Guilin sits on the west bank of the Li River in northeast Guangxi, a city whose name means "forest of sweet osmanthus" and whose fame rests on the karst peaks and limestone hills that rise straight out of the surrounding landscape. The Li River runs roughly 83 km from Guilin down to Yangshuo, and the river corridor is the most concentrated stretch of karst scenery in the area.
For a visitor, the practical question is which part of the city to base yourself in. The districts named in the sources — Xiufeng, Xiangshan, Qixing, Diecai, Yanshan and Lingui — each sit differently in relation to the river, the railway stations and the sights. This guide covers the areas worth considering, what kind of traveller each suits, and how the accommodation tiers differ, so you can pick a base before you start comparing places to stay.
Best areas to stay in Guilin
1. Xiufeng District
Xiufeng is the downtown core and the most convenient base for a first visit. It holds the main pedestrian area, the central shopping streets and the Sun and Moon pagodas, and it puts you within walking distance of the riverfront and Elephant Trunk Hill park. This is where you find the widest mix of accommodation, from hostels and budget hotels up through mid-range properties to large luxury hotels.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to step out of their room into the tourist and shopping core. Note that the main railway and bus stations are a short ride away rather than on the doorstep, so factor in a taxi if you are arriving or leaving by train.
2. Qixing District
Qixing lies east of the centre and is the area to consider if you want to be close to Seven Star Park and the Li River without being in the busiest streets. Parts of it sit within a few minutes' walk of the river and of Seven Star Park, and it is also where you find larger riverside hotels.
It suits travellers who prefer a slightly quieter base with easy access to the eastern sights, and families who want space and parkland nearby. The trade-off is that you are a short trip from the central pedestrian and shopping area rather than in it.
3. Xiangshan District
Xiangshan takes in the riverfront around Elephant Trunk Hill, one of the city's signature landmarks, and the streets running south from the centre. Staying here puts the river and the hill park within easy reach and keeps you close to the downtown core.
It suits visitors who want the classic river views and landmark sights on foot, and it works well for a short stay built around the waterfront. As with the centre, expect the main rail and bus stations to be a short taxi ride rather than a walk.
4. Diecai District
Diecai is the northern part of the urban area, named for Diecai Hill, and it sits closer to the northern side of the city and its rail connections. It is a practical base if your plans revolve around arriving or departing by high-speed rail, since Guilin North station lies on this side of the city.
It suits travellers passing through quickly or using Guilin as a rail hub, and those who prefer to be outside the densest tourist streets. You will rely on buses or taxis to reach the central sights and the riverfront.
5. Yanshan District
Yanshan is a more rural district to the south of the centre, and it is where you find accommodation set in open countryside rather than city streets. Properties here are typically set within larger grounds or parks, well away from the urban core.
It suits travellers who want a quiet, rural stay and do not mind being a drive from the city — the sources put some of this accommodation around half an hour from the centre. You will need transport for every trip into town and to the river.
6. Lingui District
Lingui is a district on the outer edge of the urban area and now has its own high-speed rail station. It is the least central option, but it can make sense if your itinerary is built around rail travel rather than the city sights.
It suits travellers prioritising rail connections and lower-key surroundings over proximity to the river and the tourist core. Expect to travel into the centre for the main sights, restaurants and shopping.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels and simple hotels, often with dormitory beds as well as private twin and double rooms. Many cluster in or near the city centre and offer tour bookings, bicycle rental and luggage storage. Some budget options sit a short walk out of the busiest streets, where nearby cheap eats are common.
- Mid-range: Comfortable hotels with air-conditioned rooms, on-site restaurants and internet access, typically in the downtown area or within walking distance of the Li River and Seven Star Park. This tier is the broad middle of the market and gives you the most choice of location.
- Splurge: Large luxury and resort-style properties, several on the banks of the Li River or overlooking Elephant Trunk Hill, with multiple restaurants, pools, health clubs and extensive facilities. Some sit a little away from the tourist core, and a few are set in rural locations well outside the city.
Best area for a first visit
Xiufeng District is the best base for a first visit. It puts you in the heart of the city, within walking distance of the main pedestrian area, the Sun and Moon pagodas and the riverfront, and it offers the widest range of accommodation across all price levels. From here you can reach Elephant Trunk Hill and the central sights on foot while keeping the rest of the city within a short taxi or bus ride.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is closest to the main sights?
Xiufeng District, in the city centre, is within walking distance of the main pedestrian area, the Sun and Moon pagodas and the riverfront, with Elephant Trunk Hill park a short walk away. Qixing District is the better choice if Seven Star Park and the Li River's eastern bank are your priorities.
Where should I stay if I am arriving by high-speed rail?
Guilin has several high-speed stations, including Guilin North, Guilin West and Guilin, plus a newer station in Lingui District. If rail travel dominates your trip, basing yourself on the northern side of the city near Guilin North, or in Lingui near its station, reduces the time spent crossing town.
Which area suits families?
Qixing District works well for families, with larger riverside hotels and Seven Star Park within walking distance. Yanshan District is an option if you prefer a rural setting with space around you, though you will need transport for every trip into the city.
Where do budget travellers tend to stay?
Budget hostels and simple hotels are concentrated in and around the city centre, with some quieter options a short walk out of the busiest streets. These typically offer dormitory beds alongside private rooms, plus tour bookings and bicycle rental.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.