Guilin Weather in May: See a More Colorful Guilin
May marks the beginning of early summer in Guilin. There are still many rainy days, but the weather does not feel as damp as in April because temperatures often approach 30°C (86°F). When the rain stops, the sunshine usually dries the streets quickly.
Early mornings, especially around 8:00 a.m., are still pleasantly cool. It is a great time to go for a jog or a walk before starting the day’s sightseeing. In downtown Guilin, many attractions are located close to the hotels, making it easy for visitors to explore the city on foot.
Guilin Weather Conditions in May
In May Guilin typically experiences around 21 rainy days, along with about 4 cloudy days and only 6 sunny days. The total amount of rainfall in May is generally higher than in April.
| Time Range | Average Highest and Lowest Temperature | Rainfall | Major Weather Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| First 10 Days | 19℃ (66°F)/28℃ (83°F) | 100 mm | Rainy |
| Middle 10 Days | 20℃ (68°F)/29℃ (84°F) | 90 mm | Rainy |
| Last 11 Days | 22℃ (72°F)/30℃ (86°F) |
80 mm |
Sunny |
Is May a Good Time to Visit Guilin
May is also one of the best months to visit Guilin. As summer approaches, the region’s vegetation enters one of its most vibrant periods of the year. The hills become greener, and flowers add bright colors throughout the landscape. The evenings are also warmer, making it a pleasant time to enjoy a night cruise or take a leisurely stroll around the city.
One thing to keep in mind is the Labor Day holiday in China. It is not recommended to visit Guilin during the first five days of May, as this is a major national holiday and thousands of domestic tourists travel during this time. The attractions can become extremely crowded.
Related Reading: Guilin Weather
What to Wear in Guilin in May
Wear a short-sleeve T-shirt—cotton, ice-silk, or quick-dry fabrics all work well. Light colors such as white, beige, light blue, or light green look great in photos. Be sure to bring a light jacket to block the wind and keep warm if it rains. For bottoms, choose lightweight long pants, wide-leg trousers, or cotton-linen pants; women can also wear shorts or a skirt.
Footwear is very important—make sure your shoes are waterproof and non-slip, such as light hiking shoes or water shoes. Don’t forget essentials like an umbrella, sun hat, and sunglasses.
What to Do in Guilin in May
Guilin's natural scenery is still at its peak in May, and most sightseeing activities are best enjoyed outdoors.
Li River Cruise and Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
On sunny days, the hills along the riverbanks appear especially clear, and the water of the Li River turns a vivid green. The reflections of the karst hills and bright sunshine create breathtaking scenery. Nine Horses Fresco Hill is one of the most famous sights along the cruise route. As the boat passes this section, visitors often try to spot and count the nine horse shapes hidden in the patterns on the cliff.
On rainy days, the hills are often wrapped in mist, creating a dreamy landscape that resembles a traditional Chinese ink painting.
The Yulong River, located in Yangshuo County, is the most famous branch of the Li River. It is much narrower, allowing visitors to see the farmhouses, fields, and karst hills along the banks from a much closer distance. The abundant rainfall in May also makes bamboo rafting on the Yulong River more enjoyable, as the water level is ideal for drifting through the scenic countryside.
Xingping Ancient Town
With a history of nearly 2,000 years, the town still preserves many ancient houses, and many local residents continue to live in these historic buildings. The black roof tiles and mottled walls create a charming atmosphere that allows visitors to truly experience the character of this ancient town.
In addition to exploring the old streets, visitors can also take a bamboo raft along the Li River section near the town. The rafting route brings you close to famous sights such as Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection, offering excellent views of these iconic landscapes from the water.
Longji Terraced Rice Fields
Local villagers usually begin transplanting rice in the second half of May, so visitors can still admire the mirror-like, water-filled terraces during the first half of the month.
The Ploughing Festival is usually celebrated during the first two days of May. During the festival, visitors can join local villagers in traditional singing and dancing, and a grand fireworks show is often held in the evening. If you plan to attend the celebration, keep in mind that the area can become extremely crowded.
After the festival and the Labor Day holiday (May 1–5), the terraces gradually return to a more peaceful atmosphere. Some villagers begin transplanting rice, and tourists can enjoy a quieter and more tranquil experience in the fields.
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