7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Guilin

Guilin, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of connectivity and natural beauty. Known for its stunning karst landscapes and the serene Li River, Guilin offers a unique living experience. But even the most picturesque of work environments calls for a weekend escape now and then. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, the area surrounding Guilin has plenty to offer. Here are seven weekend getaways that provide a refreshing break from your screen, ranging from the well-trodden paths to the roads less traveled.

Yangshuo

Just an hour's drive from Guilin, Yangshuo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the most popular weekend destinations. The town is surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks and the winding Yulong River. Here, you can take a bamboo raft ride, explore ancient villages, or cycle through the picturesque countryside. The bustling West Street also offers a variety of shops, cafes, and bars for a lively evening.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Yangshuo is by bus, which takes about 1.5 hours from Guilin. There are frequent departures throughout the day from Guilin's bus stations.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Impression Liu Sanjie light show, a spectacular performance set on the Li River with the karst mountains as a natural backdrop.

Where to Stay: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is a favorite for its riverside location and eco-friendly practices. For a more luxurious stay, the Banyan Tree Yangshuo offers stunning views and spa services.

Where to Eat: Cloud 9 Restaurant in Yangshuo is famous for its local Guilin noodles and offers a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone, are a breathtaking sight located about two hours from Guilin. This area is home to the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, and visitors can learn about their rich cultures. Hiking through the terraces offers stunning views, especially during planting and harvest seasons when the terraces are filled with water or golden crops.

How to Get There: The Longji Rice Terraces are accessible by bus from Guilin, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight in one of the local guesthouses to catch the sunrise over the terraces—an unforgettable sight.

Where to Stay: The Li-An Lodge is a boutique hotel with traditional architecture and modern amenities, offering panoramic views of the terraces.

Where to Eat: The Ping'an Village has several small eateries where you can try the local specialty, bamboo rice.

Xingping Ancient Town

Xingping Ancient Town is a lesser-known gem located about 27 kilometers upstream from Yangshuo. This 1,000-year-old town is rich in history and offers a quieter alternative to its more famous neighbor. The old streets and traditional buildings are well-preserved, and the surrounding scenery is just as stunning, with landmarks like the Nine Horses Fresco Hill and the ancient fishing village nearby.

How to Get There: You can take a bus or a boat from Yangshuo to Xingping, with the boat offering a scenic route along the Li River.

Travel Tip: Try to catch a traditional cormorant fishing demonstration, a unique cultural experience that Xingping is known for.

Where to Stay: The This Old Place International Youth Hostel is a great choice for budget travelers, offering a rooftop terrace with views of the Li River.

Where to Eat: The Xingping Market offers local street food, where you can sample fresh fish caught from the Li River.

Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, located in the Dong minority region. This architectural marvel is a combination of a bridge, corridor, veranda, and Chinese pavilion. The surrounding eight villages offer a deep dive into the Dong culture, with drum towers, traditional performances, and exquisite wooden architecture.

How to Get There: The journey to Chengyang involves a bus ride from Guilin to Sanjiang, followed by a local bus or taxi to Chengyang, which takes about 4 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during a local festival to witness the grandeur of Dong cultural celebrations and performances.

Where to Stay: The Dong Village Hotel is a comfortable stay that allows guests to experience traditional Dong architecture firsthand.

Where to Eat: Local homestays and guesthouses offer authentic Dong meals, often prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Li River Cruise to Fuli

Fuli is a small, ancient town known for its traditional fan painting. A Li River cruise to Fuli not only provides stunning views of the karst landscape but also leads you to a town that feels frozen in time. Here, you can stroll through the old streets, visit fan workshops, and enjoy the slower pace of life away from the tourist crowds.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Fuli is by taking a Li River cruise from Guilin or Yangshuo, which offers a picturesque journey.

Travel Tip: Purchase a hand-painted fan as a unique souvenir and support the local artisans who keep this traditional craft alive.

Where to Stay: While Fuli has limited accommodation options, staying in nearby Yangshuo and taking a day trip to Fuli is a convenient alternative.

Where to Eat: Local street vendors in Fuli sell delicious snacks, such as rice noodles and freshly made rice cakes.

Merryland Theme Park

Merryland Theme Park is a fun-filled escape for those looking to add some thrill to their weekend. Located about an hour from Guilin, this amusement park offers a variety of rides, shows, and attractions, set against a backdrop of lush forests and mountains. It's a great place to unwind and embrace your inner child.

How to Get There: You can reach Merryland Theme Park by bus from Guilin, which takes around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Check out the park's schedule for special events and performances that often take place on weekends.

Where to Stay: The Merryland Resort Hotel provides convenient access to the park and comfortable accommodations.

Where to Eat: The theme park offers various dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants serving both Chinese and Western cuisine.

Gudong Waterfall Scenic Area

For a refreshing retreat into nature, the Gudong Waterfall Scenic Area is an excellent choice. This series of cascading waterfalls set in a lush forest is less frequented by tourists, offering a peaceful environment. Visitors can climb up the waterfalls using the provided iron chains for an adventurous experience.

How to Get There: Gudong Waterfall is about 25 kilometers from Guilin and can be reached by bus or taxi.

Travel Tip: Wear appropriate shoes with good grip for climbing the waterfalls, and bring a change of clothes as you're likely to get wet.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited near Gudong Waterfall, so many visitors choose to stay in Guilin and visit the waterfalls as a day trip.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic area, or dine at one of the local restaurants near the entrance that serve simple, home-cooked meals.

These weekend getaways offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural immersion to natural wonders, all within reach of Guilin. Whether you're a digital nomad looking to explore or simply need a break from the digital world, these destinations provide the perfect opportunity to recharge and create unforgettable memories.