Guilin - the most beautiful place on Earth
Just as Xian is a must when you travel to China,
so is Guilin. The stunning landscape in which the city is situated
has a kind of magic that is all its own. The strangely shaped hills,
or karsts, with the verdant vegetation ranging from bamboo to
conifers together with wonderful caves make Guilin such an
attraction for tourists.
Located in the northeast of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin
is considered to be the pearl of China's thriving tourist industry
on account of the natural beauty and historic treasures. Covering an
area of about 27,800 square kilometers (10,734 square miles), the
city is rather compact when compared with other leading cities in
the country. However, situated within this area one may find green
mountains, crystal clear waters, unique caves and beautiful
stones.Li River Major attractions include Elephant Trunk Hill, Li
River, Reed Flute Cave and Seven-Star Park that boasts a Stone
Museum where amazing geological finds are displayed. Believe that
each of these places and many other attractions will leave you the
lasting memories.
Guilin is also an important cultural city with a history
encompassing more than 2000 years. The city has been the political,
economic and cultural center of Guangxi since the Northern Song
Dynasty (960-1127). Solitary Beauty Peak and Prince Jingjiang City
is considered to be the oldest place of interest and has been so
since the far off days of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). The
prosperity enjoyed by the city during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
is epitomized by the Tomb of Prince Jingjiang.
The many ethnic minorities represented here that include
the Zhuang, Yao, Hui, Miao, Mulao, Maonan and Dong enrich the
cultural life of the city. Each minority has its own unique customs
and festivals and this means that they are much more abundant here
than in many other places elsewhere in China. Travelers can enjoy
these pageants at the Li River Folk Customs Center.
Guilin is a well-developed tourist center with convenient
transportation, communication and accommodation facilities. You can
enter Guilin by air, by train or by bus and get around on free
buses. From luxury hotels to hostels, from splendid restaurants to
local snacks, you are sure to find that your needs will be met
beyond your expectations.
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