. Digital Payments

   • Most vendors accept cash (Chinese Yuan, ¥), but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. If you’re a foreigner, ensure you have enough cash, as setting up these apps may require a Chinese bank account.

3. Hygiene

   • Street food is generally safe, but choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness. Bring hand sanitizer or wet wipes for convenience.

4. Crowds

   • Night markets can get crowded, especially on weekends. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.

5. Language

   • Vendors may not speak English, so learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful:
     • “How much is this?” (这个多少钱? Zhège duōshǎo qián?)
     • “Too expensive!” (太贵了! Tài guì le!)
     • “Thank you” (谢谢 Xièxiè).

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Site-Specific Considerations

1. Weather

   • Guilin has a subtropical climate, so summers can be hot and humid. Dress comfortably and stay hydrated. Bring an umbrella in case of rain.

2. Timing

   • Night markets typically operate from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Arrive early to avoid the largest crowds and get the best selection of goods.

3. Transportation

   • Most night markets are centrally located and accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot if you’re staying in the city center. Taxis are affordable, with fares starting at ¥10.

4. Eco-Friendly Practices

   • Bring a reusable shopping bag to reduce plastic waste. Vendors often provide plastic bags, but using your own is more environmentally friendly.

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Final Tips

• Plan Ahead: Decide which market to visit based on your interests (e.g., food, shopping, or cultural experiences).
• Stay Safe: Guilin is generally safe, but always be cautious in crowded areas.
• Enjoy the Atmosphere: Take your time to soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of the market. It’s as much about the experience as it is about the shopping.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy Guilin’s night markets to the fullest. Have a fantastic time exploring!