Getting the lowdown on a tourism hotspot

Located in the northeast of the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Guilin is considered to be the pearl of China's thriving tourism industry on account of its natural beauty and historical treasures. Covering about 27,800 square kilometers, the city features green mountains, crystal-clear waters, unique caves, beautiful stones and vibrant ethnic cultures.

Guilin is one of the most popular and famous tourist destinations in the world. A popular Chinese saying goes, "the mountains and waters of Guilin are the finest under heaven", mostly due to its uniquely shaped karst hills and the Lijiang River, which are often portrayed in Chinese artwork.

Guilin's most renowned attraction is the Lijiang River, with many limestone hills jutting from the lush green valley and providing a perfect backdrop for the placid river.

Many fascinating caves can be easily found in this area, and Guilin is the best example of karst landform in China.

A boat trip from downtown Guilin to Yangshuo county along the Lijiang River is one of the finest excursions for a tour of China. The journey downstream offers 60 km of breathtaking scenery.

Other renowned attractions in the city include the West Street of Yangshuo, the Longji terraced rice fields in Longsheng county, and the Lingqu Canal in Xing'an county.

(China Daily 10/20/2016 page6)