Guilin, known for its dramatic landscapes and scenic rivers, transforms into a captivating destination after dark. From serene night cruises to lively street markets, Guilin’s nightlife is full of unique and exciting experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Things to Do in Guilin at Night, tailored especially for foreign tourists eager to experience the city’s vibrant evening attractions.
1. Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park
Start your Top 10 Things to Do in Guilin at Night at the iconic Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park （桂林日月双塔）, home to the famous Sun and Moon Pagodas, often referred to as the “Guilin twin pagodas.” It is a cultural landmark in the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area.
As the sun sets, the park takes on a new charm. The pagodas, especially the taller golden Sun Pagoda and silver Moon Pagoda, are illuminated, casting reflections on the lake.
Visitors can walk around the lake to soak in the views or capture beautiful photos of the Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park night view. This spot is perfect for a peaceful start to your night.
Basic Information
- Ticket Price: ¥35 per person, ¥56 for two.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Last entry is at 9:00 p.m.
- Address: No. 2 Binjiang Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin, located within the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area.
Travel Tips
- Climb the Pagodas: The Sun Pagoda stands at 41 meters tall with nine floors. Made of bronze, it shines with golden copper plates. The Moon Pagoda, at 35 meters with seven floors, is mainly white. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for a stunning view over Guilin.
- Photography: The Twin Pagodas are a popular photography spot. During the day, you’ll capture the towers’ intricate details, while at night, they glow with brilliant lights. For fewer crowds and ideal lighting, visit around 9:00 p.m.
- Cultural Experience: Inside the Sun Pagoda, you’ll find bronze statues of Sakyamuni and the Medicine Buddha, showcasing traditional Chinese culture. The Moon Pagoda features a Tibetan-style “Mani Wheel,” Medicine Buddha statue, and relief carvings of the Twelve Guardians.
Getting There
- By Bus: Take buses 2 or 23 to Xiangshan Park Station, then walk to the Shanhu Lake Zhiyin Pavilion Pier.
- By Car: Park at the underground lot on Wenming Road.
Nearby Attractions and Food Recommendations
- Nearby Attractions: You can enjoy various cultural activities here, such as taking a boat ride or strolling along the lake.
- Food: Nearby Zhengyang Walking Street has many restaurants and food stalls where you can try Guilin’s local specialties, like Guilin rice noodles, Sanhua rice wine, and water chestnut cakes.
2. Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Tour
One of the most popular night activities in Guilin is the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Tour（两江四湖） This cruise takes you through the Guilin 2 Rivers and 4 Lakes, allowing you to see the city from the water under a canopy of stars.
Romantic lights along the lake’s edge and charming bridges make for an enchanting setting. The Four Lakes Cruise offers an amazing chance to view Guilin’s landmarks from a new perspective. For a truly romantic experience, the Guilin lake cruise offers stunning scenery.
The main docks for Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes night tour are Wenchang Bridge Dock and Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf. Visitors can board at Wenchang Bridge Dock and disembark at Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf, or start at Xiangshan and end at Wenchang Bridge Dock.
Wenchang Bridge Dock and Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf
The main docks for Guilin’s Two Rivers and Four Lakes night tour are Wenchang Bridge Dock and Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf. Visitors can board at Wenchang Bridge Dock and disembark at Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf, or start at Xiangshan and end at Wenchang Bridge Dock
Dock Locations and Transportation
- Wenchang Bridge Dock: Located under the southeast end of Wenchang Bridge, behind the “Youfan” restaurant. Take bus 23, 16, or 2 to “Wenchang Bridge” or “Xiangshan Park” and walk two minutes.
- Xiangshan Fisherman’s Wharf: Located at Gate 3 of Elephant Trunk Hill Park.
Tour Duration and Ticket Information
- Tour Duration: Around 80–90 minutes.
- Ticket Price: ¥210 for adults, ¥105 for children between 1.2 and 1.49 meters tall. Children under 1.2 meters are free but require advance booking with customer service for boat times.
Sights Along the Route
The tour route passes several landmarks, including the Sharita Pagoda, Hongqiao Dam, Nanmen Bridge, Zhuzi Arch, Rong Lake Locks, Xinyi Bridge, Ancient Banyan Tree, Sun and Moon Pagodas, Glass Bridge, Beidou Bridge, Liberation Bridge, Mulong Lake Boat Lift, Fubo Hill, and a distant view of Solitary Beauty Peak, among others.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
- Best Time to Visit: May to June, with moderate water levels and pleasant weather.
- Weather Tips: During flood or drought seasons, combined boat tours are offered at different rates
3. Visit Zhengyang Walking Street
If you’re in the mood for a lively night out, head to Zhengyang Walking Street （正阳步行街）. Known for its mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, this pedestrian street is a hub for Guilin nightlife.
You’ll find a variety of shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. Enjoy Zhengyang Walking Street night shopping, where the streets are filled with local and international visitors. It’s a perfect place to pick up mementos and enjoy the bustling energy of Guilin at night.
Transportation to Guilin’s Zhengyang Walking Street is very convenient. Located in downtown Guilin near Shanhu North Road, it’s easy to reach by bus, taxi, or shared bike. Several bus stops are nearby, making it accessible for visitors.
The street’s exact address is No. 29 Zhengyang Road, Xiufeng District, Guilin. It borders Shanhu Lake in the Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area to the south and connects to Liberation East Road to the north. An underground passage links it with Dongxi Lane. Stretching 666 meters, the length symbolizes good fortune, and the architecture blends traditional and modern styles.
4. Try Local Foods at Shangshui Food Street
Shangshui Food Street (尚水美食街), located at No. 15 Binjiang Road in Xiufeng District, is Guilin’s most popular food street, it offers not only local specialties like Guilin rice noodles, snail noodles, and Yangshuo beer fish but also famous foods from other provinces and even international dishes. Here, you can try Chongqing hot and sour noodles, Nanjing crispy buns, Seoul bibimbap, and Indian curry, satisfying a wide range of tastes.
Transportation and Nearby Attractions
Shangshui Food Street is highly accessible, located in Guilin’s busy commercial center. Nearby are well-known sights like the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, and Solitary Beauty Peak, so visitors can enjoy local foods while exploring the surrounding attractions. The street is also close to Zhengyang Walking Street, making it convenient for a combined visit of dining, shopping, and leisure.
Best Time to Visit and Additional Tips
Shangshui Food Street is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the evening when crowds fill the street and food options are at their peak. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you may cover a lot of ground.
5. Watch the Dreamlike Li River Show
The Dreamlike Li River Show （梦幻漓江） is a night performance that combines dance, acrobatics, and stunning visual effects. As the show begins, visitors are treated to an array of Chinese cultural stories and myths set against the breathtaking backdrop of Guilin’s natural landscapes.
Secure your Dreamlike Li River Show tickets early, as this show is popular among both tourists and locals. Performances take place nightly, and showtimes can be found in most travel guide offices. This is one of the top night shows in Guilin.
Performance Information
- Address: Fantasy Theater, No. 95 Qixing Road, Qixing District, Guilin
- Showtimes: 5:00 p.m. – 6:10 p.m.; 7:30 p.m. – 8:40 p.m.
- Ticket Prices: ¥100 for adults; children’s tickets available at a discount.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take bus line 14 to Shiyou Six Company Station, then walk about 7 minutes to the theater.
Show Details
- Overview: Dreamlike Li River is Asia’s first nature-themed show, combining ballet and acrobatics in a grand, captivating performance. The show features four segments—Nurtured by Nature, Life and Eternity, Wonders Under the River, and Eastern Charm—immersing the audience in a colorful, fairy-tale world.
- Performers: Nearly 100 performers, including award-winning acrobats and ballet dancers from Mystery of the Oriental Capital.
Nearby Attractions
- Li River Scenic Area: The theater is near the stunning Li River, known for its crystal-clear water and unique karst landscape. It’s one of the world’s largest and most scenic karst mountain and river areas.
- Guilin City Center: After the show, head downtown to try local specialties like Guilin rice noodles and Yangshuo beer fish.
Useful Tips
- Arrive Early: Arrive 30 minutes before the show for ticket checks to avoid missing any highlights.
- Line Up Early: Arriving early helps secure good seats for a better view.
- Respect the Environment: Please dispose of trash properly to keep the area clean.
Using this guide, you can plan your visit to Dreamlike Li River and enjoy the breathtaking experience of this large-scale scenic performance.
6. See the Man-made Waterfall at Lijiang Waterfall Hotel
Next on the list is a unique attraction: the man-made waterfall at Lijiang Waterfall Hotel （桂林漓江大瀑布酒店）. Every evening, this hotel showcases a 72-meter-wide waterfall that cascades down from the roof, creating a spectacular display.
Known as the largest man-made waterfall in the world, the Guilin waterfall hotel show takes place at a specific time each night. Be sure to arrive early to get a good view and experience the sheer scale of this impressive sight. The ambiance is unmatched, making it a memorable spot to visit.
7. Shop at Xichenglu Pedestrian Street Night Market
If you love street markets, head to Xichenglu Pedestrian Street （西城路步行街）. This vibrant night market offers a mix of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
The Guilin night market Xichenglu is the place to find unique items to bring home. You’ll discover everything from jewelry to trinkets, and of course, plenty of food stalls with delicious snacks. Xichenglu Pedestrian Street night shopping is ideal for travelers looking to mingle with locals and experience a slice of Guilin’s night culture.
Best Time to Visit
Xicheng Road Pedestrian Street is open 24 hours, but it’s busiest at night when the views are beautiful. Arrive early to enjoy the night scene and avoid peak crowds.
Entrance Fee
There’s no entry fee for Xicheng Road Pedestrian Street. Tickets are not needed—just head over and start exploring.
Food Recommendations
The street is packed with food options like BBQ, fried rice, and noodles. A must-try is a dessert shop with delicate and delicious sweet soups. Local treats like osmanthus cake and stir-fried rice noodles are also highly recommended.
Best Photo Spots
The night views here are magical, with bright lights creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Be sure to bring a camera to capture these stunning scenes.
Getting There
Xicheng Road Pedestrian Street is located near Yang Bridge in Xiangshan District, Guilin. It’s easily accessible by bus or subway.
Additional Tips
As Guilin’s second-largest commercial area, Xicheng Road Pedestrian Street offers dining, entertainment, and shopping in one place. Though entry is free, please keep the area clean. Try to avoid weekend peak times to enjoy the views and city vibes at their best.
8. Visit Yangshuo’s West Street Bars and Clubs
For those looking for more active nightlife, a trip to Yangshuo’s West Street （阳朔西街） is a must. This famous street, lined with bars and clubs, comes alive at night with music, neon lights, and a lively atmosphere.
Yangshuo West Street nightlife offers an incredible variety of bars, some with live music and dancing, while others provide a more relaxed vibe.
Visiting bars in Yangshuo at night gives a taste of Guilin’s energetic side and is perfect for ending the evening with a drink and some fun.
9. Watch the Impression Sanjie Liu Show
One of the Top 10 Things to Do in Guilin at Night is the Impression Sanjie Liu Show （印象刘三姐）, an outdoor performance staged along the Li River in Yangshuo. Created by famous director Zhang Yimou, this show is an immersive experience that uses the river and surrounding mountains as part of the set.
It’s a unique cultural event that tells the story of Sanjie Liu, a legendary figure in Chinese folklore. Impression Sanjie Liu tickets can be booked in advance, and the show’s natural setting makes it one of the most unforgettable Yangshuo outdoor night shows.
Performance Information
- Location: No. 1 Tianyuan Road, Yangshuo County, Guilin
- Time: Open daily from 6:30 p.m. to 8:55 p.m., with ticket checks starting 30 minutes early. The show runs from 7:30 p.m. to 9:10 p.m., split into two sessions.
- Ticket Prices: Adult tickets are ¥298 per person; children’s tickets are ¥149 per person.
Transportation Options
- Bus: Take the Yangshuo Bus 801 and get off at Yangshuo Fengming Parking Station, then walk to the venue.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Take a taxi or rideshare from Yangshuo County to the venue.
10. Enjoy the Evening Scenery at Longsheng Rice Terraces
For quieter experience, consider heading to the Longsheng Rice Terraces for a beautiful evening view. Although Longji is located outside Guilin, it’s worth the trip for the Longji Rice Terraces night view （龙脊梯田夜景）
The area is serene at night, with moonlight illuminating the terraces and offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder. Spending time at the Longsheng Rice Terraces at night can be a peaceful way to end your time in the Guilin area, especially if you enjoy scenic landscapes.
If you are lucky, you may have the chance to see the Longji Rice Terraces light show. It is stunning and draws many visitors. The show not only enhances the beauty of the entire valley but also enriches the tourism experience at the Longji Scenic Area.
It marks a shift from simple sightseeing to a more comprehensive offering that includes leisure, vacation, and immersive experiences, promoting high-quality and international tourism development in Longsheng. Visitors have expressed that the night views from the light show are breathtaking and truly awe-inspiring.
Exploring Guilin at night reveals a different side of the city, filled with vibrant colors, tastes, and cultural performances. From scenic lake cruises and lively shopping streets to mesmerizing shows, Guilin has an array of evening activities perfect for travelers. In this guide, we covered the Top 10 Things to Do in Guilin at Night—each offering a unique experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking to shop, eat, or simply enjoy the scenery, Guilin’s night attractions promise something special for everyone. Enjoy your night out in Guilin!
