The main evening attraction in central Guilin: a boat ride through illuminated lakes and canals, with departures from several piers every 10-30 minutes.
The Two Rivers and Four Lakes Night Cruise is the best-known evening attraction in central Guilin, in China's Guangxi region. It is an illuminated boat ride along the Li River and through Shan Lake, Gui Lake, Rong Lake and Mulong Lake, linked by canals in the heart of the city. The route passes the gold and silver Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas, lit bridges, willow-lined banks and replica landmarks, all glowing after dark. It is not a club or bar, but it is the centerpiece of Guilin's after-dark programme and is treated as nightlife on this guide.
Boats depart from several piers, including Riyue Bay Pier, Fisherman's Wharf at Xiangshan, Wenchang Bridge Pier and Zhiyin Terrace. The departure pier rotates daily, so passengers should check the pier printed on the ticket. Departures run every 10 to 30 minutes in the evening, roughly 19:00 to 21:30, and from June to October the operating window extends from about 18:00 to 23:00.
The crowd is overwhelmingly domestic tour groups, families, couples and independent travelers of all ages, so the atmosphere is family-friendly and sightseeing-focused. There is no dress code; light layers are advisable because the lake air can be cool after dark. Commentary is typically in Mandarin, and music is played over the onboard speakers.
Published fares are ¥185 (about US$27) per adult for a one-way trip and ¥175 (about US$26) for a return on the Four Lakes, with children under 1.2 m free. There is no cover charge in the nightclub sense and no table or bottle service. Tickets are sold at the piers and through local ticketing channels. Food and drink on board is limited, so visitors usually eat beforehand at Zhengyang Pedestrian Street or nearby restaurants.
The trip is best planned around dusk. Evenings from Friday to Sunday and public holidays are the busiest, and queues at the main piers can form early.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Cover | One-way ¥185 (~$27) adult; return on the Four Lakes ¥175 (~$26) adult; children under 1.2 m free |
| Hours | Daily evening departures roughly 19:00-21:30 (June-October 18:00-23:00) |
| Address | Piers include Riyue Bay Pier, Fisherman's Wharf (Xiangshan), Wenchang Bridge Pier and Zhiyin Terrace; departure pier rotates daily, so check the ticket |
Good to know
- Signature
- Illuminated evening boat cruise on the Li River, Shan Lake, Gui Lake, Rong Lake and Mulong Lake, passing the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas and lit bridges.
Location
Piers include Riyue Bay Pier, Fisherman's Wharf (Xiangshan), Wenchang Bridge Pier and Zhiyin Terrace; departure pier rotates daily, so check the ticket
25.2752, 110.2908 View on map
Highlights
- Illuminated cruise through the Li River, Shan, Gui, Rong and Mulong lakes
- Passes the Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas and lit bridges
- Departures every 10-30 minutes from several city piers
- Children under 1.2 m travel free
Tips for visiting
- Check the departure pier printed on the ticket, as it rotates daily.
- Arrive at the pier 20-30 minutes early on weekends and holidays.
- Bring a light jacket, as the air on the water cools after dark.
- June to October offers the longest operating window, about 18:00-23:00.
- Eat before boarding, as onboard food is limited.
When to visit
Dusk to mid-evening on a clear night gives the best view of the lights. Weekdays outside holidays have shorter queues.
Accessibility
Boarding involves pier ramps and steps onto a boat, which may be difficult for wheelchair users. Visitors with mobility needs may wish to ask at the pier before buying tickets.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the night cruise cost?
A one-way adult ticket is ¥185 and a return on the Four Lakes is ¥175. Children under 1.2 m are free.
Which pier does the boat leave from?
Piers include Riyue Bay, Fisherman's Wharf, Wenchang Bridge and Zhiyin Terrace. The departure pier rotates daily, so check the ticket.
How often do boats depart?
Departures run roughly every 10 to 30 minutes in the evening.
Is the cruise in English?
Commentary is typically in Mandarin, though the lit scenery needs little explanation.