The Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel is one of the best-known hotels in the city, recognisable from afar by the artificial waterfall that cascades down its front. It stands in the heart of Guilin close to the Li River, so the main city sights, the lakes and the walking streets are all near at hand. It is a large, traditional full-service hotel with a spacious lobby, a range of room types from standard rooms to suites, several restaurants and the sort of facilities that business and group travellers rely on, such as meeting rooms and a tour desk. For a first visit to Guilin, the central location is the big advantage, since you can walk to the waterfront in the evening and reach Elephant Trunk Hill and the night cruise quay quickly by taxi or on foot.
Location and getting around
The hotel's position near the river means you can stroll to the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, enjoy the lit-up pagodas after dark and find plenty of restaurants and shops within a short walk. Elephant Trunk Hill and Fubo Hill are both reachable by a pleasant riverside walk or a short taxi ride, and the main railway stations and the airport are a drive away. Ask the front desk to help with transport for the Li River cruise, which usually starts with an early pickup.
Rooms and who it suits
The hotel offers a range of rooms from standard doubles to larger suites, some with views over the city or river. Check which side your room faces if the view matters, and ask for a quiet floor if you are a light sleeper. It suits first-time visitors who want to be central, tour groups, families who like an on-site restaurant and business travellers. The style is more traditional than boutique, so travellers who want a contemporary design hotel may prefer other options.
Facilities and dining
Expect several dining options on site, including a breakfast buffet and Chinese restaurants where you can try Guilin dishes such as rice noodles without leaving the building. There is usually a tour desk for arranging excursions and a business centre. Confirm the details of any pool, fitness or spa services before you book, as facilities vary by season and can change.
Good to know
Rates often depend on the season and the room category, and the hotel is busiest during the October holiday and summer holidays. Book early for those dates, and compare rate plans with and without breakfast. Look for flexible cancellation terms if your plans might change. Because the hotel is popular with groups, early morning departures can be busy in the lobby, so allow a little extra time when you are catching a tour bus or a Li River cruise pickup. For a quieter experience, request a room away from the main entrance.
Why stay here
- ✓Landmark waterfall facade
- ✓Central riverside location
- ✓Several on-site restaurants
- ✓Breakfast buffet
- ✓Tour and ticket desk
- ✓Meeting and business facilities
- ✓Standard rooms and suites
- ✓Walk to the lakes and walking street
Good questions
Why is it called the Waterfall Hotel?+
It is known for the man-made waterfall that runs down its front, which makes the building easy to recognise.
Is it close to the main sights?+
Yes, it is central and near the river, with the lakes, Elephant Trunk Hill and the walking streets within a short walk or taxi ride.
Can the hotel arrange the Li River cruise?+
The tour desk can usually help with transport and excursions. Ask early, since cruise pickups start in the morning.
