Guilin: A Gentle Encounter with Landscapes and Time
## Guilin Guide: A Poetic Sojourn Amidst Mountains and Ancient Towns
**1. Scenic Spots:**
* **Li River:** Take a bamboo raft cruise to admire the picturesque landscapes on both banks, experiencing the poetic feeling of "floating on emerald waves, as if traveling through a painting." The Yangdi to Xingping section is highly recommended for its stunning views.
* **Yangshuo West Street:** A bustling pedestrian street brimming with exotic charm, especially enchanting when lit up at night.
* **Longji Rice Terraces:** Vast terraced fields cascade down the mountains, creating a magnificent sight that changes with the seasons. The golden hues of autumn are particularly breathtaking.
* **Elephant Trunk Hill:** The symbol of Guilin, resembling a giant elephant drinking water—a must-visit spot for photos.
* **Jingjiang Prince City:** A well-preserved Ming Dynasty princely residence, offering a glimpse into history’s grandeur and vicissitudes.
**2. Food Recommendations:**
* **Guilin Rice Noodles:** A must-try local dish featuring smooth noodles, rich broth, and generous toppings. Recommended spots: Lao Dongjiang Rice Noodles, Chongshan Rice Noodles.
* **Beer Fish:** A Yangshuo specialty with tender fish, aromatic beer, and a flavorful sauce. Recommended spots: Sister Xie’s Beer Fish, Master Chef Beer Fish.
* **Lipu Taro with Braised Pork:** Sweet and soft taro paired with melt-in-your-mouth braised pork. Recommended spots: Agan Restaurant, Chunji Roast Goose.
* **Oil Tea:** A unique Guilin beverage made by pounding tea leaves, ginger, garlic, and other ingredients. Recommended spot: Gongcheng Oil Tea Shop.
* **Water Chestnut Cake:** A traditional Guilin snack—sweet, chewy, and delightful.
**3. Accommodation Recommendations:**
* **Guilin City:**
* Guilin Youth Hostel: Budget-friendly and welcoming, ideal for backpackers.
* Home Inn (Guilin Central Square Branch): Prime location, clean, and great value.
* **Yangshuo:**
* Yangshuo Osmanthus Alley Youth Hostel: Near West Street, affordable and cozy.
* Yangshuo Paradise Hotel: Close to the Li River with beautiful views and reasonable prices.
**4. Itinerary Suggestions:**
* **Day 1:** Arrive in Guilin, visit Elephant Trunk Hill and Jingjiang Prince City, and enjoy Guilin rice noodles for dinner.
* **Day 2:** Take a bamboo raft cruise on the Li River, head to Yangshuo in the afternoon, explore West Street, and savor beer fish.
* **Day 3:** Cycle along the Yulong River to enjoy rural scenery, then return to Guilin in the afternoon.
* **Day 4:** Visit the Longji Rice Terraces to experience Zhuang culture, and return to Guilin in the evening.
**5. Travel Tips:**
* Guilin has a humid climate; summers are hot, so stay sun-protected and hydrated.
* Follow safety instructions during the Li River cruise.
* Yangshuo West Street is crowded—keep an eye on your belongings.
* The Longji Rice Terraces have rugged paths; wear comfortable shoes.
**Experience the boundless beauty of Guilin’s landscapes on a limited budget!**