May in Guilin marks the transition from spring to early summer, bringing generally warm and pleasant weather. Daytime temperatures typically range between 24°C and 30°C, with plenty of sunshine and comfortable conditions ideal for outdoor activities.
Nighttime temperatures drop to around 18°C to 22°C, accompanied by a slight chill and noticeable daily temperature variations.
May also sees the gradual increase of rainfall in Guilin. Precipitation often comes in the form of short showers or thunderstorms, sometimes extending into drizzling night rain. While rainfall can be frequent, the high humidity often enhances the landscape. The mist-shrouded mountains and rivers are creating a uniquely poetic atmosphere after the rain.
Better to Avoid the May Day Holiday
The May Day holiday (May 1-5) is one of the busiest tourist peaks in Guilin throughout the year. During this time, popular attractions will be very crowded.
Hotel and flight prices will increase significantly (by 30-40%), and it will be challenging to book tickets. The travel experience will be significantly affected by queues and congestion. To enjoy the beauty of Guilin's landscapes better, I recommend visiting Guilin after the May Day holiday.
If your holiday happens to coincide with the May Day holiday, you may encounter the following issues. Try to minimize the impact of the holiday by referring to the following suggestions:
- The difficulty of booking tickets: It is recommended to book your hotels, flights, Li River cruise tickets, and itineraries at least one month in advance and avoid last-minute bookings.
- Issue of traffic congestion: Avoid staying in popular areas such as West Street in Yangshuo for your hotel choice. You can opt for a resort hotel near Yulong River or in the countryside. This way, you can reach attractions without passing through congested downtown areas, saving travel time. Choose walking tours to avoid traffic congestion, such as at Yulong River and Ten-Mile Gallery in Yangshuo.
- Overcrowding at popular attractions: It is advisable to travel during off-peak hours; visit popular attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill early in the morning or before dusk. Explore lesser-known destinations nearby, such as climbing for scenic views or exploring semi-developed or less crowded caves.
Want to avoid the crowds during the May Day Holiday? Let our local travel experts craft a tailor-made Guilin itinerary just for you. We will help you skip the crowded scenic spots and discover more destinations with stunning views and fewer people.
Recommended Activities in May
With pleasant weather in May, most outdoor activities are enjoyable, such as river cruises, cycling, hiking, and cave exploration. Here are some unique experiences especially worth trying this month:
1. Join the Plowing Festival in Longji Terraces
Plowing Festival in Longji TerracesMay is the spring plowing season in the Longji Terraces. The watered terraces resemble mirrors embedded between the mountains. It offers perfect opportunities to photograph these reflective landscapes.
This period also coincides with the annual Plowing Festival (usually held in early May). It is the most important traditional farming celebration of the local Yao and Zhuang ethnic groups. The main events often take place in Jinkeng Dazhai or Ping'an Village, where the terraces are most expansive.
During the festival, you can witness grand ceremonies featuring lively performances, seedling carrying, and field-opening songs. You can even step into the fields yourself to experience transplanting rice seedlings or catching fish.
Our customers are making bamboo-tube riceBeyond the farming activities, our guides can arrange for you to learn how to make bamboo-tube rice with locals. You can also participate in pounding traditional oil tea, or dress in ethnic clothing and join local dances. These hands-on experiences turn your journey into an unforgettable deep cultural immersion. Read more about Longji Terraces.
2. Hike to Mountain Top and Enjoy Summit Coffee
May's mild weather makes it ideal for mountain hiking and enjoying panoramic views in Guilin. The city boasts several mountaintop cafés. You can climb stone steps, enjoy the scenery, and savor a hot coffee while overlooking mist-shrouded karst peaks. Here are a few well-known options:
- Yangshuo Richu Café: Located 25 km from Yangshuo (about 40 minutes by car). A 30-minute hike to the top rewards you with a stunning view of the Li River's great bend.
- Yaoshan Mountain Top Café: Just 10 km from downtown Guilin (30 minutes by car). Yaoshan is the highest point in the city, offering a bird's-eye view of the entire area. The hike takes 1-2 hours, or you can take a cable car. The summit also features a small garden perfect for photos.
- Chuanshan Café: For something closer, try Chuanshan Café in the Chuanshan Scenic Area, located in downtown Guilin. A gentle 20-minute walk to the top provides views of Elephant Trunk Hill, Liberation Bridge, and the Li River.
3. Explore an Underground Cave and Enjoy a Cup of Coffee
Yangshuo Earth Heart CaveEarth Heart CaveGuilin is famous for its spectacular karst caves - but have you ever sipped coffee in one? Experience the extraordinary at a café hidden deep within an limestone cavern, where nature's grandeur meets cozy elegance.
Deep beneath the Yangshuo peaks lies a magical spot - Earth Heart Cave Café. Here, you can admire stalactites and cave walls while enjoying coffee, as if pausing for a mysterious and peaceful break in the heart of the Earth.
The café is about 10 km from Yangshuo (30 minutes by car). The experience itself is a mini-adventure: equipped with safety gear and led by our guide. You'll take a short hike through a primitive cave to reach this hidden coffee stop. It's a perfect blend of geological wonder and casual relaxation. It offers a truly unique memory for your Yangshuo trip.
4. Enjoy Sidecar Trips Through Yangshuo's Countryside
Sidecar Trips Through Yangshuo's CountrysideSidecar Trips in YangshuoImagine riding in a vintage sidecar, driven by a dedicated driver, through Yangshuo's karst peaks and rural landscapes. You can sit back comfortably in the sidecar, hands-free, gazing at the misty green mountains in the distance. This open-air immersive experience is far freer and more intimate than a standard car tour. You can fully embrace Yangshuo's natural beauty.
In May, during the spring plowing season, you'll see farmers working in the fields. Some are guiding water buffaloes to plow; others are bending over to transplant rice seedlings. After the tour, enjoy authentic local dishes like beer fish and stuffed snails at a countryside restaurant.
5. Take a Bamboo Raft on the Yulong River
Bamboo Raft on the Yulong RiverMay's warm and pleasant weather, free from summer heat or winter chill. It is one of the best months for bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. You'll have unobstructed 360-degree views of Guilin's landscapes.
There are multiple docks and routes for rafting. We recommend the section from Jima Dock to Gongnong Bridge. This is a 90-minute ride on calm, clear water through the most classic karst and rural scenery, perfect for photos and suitable for all ages.
After arriving at Gongnong Bridge, you can take a car back to Yangshuo or continue to the nearby Ten-Mile Gallery for seamless onward travel. Click here for details about touring the Yulong River.
If visiting during the May Day holiday (May 1-5), we do not recommend bamboo rafting due to extreme crowds and wait times of 1-2 hours.
What to Wear in Guilin in May
With rising daytime temperatures and stronger sunlight in May, it's best to wear light, breathable summer clothing such as short-sleeved T-shirts, shirts, thin long pants, or skirts. Don't forget sunglasses and a sun hat for sun protection.
While days are warm, temperatures drop noticeably in the early morning and evening, especially in mountainous areas like the Longji Terraces. Pack a light long-sleeved jacket or sweater to stay comfortable during cooler hours.
Since afternoon showers are possible, carrying a compact umbrella or a light waterproof jacket is recommended. Choose comfortable, waterproof shoes to handle potential rain and slippery paths, ensuring a relaxed and worry-free trip.
Planning a Trip to Guilin with China Highlights
Worried about crowds during the May Day holiday? China Highlights specialize in creating in-depth and relaxing travel experiences in Guilin. Based on your preferences and the unique seasonal features of May, we'll design a personalized itinerary with private transfers. Contact us now to get your custom May travel plan!
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