Guilin history

The history of Guilin spans over two millennia, during which time it has transformed from a military garrison into one of China's most picturesque tourism hubs. Its name, meaning "Forest of Sweet Osmanthus," speaks to the natural abundance that has always played a key role in its development.

The foundation and early period of the city are rooted in ancient times. Although the first settlements on the banks of the Li River appeared as early as the 4th century BC, the city was formally established as an administrative unit in 111 BC during the Han Dynasty, when Shi An County was founded. Initially developing as a military and administrative settlement, Guilin acquired special strategic importance following the construction of the Lingqu Canal. This canal connected the Li River with the Yangtze basin, significantly boosting its trade and transport significance.

Key factors in the city's formation were its geographical location and political status. Situated on the banks of the Li River amidst unique karst mountains, Guilin has always been a vital transport and trade hub in southern China. This fostered not only economic growth but also cultural exchange. Throughout the centuries, particularly during the Tang (618–907) and Song (960–1279) dynasties, Guilin served as the political and cultural centre of the region. In the 14th century, under the Ming Dynasty, it officially became the capital of Guangxi province and remained so for several centuries.

The city's economic prosperity was closely tied to its trade and craftsmanship. Thanks to its convenient location on trade routes, crafts and commerce flourished in the city, while local residents engaged in agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. The incredible landscapes of Guilin also shaped its rich cultural heritage, inspiring poets and artists for centuries. The city became a melting pot for the cultures of various ethnic groups, such as the Zhuang, Yao, and Miao, which enriched its traditions and folklore.

Key Milestones in the History of Guilin

• 214 BC — Construction of the Lingqu Canal was completed, connecting the Xiang River (Yangtze basin) with the Li River (Pearl River basin), turning the region into a strategically important transport hub.
• 111 BC — During the Han Dynasty, Shi An County was founded, becoming the administrative predecessor of modern Guilin.
• Tang Dynasty (618–907) — The city, known at the time as Lingui, becomes a significant political, economic, and cultural centre in southern China.
• Song Dynasty (960–1279) — A flourishing of culture; it is during this period that the famous saying "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven" emerges.
• 1372 — In the Ming Dynasty era, the city officially receives the name Guilin and becomes the capital of Guangxi province, remaining so for several centuries.
• 1372–1392 — The Jingjiang Princes' Palace was built, serving as the residence for 14 rulers of the region during the Ming era.
• 1852 — The city successfully withstood a 33-day siege during the Taiping Rebellion, confirming its strategic importance.
• 1912 — Following the Xinhai Revolution, the capital of Guangxi province was temporarily moved to Nanning.
• 1940 — The urbanised part of the county was officially designated as a separate administrative unit — Guilin City.
• 1944 — During World War II, the city was occupied by Japanese forces.
• 1949 — Guilin comes under the control of the People's Liberation Army of China during the final stage of the civil war.
• 1973 — Guilin became one of the first cities in China to open to foreign tourists, marking the beginning of its development as an international tourism centre.

Major Stages of Guilin's Development

The development of Guilin is a story of transformation from a remote garrison into a thriving cultural and tourism centre. Key transformations have shaped its modern appearance, economy, and unique identity.

• Construction of the Lingqu Canal (214 BC). This ancient engineering feat was a turning point in the city's early history. The canal connected the Yangtze and Pearl River basins, turning Guilin into a strategically vital transport and logistics hub for troop supplies and trade. This laid the foundation for its future economic and military significance.
• Status as Provincial Capital (14th–20th centuries). During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Guilin was the political, economic, and cultural centre of Guangxi province. This capital status promoted significant urban planning, including the erection of the Jingjiang Princes' Palace, and attracted officials, scholars, and merchants to the city, enriching its cultural life.
• Cultural Flourishing. During the Tang and Song dynasties, Guilin's incredible landscapes inspired poets and artists, earning it the fame of being "the best under heaven." This rich cultural heritage formed its unique identity, which remains a primary draw for travellers today.
• Transformation into an International Tourism Centre (from the 1970s). One of the most important events in the city's modern history was its opening to foreign tourists in 1973. This decision completely changed Guilin's economy, shifting the focus from industry to the service sector. Tourism became the main engine of development, leading to infrastructure modernisation and increased prosperity.
• Development of Modern Infrastructure. In the 21st century, the construction of Liangjiang International Airport and a network of high-speed railways radically improved transport accessibility to Guilin. This allowed the city to integrate into the national and global tourism network, multiplying the flow of visitors.
• Focus on Sustainable Development. Today, Guilin is actively working to preserve its main asset — the unique karst landscapes and the purity of the Li River. The implementation of environmental programmes and the development of active tourism, such as rock climbing, aims to achieve a balance between growing tourist flows and the protection of the fragile ecosystem.

The architecture of Guilin is inextricably linked with its unique natural landscape and centuries-old history. Unlike cities with dominant European styles, Guilin's appearance was shaped by the influence of traditional Chinese architecture, which harmoniously blended with the surrounding karst peaks and the curves of the Li River. Urban planning here has always been subordinate to the main goal — not to disturb, but to accentuate the natural beauty.

Ming and Qing Dynasty Era (1368–1911)

This period left the most noticeable mark on Guilin's historical buildings. The architecture of that time is characterised by monumentality and adherence to strict canons.

• Jingjiang Princes' Palace: This is the city's most significant architectural complex, built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty. It served as a residence for 14 rulers and was erected even earlier than the famous Forbidden City in Beijing. The complex represents a classic example of Chinese palace architecture: surrounded by a high wall, it includes pavilions with curved roofs, courtyards, and ceremonial halls, executed primarily in red and yellow hues. Although many original structures were lost, the complex has been meticulously restored.
• Traditional Buildings: Examples of ancient architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties have been preserved in the city and its surroundings. For instance, the ancient town of Daxu, located near Guilin, is famous for its well-preserved wooden houses, black tile roofs, and intricate carvings. Also noteworthy is the Gunanmen (Ancient South Gate), built during the Tang Dynasty and serving as the remains of the old city fortress.

Republican Period and Modern Development

A significant part of the old city was damaged in the 20th century, especially during World War II. Modern urban planning in Guilin began with the city's transformation into a major tourism centre from the 1970s onwards.

• Reconstruction and Stylisation: Many modern tourist attractions are created with elements mimicking traditional Chinese architecture. A vivid example is the pedestrian East-West Alley, which was reconstructed to recreate the atmosphere of old Guilin. Here, modern shops and cafes are housed in buildings styled after Ming and Qing dynasty structures.
• Harmony with Nature: Modern urban planning pays great attention to preserving the famous landscapes. New buildings are constructed in such a way as not to obstruct the view of the karst hills. Extensive park zones are being created along rivers and lakes, such as in the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, where modern landscape design is combined with traditional elements like pagodas and arched bridges. The Sun and Moon Pagodas, although modern structures, have become one of the symbols of Guilin by night.

Distinguished Personalities in the History of Guilin

For centuries, Guilin and its surroundings have been the birthplace or place of inspiration for many significant figures in Chinese history. From poets who sang the praises of its landscapes to influential politicians and military commanders, these individuals left a noticeable mark on the country's culture and history.

• Fan Chengda (1126–1193) — A poet, scholar, and statesman of the Southern Song Dynasty. While serving as an official in Guangxi, he described the geography, culture, and beauties of southern China in detail. His works, particularly "Notes on a Boat Moored by a Temple" and travel notes, contributed to the growth of Guilin's fame as a place with unique landscapes.
• Huang Tingjian (1045–1105) — A prominent poet, calligrapher, and artist of the Northern Song Dynasty era. He spent some time in Guilin, and his poems and calligraphic works dedicated to the beauty of these places are immortalised as engravings on rocks, for example, on Fubo Hill. His creative work significantly influenced the perception of Guilin as a cultural symbol.
• Shitao (1642–1707) — One of the most famous Chinese individualist artists of the early Qing Dynasty. A descendant of the Ming imperial family, he became a Buddhist monk after the fall of the dynasty. The landscapes of Guilin had a huge influence on his innovative style in painting, which is valued for its expressiveness and spiritual depth.
• Li Zongren (1890–1969) — An influential military commander and political figure of the Republic of China period. Born near Guilin, he was one of the leaders of the "New Guangxi Clique." Li Zongren served as Vice President and even Acting President of the Republic of China, playing a key role in the country's political and military life in the 20th century.
• Bai Chongxi (1893–1966) — A general, close associate of Li Zongren, and another leader of the "New Guangxi Clique." A native of Guilin, he was known as a talented military strategist. Bai Chongxi held high posts in the National Revolutionary Army and the Kuomintang government, exerting significant influence on the course of the Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War.