The Two Rivers and Four Lakes scheme links the Li and Taohua rivers with a chain of lakes that circle the old city centre, and after dark the whole waterway turns into a lit-up garden. Boats glide beneath arched bridges and past the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas, which glow in the water, while the banks are lined with willows, pavilions and lantern-style lights. The ride is slow and quiet, with no strenuous activity, so it suits all ages and works as a calm end to a day of sightseeing. It is one of the few Guilin experiences that happens in the evening, which makes it a good complement to the day trips and a welcome alternative to a late night on West Street. Expect a leisurely loop of around an hour, with commentary that is often in Mandarin.
What the cruise is like
Boats board from a quay near the city centre and follow a loop through the connected waterways. The Sun Pagoda, a gilded tower, and the Moon Pagoda, a glass-clad one, stand beside each other on a lake and are the highlight, reflected in the dark water with their lights changing colour.
You also pass bridges lit in warm tones, waterside gardens and views of limestone hills silhouetted in the distance. Boats are open or partly covered, so you can step out to take photographs. The pace is unhurried, and the whole circuit usually takes a little over an hour including boarding.
Why it works
After a long day of hiking, cycling or touring, an evening cruise asks nothing of you. The temperature is cooler after dark, there are fewer crowds than at the daytime sights and the city looks its best with the lights on. It is a good choice for couples, for families with older children and for anyone who is based in Guilin for a night or two before heading to Yangshuo.
The scenery is gentler and more urban than the Li River cruise, so think of it as a different kind of experience, not a replacement.
Practical advice
Choose a boat departure after sunset, since the lights are the point, and check the operating times for your date, as schedules can change with the season and weather. Dress in layers, as the water can feel cool in the evenings in the cooler months, and bring a small umbrella for the odd shower in the wet season.
The tour linked here arranges a driver to bring you to the quay and back to a Guilin hotel, which is convenient given that taxis can be busy at the end of the evening. The lake paths are also pleasant to walk by day, and the Sheraton and other city hotels sit close to the waterfront.
Pairing ideas
Combine the cruise with a visit to Elephant Trunk Hill earlier in the day, since the hill sits on the riverbank not far from the same waterways. Dinner of Guilin rice noodles or a hotpot beforehand is an easy way to fill the evening. If you have only one night in the city, an evening on the water followed by a stroll through the nearby walking street is a very satisfying way to close the day.
The cruise is gentle on the legs and light on planning, which makes it one of the easiest things to arrange in Guilin.
What to expect
The experience
An evening boat ride through the lit-up lakes and rivers of central Guilin, with a driver bringing you from your hotel and back.
Best time
After sunset, in any season; spring and autumn evenings are the most comfortable.
How long
A little over an hour on the water, and about two to three hours door to door.
Tips
Pick a departure after dark, dress in layers, bring a small umbrella in the wet months and expect commentary in Mandarin.
Quick picks
- Best for
- An easy, atmospheric evening in Guilin after a busy day.
- Families
- Seated and gentle, with plenty of lights for children to watch.
- Couples
- The glowing pagodas and bridges make a romantic evening ride.
- Pair with
- Elephant Trunk Hill by day, Seven Star Park or a Guilin rice noodle dinner.
- Time needed
- An evening of two to three hours with transfers.
Good questions
How long is the Four Lakes night cruise?+
The boat loop usually takes a little over an hour, and the evening as a whole is about two to three hours including transfers.
What will I see?+
Lit bridges, willow-lined banks and the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas reflected in the lake, with limestone hills in the distance.
Is the commentary in English?+
It is often in Mandarin, so a guide or a driver who speaks English can help, and the lights are enjoyable without any commentary at all.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, the ride is seated and slow, though keep a close eye on small children near the edges of the boat.
When is the best time to go?+
Any evening after dark works. Clear nights in spring and autumn are the most comfortable.
