Is it Better to Stay Overnight in Guilin or Yangshuo?
By Zoe
Hi, this is Zoe, your China travel consultant who has journeyed through China’s breathtaking Guangxi region (Guilin and Yangshuo) several times, I often encounter the same question from my guests: “Should we stay overnight in Guilin or Yangshuo?” I’m here to offer insights based on years of firsthand experience.
Yangshuo
If your primary objective is to immerse yourself in the iconic limestone peaks and tranquil rivers that define this region, Yangshuo is where you’ll want to spend your nights. The scenery around Yangshuo, particularly along the Yulong River, is simply unparalleled. Many travelers, myself included, find that while Guilin offers a satisfying urban experience, Yangshuo is where the true magic of Guangxi unfolds.
Why You Should Stay Overnight in Yangshuo
Unparalleled Scenery Immersion
The karst formations are more dramatic and easily accessible in Yangshuo. You can wake up to stunning mountain vistas right outside your window, offering an immersive experience that Guilin cannot match. This is where the postcard-perfect views truly come alive.
Abundance of Activities
From tranquil bamboo raft rides on the Yulong River to cycling through lush countryside, Yangshuo offers a richer array of outdoor activities that capitalize on its natural beauty. Other adventures include hiking, cave exploration, and rock climbing, making it an ideal base for active travelers. A bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River, passing through fields, farmhouses, trees, and mountains, is a highlight I consistently recommend.
Vibrant Yet Relaxed Atmosphere
Yangshuo boasts a lively, yet ultimately relaxed, atmosphere. West Street offers a bustling nightlife with numerous restaurants and bars, while quieter villages and guesthouses along the Yulong River provide a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views.
Proximity to Key Sights
While rural, modern infrastructure ensures easy accessibility. Many of the most sought-after experiences, like the conclusion of the Li River cruise, occur in Yangshuo, making it a natural and convenient base.
My Tip for Yangshuo Accommodation: While West Street is popular for its energy, I often suggest exploring hotels or guesthouses slightly further out, particularly around the Yulong River area. These locations offer a more tranquil environment with stunning views, and many provide shuttle services to West Street for those who wish to experience its nightlife.
Guilin
Guilin, as a larger city, excels in logistics and serves as an excellent transport hub. It hosts the main airport, train stations, and bus stations, making it an indispensable starting or ending point for your journey.
Practical Tips for Guilin Travel
Seamless Arrivals and Departures
If you have a late flight arrival or an early morning departure, an overnight stay in Guilin can significantly simplify your travel. The airport is approximately 40 minutes from downtown Guilin, making a city stay a practical choice over a longer night drive to Yangshuo.
Starting Point for Li River Cruises
The main boarding points for the iconic Li River cruise are about a 45-minute drive from Guilin city center. Staying in Guilin the night before your cruise ensures a smoother and earlier start to this must-do journey.
City Sightseeing and Cultural Exploration
Guilin itself offers worthwhile attractions such as Elephant Trunk Hill, the Sun Moon Pagodas, and Reed Flute Cave. A one or two-night stay allows you to explore these cultural and natural landmarks within the city.
Convenient Access to Longji Rice Terraces
For those planning a visit to the Longji Rice Terraces, Guilin is a more convenient starting point, typically around 2 hours away, compared to 3.5-4 hours from Yangshuo. This can be crucial for optimizing day trips or overnight stays at the terraces.
My Tip for Guilin: Consider staying near the Ronghu/Shanhu (Twin Lakes) area or along the riverside near the Sun Moon Pagodas. This area is pleasant for evening strolls, offers various dining options, and provides easy access for morning transfers.
The Best Approach for Guilin and Yangshuo Tour
In my opinion, the ideal Guangxi itinerary often involves a strategic blend of both Guilin and Yangshuo. You shouldn’t necessarily choose one over the other, especially if you have more than a couple of days to spare. A common and highly recommended approach, which I’ve seen yield the most satisfying experiences, includes the following:
- Spend one night in Guilin upon arrival. This allows for easy access from transport hubs and positions you perfectly for an early morning Li River cruise.
- Take the scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo. This is the quintessential way to witness the breathtaking karst landscape unfold.
- Base yourself in Yangshuo for the majority of your trip. One or two nights in Yangshuo allows ample time to explore its natural beauty, engage in activities, and soak in the local atmosphere.
- Consider a day trip from Yangshuo to the Longji Rice Terraces. While some choose to stay overnight near the terraces, it is feasible as a long day trip from Yangshuo, though it involves significant driving time. Alternatively, stage this trip from Guilin for less transit.
Guilin and Yangshuo Travel Logistics: Key Facts
Successful trip planning hinges on understanding the practicalities of travel between these locations. Here are some essential transit facts that I use when designing itineraries for clients:
| Route | Approximate Travel Time | Notes |
| Guilin Airport to Guilin Downtown | ~40 minutes by car | Direct and convenient for late arrivals. |
| Guilin to Yangshuo | 60–90 minutes by highway | Can be longer during peak season. |
| Guilin to Yangshuo | 4 hours by Li River Cruise | The 3-star cruise departs from Mopanshan Pier, while the 4-star cruise departs from Zhujiang Pier. Both arrive at Longtou Hill Pier in Yangshuo. |
| Guilin to Longji Rice Terraces | ~2 hours by car/minibus | More direct access than from Yangshuo. |
| Yangshuo to Longji Rice Terraces | 3.5–4 hours each way | Consider a Guilin stopover for this journey. |
| Li River Cruise Docks (Guilin) to Guilin Center | ~45 minutes | Closer for morning departures if staying in Guilin. |
| Yangshuo High-Speed Rail Station to Yangshuo Town | 40–60 minutes | Station is technically in Xingping. |
Ultimately, whether to stay overnight in Guilin or Yangshuo depends on your priorities and trip length. For immersive natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a vibrant vibe, Yangshuo is the clear choice. Guilin, however, serves as a convenient hub with its own urban charms. For the best experience, I suggest a balanced tour using both—transitioning seamlessly from city convenience to stunning natural splendor. Either way, Guangxi’s captivating landscapes await!
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