Ultimate Guide to Accommodation in Guilin: Hotels & Homestays for Every Traveler

Guilin, known for its surreal karst mountains and winding Li River, offers a diverse range of accommodation options—from luxury hotels with panoramic views to cozy homestays nestled in the mountains. Whether you’re seeking convenience, cultural immersion, or family-friendly stays, this guide will help you find the perfect base for your Guilin adventure.

1. Best Areas to Stay in Guilin

Downtown Guilin (Near Elephant Trunk Hill & Two Rivers and Four Lakes)

• Why stay here? Walking distance to major attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill, Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, and the scenic Two Rivers and Four Lakes area. Ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore on foot.
• Top picks:
  • SYYF Poetry & Distance · Xiangshan Promise Hotel: Offers a city-center infinity pool with views of the mountains. Close to family-friendly attractions like a self-service gym and laundry facilities.
  • Lijiang Bo Yin Hotel: A luxury stay with a rooftop pool overlooking the Li River and Elephant Trunk Hill. Known for its stunning sunset views and photography services.

Yangshuo (For Nature Lovers & Adventure Seekers)

• Why stay here? Surrounded by karst peaks and the Yulong River, Yangshuo is perfect for hiking, biking, and river activities.
• Top picks:
  • Bamboo Window Creek Retreat: A禅-inspired homestay with 270° mountain views, tea ceremonies, and handicraft workshops.
  • Mangguo Travel Hostel · Mitar: A family-friendly spot with slide-equipped rooms, pet interactions, and outdoor movie nights.

Near High-Tech Zone & Wanda Plaza (For Shoppers & Foodies)

• Why stay here? Convenient for dining, shopping, and accessing attractions like the Seven Star Park.
• Top picks:
  • Biyu International Hotel (Guilin High-Tech Wanda Plaza): Features a kids’ pool, rotating restaurant, and family rooms with ocean ball pits.
  • Vienna Hotel (Guilin City Government Wanda Branch): Offers free parking, coffee shops, and scenic views from select rooms.

2. Types of Accommodation in Guilin

Luxury Hotels (For Splurge-Worthy Stays)

• Lijiang Bo Yin Hotel:
  • Highlights: Rooftop infinity pool, lake-view gym, photography services, and proximity to Elephant Trunk Hill.
  • Price: From $150 USD/night.
• Guilin Global International Hotel:
  • Highlights: 270° river-view rooms, mini-pool on the rooftop, and excellent service (e.g., package delivery assistance).
  • Price: From $120 USD/night.

Mid-Range Hotels (Comfort & Value)

• YOUNG漾 Hotel (Guilin Station MixC Branch):
  • Highlights: Designer decor, nightly performances, and a central location near the Two Rivers and Four Lakes.
  • Price: From $80 USD/night.
• Port View · Riverside Resort Hotel (Guilin Li River榕湖 Branch):
  • Highlights: Loft rooms, laundry facilities, and a cozy “treehouse” vibe.
  • Price: From $70 USD/night.

Budget-Friendly Homestays (For Cultural Immersion)

• Tropical Garden Homestay:
  • Highlights: Bright yellow-green decor, open kitchen, and a landlord who offers local travel tips.
  • Price: From $40 USD/night (sleeps up to 7).
• Van Gogh’s Oil Painting Apartment:
  • Highlights: Art-filled walls, brand toiletries, and a spacious balcony for stargazing.
  • Price: From $40 USD/night (sleeps up to 7).

Foreigner-Friendly Stays (By International Designers)

• Secret Garden (Yangshuo):
  • Background: Designed by a South African architect, this restored ancient house blends local architecture with Western comforts. Popular with expat travelers.
  • Price: From $100 USD/night.
• Waterfront Mountain Retreat (Yangshuo):
  • Background: Run by an Australian expat, this漓江-side homestay offers 21 rooms with balconies overlooking the river.
  • Price: From $120 USD/night.

3. Booking Tips for Foreigners

1. Use International Platforms: Book via Agoda, Booking.com, or Ctrip (for Chinese-friendly options). Many hotels offer English-speaking staff and 24/7 support.
2. Check Reviews: Look for recent feedback on cleanliness, location, and staff friendliness. High-rated picks include Lijiang Bo Yin Hotel and Bamboo Window Creek Retreat.
3. Prioritize Amenities: If traveling with kids, filter for “family rooms,” “pools,” or “kids’ clubs.” For couples, seek romantic touches like private balconies or bathtubs.
4. Book Early: Popular hotels like SYYF Poetry & Distance fill up quickly, especially during holidays.
5. Negotiate for Longer Stays: Some homestays offer discounts for weekly or monthly bookings.

4. Must-Try Local Experiences Near Your Accommodation

• Downtown Guilin:
  • Stroll along Zhengyang Pedestrian Street for snacks like fried rice cakes and sweet fermented rice.
  • Take a sunset cruise on the Li River from Elephant Trunk Hill.
• Yangshuo:
  • Rent an e-bike to explore the Yulong River and rice paddies.
  • Watch the sunrise from Xianggong Hill (10-minute drive from most homestays).
• Near High-Tech Zone:
  • Shop at Wanda Plaza or dine at local favorites like Xiji Street (known for spicy crayfish and beer fish).

Final Thoughts

Guilin’s accommodation scene caters to every traveler—whether you crave luxury, cultural authenticity, or budget-friendly comfort. By choosing a stay that matches your interests (e.g., a riverside hotel for sightseeing or a mountain homestay for adventure), you’ll unlock the best of this magical region.