Guilin Facts

Famous around the world for its incredible natural beauty, Guilin is located in northern part of Guangxi Province in the south of China. The city is located on the banks of the Li River. Guilin means "Osmanthus Grove" and the sweet smelling osmanthus trees can be seen throughout the city. No visit to China is complete without visiting Guilin and taking a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo on the Li River.

Guilin has an impressive history. In 111 BC, during the Han Dynasty, the Shi An County was established. This is considered to be the beginning of the city. In 507 AD the city was renamed Guizhou, which means "City of Osmanthus Trees". During the Ming Dynasty, the city started its imperial connections when a Prince's Palace was built for the Emperor's son to watch over the south of China. In the 1920's, Guilin became a headquarters for the Northern Expeditionary Army, which was lead by Dr. Sun Yat-sen. In 1940 the city received its current name Guilin.

Guilin is filled with natural beauty. Its karst mountains dot the city and are unique. It is said that traveling through Guilin is like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting. The best way to see Guilin's scenery is on a cruise down the Li River. It passes by ancient villages, bamboo groves, fields, and the incredible scenery. Home to many parks, all of them surrounding a mountain, Guilin is a beautiful city. Guilin cuisine is famous for its Beer Fish, Guilin Rice Noodles and the use of spices. The cooking process used in cooking the Beer Fish has been used to cook a variety of other meats including duck, pork, and even snake. The rice noodles of Guilin are famous throughout China and Guilin Rice Noodle restaurants can be seen across the country.