Integrated Hospitality Cycling Programs

Guilin Area

Shangri-La Guilin
Star Level: 5-Star Hotel

Opened in 2010, the Shangri-La Guilin is a landmark of luxury situated on the banks of the Li River. The hotel’s architecture and interior design pay homage to the "Shangri-La" myth—a legendary earthly paradise—while seamlessly integrating traditional Chinese aesthetic elements. Its design features classic sloped roofs and elegant pavilion styles that reflect the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic cultures. Historically, it was the first international five-star hotel in Guilin, setting a high standard for hospitality in the region. The property emphasizes cultural immersion, offering views of the iconic karst mountains and providing a gateway to the ancient landscapes of Guangxi, blending modern comfort with the timeless spiritual essence of the Li River.

Ciao Hotel (Guilin Two Rivers & Four Lakes Elephant Trunk Hill)
Star Level: 4-Star (Boutique/Design Hotel)

Ciao Hotel is a contemporary boutique establishment that has become a symbol of Guilin's modern "design hotel" movement. Located near the scenic intersection of the Li River and Taohua River, the hotel is situated in an area steeped in over a thousand years of history, just steps away from the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill. The "Ciao" concept blends European Mediterranean aesthetics with the serene, poetic landscape of Guilin’s karst mountains. Its culture is centered on the "slow life" philosophy, encouraging travelers to appreciate the intersection of natural wonders and artistic living. The hotel’s interior often features minimalist wood, stone, and floor-to-ceiling glass, reflecting the clarity of the surrounding waters while providing a sophisticated, cosmopolitan sanctuary within one of China's most ancient tourist destinations.

Yangshuo Area

Yangshuo Mountain Retreat
Star Level: 4-Star (Eco-Boutique Resort)

Established in 2000, the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is a pioneer of sustainable tourism in the Guangxi province. Nestled on the banks of the Yulong River, this retreat was founded with a mission to preserve the local environment and support the surrounding village community. The architecture is a masterful display of traditional northern Guangxi style, utilizing locally sourced materials such as red clay bricks, hand-carved wood, and river stones. The culture of the retreat is deeply rooted in "quiet tourism," eschewing modern distractions like televisions to encourage guests to connect with the stunning karst landscape. It serves as a living museum of local craftsmanship, employing many nearby villagers and maintaining a rustic, authentic atmosphere that honors the agrarian heritage and natural beauty of the Yangshuo valley.

Sugar House Retreat (formerly Alila Yangshuo)
Star Level: 5-Star (Luxury Design Hotel)

The Sugar House is an award-winning architectural masterpiece that breathed new life into a 1960s state-owned sugar mill. Designed by Vector Architects and Ju Bin, the hotel preserves the industrial heritage of the original red-brick structures and the towering truss used for loading sugar onto boats. The culture of the resort is a sophisticated dialogue between the industrial past and the natural karst landscape. Its iconic swimming pool, built within the old loading dock, and the use of local stone and bamboo throughout the property, reflect a deep respect for the history of the Li River region. The hotel celebrates the "sweet" history of Yangshuo, blending mid-century socialist architecture with ultra-modern luxury, offering a curated experience that feels like a stay inside a contemporary art museum.

Fairfield by Marriott Yangshuo
Star Level: 4-Star

Fairfield by Marriott Yangshuo represents a modern chapter in the hospitality history of the Guilin area, bringing the international "Fairfield" legacy—founded on the Marriott family's Fairfield Farm—to the heart of Yangshuo's karst landscape. Opened as part of Yangshuo's recent urban expansion, the hotel combines the brand’s signature American hospitality and "beauty of simplicity" philosophy with local cultural touches. Its design incorporates clean lines and natural light, echoing the clarity of the nearby Yulong River. The hotel serves as a bridge between the bustling West Street culture and the tranquil countryside. While it adheres to global standards of efficiency and comfort, it embraces the regional spirit through local culinary offerings and its orientation toward the iconic limestone peaks, providing a reliable, contemporary base for modern explorers of this ancient scenic region.

Yangshuo Coco Garden Hotel
Star Level: 4-Star

The Yangshuo Coco Garden Hotel is nestled in the heart of the Yulong River Scenic District, an area often referred to as "The Little Li River" for its tranquil beauty. The property captures the essence of traditional Lingnan countryside living combined with modern boutique hospitality. Historically, this region has been a sanctuary for literati and painters seeking inspiration from the karst mountain formations and emerald waters. Culturally, the hotel emphasizes the "slow life" philosophy of Yangshuo. It is located near ancient sites like the Jiuxian Ancient Village, which dates back over 1,400 years to the Tang Dynasty. By incorporating local architecture and offering activities like cycling through rice paddies and bamboo rafting, the hotel serves as a cultural bridge, allowing guests to experience the authentic rural heritage of the Zhuang and Han peoples in a serene, garden-like setting.

The Yun Hotel Yangshuo
Star Level: 5-Star

The Yun Hotel Yangshuo is a masterful transformation of a cluster of traditional farmhouses in the historic village of Xingping. Originally a group of dilapidated mud-brick dwellings, the site was redesigned by acclaimed architects to preserve its authentic soul while integrating modern minimalist aesthetics. The architecture respects the "Wabi-sabi" philosophy, utilizing local materials like rammed earth, stone, and reclaimed wood to blend seamlessly with the surrounding karst mountains. Culturally, the hotel serves as a serene sanctuary that honors the slow pace of rural Guangxi life. By retaining the original village layout, it offers guests a profound connection to the region's agricultural heritage and the timeless beauty of the Li River landscape, embodying a harmonious dialogue between ancient tradition and contemporary luxury.

Yangshuo Ancient Garden Hotel
Star Level: 5-Star

The Yangshuo Ancient Garden Boutique Hotel is a remarkable cultural sanctuary located in the historic Jiuxian Village, which boasts a history spanning over 1,400 years. The hotel itself is housed within a meticulously restored Qing Dynasty ancestral estate, where traditional Gan-style architecture meets the dramatic karst landscape of the Yulong River valley. Every corner of the property reflects the profound heritage of rural Guangxi, featuring intricate wood carvings, grey stone bricks, and classic courtyards that have been preserved to tell the stories of a bygone era. Culturally, the hotel serves as a living museum, offering guests an immersive experience into Chinese scholarly aesthetics and agrarian traditions. By integrating ancient structures with understated luxury, it provides a tranquil retreat that honors the architectural soul and timeless cultural spirit of Southern China.

Yangshuo Secret Garden
Star Level: 4-Star

Yangshuo Secret Garden is a pioneering heritage project located in Jiuxian Village, a historic settlement with over 1,400 years of history. Created by South African architect Ian Hamlinton, the hotel consists of several restored Qing Dynasty farmhouses that were once near collapse. The design meticulously preserves the original architecture, featuring traditional mud-brick walls, grey stone tiles, and intricate wooden beams, while integrating modern artistic flair. Culturally, it serves as a testament to sustainable tourism and heritage conservation, breathing new life into ancient structures. The property reflects the tranquil, agrarian lifestyle of the Yulong River valley, offering a soulful retreat where Eastern antiquity meets Western creative vision. It is more than a hotel; it is a cultural bridge that honors the rustic charm and enduring spirit of Yangshuo's rural heritage.

Giggling Tree
Star Level: 3-Star

Giggling Tree is a beautifully restored farmstay located in the tranquil village of Aishan, just a short distance from the Yulong River. The property consists of several traditional mud-brick farmhouses centered around a quintessential Chinese courtyard, preserving the authentic rustic charm of the Guangxi countryside. Originally founded by a Dutch couple who fell in love with Yangshuo’s karst landscape, the inn has become a symbol of cultural harmony, blending European hospitality with local architectural heritage. The "Giggling Tree" name reflects a philosophy of joy and simplicity. Culturally, it offers guests a rare glimpse into the slow-paced, agrarian lifestyle of the region, emphasizing community and connection to nature. It remains one of the most beloved examples of sustainable heritage renovation in the Guilin area, celebrating both history and modern cross-cultural friendship.

Yangshuo Moondance Resort
Star Level: 4-Star

Yangshuo Moondance Resort is an enchanting boutique retreat situated along the serene banks of the Jinbao River, a peaceful tributary of the Yulong River. The hotel was established with the vision of creating a harmonious sanctuary that reflects the poetic beauty of Yangshuo's "Moon Hill" area. Architecturally, it blends traditional rustic farmhouse aesthetics with soft, contemporary artistic touches, featuring local materials like clay bricks and timber. Culturally, the resort embodies the "slow travel" movement, encouraging guests to reconnect with nature through the rhythm of rural life. Nestled amidst lime-green rice paddies and iconic karst peaks, Moondance serves as a cultural portal to the tranquil, agrarian traditions of the local Zhuang and Han communities, offering an authentic experience of Southern China’s timeless landscapes and spiritual calm.

Hidden Dragon Villa
Star Level: 4-Star

Hidden Dragon Villa is a boutique resort located in the serene Big Banyan Tree scenic area, near the Yulong River. The hotel is celebrated for its integration of traditional Southern Chinese architecture with modern leisure elements. Its name, "Hidden Dragon," evokes the ancient Chinese belief in the spiritual energy of the mountains and rivers. Historically, the property was designed to honor the local rural heritage, featuring wooden structures and classic courtyards. In recent years, it has gained fame for its "Sky Mirror" rooftop, which reflects the stunning karst peaks and provides a creative space for travel photography. Culturally, the hotel offers an immersive experience into the poetic lifestyle of Yangshuo, blending traditional hospitality with contemporary artistic trends, making it a bridge between the region's storied past and its vibrant, modern tourism culture.

Mettam Family Resort Yangshuo
Star Level: 4-Star

Mettam Family Resort is a specialized boutique destination designed to harmonize modern family leisure with the timeless karst landscapes of Guilin. Located near the scenic Ten-Mile Gallery and the Yulong River, its name "Mettam" (蜜棠) evokes a sense of sweetness and warmth, reflecting its core philosophy of creating a "honey-sweet" sanctuary for parents and children. While the building itself is a contemporary addition to Yangshuo's hospitality scene, it is culturally rooted in the concept of "Nature-based Education." The resort’s design integrates vibrant, child-friendly aesthetics with the traditional pastoral beauty of the region. It serves as a cultural bridge, offering immersive activities that introduce families to the local agrarian lifestyle—such as rice planting and traditional Guilin handicrafts. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices and interactive learning spaces, Mettam embodies the modern evolution of Yangshuo’s tourism: moving from simple sightseeing to deep, experiential cultural engagement that respects the heritage of the surrounding Zhuang and Han villages while providing a luxurious, safe haven for the next generation of explorers.

Yangshuo Xiwang Jinlai Resort
Star Level: 4-Star

The Yangshuo Xiwang Jinlai Resort is an elegant retreat whose name, "Xiwang Jinlai," poignantly translates to "Cherishing the Past and Present." This philosophy is deeply embedded in its architecture and its prime location near the serene Yulong River. The hotel was established to serve as a cultural bridge between Yangshuo’s ancient rural charm and the sophisticated needs of modern travelers. Culturally, it is situated in a region defined by centuries of agricultural tradition and the iconic karst topography that has inspired Chinese landscape paintings for generations. The resort’s design utilizes traditional materials like local stone and timber, creating a "New Chinese" aesthetic that feels both authentic and timeless. It emphasizes the "slow life" (Man Shenghuo) culture prevalent in Guilin, encouraging guests to reflect on the passage of time while surrounded by the unchanging beauty of the peaks. By preserving the quiet dignity of the countryside and offering spaces for tea meditation and panoramic mountain viewing, the hotel honors the spiritual heritage of the Guangxi landscape while providing a luxurious sanctuary for contemporary rest.

Yangshuo Jiaoyun Oriental Hidden Luxury Hotel
Star Level: 4-Star

The Yangshuo Jiaoyun Oriental Hidden Luxury Hotel is a masterpiece of "Oriental Aesthetics," situated in the heart of the Yulong River’s iconic karst landscape. The hotel’s name, "Jiaoyun," evokes the imagery of lingering clouds and poetic elegance, reflecting a design philosophy that seeks to hide luxury within the natural environment. Historically, the property is part of a new generation of high-end retreats in Guilin that move away from grandiosity toward "Hidden Luxury" (Yin She), a cultural concept rooted in ancient Chinese reclusive traditions where true wealth is found in silence and natural harmony. The architecture is a sophisticated dialogue between timber, stone, and the surrounding mountains, utilizing minimalist lines to frame the limestone peaks. Culturally, the hotel serves as a modern interpretation of a scholar’s garden, emphasizing tea culture, Zen meditation, and the artistic heritage of the Li River valley. It offers an immersive experience where the history of Southern Chinese hospitality is reimagined for the contemporary traveler, providing a sanctuary that honors the spiritual connection between human dwelling and the ancient, rolling landscapes of Yangshuo.

Yangshuo Xiwang Jinlai Resort
Star Level: 4-Star

The Yangshuo Xiwang Jinlai Resort is an elegant retreat whose name, "Xiwang Jinlai," poignantly translates to "Cherishing the Past and Present." This philosophy is deeply embedded in its architecture and its prime location near the serene Yulong River. The hotel was established to serve as a cultural bridge between Yangshuo’s ancient rural charm and the sophisticated needs of modern travelers. Culturally, it is situated in a region defined by centuries of agricultural tradition and the iconic karst topography that has inspired Chinese landscape paintings for generations. The resort’s design utilizes traditional materials like local stone and timber, creating a "New Chinese" aesthetic that feels both authentic and timeless. It emphasizes the "slow life" (Man Shenghuo) culture prevalent in Guilin, encouraging guests to reflect on the passage of time while surrounded by the unchanging beauty of the peaks. By preserving the quiet dignity of the countryside and offering spaces for tea meditation and panoramic mountain viewing, the hotel honors the spiritual heritage of the Guangxi landscape while providing a luxurious sanctuary for contemporary rest.

Yangshuo Fadai Xuankong Hotel
Star Level: 4-Star

The Yangshuo Fadai Xuankong Hotel is a distinctive architectural landmark nestled in the karst peaks near the Yulong River. The name "Fadai" translates to "staring blankly" or "daydreaming," a cultural concept in modern China that encourages urban dwellers to pause, empty their minds, and reconnect with nature. Architecturally, the hotel is famous for its "hanging" or "suspended" (Xuankong) design, featuring glass-bottomed structures and cantilevered balconies that jut out over the lush valley, offering a literal feeling of floating between the mountains and the clouds.

Culturally, the hotel embodies the "New Zen" lifestyle of the Guilin region. It was designed to maximize the "Sky Mirror" effect, a popular aesthetic trend that uses reflective surfaces to merge the building with the sky and surrounding limestone pinnacles. By blending cutting-edge modern engineering with the ancient, tranquil soul of the Yangshuo countryside, the hotel serves as a sanctuary for mental detox. It honors the local heritage of seeking spiritual clarity in nature, a tradition dating back to the Tang Dynasty poets who once roamed these very peaks in search of enlightenment and peace.

Yangshuo Village Inn
Star Level: 4-Star

Yangshuo Village Inn is a pioneer of sustainable heritage tourism in the Guilin region. Located in the quiet village of Moon Village, right at the base of the iconic Moon Hill, the inn was originally a traditional mud-brick farmhouse built in the mid-20th century. In the early 2000s, it was meticulously restored by an Italian-American expat and local partners, making it one of the first "boutique" conversions in the area that prioritized ecological preservation and authentic rural aesthetics over modern reconstruction.

The inn's culture is deeply rooted in the local Zhuang and Han agricultural traditions. It features handmade furnishings, local fabrics, and reclaimed timber, creating a "low-impact" luxury experience. Its famous rooftop restaurant, Luna, offers a panoramic view of the karst peaks, serving as a cultural meeting point for international travelers and local villagers. By maintaining its original structure and supporting village-based initiatives, the Yangshuo Village Inn has become a model for preserving the soulful, agrarian heritage of Guangxi while offering a bridge to the global community through warm, sustainable hospitality.

Yangshuo Yulong Shangqing House
Star Level: 4-Star

Yangshuo Yulong Shangqing House is an architectural gem located in the heart of the Yulong River Scenic Area, near the ancient Jiuxian Village. The hotel’s name, "Shangqing" (上青), translates to "Above the Green," a poetic reference to its position overlooking the emerald rice paddies and lush karst peaks that define the Guilin landscape. The design philosophy centers on the integration of modern industrial minimalism with traditional rural elements. By utilizing large expanses of floor-to-ceiling glass, the structure serves as a "lens" through which the 1,400-year history of the surrounding valley is viewed.

Culturally, the hotel promotes a "nature-first" lifestyle. It is designed to be a quiet observer of the local agrarian traditions, where water buffalo still roam and bamboo rafts glide down the river. The interior decor features local stone, wood, and artisanal crafts, honoring the heritage of the Zhuang and Han peoples. It provides a sanctuary for travelers seeking a deep, meditative connection to the "Shan Shui" (mountain and water) culture that has inspired Chinese literati and artists for centuries, offering a luxurious yet grounded experience of Yangshuo’s soulful countryside.

Yangshuo Lijiang Puxian Cultural Resort
Star Level: 4-Star

Located at the prime intersection of the Li River and the bustling West Street, Yangshuo Lijiang Puxian Cultural Resort is a sanctuary that balances vibrant urban life with tranquil river scenery. The hotel is built on a site that has witnessed Yangshuo’s transformation from a sleepy fishing village into a global travel destination. The name "Puxian" (璞闲) reflects a desire for "unpolished leisure," suggesting a return to one’s true, simple self amidst the splendor of nature.

The hotel’s architecture pays homage to traditional Lingnan styles, featuring elegant wood accents and open-air corridors that invite the river breeze. Culturally, it serves as a gallery for local heritage; the interior is often adorned with Guilin landscape paintings and traditional Chinese ceramics. Its unique location allows guests to experience the 1,400-year history of West Street—the "Global Village"—while enjoying a front-row seat to the timeless beauty of the Li River. It is a place where the ancient "mountain and water" culture of Guangxi meets the cosmopolitan spirit of modern Yangshuo, offering a deeply localized yet luxurious experience.

Poetry Meadow Hotel
Star Level: 4-Star

Nestled in the serene Xiatang Village along the picturesque Yulong River, the Poetry Meadow Hotel embodies the "Pastoral Poetry" lifestyle of ancient Chinese scholars. The architecture reflects the traditional Northern Guangxi style, characterized by whitewashed walls and gray-tiled roofs that blend seamlessly into the surrounding karst peaks. The hotel is situated in an area rich with rural heritage, where local farmers still practice centuries-old irrigation techniques. Culturally, the property serves as a modern retreat for "literati" travelers, emphasizing a connection with nature through tea ceremonies, landscape viewing balconies, and minimalist wood-focused interiors. It offers guests a tranquil escape that honors the timeless beauty of the Guilin countryside, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the flowing river and the changing seasons.

Moon Villa (Yangshuo 10-Mile Gallery Yulong River Branch)
Star Level: 5-Star

Moon Villa is a premier luxury sanctuary nestled in the heart of Yangshuo’s Ten-Mile Gallery, near the serene Yulong River. The hotel’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the "Lunar" culture, drawing inspiration from the nearby Moon Hill, a natural karst arch that has been a symbol of Guilin’s ethereal beauty for centuries. Architecturally, the villa combines modern "Wild Luxury" (Ye She) aesthetics with traditional Chinese garden elements, featuring gray-tiled roofs and open courtyards that frame the surrounding limestone peaks. Historically, this area served as a tranquil retreat for poets seeking inspiration from the landscape. Today, Moon Villa honors this heritage by offering private hot spring pools and minimalist spaces that encourage a spiritual connection with nature, reflecting the timeless elegance of the Guangxi countryside.

Yangshuo Tea Cozy Boutique Hotel
Star Level: 3-Star

Yangshuo Tea Cozy Boutique Hotel is a serene sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Yulong River Valley, surrounded by the region’s iconic karst peaks and lush paddy fields. Founded by experienced local guides Richard and Curry Chen, the hotel was born from a desire to showcase authentic Chinese hospitality and the region's rich tea heritage. The architecture features a traditional Chinese countryside aesthetic, with interiors adorned with local artwork and antiques. Culturally, the hotel serves as a gateway to ancient traditions, offering guests immersive experiences such as tea ceremonies, Tai Chi lessons, and local cooking classes. It represents a harmonious blend of rural simplicity and refined comfort, providing a peaceful escape that honors the timeless spirit of the Guilin landscape.