April in Guilin is a spring month characterized by warm and humid weather. Daytime temperatures are generally pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 28°C. You can feel even warmer under the sunshine.
However, there is a noticeable temperature difference between day and night. Evenings and early mornings can cool down to around 15°C, with cooler conditions in mountainous areas or after rainfall.
April also sees a significant increase in rainfall, with monthly precipitation reaching 200–300 mm spread across more than 15 rainy days. Showers are often short and sporadic, sometimes accompanied by thunderstorms. Occasional continuous drizzle may also occur.
Is April a Good Time to Visit Guilin?
Traveling to Guilin in April is like opening a mystery box. You might be met with a week of misty rain or surprised by a sudden stretch of clear skies.
April offers pleasant weather - neither too hot nor too cold. It is a great time for outdoor activities. Although occasional rain may occur, it generally won't disrupt your plans if you maintain a flexible schedule.
Last year, some of our clients faced rainy days that made countryside cycling impossible. Our guide quickly adapted the schedule. He arranged for them to take a cruise tour on rainy days and participated in some indoor activities, such as learning painting and cooking. After the weather cleared up, he plan the cycling trip for them. Our guide were highly praised by our clients.
What makes April even more special is the chance to experience the most iconic Zhuang ethnic festival - the Folk Song Festival. During this time, you can witness vibrant traditional song and dance performances, taste special foods like five-color sticky rice. Try to immerse yourself in the unique customs and culture of the Zhuang people.
What are the Unique Activities in April?
With pleasant weather in April, most outdoor activities are enjoyable, such as river cruises, bamboo rafting, cycling, hiking, and cave exploration. In addition to these classic experiences, here are some unique and highly recommended activities to try during your visit:
1.Experience the Zhuang Traditional Festival
The Folk Song Festival is the most important festival of the Zhuang ethnic group, which is usually held in April every year. (scheduled for April 19, 2026 or April 9, 2027). Throughout the festival, various celebrations take place across Guilin.
You can join Zhuang people in traditional dress dancing the lively bamboo pole dance and listen to their melodic folk songs. Join traditional activities like embroidered ball tossing and firecracker grabbing. Be sure to try a variety of local specialty snacks. It is a good chance to immerse yourself in the rich ethnic atmosphere.
For the most authentic festival experience, head to Zhuang communities like the Longji Terraces and Lujia Village in urban Guilin. In Longji's ancient Zhuang villages, grand ancestral ceremonies and long-table banquet are held amid the terraced fields. The villagers sing toast songs and share glutinous rice wine with guests. It is a touching and impressive scene.
Lujia Village is known for its traditional farming culture and intangible heritage displays. Here, you can try your hand at Zhuang embroidery, join a bonfire party, and experience the genuine warmth of Zhuang hospitality. There is a cycling path next to Lujia Village. You can enjoy the rural scenery along the village and rice fields. The weather in April is perfect for cycling.
2.Cycle Through Yangshuo's Countryside
Cycling through Yangshuo's rural paths is one of the best ways to embrace spring. While the best time to see rapeseed flowers is March, some remain blooming in early April. You can stop anytime, walk deep into the fields, and enjoy the intimate blend of mountains, rivers, and flowers.
A classic route is Yulong Bridge → Jiuxian Village → Xiatang Village → Yangshuo Mountain Retreat. This 13 km ride takes about 1.5 hours. With our guide, you can explore quieter villages like Jiuxian and Jima with fewer tourists and peaceful countryside views. When you need a break, enjoy local specialties like beer fish and bamboo-tube rice at a farmhouse restaurant.
3. Hike Along the Li River
Hiking along the Li River in April is like stepping into a flowing ink painting. With fresh air after spring rain, the karst peaks loom through mist along the banks. You might even see fishermen on bamboo rafts with cormorants against a dreamy river backdrop.
The most classic route is from Quanjiazhou to Xingping - a 12 km trek taking about 4 hours. You would pass iconic Li River scenery and end at the spot featured on the 20 RMB note. If short on time, choose the shorter 6 km route from Quanjiazhou to Nine Horses Fresco Hill, a 2-hour walk still offering breathtaking views.
Every year, over 50 clients of ours hike along the Li River, and we usually arrange the section from Quanjiazhou to Xingping. Our driver will take you from the hotel to Quanjiazhou, and your luggage and personal belongings will be kept in the car.
Your tour guide will cycle with you and explain the local customs and culture along the way. In case of rain, we will arrange some interesting indoor activities, such as learning chinese, fan painting or cooking class. We will resume cycling once the rain stops.
4.Enjoy Afternoon Tea at a Riverside Farm
Just a 10-minute walk from Xingping after finishing hiking (one hour's drive from Yangshuo), you can enjoy afternoon tea at Goudan Farm - a unique experience set in idyllic scenery. Your table is placed on an open lawn surrounded by karst peaks. Sip coffee and enjoy freshly baked cakes while taking in the views.
If traveling with children, pick up an animal feeding basket to feed cute goats, rabbits, and other little animals. It's a perfect family activity, letting kids joyfully connect with nature.
5. Learn Fan Painting or Chinese Calligraphy
Located about 10 km from Yangshuo, Fuli Ancient Town is known as the "Hometown of Chinese Painted Fans." Here, you can learn from local artists to paint ink landscapes on blank bamboo-and-paper fans or practice calligraphy. This immersive activity offers not only artistic tranquility but also a meaningful way to take home a piece of Guilin's beauty.
The session usually takes 2-3 hours in a traditional fan workshop, making it a perfect plan for a rainy day. You can create anything from handheld fans to large decorative wall fans. After painting, take time to explore the ancient town nearby.
What to Wear in Guilin in April
Dressing in layers is key for April travels in Guilin. During the day, temperatures are pleasant. A long-sleeved T-shirt or light shirt paired with casual pants or jeans makes a practical base outfit. It's advisable to carry a windproof and waterproof jacket (such as a lightweight shell) or a thin cardigan for cooler mornings and evenings to stay comfortably warm.
Given April's frequent rain and high humidity, footwear is especially important. Opt for comfortable, non-slip sports or hiking shoes to navigate slippery stone paths and field ridges safely.
You may also want to pack a pair of portable sandals or slip-ons to change into after bamboo rafting on the Yulong River or unexpected rain, helping you stay dry. Don't forget an umbrella and a hat. They'll provide shade on sunny days and keep you dry during showers.
Planning a Trip to Guilin with China Highlights
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