East West Street
Nestled in the heart of Guilin’s downtown, East West Street is the only preserved historical street from the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1912), embodying 1,400 years of urban evolution since its Tang Dynasty origins. Divided into a traditional cultural quarter with restored Qing-era archways, courtyards, and stone-paved lanes, and a modern commercial block with boutiques, theaters, and eateries, it harmonizes ancient charm with contemporary vitality. Designated a national 5A tourist attraction, it offers immersive glimpses into Guilin’s political, commercial, and cultural history.
Historical Overview
Originally a residential enclave for Qing Dynasty politicians and merchants, East West Street expanded through incremental construction, absorbing local families and craftsmen. By the 20th century, it became Guilin’s premier commercial hub. Post-2016 renovations revived its architectural heritage, including the restoration of ancestral halls, tile-roofed residences, and the iconic Xiaoyao Tower. The street witnessed pivotal moments, from Ming-era trade fairs to Republic-era intellectual salons, and now serves as a living museum of Southern China’s urban traditions.
Structural Layout
The complex follows a north-south axis divided into three zones:
- Traditional Quarter: Qing Dynasty-style lanes (e.g., Zhengyang Street) lined with antique shops, tea houses, and ancestral halls showcasing carved beams and painted murals.
- Modern Plaza: A vibrant hub with theaters, cafes, and markets selling osmanthus cakes, pine flower sugar, and ethnic Handicrafts.
- Landscape Integration: Surrounded by lotus ponds, willow-lined paths, and bridges connecting to Jingjiang Royal Palace and Li River viewpoints. Key structures include the 18th-century Zhengyang Archway and the restored Xiaoyao Tower observation deck.
Major Attractions
- Qing Dynasty Residences: Ornate courtyards with stone lion sculptures and calligraphy inscriptions.
- Local Delicacy Stalls: Iconic Guilin rice noodles, horse meat hotpot, and osmanthus jelly served in bamboo steamers.
- Ethnic Costume Experience: Try on Zhuang and Miao ethnic attire at traditional weaving workshops.
- Xiaoyao Tower: Panoramic views of Guilin’s skyline and Li River from a 9th-century watchtower.
- Souvenir Galleries: Hand-carved ornaments, postcards of Elephant Trunk Hill, and hand-painted scrolls depicting Guilin’s scenery.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Zhengyang Archway photography → Qing-era residence tour → Guilin rice noodle tasting → Xiaoyao Tower sunset views.
Highlights: Core historical sites and local cuisine.
- Extended Route (4–5 hours):
Traditional quarter deep dive → ethnic costume workshop → modern plaza shopping → night market stroll.
Highlights: Cultural immersion and culinary experiences. - Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Morning tea at historic tea houses → ancestral hall exploration → Li River cruise departure → evening light show finale → night market delicacies.
Highlights: All-day exploration of history, culture, and gastronomy.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Free entry; reserve via Guilin Tourism Bureau WeChat mini-program for guided tours.
On-site: Limited same-day tickets for special exhibitions at entrance gates.
Prices: Free entry; ¥20–50 for specialty workshops or performances.
Combination tickets available with Li River cruises and Jingjiang Palace.
Transportation
By Bus: Routes 2, 10, 11, 14, 18, 24, 28, 30, or 206 to Jiefangqiao (Liberation Bridge) Station.
By Subway: Line 1 to Zhongshan Road Station, then 10-minute walk.
By Taxi: Direct to East West Street East Entrance; parking at nearby malls.
Departure: Exit to Zhengyang Pedestrian Street or Four Lakes terminals.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; visit early (8:30 AM opening) or late (after 6 PM).
Seasons: spring (Apr–May) for blooms, autumn (Oct–Nov) for crisp air.
Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes (15,000+ steps possible), carry water bottles, and use tripods for night photography.
Prohibited: Selfie sticks, drones, and large bags; no flash in galleries.
Local Tip: Combine with evening performances at Guilin Theater for a complete cultural experience.
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What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
