If you’ve ever searched “what is the most beautiful city in the world”, chances are Guilin has appeared somewhere on your screen. Located in Guilin, Guangxi, China, this city doesn’t rely on skyscrapers or luxury malls. Instead, it quietly impresses visitors with misty rivers, dramatic limestone mountains, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly human.
People don’t just visit Guilin — they remember it. So what makes Guilin so special, and why is it consistently ranked among the most beautiful cities on Earth? Let’s break it down.
Where is Guilin? Location in Guangxi, China
Many international travelers ask a simple question first: where is Guilin?
Guilin is located in southern China, in the northeastern part of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It sits between central China and the subtropical south, which gives it both cultural diversity and a mild climate.
Guilin, Guangxi, China: Why Location Matters
Being in Guilin, Guangxi, China means easy access from major Chinese cities, a subtropical climate suitable for year-round travel, and one of the highest concentrations of karst landscapes in the world.
What Is Guilin Famous For?
If you ask what is Guilin famous for, the answer is almost always the same: its landscape.
Guilin Mountains: A World-Famous Karst Landscape
The Guilin mountains rise sharply from flat land, forming dramatic limestone peaks that look like something out of a painting. These unique shapes are the result of millions of years of natural erosion and have become a global symbol of Chinese scenery.
Guilin River (Li River): The Soul of the City
The Guilin river, better known as the Li River, winds through the mountains and reflects them like a mirror. A cruise along the river feels slow, peaceful, and deeply immersive.
How Were the Guilin Mountains Formed?
Many travelers wonder how were the Guilin mountains formed. The answer lies in geology.
Millions of years ago, this region was underwater. Thick limestone layers formed on the seabed. Over time, tectonic uplift and continuous erosion by rain and wind shaped the iconic karst mountains we see today.
What Is the Most Beautiful City in the World? Why Guilin Is Often Named
Beauty is subjective, but Guilin stands out because nature dominates the cityscape, human development blends harmoniously with the environment, and almost every angle looks photogenic without filters.
This is why Guilin frequently appears when people discuss what is the most beautiful city in the world.
Guilin Weather: Best Time to Visit
Seasonal Weather Overview
- Spring (Mar–May): Mild, rainy, misty — ideal for photography
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush and green, but hot and humid
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Cool, dry, and comfortable
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet, fewer tourists, rarely freezing
Best Months to Visit Guilin
For most travelers, September to November offers the best overall experience. If you enjoy misty mountain views, April and May are also excellent choices.
What to Do in Guilin: Top Things You Can’t Miss
Cruise the Li River
A Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the classic Guilin experience, offering uninterrupted views of mountains, water, and rural life.
Explore the Two Rivers and Four Lakes at Night
This scenic night tour highlights Guilin’s modern side while preserving its connection to water and nature.
Visit Iconic Landmarks
- Elephant Trunk Hill
- Reed Flute Cave
- Seven Star Park
Yangshuo Guilin Travel Guide
Is Yangshuo in Guilin?
Yes. Yangshuo is part of Guilin and is located about 65 kilometers south of Guilin city center.
Yangshuo Guilin: How It Differs from Guilin City
While Guilin city focuses on classic landmarks, Yangshuo Guilin is known for countryside cycling, bamboo rafting, rock climbing, and a slower rural lifestyle.
What to Eat in Guilin: Local Food Guide
Guilin Rice Noodle
Guilin rice noodle is the city’s most iconic dish. Locals eat it for breakfast, lunch, or anytime. The combination of rice noodles, savory broth, pickled vegetables, peanuts, and crispy pork is unforgettable.
Other Guilin Specialties
- Beer fish
- Lipu taro dishes
- Stuffed river snails
Guilin Culture: More Than Just Scenery
Beyond the landscape, Guilin has a rich cultural background influenced by Han Chinese traditions and local ethnic minorities. Traditional markets, music, and ancient academies quietly shape everyday life.
How to Get to Guilin
Guilin is easy to reach by plane via Guilin Liangjiang International Airport or by high-speed train from major cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Changsha.
How to Get from Guilin to Zhangjiajie
Many travelers ask how to get from Guilin to Zhangjiajie. The most common options include high-speed trains with a transfer or overnight trains for budget travelers.
Who Should Visit Guilin?
- Couples
- Photographers
- Nature lovers
- Travelers seeking slow, meaningful journeys
Frequently Asked Questions About Guilin
Is Yangshuo in Guilin?
Yes, Yangshuo is a county-level destination under Guilin.
How were the Guilin mountains formed?
They were formed through limestone erosion and tectonic uplift over millions of years.
What is Guilin famous for?
Guilin is famous for its karst mountains, Li River scenery, and natural beauty.
Final Thoughts: Why Guilin Deserves a Place on Your Travel List
Guilin doesn’t try to impress — it simply exists beautifully. If travel is about seeing the world clearly, Guilin helps you slow down enough to truly experience it.
