Guangxi Travel Guide

Planning to Visit Guangxi? Here is a Comprehensive Guide to Help You Prepare for Your Trip. Discover the Best Places to Visit in Guangxi, the Best Time to Visit, Safety and Health Information, Local Culture and Customs, and More.


Introduction to Guangxi

Guangxi is an autonomous region located in southern China. Known for its stunning landscape of limestone formations, rivers, and waterfalls, Guangxi is also home to a rich cultural heritage that reflects the region’s long history and diverse ethnic groups.

List of Places to Visit in Guangxi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, Guangxi has plenty to offer. Here are some must-visit museums and historical sites:

  • The Guangxi Museum of Nationalities: Located in Nanning, the capital of Guangxi, this museum showcases the region’s ethnic groups and their unique customs, costumes, and architecture.

  • The Jingjiang Princes’ City: Situated in Guilin, this royal palace complex was once the residence of the Jingjiang Princes, who were related to the Ming and Qing imperial families.

  • Longsheng Rice Terraces: These spectacular terraced fields, located in Longsheng County, are over 700 years old and are still cultivated by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups.

Natural Attractions of Guangxi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

With its stunning natural scenery, Guangxi is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some must-see natural attractions:

  • The Li River Cruise: This leisurely cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo is one of the most popular tourist activities in Guangxi. The journey takes you through a stunning landscape of karst peaks, bamboo groves, and rice paddies.

  • The Reed Flute Cave: Located in Guilin, this remarkable limestone cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites that form fascinating shapes resembling different objects and animals.

  • The Detian Waterfall: This majestic waterfall, located on the border between Guangxi and Vietnam, is the largest waterfall in Asia and is often referred to as the “Niagara of the East.”

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guangxi

Guangxi has some beautiful hiking and biking routes that will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the region. Here are some popular routes:

  • The Li River Bike Trail: This 20-kilometer trail runs from Yangdi to Xingping and takes you through some of the most picturesque scenery along the Li River.

  • The Longji Rice Terraces Trek: This 2 to 3-day trek takes you through the stunning Longji Rice Terraces and surrounding villages, with breathtaking views of the terraced fields.

Best Things to Do in Guangxi: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, Guangxi has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Here are some popular options:

  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to make local dishes like Guilin rice noodles, steamed river fish, and beer fish in one of the many cooking classes available in Guilin and Yangshuo.

  • Caving: Guangxi is home to some of the most fascinating caves in China, so if you’re interested in exploring the underground world, make sure to take a caving tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guangxi

If you’re planning to spend a week in Guangxi, here’s an itinerary that covers some of the must-see attractions in the region:

Day 1-2: Explore Guilin and its surrounding attractions, including the Reed Flute Cave, Guilin City Museum, and Seven Star Park.

Day 3-4: Take a Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo and explore the town’s charming streets, shops, and markets. Take a biking tour to explore the scenic countryside.

Day 5-6: Visit Longsheng Rice Terraces and hike around the stunning terraced fields. Take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.

Day 7: Visit the Detian Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Asia, located on the border between Guangxi and Vietnam.

Food and Drink Scene of Guangxi

Guangxi has a rich culinary heritage that revolves around local ingredients like rice, river fish, and bamboo shoots. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Guilin Rice Noodles: This simple dish of rice noodles in a flavorful broth is a staple of the Guilin diet.

  • Beer Fish: This dish of freshwater fish cooked in a spicy beer sauce is a popular specialty of Guilin.

Local Beverages

  • Liu Bao Tea: This fermented black tea is grown in Guangxi and is known for its earthy and smooth flavor.

  • Rice Wine: This wine made from fermented glutinous rice is a popular alcoholic beverage in Guangxi.

Where to Stay in Guangxi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses, Guangxi has plenty of accommodation options:

  • Luxury Hotels: Some of the top luxury hotels in Guangxi include the Shangri-La Hotel Guilin, Sheraton Guilin Hotel, and Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort.

  • Budget Accommodation: If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider staying at a guesthouse or hostel, such as the Wada Hostel and Ming Palace International Hostel in Guilin, or the Showbiz Inn in Yangshuo.

What to Buy in Guangxi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guangxi is known for its unique handicrafts and souvenirs, such as:

  • Embroidery: Guangxi is famous for its intricate embroidery, which features colorful designs of flowers, animals, and landscapes.

  • Handmade Fans: These beautiful handcrafted fans are made from bamboo and silk and are available in a variety of styles and designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Guangxi

Guangxi is home to 14 ethnic groups, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and festivals. It’s important to respect these traditions and learn about the culture of the people you’re visiting. Some customs to keep in mind:

  • Greet people with a nod, a smile, or a simple hello.

  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Guangxi

The best time to visit Guangxi is from April to October when the weather is warm and dry, and the scenery is at its most breathtaking. The peak season for tourism is from June to August, so plan ahead and book your accommodation early.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guangxi

Do:

  • Learn some basic Chinese phrases to make communication easier.

  • Try local specialties and street food.

Don’t:

  • Don’t touch someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful.

  • Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as it resembles the incense sticks used in funeral rituals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guangxi

Guangxi is generally a safe place to travel, but it’s important to take common-sense precautions like not leaving your valuables unattended, being aware of your surroundings, and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Guangxi

It’s a good idea to visit your doctor before traveling to Guangxi to ensure you have all the necessary vaccinations and medication. The tap water in Guangxi is not safe to drink, so make sure to only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

Getting to Guangxi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Guangxi

The two main airports in Guangxi are Nanning Wuxu International Airport (NNG) in Nanning and Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) in Guilin. Both airports have daily flights to major cities in China and some international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Guangxi

Most cities in Guangxi have a central bus station with routes to neighboring cities and towns. Buses are an affordable and convenient way to travel around the region.

Other Options

High-speed trains are another popular option for traveling around Guangxi. The Guangzhou-Nanning high-speed railway connects Guangzhou to Nanning, with stops in Guilin and other cities.

How to Get Around in Guangxi

In addition to buses and trains, Guangxi has a variety of other transportation options available, including taxis, rental cars, and bicycles. Taxis and rental cars are a good option if you’re traveling with a group, while bicycles are a great way to explore the scenic countryside.

Where to Go Next from Guangxi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Guangxi, consider visiting nearby provinces and regions, such as:

  • Yunnan: Known for its diverse ethnic groups, stunning scenery, and delicious food, Yunnan is a popular destination for travelers.

  • Hainan: This tropical island province is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and laid-back lifestyle.

Conclusion

Traveling to Guangxi is an unforgettable experience, with its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Guangxi has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of this unique region.

Downtown Guilin Downtown Guilin Luosifen is the signature dish of Liuzhou Luosifen is the signature dish of Liuzhou


    Central Guangxi
    North Guangxi
    South Guangxi