**Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area Tour Experiences and Tips**
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### **I. Core Experience Highlights**
1. **A Blend of Landscape and Nightscape**
- **Natural Landscape**: The Two Rivers and Four Lakes connect the Li River, the Peach Blossom River, and the Four Lakes (Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake). Along the way, over ten famous mountains, such as Elephant Trunk Hill and Fubo Mountain, can be seen, perfectly embodying the saying "A thousand mountains surround the wilderness, a river embraces the city."
- **Dazzling Nightscape**: Illuminated at night, the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas, the Glass Bridge, and the Mulong Lake light and shadow show are like a dream. A night boat tour is especially recommended to experience the romance of the "Venice of the East" (see 2, 8, and 12).
2. **Cultural and Folk Performances**
- Take a boat ride to witness traditional performances such as the thousand-year-old osprey fishing and Yao folk dances, and experience Guilin's cultural heritage (see 2 and 6).
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### **II. Tour Method Comparison**
| **Method** | **Features** | **Ticket Price (Adult)** | **Recommended Group** |
|----------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------|------------------------|
| **Night Cruise** | Approximately 90 minutes, featuring a light show and performances. This is a classic itinerary, but some users report average value for money (see 5, 10). | Night Cruise: Two Rivers and Four Lakes: 210 yuan/person | Suitable for first-time visitors seeking a sense of ritual |
| **Day Cruise** | The scenery is more vivid during the day, and the price is affordable, making it suitable for those with ample time (see 3, 14). | Day Cruise: One River and Four Lakes: 90 yuan/person | Suitable for photography enthusiasts and families |
| **Free Walking Tour** | Stroll along Rong Lake, Shan Lake, and the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas. The highlight of the night view is free, allowing for flexibility and freedom (see 5, 9, and 12). | Free | Budget-Friendly, In-Depth Experience |
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### **III. Must-See Attractions**
1. **Sun and Moon Pagodas**: Guilin's landmark, the lights of the Golden Pagoda (Sun Pagoda) and the Silver Pagoda (Moon Pagoda) are reflected on the lake. Nighttime photography is recommended (see 12 and 14).
2. **Elephant Trunk Hill**: Free admission. The city emblem, shaped like a giant elephant drinking water, is especially photogenic during the day (see 12 and 15).
3. **Welcome Bridge (Arc de Triomphe**): A fusion of Chinese and Western styles, the nightscape is atmospheric under the lights (see 12).
4. **Mulong Lake Songcheng**: A naked-eye 3D light show and ancient city walls showcase the historical charm (see 2 and 13).
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### **IV. Practical Tips**
1. **Transportation**
- Take city bus routes 1/2/16 directly to the scenic area, or use a shared e-bike for flexible travel (see 5 and 14).
- If driving, check parking in advance to avoid congestion.
2. **Tips to Avoid**
- Night boat tour tickets are expensive. If you're on a budget, you can walk and enjoy the view for free (see 5 and 10).
- The interior of the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas is filled with shops; no ticket is required (see 5).
3. **Food Recommendations**
- Locals love Tiexi Community and Shijiayuan: try Guilin rice noodles (5-8 yuan), Chunji roast goose, and Yangshuo beer-baked fish (see 5 and 13).
4. **Accommodation Options**
- Nearby attractions: Guilin Jingxiang Hotel (view Elephant Trunk Hill) and Boyin B&B (near Rong Lake) (see 13 and 14).
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### **V. User Reviews**
- **Positive**: "The osprey fishing display on the night cruise was breathtaking, and the Mulong Lake light show gave me a sense of time travel." (Reference 2)
- **Controversial**: "The night cruise ticket is average value for money. I recommend walking to see the free night view of the Twin Pagodas." (References 5, 10)
- The Two Rivers and Four Lakes represent the essence of Guilin's landscape and cityscape. While a night cruise offers a strong sense of ritual, walking is also a great way to capture the essence of the scenery. We recommend combining a daytime hike with a night cruise, complemented by visits to nearby Elephant Trunk Hill and Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, to experience the unique charm of "scenery within the city."