Guilin: A 3-Day Trip That Changed My Perspective on Spending—Inspired by a Song

Hey everyone👋! Has a song ever resonated with you so deeply, like a gentle breeze from the Lijiang River, that it sparked a yearning for a picturesque destination? The song "I Want to Go to Guilin" captures the dreams of countless people who long to experience the beauty of Guilin's landscapes. The lyrics, "I want to go to Guilin, but when I have time, I have no money, and when I have money, I have no time," resonated with me so much that I seized the opportunity in March to embark on a journey to this dreamlike land. Check out my travel guide! 🌆Guilin Impressions Guilin is a masterpiece of nature, a place where majestic mountains meet crystal-clear waters, and wondrous caves house stunning rock formations. In March, spring breathes new life into Guilin, awakening everything from its slumber. The Lijiang River shimmers under the sun, a picturesque scroll of landscapes unfolding before your eyes. Elephant Trunk Hill stands serenely by the riverbank, radiating a charming and simple grace. Yangshuo West Street bustles with activity, its streets and alleys filled with the tempting aromas of Guilin rice noodles and beer fish. As you wander through this enchanting town, tradition blends seamlessly with romance, and every corner exudes a unique charm, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. 🚗Transportation Guide ✈️By Air: Upon arrival at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, airport buses are available to various locations in the city. You can also transfer to public buses or take a taxi. It's convenient and efficient, taking approximately 30–40 mins to reach the city center and begin your adventure. 🚌Local Transportation: Guilin's public buses accept payment via Alipay or WeChat QR codes, making travel within the city hassle-free. To reach nearby attractions like the Lijiang River and Yangshuo, you can take a special bus from the bus station, enjoying the scenic countryside along the way. Alternatively, you can opt for a relaxing boat trip down the river, taking in the beautiful scenery on both banks. Renting an electric scooter is another great option, allowing you to explore the picturesque villages nestled among Yangshuo's mountains and rivers at your own pace. 🗺Itinerary Day 1: Elephant Trunk Hill - Guilin Museum - East and West Alley - Zhengyang Pedestrian Street (sample local snacks) Day 2: Lijiang River (take a bamboo raft or cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, enjoying the stunning scenery along the way) - Yangshuo West Street - Stay overnight in Yangshuo Day 3: Ten Mile Gallery (cycle through and admire the idyllic scenery) - Yulong River (experience bamboo rafting) - Return to the city to buy local specialties, such as Guilin fermented bean curd and monk fruit. 🌟Must-See Attractions 1. Lijiang River: As the saying goes, "The boat floats on the jade-green waves, and people wander amidst the paintings." In March, the landscapes of the Lijiang River are even more enchanting. Take a bamboo raft or cruise downstream, passing by rows of peculiar peaks and meandering clear waters. It's like stepping into a hundred-mile-long gallery, a perfect match for the beautiful vision depicted in "I Want to Go to Guilin." Immerse yourself in the soul and charm of Guilin's landscapes, and lose yourself in this breathtaking scenery. 2. Elephant Trunk Hill: This iconic landmark of Guilin gets its name from its resemblance to an elephant drinking water from the Lijiang River. In March, as flowers bloom in the spring warmth, stroll through the park, admire the harmonious blend of Elephant Trunk Hill and the surrounding scenery, take photos, marvel at the wonders of nature, and experience the unique charm of Guilin's landscapes. 3. Yangshuo West Street: This ancient street is full of character, especially at night when it's brilliantly lit. It's lined with bars, restaurants, and handicraft shops. Experience the vibrant nightlife, savor authentic local cuisine, browse for unique souvenirs, immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere, and experience the leisure and vitality of Guilin. 4. Yulong River: Known as the "Little Lijiang River," the Yulong River boasts crystal-clear waters. Drifting on a bamboo raft, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the idyllic countryside on both banks. Feel the tranquility and peace, as if time has slowed down, and fully enjoy the poetic charm of Guilin's countryside. Practical Tips 🎫Tickets are required for activities such as Lijiang River cruises and Yulong River bamboo rafting. Book in advance through the official WeChat public account or major travel platforms to enjoy discounts and avoid queuing on-site. Elephant Trunk Hill and Guilin Museum are free to enter. Opening hours vary for different attractions, so be sure to check the official websites before your trip and plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid disappointment. 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Guilin Rice Noodles: A signature dish of Guilin cuisine, these noodles are served in a rich, savory broth. The noodles are smooth and chewy, topped with crispy pork, barbecued pork, pickled bamboo shoots, and other ingredients. One bite is all it takes to tantalize your taste buds and kickstart your day. 2. Beer Fish: Made with fresh fish from the Lijiang River and braised in beer, this dish features tender fish and a rich sauce with a subtle beer aroma. It's a Yangshuo specialty that offers an authentic taste of Guilin. 3. Stuffed Snails: The snail meat is mixed with pork and other fillings, then stuffed back into the snail shells and cooked. The aroma is simply irresistible, making it a popular street food. 4. Lipu Taro with Braised Pork Belly: The pork belly is rich but not greasy, and the Lipu taro is soft, glutinous, and fragrant. The combination of the two is a match made in heaven. Savor this traditional Guilin dish and experience the charm of Guilin cuisine. 🏨Hotel Accommodation 1. Guilin City Hotels: I recommend the Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel in Guilin's city center. It boasts a prime location near Elephant Trunk Hill, East and West Alley, and other attractions. The surrounding area offers a wide range of amenities, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, the service is top-notch, and it's easy to reach various city attractions. 2. Yangshuo Hotels: The Yangshuo Green Lotus Hotel in Yangshuo offers great value for money. It's close to the Lijiang River, Yangshuo West Street, and other attractions, allowing you to quickly return to your room for a rest after a day of exploring. The hotel has excellent facilities, a variety of dining options, and stunning views of Yangshuo. 💡Tips 1. The weather in Guilin in March can be unpredictable, so remember to bring an umbrella and a light jacket. 2. Guilin cuisine tends to be sour and spicy. If you're not used to it, let the waiter know in advance so they can adjust the dishes to your liking. 3. When bamboo rafting, follow the instructions of the staff, pay attention to safety, protect the environment, and travel responsibly. My trip to Guilin, inspired by the song "I Want to Go to Guilin," was truly captivating. Start planning your own adventure to this enchanting land of mountains and rivers💖!