Adventures in Guilin: From Idyllic Cruises to Adrenaline-Pumping Hikes!

Guilin is a city situated in the southern China’s province, surrounded by Karst mountains, which makes it very famous. Guilin is one of the most beautiful cities in China because of its beautiful scenery which has made many visitors from China and other parts of the world to visit the place. Guilin continues to boast some of the most popular and picturesque boat tours on the Li River and climbing trips up the karst peaks of the region.

A Li River Cruise: Touring for Fun and to Marvel at Nature

A trip to Guilin is not considered as completed if one has not taken a boat ride on the Li River which meanders through some of the most beautiful sceneries in China. The trip normally begins in Guilin city and normally takes between 4 and 5 hours to reach Yangshuo county. On the way you’ll see enormous green hills rising majestically from the earth and their image quietly mirrors in the water.

This being a wooden cruise boat, sit back and enjoy the scenery and ambiance of the countryside as you move smoothly. Observe fishermen throwing their nets to the sea, farmers tilling along the coastal lowlands, and water buffalo sunning themselves to avoid the heat. Sometimes you might be privileged to see the beautiful looking and large cormorant birds perched on rocks in the mid-section of the river with their wings opened wide in the sun to dry. Take your camera and capture some views of the circular shaped mountains way ahead where it mirrors perfectly on the river below.

The Li River cruise is also safe and easy-going and therefore, families with children can also take the cruise without a worry. There are various food and drinks available on sale onboard, there are also souvenirs for sale and as you enjoy the natural surroundings, the aura of serenity surrounds you. Yangshuo is also chosen for disembarking, which also provides an opportunity to visit this favorite backpacker town.

Adventure for hiking enthusiast: the Karst Mountains

As beautiful as it is to sail beside the Li River and dine amidst rice paddies, trekking right into the heart of the karst mountains is an all-new experience. The limestone karst peaks some of which are around Guilin provide a virtually unending opportunity for those who wish to engage in hiking adventure of a thrilling kind, for exercise or to marvel at the beauty of the nature.

To take a look at the breathtaking aerial view of the scene from the sky, one should climb Solitary Beauty Peak. It is situated well along the bus line and the hike to reach the summit will take about 1 hour. The structure has stairs made of stones and pathways on the surface of the cliff; while ascending these either take a pause and enjoy the view of the beautiful geographical features beneath the cliff. On the top of the mountain, one gets to get excellent views of Guilin mountain sets for photography as they stretch out in 360 degrees.

If you are interested in an extensive trail for a day’s hike on an ancient mountain trail, consider the Seven Star Park trail, which takes about 8-10 hours. This rocky trail offers a strenuous climb right along cliffs of limestone, through small villages and past stunning cliffs and caves forests, lakes, and rivers. During the trekking, some parts of the China countryside can be experienced and natural scenery too, away from the hustling and bustling of tourists.

Another thrilling tourist attraction is the Canyoneering Trek where adventure enthusiasts of the Ronghu Lakes can have goose bumps as well. The day begins in crossing ladders across the cliffs and navigating through various tunnels with only a flash light to guide the individuals. Then put on your equipment and navigate through the rope and ladder bridges over waterfalls and rocks while wearing a safety harness as you try to cross, should you fall, you will be caught! Sometimes it is more like swimming, crawling, or even, at times, jumping down rock crevices and cavities formed from underwater river actions. Ain’t for the weak-kneed if you ask me!

Daxu Ancient Town is just a few kilometers away from Guilin; if days are filled with intensive sightseeing, it is a perfect place to spend a day off and regain strength. Located deep in the mountains, this tidy Ming Dynasty town can provide clean ancient buildings to observe from its basically serene walkways. As for the afternoon, one can shop for souvenirs, try delicious local treats, and relax by the river watching boats while strolling at the promenade.

And when the sun is setting and the lights are turning on, it is time to grab a chair at one of the numerous open air bars or cafes and have a cup of some herbal tea or a glass of cold beer. Have some of the country food at small eateries which are local and familiar with food from the countryside. Or listen and sing along with musicians performing street shows with erhu and other traditional Chinese instruments – maybe, they will let you have a go at it?

Despite this, Daxu offers a significantly more laid back vibe which is a rather welcome change of pace for travelers who have likely been expending a lot of energy climbing karst or rafting rapids in Guilin. The actual antiquity of the buildings, the majestic environment gives a laid back, even a romantic feel that stays with you long after you pack your bags.

Whether it is a leisurely boat ride on the Li River, an adrenaline rush ascending the karst peaks, or slow languid strolls through the charming farming communities around Guilin, the city doesn’t disappoint; it is the tourism destination of a lifetime that caters to the whims of every traveler. Immerse yourself in its beautiful landscapes, its rich native culture and all of the incredible things to do and you will be eager to discover more about this area!

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