Introduction to Guilin Li River National Park
When it comes to natural beauty in China, Guilin Li River National Park (also known as Guilin and Lijiang River National Park) is one of the most recognizable destinations. Located in Guilin, Guangxi, China, Guilin Li River National Park is world-renowned for its surreal karst landscapes, dramatic limestone peaks, tranquil river views, and quaint countryside. The park features the most scenic section of the Li River (or Lijiang River), covering the stretch from Guilin City to Yangshuo, approximately 83 kilometers (52 miles) in total.
This captivating river has been depicted by poets, painters, and photographers for centuries, even earning a place on the 20 Yuan Chinese banknote. For many international travelers, however, the Guilin Li River cruise is the highlight of any trip to China; offering the full experience of the enchanting scenery imagined while pretending to be living in an actual traditional Chinese painting.
In this complete guide, we will cover the history, geography, main attractions and activities, biodiversity, travel tips, and conservation within Guilin Li River National Park; as well as travel advice focused on SEO including how to plan your Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, the best time to visit, and how to best enjoy this incredible destination.
👉 If you are planning a trip to Guilin, make sure to check out our dedicated guides:
- Why Guilin is the Must-visit Destination in China for detailed tips on transportation, attractions, and local experiences.
- Guilin Tour Packages for curated itineraries and private tour options.
Where is Guilin Li River National Park?
The Guilin Li River National Park is located in the northeast of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Southern China. On a map of Guilin China, we can see the river running through Guilin City down into the southern part of Yangshuo, forming one of China’s most photogenic journeys.
📍 Guilin on China Map: Guilin is well connected to high-speed train networks from most of the major cities in China (Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu).
🚗 Distance: The Li River cruise route from Guilin to Yangshuo is 83 kilometers in length and takes 4–5 hours.
✈️ Closest airport: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) is located just 30 minutes from downtown Guilin.
With a subtropical climate, it supports a tropical environment all year round; the best time to visit Guilin and Li River National Park is late spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear, cool, and makes for great sightseeing.
The Beauty of the Li River (Lijiang River)
The Li River (Lijiang River) is the essence of Guilin and is 164 kilometers in length – but this journey from Guilin to Yangshuo is the most revered stretch. The journey contains thousands of limestone karst peaks, many of which are nearly 300 meters (984 feet) tall, mixed in with caves, waterfalls, bamboo groves, and ancient villages.
Two main types of karsts are observed along the river:
Fengcong Karst
Clusters of limestone peaks with deep depressions in between.
Fenglin Karst
Isolated steep vertical peaks characterized by steep vertical cliffs rising up from the flat plain, particularly noted near Yangshuo.
These landscapes were inspiration for legends, poetry, and traditional ink paintings that are also a part of the cultural identity of China.
Highlights of Guilin and Li River National Park
Visitors commonly describe their experience here as stepping into a living painting. Below are some highlights to visit:
1. Li River Cruise (Guilin to Yangshuo)
The Li River cruise is undoubtedly the quintessential way to experience Guilin’s scenery and nearly every trip will typically include a Li River cruise for a remarkable four to five-hour journey from Guilin to Yangshuo, or vice versa, where you can view breathtaking scenery of eye-catching peaks including:
- Nine Horses Fresco Hill – eye-catching natural rock formations that resemble galloping horses.
- Yellow Cloth Shoal – a reflection that occurs in the river that gives the appearance of a large piece of cloth covering below the water level.
- Xingping Town – the scenery that is ‘the view’ that is depicted on the 20 Yuan bill.
2. Yangshuo
Yangshuo is the destination of the cruise and a perfect travel spot. The bustling West Street, mountain bike paths, and bamboo rafting rides along the Yulong river provide plenty of options to get close to nature and enjoy local flair.
3. Elephant Trunk Hill
The elephant-trunk hill is located in central downtown Guilin. It resembles an elephant with a trunk extended toward the Li river, it is also one of the most recognizable symbols of Guilin.
4. Reed Flute Cave
The reed flute cave is a colorful limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites. The cave lighting is atmospheric and artistic.
5. Ancient Towns
- Daxu Ancient Town is a riverside town with centuries-old stone streets, ancient houses, and local merchants and restaurants.
- Xingping is tied to the nearby sandstone-cliffs and limestone karst views of the Li river, it has preserved its history very well.
Things to Do in Guilin and Li River National Park
In addition to the famed Li River cruise, there are many activities to explore and make sense of this area’s natural splendor.
- 🚣 Bamboo Rafting – more so again on the Yulong river, which is especially popular in Yangshuo.
- 🚴 Cycling – through rice paddies and villages with the mountainous karst peaks in the background.
- 🥾 Hiking – around splendid trails in both Guilin and Yangshuo with, again, the best countryside near Xingping.
- 📸 Photography – get your photos of world-class sunrise and sunset views over the karst mountains.
- 🎭 Cultural Shows: The Impression Liu Sanjie light show in Yangshuo, directed by Zhang Yimou, is staged directly on the Li River.
Biodiversity and Habitat
Guilin Li River National Park’s karst ecosystem is more than scenic wonders. The area includes:
- 🐟 Freshwater species in the Li River.
- 🐦 Migratory birds on riverbanks.
- 🦇 Cave dwelling species, including at least 200 known organisms living in the limestone cave.
These natural habitats make Guilin more than a cultural/sightseeing destination. These natural habitats sustain a wide diversity of species, some native only to this part of the world, and are worth conserving.
Conservation and UNESCO Status
The Guilin and Lijiang river scenic zone is under nomination for a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This clearly implies the great natural beauty and cultural significance.
Nevertheless, challenges remain as a result of:
• Expanding tourism infrastructure development
• Environmental and ecological pressures from mass tourism
• Preservation of traditional villages and the cultural significance associated with them
Conducting tourism in a sustainable way is at the forefront of the balancing act of development and preservation to ensure that visitors both formats to observe karst in Guilin in the future.
Travel Information for Guilin Li River National Park
📅 Best Times: Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November).
🚢 Li River Cruise: Book your tickets in advance if you plan to take a Li River cruise, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
🎒 What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, light rain jacket, sunscreen, and camera.
🚗 Transport: Guilin is serviced by high-speed trains and flights. From Guilin, you can take a river cruise, or hire a vehicle (private car) to explore.
👉 For a comprehensive planning guide and to avoid peak Chinese holiday crowds, check out our 2025/2026 China Holidays for the best travel times.
Why visit Guilin Li River National Park?
Guilin Li River National Park offers a wonderful combination of stunning landscapes, cultural history, and outdoor fun in one place. Whether you are cruising down the Li River, hiking to a lookout on the karst hills, or simply walking through an ancient town, you will be enthralled.
If you are still contemplating a trip since we have put together Guilin Tour Packages to help you experience the highlights while traveling comfortably. Our packages include a variety of private tours and small group adventures.
