Guilin is famous for its dramatic karst mountains and the serene Li River, creating one of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. Staying at a Li River view hotel in Guilin lets you wake up to misty peaks, glowing sunsets, and postcard-perfect scenery right from your room. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique charm, or peaceful riverside retreats, these top-rated hotels combine stunning views with excellent amenities and convenient access to iconic attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area. Here are the top 10 hotels in Guilin with Li River views, ranked for scenery, comfort, and guest satisfaction.
1. Shangri-La Guilin (4.8/5)
Shangri-La Guilin is widely regarded as the best luxury hotel in Guilin with Li River views, offering spacious riverside gardens and sweeping panoramas of karst peaks. Located near the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, it blends five-star comfort with classic Chinese elegance. Guests love the outdoor and indoor pools, full-service spa, and refined Cantonese dining. River-view rooms provide serene sunrise scenes, while families appreciate the large grounds and kid-friendly facilities. With exceptional service and premium amenities, Shangri-La Guilin is ideal for travelers seeking upscale relaxation in the heart of Guilin.
2. Li River Hotel (9.7/10)
Li River Hotel stands out for its spectacular 270-degree river panoramas and rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Xiangshan Scenic Spot. Perfect for photography lovers and couples, this hotel offers modern rooms designed to maximize Li River views through large windows and private balconies. The sunset scenery from the rooftop is especially popular on social media. Located close to Elephant Trunk Hill, it provides easy access to Guilin’s main attractions. Guests consistently praise its stylish design, attentive service, and unbeatable scenery, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy Li River view hotels in Guilin.
3. Lijiang Waterfall Hotel (4.0/5)
Famous for its dramatic waterfall façade that cascades over the building at night, Lijiang Waterfall Hotel combines unique architecture with convenient riverfront access. Located near the Lijiang River area, it offers comfortable rooms with classic décor and select river-view options. The central atrium and pools add to its grand atmosphere, while its location makes exploring downtown Guilin effortless. Guests appreciate its value-for-money pricing compared to other luxury properties nearby. For travelers wanting a recognizable landmark hotel with convenient access to Li River cruises, this property offers a memorable stay.
4. Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel (4.4/5)
Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel delivers intimate charm with beautiful views of the Sun and Moon Pagodas and the nearby Li River. Its smaller scale creates a cozy, personalized experience, ideal for couples and solo travelers. Rooms are tastefully decorated with warm tones and elegant details, while terraces provide peaceful river glimpses. Located near the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area, it offers easy evening walks along illuminated waterways. Guests enjoy its quiet atmosphere and attentive service. For travelers seeking a boutique Li River view hotel in Guilin with romantic ambiance, Jolie Vue is a strong choice.
5. Sheraton Guilin Hotel (4.5/5)
Sheraton Guilin Hotel offers dependable international comfort right along the Li River in downtown Guilin. Known for its prime riverside location, it provides modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and direct access to Zhengyang Pedestrian Street. Many rooms feature beautiful river views framed by Guilin’s iconic limestone peaks. Business and leisure travelers alike appreciate the spacious layout, reliable service, and proximity to major attractions. Its blend of global standards and local scenery makes it one of the most convenient hotels in Guilin with Li River views for first-time visitors.
6. Li River Resort (10/10)
Located closer to the Yangshuo section of the Li River, Li River Resort offers a tranquil escape surrounded by towering karst mountains. This peaceful property sits within walking distance of the Li River pier, making it perfect for bamboo rafting and boat excursions. Rooms feature balconies with uninterrupted river and mountain views, creating an immersive nature experience. Guests frequently give perfect ratings for its scenery, friendly staff, and relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter stay away from Guilin’s city bustle, this riverside resort delivers breathtaking landscapes and serenity.
7. Guilin Riverside Hotel (4.2/5)
Guilin Riverside Hotel is a budget-friendly option offering comfortable stays along the Li River in the city center. With thoughtfully designed rooms and easy downtown access, it appeals to travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing scenery. Select rooms provide river views, while its convenient location allows quick access to cruise departures and popular landmarks. Guests appreciate the competitive rates and proximity to shopping streets and local restaurants. For visitors wanting a practical and well-located Li River view hotel in Guilin at reasonable prices, this property offers strong overall value.
8. Sky Garden Inn (4.6/5)
Sky Garden Inn combines stylish comfort with elevated river views from its top-floor terrace. Situated near Guilin’s pedestrian street and close to Elephant Trunk Hill, the inn provides easy sightseeing access while maintaining a relaxed ambiance. Guests love the rooftop area, which offers panoramic Li River overlooks ideal for sunrise photography. Rooms are modern and clean, with thoughtful design touches that enhance comfort. Its mid-range pricing and scenic vantage point make Sky Garden Inn a popular choice for travelers seeking an affordable yet picturesque stay in Guilin.
9. Lijiang Moon Hotel (4.6/5)
Lijiang Moon Hotel sits near the scenic Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, offering charming views and rooftop dining experiences. Guests enjoy fusion cuisine served against a backdrop of illuminated pagodas and river scenery. The hotel’s rooms are comfortable and designed to highlight the surrounding landscape. Its location provides convenient access to evening river walks and boat tours. Travelers frequently mention the peaceful setting and friendly hospitality. For those wanting a centrally located hotel in Guilin with scenic river and city views, Lijiang Moon Hotel balances comfort and atmosphere beautifully.
10. Yangshuo River Lodge (4.8/5)
Located about 60 km from Guilin near Yangshuo, Yangshuo River Lodge delivers dramatic karst mountain views along a quieter stretch of the Li River. The property features a rooftop terrace overlooking limestone peaks and serene pools surrounded by greenery. Ideal for travelers extending their Guilin trip into Yangshuo, it provides a more rural and immersive landscape experience. Guests appreciate the calm atmosphere, authentic design elements, and proximity to bamboo rafting spots. For breathtaking Li River scenery away from city crowds, Yangshuo River Lodge is an exceptional option.
Conclusion
When booking a Guilin hotel with Li River views, always select a guaranteed river-view room, as not all categories include direct scenery. Higher floors typically provide clearer, unobstructed views of the mountains and water. Peak travel season runs from April to October, so early reservations are recommended. Comparing rates on platforms like Trip.com and Booking.com can help secure the best deals for your preferred travel dates. Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique elegance, or peaceful nature retreats, these top 10 hotels in Guilin with Li River views promise unforgettable scenery and comfortable stays in one of China’s most beautiful destinations.