Guilin Li River, one of the World's 15 best rivers

We all know that "the scenery of Guilin has been called the finest under heaven".

Recently, Li River in Guilin is honoured as one of the World's 15 best rivers for travelers in CNN news. It became the only China's river on this list.

The CNN says: China might be known for the Yangtze, but it is difficult not to fall under the spell of the Li (Lijiang) River. You can take in the river’s breathtaking karst topography between the Guilin and Yangshuo via boat tour, while other travelers may prefer to opt for a traditional bamboo rafting trip along the smaller and less crowded Yulong River.

In Guangxi province, Guilin -- a popular destination for international and domestic tourists alike -- offers visitors a unique vantage point from which to witness the blend of nature and traditional culture that characterizes today's China.

Visitors can begin to understand the long-held reverence for Guilin's scenery by walking along the Li River and watching fishermen and their boats pass beneath the shadows cast by the limestone mountains so unique to the region.

Cruises down the Li River are an easy and affordable way to appreciate Mother Nature while escaping the intense summer heat.

Nearby the Longsheng rice terraces are a sight to see, as are the stunning formations in the Yingzi Cave.

Yangshuo, down the Li River from Guilin, also offers spectacular scenery. Film director Zhang Yimou, who also was behind the opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics, incorporates the Li River's natural beauty into his "Liu Sanjie" light show to tell folklore of the local Zhuang, Miao and Yao ethnic minorities.

The best way to see the area is to simply join local people on their evening strolls amid the markets and street shops and grab some street food with milk tea.

Recommended Li River Cruise/ Hiking Itinerary:
3 Days Guilin, Yangshuo Classic Tour
5 Days Guilin Highlights & Li River Hiking Tour
7 Days Beijing Highlights Tour and Guilin Li River Hiking