Things to Do in Guilin in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Guilin
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Ethereal karst landscapes shrouded in mist create postcard-perfect photography conditions - morning fog lifts from the Li River between 9-11am revealing dramatic limestone peaks
- Smallest crowds of the year at major attractions like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill - expect 70% fewer tourists than peak season with virtually no queues
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% from peak season pricing, with luxury riverside properties offering rooms from ¥300-500 ($42-70) per night
- Perfect weather for hot spring soils - Longsheng Hot Springs reach peak comfort in cool February temperatures, with outdoor pools at 42°C (108°F) feeling luxurious against crisp air
Considerations
- Persistent dampness means clothes take 2-3 days to dry completely, and many budget accommodations lack proper heating systems
- Li River boat tours frequently cancelled due to fog and low visibility - expect 30-40% cancellation rate in early morning departures
- Cool temperatures make outdoor dining uncomfortable after 6pm, limiting night market experiences to covered areas only
Best Activities in February
Yangshuo Countryside Cycling
February's cool temperatures make cycling through rice paddies and karst formations comfortable for extended periods. Morning mist creates dramatic backdrops, and the lack of summer heat means you can cycle 20-30 km (12-19 miles) without overheating. Paths are less muddy than in wet season, and visibility improves significantly after 10am when fog lifts.
Li River Photography Cruises
February's misty conditions create the most atmospheric Li River scenes of the year. Morning fog rolling off limestone peaks produces the classic Chinese landscape painting aesthetic. Smaller crowds mean unobstructed photo opportunities, and cooler temperatures keep camera equipment from fogging up quickly.
Longji Rice Terraces Hiking
February offers clear mountain air and comfortable hiking temperatures around 10°C (50°F). Terraces are dormant but create striking geometric patterns against misty valleys. Snow occasionally dusts higher elevations above 800m (2,625 ft), creating rare winter wonderland scenes most tourists never see.
Reed Flute Cave and Underground Tours
February's cool outdoor temperatures make the consistent 18°C (64°F) cave environment feel pleasantly warm. Reduced crowds mean you can photograph the multicolored limestone formations without rushing. Many underground attractions extend hours in low season, allowing more relaxed exploration.
Traditional Cormorant Fishing Experiences
February's calm river conditions and early nightfall at 6:30pm create ideal timing for traditional cormorant fishing demonstrations. Cool air keeps birds active longer, and misty evenings add authentic atmosphere to this centuries-old practice along the Li River.
Guilin Hot Springs and Spa Retreats
February's chilly air temperature makes outdoor hot springs at 38-42°C (100-108°F) incredibly therapeutic. Longsheng and other natural hot spring areas offer peak comfort when outdoor temperature contrasts create the most relaxing soaking experience of the year.
February Events & Festivals
Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) Celebrations
Guilin's Spring Festival typically falls in late January or early-to-mid February, bringing traditional dragon dances, temple fairs, and fireworks along the Li River. Local families gather at Diecai Hill and Fubo Hill for sunrise prayers and ancestor worship ceremonies.
Longji Mountain Spring Festival Village Celebrations
Ethnic Zhuang and Yao minority villages in the Longji area hold traditional New Year celebrations with folk dancing, rice wine ceremonies, and elaborate ethnic costumes. Villages like Ping'an and Dazhai offer authentic cultural experiences away from city crowds.