10 Best Guilin Nature Spots With No Fees to Visit

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For practical details and last-minute changes, use Guilin Municipal People's Government.

Walking is the best way to see these natural wonders. Public buses also connect all the major free sites efficiently. Many spots are located right in the city center area.

These locations provide a perfect mix of water and mountain scenery. You can experience the local culture while enjoying the fresh air. Prepare your camera for some of the most iconic views in China.

1. Elephant Trunk Hill Scenic Park Area
   • Type: iconic natural sight
   • Why go: most famous city symbol
   • Best for: taking classic photos
   • Where: the central city area
   • Time: about two hours
   • Cost: totally free entry
   • Getting there: walk from Binjiang Road
   • Tip: book free ticket online
2. Ancient Banyan Lake and Glass Bridge
   • Type: serene lake park
   • Why go: ancient banyan trees
   • Best for: peaceful evening walks
   • Where: central Guilin downtown
   • Time: one hour visit
   • Cost: no entrance fee
   • Getting there: walk from pedestrian street
   • Tip: visit the glass bridge
3. Cedar Lake and Sun Moon Pagodas
   • Type: nature and architecture
   • Why go: twin pagoda views
   • Best for: night time scenery
   • Where: near Zhongshan road
   • Time: forty five minutes
   • Cost: free park access
   • Getting there: downtown bus route
   • Tip: see the night lights
4. Binjiang Road Scenic Li River Walkway
   • Type: river nature experience
   • Why go: stunning Li River views
   • Best for: relaxing long walks
   • Where: along the river bank
   • Time: two hours total
   • Cost: always free access
   • Getting there: central city access
   • Tip: go at early sunrise
5. Daxu Ancient Town River Bank Trail
   • Type: rural nature trip
   • Why go: quiet river beauty
   • Best for: escaping city crowds
   • Where: southeast of Guilin
   • Time: half day excursion
   • Cost: free to explore
   • Getting there: take a local bus
   • Tip: walk the stone path
6. Mulong Lake Park Exterior Walking Path
   • Type: historic nature walk
   • Why go: Song dynasty style
   • Best for: history and nature
   • Where: northern city edge
   • Time: one hour walk
   • Cost: free outside walls
   • Getting there: bus to Diecai Hill
   • Tip: view the wooden pagoda
7. Chuanshan Park Riverside and Pagoda View
   • Type: karst hill nature
   • Why go: unique hill shapes
   • Best for: seeing river pagodas
   • Where: the east bank
   • Time: ninety minutes total
   • Cost: no park fee
   • Getting there: ride a rental bike
   • Tip: watch the river fishermen
8. Guihu Lake Loop and Garden Walk
   • Type: lake and garden
   • Why go: peaceful water views
   • Best for: watching local life
   • Where: western city loop
   • Time: one hour stay
   • Cost: free of charge
   • Getting there: walk from Ronghu Lake
   • Tip: find the local musicians
9. Xingping Li River Bank and Viewpoints
   • Type: iconic nature trip
   • Why go: twenty yuan view
   • Best for: seeing mountain panoramas
   • Where: Xingping old town
   • Time: full day trip
   • Cost: free river access
   • Getting there: train to Yangshuo
   • Tip: walk the river trail
10. Peach Blossom River Cycling and Nature Trail
    • Type: river and village
    • Why go: seasonal blossom views
    • Best for: scenic nature cycling
    • Where: western city outskirts
    • Time: three hour ride
    • Cost: free public trail
    • Getting there: rent a bicycle
    • Tip: visit in early spring

Planning Your Trip to Guilin Nature Spots With No Fees

Visiting these Guilin nature spots with no fees requires little planning. Most locations are within walking distance of the main hotels. You can use a digital map to navigate the city. Public transport is cheap and very reliable here.

Many people choose to stay near the Two Lakes area. This location allows you to see several spots daily. You will save a lot on transportation costs.

Always carry a bottle of water during your walks. Guilin can be very humid during the summer months. Sun protection is necessary for long outdoor excursions.

Practical Tips for Exploring Guilin's Free Parks

To enjoy a free Li River walking route, start early. The morning mist over the karst peaks is magical. You can avoid the large tour groups this way. Photography is best when the light is soft.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven stone paths. Some riverbanks might be slippery after a rain shower. Respect the local environment by keeping the parks clean.

Check the local weather forecast before heading out for the day. Sudden rain showers are common in this subtropical climate. Carry a small umbrella or a light rain jacket.

Capturing the Best Views in Guilin Nature

If you want best sunset spots in Guilin nature, head to the lakes. The reflection of the hills in the water is stunning. Local parks are very safe for evening visits.

The Sun and Moon Pagodas look best at night. They light up in gold and silver colors after dark. This is a great time for long-exposure photography.

Binjiang Road offers many clear views of the river boats. You can see the cormorant fishermen practicing their traditional craft. This provides a unique glimpse into the local heritage.

Expanding Your Adventure Beyond the City Center

While the city is great, nearby villages offer more nature. You can find a how to see Elephant Trunk Hill free guide easily. Many small hills outside the center have no gates. These areas provide a more authentic rural experience.

Renting a bike is a great way to explore. You can reach the Peach Blossom River in minutes. The trails there are flat and very scenic.

Daxu Ancient Town is another excellent free destination nearby. It sits right on the banks of the river. Visit our main travel page for more China tips.