Guilin

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Comprehensive Guide to Walking and Hiking in Guilin, China

Guilin, located in southern China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is renowned for its stunning karst mountain landscapes, picturesque rivers, and lush countryside. Walking and hiking in Guilin is one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty and immerse yourself in the local culture. Below is a detailed guide to help you plan your walking and hiking adventures in Guilin.

1. Overview of Walking and Hiking in Guilin

Guilin offers a variety of walking and hiking opportunities, ranging from leisurely strolls along rivers and lakes to more challenging treks through karst mountains and rural villages. Popular hiking destinations include the Longji Rice Terraces, Xianggong Mountain, and the Li River trails. These trails provide breathtaking views, cultural encounters with local ethnic minorities, and a chance to explore the region’s unique geography.

2. Popular Hiking and Walking Spots in Guilin

a. Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces)

  • Description: Located about 80 km (50 miles) from Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces are a network of terraced fields carved into the mountains by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities. The area offers several hiking routes connecting villages like Ping’an, Dazhai, and Tiantou.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of terraced fields, traditional wooden houses, and cultural interactions with local ethnic groups.

b. Li River Hiking Trail (Xingping to Yangdi)

  • Description: This trail follows the iconic Li River, famous for its karst peaks and serene waters. The hike from Xingping to Yangdi is one of the most scenic routes in the region.
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Highlights: Stunning river views, bamboo rafts, and the famous scenery depicted on the 20 RMB banknote.

c. Xianggong Mountain

  • Description: A short but steep hike to the top of Xianggong Mountain offers one of the most iconic views of the Li River and surrounding karst peaks.
  • Difficulty: Easy (but steep)
  • Highlights: Sunrise and sunset views, photography opportunities.

d. Seven Star Park

  • Description: Located within Guilin city, this park offers a mix of walking trails, caves, and gardens. It’s a great option for a leisurely walk.
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: Seven karst peaks, Camel Hill, and the Seven Star Cave.

e. Yao Mountain

  • Description: The highest peak in Guilin, Yao Mountain offers a more challenging hike with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Highlights: Cable car option for descent, seasonal flowers, and views of the karst landscape.

3. Transportation to Hiking Spots

a. Longji Rice Terraces

  • From Guilin:
    • By Bus: Take a bus from Guilin Qintan Bus Station to Longsheng County (approx. 2 hours, ¥30-40). From Longsheng, transfer to a smaller bus to Ping’an or Dazhai (approx. 1 hour, ¥15-20).
    • By Private Car/Taxi: A direct ride from Guilin to the terraces costs around ¥300-400 one way.
  • Tips: Buses may not run frequently, so plan your return trip in advance.

b. Li River Hiking Trail

  • From Guilin to Xingping:
    • By Bus: Take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Yangshuo (approx. 1.5 hours, ¥25-30), then transfer to a local bus to Xingping (approx. 30 minutes, ¥10).
    • By Private Car/Taxi: A direct ride to Xingping costs around ¥200-300.
  • From Yangdi to Guilin:
    • After completing the hike, take a bus or taxi back to Guilin or Yangshuo.

c. Xianggong Mountain

  • From Guilin:
    • By Private Car/Taxi: A direct ride costs around ¥200-300.
    • By Bus: Take a bus to Yangshuo, then hire a local taxi to Xianggong Mountain (approx. ¥100-150).
  • Tips: Public transportation to Xianggong Mountain is limited, so hiring a car or joining a tour is more convenient.

d. Seven Star Park

  • From Guilin City Center:
    • By Taxi: A short ride from most parts of the city (¥10-20).
    • By Bus: Several city buses (e.g., Bus 10, 11) stop near the park entrance (¥1-2).

e. Yao Mountain

  • From Guilin:
    • By Taxi: A ride to the base of Yao Mountain costs around ¥50-70.
    • By Bus: Take Bus 24 or 28 to the Yao Mountain Cable Car Station (¥1-2).

4. Costs Involved

  • Entrance Fees:
    • Longji Rice Terraces: ¥80
    • Xianggong Mountain: ¥60
    • Seven Star Park: ¥40-50
    • Yao Mountain: ¥40 (additional ¥100 for the cable car)
  • Transportation Costs: Vary depending on the mode of transport (see above).
  • Guides: Hiring a local guide costs around ¥200-400 per day, depending on the location and group size.
  • Food and Water: Meals at local restaurants cost ¥20-50 per person. Bring bottled water (¥2-5) and snacks for longer hikes.

5. Procedures for Accessing Trails

  • Tickets: Purchase tickets at the entrance of most hiking spots. Some trails, like the Li River trail, do not require tickets.
  • Permits: No special permits are required for hiking in Guilin.
  • Guides: While not mandatory, hiring a guide is recommended for areas like the Longji Rice Terraces to navigate the trails and learn about local culture.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Weather and Best Time to Visit

  • Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and clear views. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cooler but still manageable.
  • Rain: Guilin experiences frequent rain, so bring waterproof gear and check the weather forecast before heading out.

b. Clothing and Gear

  • Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
  • Carry a lightweight backpack with water, snacks, and a rain jacket.

c. Cultural Etiquette

  • Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority villages.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
  • Avoid littering and follow Leave No Trace principles.

d. Safety Tips

  • Stick to marked trails and avoid hiking alone in remote areas.
  • Mobile signal may be weak in some areas, so download offline maps.
  • Inform someone of your plans if hiking solo.

e. Language

  • English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.

7. Additional Resources

  • Maps: Download offline maps from apps like Maps.me or AllTrails.
  • Local Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for convenience and cultural insights. Many tours can be booked through platforms like Trip.com or local travel agencies in Guilin.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Guilin city for easy access to most hiking spots, or opt for guesthouses in Longji or Yangshuo for a more immersive experience.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Guilin’s breathtaking landscapes on foot. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, Guilin offers something for everyone. Enjoy your adventure!