Question 1

Is Guilin, China or Hangzhou, China cheaper?

Accepted Answer

Guilin, particularly the areas around Yangshuo, tends to be more budget-friendly for accommodation, food, and local transport. Hangzhou, being a more prominent tourist city with a higher cost of living, is generally more expensive.

Question 2

Which is better in summer?

Accepted Answer

Both cities can be hot and humid in the summer. Hangzhou has slightly lower average rainfall in July and August compared to Guilin, making it marginally more comfortable, but expect high temperatures and humidity in both.

Question 3

Guilin, China or Hangzhou, China for first-time visitors?

Accepted Answer

For a first-time visitor wanting to experience China's iconic natural beauty, Guilin is often the more striking and memorable introduction. If a traveler is more interested in historical sites, refined culture, and a beautiful urban lake setting, Hangzhou is an excellent choice.

Question 4

How far apart are Guilin, China and Hangzhou, China?

Accepted Answer

Guilin and Hangzhou are quite far apart in China. They are roughly 1,100-1,300 kilometers (680-800 miles) apart depending on the route. The fastest way to travel between them is by high-speed train (around 7-9 hours) or by flight (approximately 2 hours, plus airport transit time).

Question 5

Can you visit both Guilin, China and Hangzhou, China in one trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can definitely visit both Guilin and Hangzhou in one trip, but it requires significant travel time. Given their distance, it's best to allocate at least 3-4 days for each destination and consider flying or taking a high-speed train between them. This would require at least a 10-14 day itinerary to comfortably experience both.

Month	Guilin, China High	Guilin, China Rain	Hangzhou, China High	Hangzhou, China Rain
Jan	50°F	35mm	45°F	48mm
Feb	54°F	60mm	48°F	66mm
Mar	61°F	100mm	55°F	99mm
Apr	70°F	150mm	66°F	134mm
May	77°F	200mm	73°F	146mm
Jun	82°F	250mm	81°F	197mm
Jul	86°F	220mm	88°F	159mm
Aug	86°F	230mm	88°F	170mm
Sep	81°F	150mm	81°F	127mm
Oct	72°F	80mm	72°F	97mm
Nov	63°F	50mm	61°F	61mm
Dec	54°F	30mm	50°F	46mm

Guilin, China vs Hangzhou, China: Which Should You Visit in 2026?

Quick Verdict

Best Next Step

Weather Comparison: Guilin, China vs Hangzhou, China

When to Visit

Guilin, China vs Hangzhou, China: Pros & Cons

Guilin, China

Hangzhou, China

Planning a trip to Hangzhou, China? Grab a guidebook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Planning Your Trip

Guilin, China

Hangzhou, China

Get Seasonal Travel Picks

Explore Full Destination Guides