Guilin Entertainment Guide - For fun, recreation, and relaxation

Guilin isn't really one for huge, standout, manmade sights or museums; it's better known for its natural scenery and its crafts shopping. The former is particularly impressive and several river tours take in the city from its best side. Li River cruises are all the rage and can be done during the day or at night.In addition, there are also a slew of beautiful parks in and around the town. Yaoshan Hill Park is especially fun for the family as it has great walking, views and a toboggan run. Guilin also comes with one or two decent theaters where you can appreciate the various cultures that have made the city what it is, while bars and clubs are also here.

Markets buzz day and night and you can simply amble about and people-watch, or take advantage of some of the cheapest handicrafts shopping in the south.

Li River Cruise

Everyone should take a cruise on the Li River as it offers the best way to see the enchanting Guilin landscape. One of the most popular trips goes from Guilin to Yangshuo, farther downstream, by way of amazing limestone formations. Hotels can organize boat trips.

Yaoshan Hill Park

Although slightly out of town, Yaoshan Hill Park is another must-see and has some pleasant walking and sightseeing. It is a huge park that encompasses the largest mountain in the area, with paths to the top and a chair lift. The views from up here are incredible, while the toboggan run on the way down will appeal to kids.

Dreams on Water

Dreams on Water is an evening boat tour of the river and the lakes in the city region of Guilin that are beautifully lit at night. Tours last a little over an hour and also take in a spot of traditional cormorant fishing.

Guilin performing arts

Options for enjoying some southern Chinese culture in the arts can be had at the Li Jiang Theater on Binjiang Road every night. The show entails music and theatrical dance of Guilin's ethnic groups, while the Guilin Spring Theater has a nightly acrobatic show. Also, the Guilin Folk Customs Center has singing, dancing, and great food of the region.

Nightlife

Guilin offers just the right amount of nightlife; nothing to brash and noisy, as you may see in Shanghai, and nothing too staid, as with many inland towns. There are several noteworthy bars along Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, as well as some good nightclubs to check out, while the Li River Yinzuo cruiser has a ballroom and bar and takes in the banks of the river nightly.

Find more information about Guilin and hotels in the area:
Guilin hotels | China hotels