Travel Guide to Lijiang River and Surrounding Karst Mountains

I. Transportation 

  • By Air: The nearest major airport is Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. It has numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus directly to Guilin city center, which usually costs around 20 – 30 yuan. Another option is to take a taxi, but make sure the driver uses the meter. Search for “flights to Guilin” to find the best air travel options.
  • By Train: Guilin has a well – connected railway network. High – speed trains are available from many major cities in China, such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing. Once you arrive at Guilin Railway Station or Guilin North Railway Station, you can take a bus or a taxi to the starting points for the Lijiang River cruise. “Train to Guilin” is a frequently searched term for travelers planning their journey.
  • Cruise Transportation: To experience the Lijiang River and its surrounding karst mountains, taking a cruise is a popular choice. You can book a cruise ticket in Guilin or Yangshuo. The cruises usually depart from Zhujiang Wharf in Guilin or Yangdi Wharf in Yangshuo.

II. Weather 

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Lijiang River area is from April to October. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the water level is relatively high, which makes the scenery more beautiful. However, it’s also the rainy season, so it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or a raincoat.
  • Temperature: The average temperature ranges from 20°C – 30°C during the day. But in the early morning and evening, it can be a bit cooler. Search for “Lijiang River weather” and “best time to visit Lijiang River” for more accurate weather information.

III. Visiting Duration and Route 

  • Duration: A two – day trip is recommended. On the first day, you can take a full – day cruise on the Lijiang River from Guilin to Yangshuo, which takes about 4 – 5 hours. This allows you to fully enjoy the magnificent karst landscapes along the river. On the second day, you can explore Yangshuo, visit the Moon Hill, and take a bamboo raft on the Yulong River.
  • Route: Start your cruise from Guilin. As the boat sails downstream, you’ll pass by famous attractions like the Nine – Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Shoal. When you reach Yangshuo, you can disembark and explore the ancient town. Search for “Lijiang River itinerary” for more detailed route planning.

IV. Precautions 

  • Sun Protection: The sunlight in this area can be strong, especially during summer. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from sunburn.
  • Bargaining: When buying souvenirs or taking local transportation, don’t be afraid to bargain. It’s a common practice in this area.
  • Safety on the Water: If you take a bamboo raft, make sure to wear a life jacket. Listen to the instructions of the raft operator. Search for “Lijiang River travel tips” for more safety precautions.

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