Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Guilin

Introduction

The Two Rivers and Four Lakes (Liangjiang Sihu) is a continuous, free-flowing waterway that loops right around Guilin's old town. It links two rivers - the Li River and the Peach Blossom (Taohua) River - with four interconnected lakes: Shan Lake, Rong Lake, Gui Lake, and Mulong Lake. Restored at the turn of the millennium by re-digging historic moats and adding a series of locks, the system recreated the ancient water city that once ringed Guilin during the Song dynasty.

Today it is the city's most famous after-dark experience. Willow-lined banks, classical pavilions, sculpted bridges and softly lit gardens slip past as you cruise, while the twin Sun and Moon Pagodas rising from Shan Lake form the postcard image of Guilin by night.

Highlights and What to See

The undisputed stars are the Sun and Moon Pagodas (Riyue Shuang Ta). The 41-metre, nine-storey Sun Pagoda is clad in bronze and glows gold after dark, while the slightly shorter Moon Pagoda shimmers silver - the pair is reflected in the still water for a mirror-image worthy of any camera. An underwater tunnel even connects the two.

As you cruise, look out for themed bridges modelled on famous spans from around the world, the lakeside glass bridge on Gui Lake, fishermen demonstrating traditional cormorant fishing, and short bursts of music and folk performance staged along the banks. On Mulong Lake you pass a restored stretch of the old city wall and the Mulong Pagoda.

Opening Hours

The scenic parkland and walking paths around the lakes are open and free to stroll at any time, and they are especially pleasant in the early evening. The famous night cruise generally runs from about 19:00 to 21:30, with boats departing roughly every 15-30 minutes; a full loop lasts around 80-90 minutes. Daytime cruises are also offered but the lights are the main draw. Schedules shift with the season and water levels, so confirm the current departure times on site or with your operator.

Tickets

There is no charge to walk the lakeside parks and admire the pagodas from the bank. The boat cruise is ticketed: at the time of writing a standard adult night-cruise ticket is roughly CNY 185-220, with children and combo packages priced separately. Prices vary by boat class, departure point and operator, and change over time, so treat these as a guide and verify the latest fares when you book.

Getting There

The waterway threads through central Guilin, so it is very easy to reach. Most cruises board at the Wenchang Bridge or Zhishan Wharf docks beside Shan Lake, an easy walk from the Central Square (Zhongxin Guangchang) and many downtown hotels. Numerous city bus routes stop near the lakes, and a taxi or ride-hail from the train station takes about 10-15 minutes. Coming from the airport, allow around 45 minutes by car.

Best Season to Visit

The Two Rivers and Four Lakes is rewarding year-round because the highlight is the night lighting rather than the foliage. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clear evenings. Summer is lush and green but hot and humid, while winter evenings are chilly - bring a warm layer for the open boat. Public-holiday periods are scenic but crowded, so book ahead.

Practical Tips

• Book early for busy nights. Tickets for peak departures and holidays can sell out; reserve a day ahead if you can.
• Aim for the first sailing after dusk to catch the lights at their best with smaller crowds.
• Sit on the open upper deck for unobstructed pagoda views and reflections, but bring a light jacket as it gets breezy on the water.
• You don't have to cruise to enjoy it - walking the illuminated banks around Shan and Rong Lakes is free and beautiful.
• All times, prices and schedules are subject to change; confirm on site or with your operator for the most current information.