Guilin Weather in January 2026: Warm Winter for Sightseeing

January is one of the coldest months in Guilin, with average temperatures between 5°C (41°F) and 12°C (54°F).

Snow is rare except at higher elevations, but damp winds can make it feel freezing. You could expect mostly cloudy skies with limited rainfall (only 5 rainy days in January 2025), about 41mm total, typically concentrated in late-month showers.

Note that recent years show delayed and shortened cooling periods due to climate change. In January 2025, we even saw highs of 24°C in Guilin.

We expect similar patterns for January 2026, so dressing in layers that could be easily shifted, with warm clothing like padded jackets, thick sweaters, gloves, and scarves to handle sudden temperature drops.

Is Guilin Worth Visiting in January?

Yes, you can visit Guilin in January, which is ideal for those who are seeking savings and space over perfect weather or lush scenery.

• Lower costs: Hotels and flights drop to the bottom.
• No crowds: Skip queues at attractions and explore without jostling.
• Tranquility: Experience Guilin's karst vistas in peaceful solitude.

*Note: Avoid January 1st for holiday surge in both crowds and prices.

But if you are aiming for the best scenery, choose March-April (spring showers paint the Li River in misty greens) or September-October (crisp and clear autumn skies frame harvest landscapes).

Guilin in January is not at its best: rivers run low, vegetation lies dormant, and overcast skies often linger over the limestone peaks. The landscapes lack the vibrant energy of warmer months, with brown tones dominating the views.

Top Things to Do in Guilin in January

1. Venture Into the Yangshuo Swallow Cave

Caving is a must for active travelers in January. Thanks to the caves' stable, comfortable temperatures year-round, damp chill won't affect your trip, making this a perfect weatherproof adventure.

Led by local professional guides in small groups, you'll gear up with helmets and headlamps before venturing into total darkness. Your headlamp becomes the only light source as you navigate passages, discovering hidden karst formations and ancient stalactite forests while guides explain their geology.

You may spot cave wildlife like salamanders or bats during the journey, which involves crawling and climbing through narrow sections before emerging above ground. This hands-on experience delivers a deeper understanding of karst terrain.

Prefer Sightseeing? Visit Reed Flute Cave for a fully developed alternative.

As the city's largest limestone cave, it features spectacular illuminated stalactites and stalagmites strategically lit for dramatic effect. Well-paved walkways with handrails allow effortless exploration, requiring no climbing or crawling, making it accessible for all ages.

You may be interested in: Best Caves to Visit in Guilin

2. Hike the Most Scenic Part of Li River in Xingping

Hiking is an excellent outdoor activity in Guilin on dry January days.

Hike the Most Scenic Part of Li River

While winter brings colder temperatures and less vibrant foliage compared to other seasons, the Li River's low water level during this period offers a unique advantage: the exposed riverbed allows you to wade across shallow sections in places, an experience unavailable at other times of year.

The most recommended route hike from Quanjiazhou Village along the Li River to Xingping Ancient Town. This section passes iconic scenery, including Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Huangbu Reflection (20 Yuan RMB scenic spot).

Before you embark on a hike, remember to dress in warm layers (thermal base layer, fleece, windproof/water-resistant jacket, hat, gloves) to prevent colds. You could expect strong winds along the riverbank throughout January, and conditions could become significantly colder if rain occurs. So hike only on clear days for safety and comfort.

3. Bamboo Rafting on the Yulong River

Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River is a must in Yangshuo to view the karst landscapes.

Bamboo Rafting on the Yulong River

January's off-season status provides a significant advantage: you can board a bamboo raft with minimal wait times, unlike summer when tickets sell out within minutes.

But it is only great during sunny and clear days. If you feel chilly at your hotel, it would feel significantly colder on the water than on land. Consider indoor cultural activities like painting fans, or practicing calligraphy instead.

For a calm, dry experience with guaranteed warmth, choose the round-trip route from Yulong Bridge to Xiniu Tan. This route features beautiful scenery along a completely flat section with no dam droppings.

If you prefer the most picturesque scenery and are comfortable with minor water splashes, select the one-way route from Shui'e Di to Gongnong Bridge, which includes gentle dam crossings and offers the best value.

Regardless of your route choice, dressing in very warm, layered clothing (including a hat, gloves, and windproof jacket) is non-negotiable to mitigate cold exposure risks on the river.

You may be interested in: Guilin Bamboo Rafting: A Completed Travel Guide

4. Snow Viewing at Tian Lake Reservoir of Quanzhou County

Seeing snow within Guilin City is rare, but Tian Lake Reservoir in Quanzhou County, a high-altitude lake group over 1,600 meters, offers a silver-coated winter landscape that fulfills winter expectations.

If your schedule permits, we recommend staying overnight at Tianhu Chaping Hotel to witness sunrise over a sea of clouds and the mist-shrouded snowy lake at dawn. The snow-capped mountains and lake display remarkable pink-and-blue hues in the morning light.

Crucially, if planning a same-day round trip from Guilin, you must descend before 3:00 PM to avoid navigating poor road conditions in darkness or fog. Due to increasingly common warm winters from global warming, snowscapes typically last only three days after snowfall. Check real-time snow reports before visiting and prepare mentally for potential snow absence.

Should no snow be present upon arrival, we recommend substituting with a visit to Dabitou International Tourism Resort of Quanzhou County, and enjoy its hot springs and organic cuisine. Nearby park activities include interacting with sika deer and riding ATVs, both offering excellent alternative experiences.

What to Wear in Guilin in January: Dressed in Layers

Guilin's January temperatures fluctuate between 5°C and 12°C (41-54°F), with humidity intensifying the cold more than in December, while river winds amplify the chill on overcast days. Since it has become warmer in recent years, prioritize multiple layering over bulky single garments to balance comfort and mobility.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer paired with a warm mid-layer, such as silk or merino wool thermal underwear, under a lightweight down jacket, ensuring agile comfort whether hiking hills or cycling through mist. Your essential outer layer must be a hooded, windproof, and waterproof jacket to shield against Guilin's sudden drizzles and the Li River's piercing winds.

Complement this with thermal leggings and waterproof hiking pants, so you can roll them up on muddy village paths. Sturdy, slip-resistant footwear is non-negotiable. Always bring a woven scarf, touchscreen-compatible gloves, and a wool beanie for your critical defense against penetrating, damp cold.

Pack a foldable down vest in your daypack. As temperatures drop rapidly after sunset, this extra layer guarantees comfort if your evening activities extend outdoors.

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!