Guilin Rongshanhu Scenic Area

In the heart of Guilin lies the stunning Rong and Shan Lakes Scenic Area—a place where urban landscapes harmoniously blend with pristine nature. Located in China, this area is a vital part of the famous "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" water system, which defines the region's unique character.

The area includes Ronghu Lake (Banyan Lake) and Shanhu Lake (Cedar Lake), which are connected by a network of canals. The main feature of this zone is its karst hills, whose whimsical outlines are reflected in the mirror-like water, creating landscapes worthy of ancient master painters. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "South China Karst," this location showcases unique natural formations integrated into a modern urban environment.

Visitors are drawn not only by the natural beauty but also by the well-maintained park areas, ancient bridges, and pavilions. Once a defensive moat, the area has transformed into a tranquil oasis for walking, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis amidst greenery and water, and touch the centuries-old history of Guilin.

To clarify current information regarding tour boat schedules or special events in the park area, you can use the following address.

The primary pleasure here is taking leisurely strolls along the picturesque embankments. You can walk across ornate bridges, admiring the reflection of karst hills in the calm water, or enjoy a small picnic in the shade of banyan trees. Photographers will find endless angles, especially in the early morning when a light mist hangs over the water, or at sunset when the sky turns soft pastel shades.

Be sure to embark on a boat cruise through the "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" system. From the water, you get a completely different view of the city: you will sail under elegant bridges and see traditional Chinese pavilions and green islands hidden from pedestrians' eyes. This is a great way to see the center of Guilin without the usual hustle.

As dusk falls over the city, the area is transformed by magical night lighting. The lakes and surrounding hills begin to glow with lights, creating a fairytale atmosphere. The evening is also perfect for sampling local street food at nearby stalls or purchasing memorable souvenirs from local artisans.

Nature lovers can enjoy bird watching or simply soak in the harmony of the landscape, which comes alive in the summer months with water activities like kayaking, while in winter, it offers guests peace and quiet for long reflections.

The scenic area is located in the heart of the Xiu Feng district, making it easily accessible from almost anywhere in the city. If you are already downtown—for example, near ZhengYang Pedestrian Street or the famous Elephant Trunk Hill—you can reach the lakes on a pleasant 10–15 minute walk.

For those coming from Guilin Railway Station, a taxi or city bus ride will take no more than 10–15 minutes. From Guilin Liangjiang Airport, the journey is longer: a taxi or a special shuttle will take between 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Many tourists prefer to rent bicycles or electric scooters to move comfortably between the lakes and neighboring parks. The well-developed tourist infrastructure and clear navigation make this place very accessible for independent travelers.

The history of this place is rooted deep in the past. For instance, Lianxin Lake dates back to the Tang and Song dynasties—originally, it served as an artificial defensive moat protecting the borders of the ancient city. Today, this former military site has turned into a peaceful and elegant park, while still preserving the layout of the old city.

The area took on its modern appearance after a major reconstruction in 2001. Before that, the lakes and rivers of the "Two Rivers and Four Lakes" system were not connected, and some water bodies had become silted. Thanks to complex engineering solutions and landscape design, a unique unified water ecosystem was created, becoming a hallmark of the region.

A significant milestone in recognizing the value of this landscape was in 2014, when the territory was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the "South China Karst." This highlights not only the aesthetic but also the scientific significance of the local peak-forest formations that took millions of years to form.

Numerous legends add to the cultural layer of the zone. Locals often link the beauty of the lakes to myths about dragons and the goddess Chang'e, while poets and artists have drawn inspiration here for centuries, praising the "mountains growing out of the water" in their classical works.

To simply stroll along the shores and enjoy the main panoramas, you will need about 1–2 hours. This is enough time to take beautiful photos and feel the atmosphere of the place.

If you plan to include a boat trip in your itinerary or want to explore nearby pavilions and parks, it is better to set aside half a day. We especially recommend staying until evening to see how the landscape changes when the night lights turn on.

The Rong and Shan Lakes Scenic Area is open to visitors 24 hours a day. This allows guests to enjoy walks both in the daylight and during the spectacular night illumination.

However, the operating schedules for excursion boats and individual pavilions may vary. It is recommended to check the official website or verify cruise departure times on-site before your visit.

Its location in the heart of the city allows you to combine a walk by the water with visits to many other interesting locations. Just a few steps from the lake area, you will find cozy pubs, historical monuments, and family recreation spots that will help you fully experience the flavor of Guilin.

Exploring the surroundings is a great way to see city life from different angles: from quiet memorial complexes to lively playgrounds and cultural centers.