Guilin's February brings persistent light rain, and you could expect around 16 rainy days (as in 2025) with 57mm average rainfall. Temperatures hover between 7-13°C (45-55°F), though damp winds make it feel colder. While higher elevations may dip below freezing, snow rarely reaches the city itself.
Notably, February has become Guilin's coldest month due to delayed winters from global warming. We anticipate similar conditions for 2026, so pack a windproof down jacket layered over thick sweaters, waterproof non-slip boots, and always carry an umbrella for the drizzles.
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Top Things to Do in Guilin in February
1. Immerse in Guilin's Spring Festival Atmosphere
Experience China's grandest traditional celebration marking the Chinese New Year. The 15-day festival peaks during its first seven days (February 16-22, 2026), when Guilin transforms into a red wonderland. Streets glow with lanterns and decorations as locals exchange joyful greetings and wishes.
If your travel time falls in this period, don't miss vibrant dragon/lion dances along East-West Lane and Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, and cheer for performers' expert movements that are believed to summon good fortune for everyone.
While Guilin City has restricted fireworks for environmental reasons, head to Yangshuo County for the breathtaking Yulong River Golden Dragon Parade: a 100-meter dragon formed by linked bamboo rafts glides downstream slowly amid fireworks and folk music.
Travel Tip:
Book trains, flights, and hotels at least three months early (No later than November) as this coincides with China's Spring Migration travel rush. Outside the Spring Festival, February offers off-season advantages: fewer crowds and discounted rates.
2. Soak in Hot Springs at Longji Rice Terraces
Winter drapes Longji's rice terraces in fleeting snow, transforming them into an otherworldly spectacle. Yet this fairy-tale scene rarely lasts: warming patterns mean snow lingers just 1-2 days (e.g., present in 2025 but absent throughout 2024).
For guaranteed enchantment, we suggest retreating to a hillside hot spring resort. Soak in steaming mineral pools as mountain mist swirls around rice terraces, then savor local specialties: eggs slow-cooked in thermal vents, tender "hot spring chicken," and bamboo-tube rice infused with mushrooms and pork.
Hot Springs in LongshengIn February, there is a big chance to witness the dawn bring breathtaking cloud seas gilded in sunrise hues at the rice terraces, especially after a rainy day. When night falls, you would see scattered lights ignite across layered slopes at Ping'an Rice Terraces, dubbed "Night Dragons" by locals, like stars descending to earth.
However, if admiring the snow scenes is a must for you, prioritize early February visits to Quanzhou County's Tian Lake Reservoir (higher success rate).
3. Explore Reed Flute Cave
Escape winter's chill in this climate-controlled (20°C/68°F year-round) karst sanctuary, where nature's artistry meets curated illumination.
Reed Flute CaveAs one of China's most celebrated caves that has hosted state leaders worldwide, Reed Flute Cave unveils bizarre formations: stalactites dripping like frozen waterfalls, stone pillars towering over long-dried subterranean lakes, all enhanced by strategic lighting that reveals mineral details.
You could expect well-developed walkways and signage in multiple languages, but keep in mind that moist surfaces require non-slip footwear and careful walking, despite paved paths and handrails.
Prefer pristine caves over developed attractions? Join our Yangshuo Caving Expedition to Swallow Cave. Armed with headlamps and local guides, navigate primordial chambers untouched by commercial lighting, where silence breathes and every stalagmite tells an unscripted story.
4. Savor a Bowl of Steaming Guilin Rice Noodles
Well, It May Looks Light But Tastes DeliciousIf you follow the locals into small, no-frills Guilin rice noodle shops, you'll find bowls that cost only about 1 USD. You will get soft and bouncy rice noodles topped with fried crispy pork belly, thin slices of beef, and a bit of pickled veggies like bamboo shoots and sour beans.
Mix them up, and it turns into a simple but super satisfying meal that really warms you up on a cold day. When you're done with the noodles, pour some broth into the bowl and drink it, light but full of flavor.
Just point to the menu or use translation apps to order, since staff rarely speak English. You could also ask nearby students or youngsters for help, and they often gladly assist with ordering.
The simplest option? Join our Guilin Food Adventure now to unlock hidden gems with local expert guidance.
What to Wear in Guilin in February: Thick Layers with Waterproof Coats
February brings Guilin's coldest, dampest winter, when mist clings to karst peaks and humidity amplifies the chill. Remember this tactical layering strategy for a winter tour in Guilin:
Start with a wool base layer topped by a quilted jacket against the damp, then add your outfit with a hooded waterproof shell to repel Guilin's signature "needle-fine drizzle."
For your lower half, combine thermal leggings with quick-drying trekking pants that shrug off mud trails and sudden showers. Footwear is critical: choose waterproof hiking boots with aggressive tread to conquer slippery paths and stone alleys.
Always carry a compact umbrella, but upgrade to a packable rain poncho for outdoor activities, since it won't become a kite in the strong winds and provides full-body coverage when umbrella defenses fail.
Plan a Winter Trip to Guilin with China Highlights
Not sure what to do in Guilin during winter? Follow our experienced local experts to deeply explore Guilin's landscapes, discover hidden winter scenery you've never experienced, and savor authentic farm-to-table meals. Why wait? Contact us now to book your unforgettable Guilin journey!
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