Are you planning a trip to Guilin in July? Are you concerned about the weather or crowded attractions? As a local, I'd love to offer you the most practical advice based on firsthand experience.
July is the hottest month of the year in Guilin. Daytime temperatures in the city usually range between 32-36°C (90-97°F), often exceeding 36°C (97°F) at noon. Combined with high humidity (80-85%), the weather can feel quite muggy.
However, most tourist activities take place in the surrounding countryside and mountainous areas (like Yangshuo and Longsheng), where temperatures are slightly lower - about 2-3°C (3-5°F) cooler than in the city.
In terms of rainfall, July sees significantly less precipitation (150-300 mm) compared to June, with only 5-10 rainy days. Most showers are short afternoon or evening thunderstorms, which generally won't disrupt your travel plans.
This hot weather typically lasts until mid-August. So, if you're visiting Guilin in July, be sure to prepare well for the heat - stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take extra care with sun protection during outdoor activities.
Is July a Good Time to Visit Guilin?
July is generally considered a less ideal month for travel in most parts of China, as it is one of the two hottest months of the year (July/August). However, for Guilin, July is a relatively good time to enjoy its highlights - mountains and rivers, especially for water activities.
The most distinctive feature of Guilin's mountains is their karst topography. Popular ways to explore them include caving, hiking, and via ferrata (climbing routes). Given the summer heat, we recommend exploring the caves. Temperatures inside stay pleasantly cool at 18-20°C (64-68°F). They offer a perfect natural retreat from the scorching weather.
If you want to enjoy water activities, head to Guilin's most famous river - the Li River. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Li River in Guilin:
- Cruise boat
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Bamboo rafting
Considering the heat, we suggest taking a cruise down the Li River. It is air-conditioned and less affected by the weather.
As for popular outdoor attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave, we recommend adjusting your schedule. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. Alternatively, you can admire them from unique vantage points. For example, sipping coffee at the rooftop of the nearby hotel (Guilin Jolie Vue Boutique ) for a panoramic view of Elephant Trunk Hill.
Top Things to Do in Guilin in July
I was born in Guilin and have lived here for more than 30 years. Every summer in July and August, I take my kids to enjoy the cool, refreshing water of the Li River.
After years of firsthand exploration, I can confidently recommend the following activities and destinations - each thoroughly tested and absolutely worthwhile.
1. Exploring Cool Karst Caves
Guilin Swallow CaveWhen it comes to Guilin's caves, most people only know developed tourist spots like Reed Flute Cave and Silver Cave. But we suggest joining us to explore a pristine, lesser-known cave - Swallow Cave. This untouched cave has been explored by experienced local cavers and guides, ensuring both safety and an authentic wild experience.
During the exploration, you won't be disturbed by crowds. Instead, you'll get to fully immerse yourself as a true "field researcher," examining ancient stalactites and stalagmites formed over millennia. You can even play shadow games or turn off your flashlight to experience complete darkness. This adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers and families with older kids (recommended for ages 10+).
It will take 1-hour drive from Guilin, followed by a 20-minute uphill hike. Then take a short 5-meter descent by rope to the cave floor. The exploration time is about 4-5 hours inside the cave.
If you prefer a quicker, more polished cave experience, head to Reed Flute Cave, just 20 minutes from downtown. The 1.5-hour tour takes you through a dazzling "crystal palace" of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites.
Pro tip: Reed Flute Cave gets crowded in summer, with waits often exceeding 40 minutes. For skip-the-line access, consider the VIP ticket (around $40 extra).
2. Hiking and Waterfall Via Ferrata at Hongxi
Hongxi WaterfallWhile Guilin has countless water-themed summer resorts, I make it a tradition to bring my children to Hongxi every year. This valley with its mountains, streams and waterfalls is a veritable natural oxygen bar.
The lush forests provide ample shade, eliminating any sun exposure concerns. Along the stream, you can hike to view multiple waterfalls (about 1.5 hours round trip), play in the crystal-clear pools beneath the falls, experience the 200-meter forest slide, and capture rainbow (most visible on sunny afternoons).
The most thrilling experience at Hongxi is the exhilarating waterfall via ferrata. Under the protection professional guides, you'll climb about 30 meters up the waterfall. Feeling the waterfall spray on your face during the ascent makes each step an adventure.
From the summit, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of the entire valley before concluding with a 200-meter zip-line ride. This activity is particularly suitable for families with children (1.2m or taller) to experience the joy of conquering nature.
Hongxi Scenic Area is located about 40km from downtown (approximately a 1-hour drive). Since it's on the way to Longji Terraces, we recommend spending half a day at Hongxi before continuing to Longji in the afternoon. The best visiting period is from May to October, with summer offering the most spectacular views when the waterfalls are at their fullest.
3. Stay One Night in Longji Terraced Field
Longji Terraced FieldTypically, most tourists opt for a day trip to Longji, visiting and returning on the same day. However, in July, we recommend staying overnight in Longji. This allows you to view the terraces in the early morning or around 6-7 PM, avoiding the midday sun.
You'll also get to experience Longji's tranquil dawn – listening to birdsong while gazing at the lush green rice terraces, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
With our guides' arrangements, you can visit local homes to make traditional bamboo-tube rice, sample authentic cuisine, and learn about the area's culture and history. Read more about our 4-days Longji and Yangshuo scenic tour.
4. Relaxed by a Li River Cruise
Li River CruiseEnjoying the landscape along the Li River is a must-do experience whenever you visit Guilin. In July's hot weather, hiking and cycling are less ideal, so we highly recommend taking a cruise instead. This is actually the perfect time for photography - with abundant water flow, bright sunshine and lush greenery along both banks. You'll capture stunning landscape shots.
The cruises are classified as 3-star or 4-star based on amenities and price. While similar in size, the 3-star boats typically have 120 hard seats with boxed meals. Whereas 4-star boats feature 75-80 leather sofa seats with buffet service (the selection is modest but better than boxed meals). The price difference is about $20. For the superior comfort, about 90% of our clients choose the 4-star option.
As July falls during peak summer vacation period, tickets sell out quickly. We strongly advise booking at least one month in advance. Plan your Li River cruise tour now.
5. Paddling Through Yulong River: SUP Adventure
SUP on Yulong River The Yulong River, Yangshuo's most famous waterway, is best known for bamboo rafting. However, in July when Yangshuo is crowded with tourists, raft tickets become extremely hard to book. The rafts are often crowded and waiting in line for 1-2 hours is common.
To avoid the misery of queuing under the scorching sun and to better appreciate the beauty of the Yulong River, we recommend trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the river – an activity even most locals are unaware of.
Besides the Yulong River, you can also take a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin to the upper reaches of the Li River. There are crystal-clear pools beneath waterfalls known as "natural jelly water." Here, you can not only enjoy paddleboarding but also activities like via ferrata and diving.
What to wear in Guilin in July
July in Guilin is the height of summer. For daytime outdoor activities, we recommend wearing quick-drying, breathable T-shirts or light long skirts. Be sure to bring sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to block the strong UV rays. If you plan on water activities, it's best to pack swimwear, swimming goggles, and a waterproof phone case.
Guilin's cave attractions like Reed Flute Cave, Crown Cave, and Silver Cave maintain a constant temperature of 18-20°C year-round with high humidity. When visiting, it's advisable to bring a light jacket and long pants and wear anti-slip shoes to navigate the damp cave floors safely.
Additionally, July in Guilin often sees sudden rain showers. We recommend keeping an umbrella or light raincoat handy, and using a waterproof backpack to protect your belongings. Don't forget to apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites. If you choose our customized tour, our guides can provide some of the items for you.
Tailormade Your Trip to Guilin in July with China Highlights
During the summer peak season, there are large crowds of tourists in Guilin. With scorching weather, every traveler desires to avoid both congestion and sun exposure while still experiencing Guilin's stunning landscapes in depth.
To address all your concerns, our customized Guilin tours provide considerate guides and drivers, complete with onboard cold drinks and sun protection gear. We also flexibly adjust itineraries according to weather conditions, ensuring you enjoy a comfortable and delightful Guilin tour experience.
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