Seven Star Park

Seven Star Park is Guilin's largest and most varied green space, a 120-hectare wonderland of karst peaks, ancient caves, and tranquil lakes. At its heart lies Seven Star Cave, a vast limestone cavern lit in psychedelic colours, and the iconic Camel Hill. With our private guide, you'll navigate the sprawling grounds effortlessly, uncovering hidden corners and stories that most visitors miss.

What it is

Seven Star Park takes its name from the seven peaks that rise in a formation resembling the Big Dipper constellation. The park has been a place of recreation and reflection for over a thousand years, with inscriptions dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It was officially opened as a public park in 1958 and later designated a 4A-rated scenic area. The park seamlessly blends natural karst topography with classical Chinese gardens, featuring pavilions, stone bridges, and winding paths that lead to serene ponds and ancient banyan trees. Historically, it served as a retreat for scholars and poets who sought inspiration in its caves and grottoes.

The park is divided into several distinct areas: the Seven Star Cave area, Camel Hill, the Flower Bridge, and the zoo and amusement sections. The cave itself is a highlight, with a 1,000-metre-long passage through stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by colourful lights. Camel Hill, a karst peak resembling a camel, is a symbol of Guilin and offers a moderate climb for panoramic views. The park also houses the Guilin Museum of Art and a small zoo, making it a family-friendly destination. Our guides can help you prioritise the best spots and avoid the crowds.

Highlights

Seven Star Cave — Explore a 1,000-metre-long limestone cavern filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by vibrant lights that enhance the otherworldly atmosphere.
Camel Hill — Climb this iconic karst peak for sweeping views of Guilin's cityscape and surrounding mountains; the shape resembles a resting camel, a favourite photo spot.
Flower Bridge — Stroll across this ancient stone bridge, which offers picturesque views of the park's lakes and is especially beautiful in spring when flowers bloom.
Banyan Tree and Dragon Cave — Visit a 1,000-year-old banyan tree and the small Dragon Cave, which houses Buddhist statues and offers a quiet retreat from the main paths.
Guilin Museum of Art — Discover local art and history in this small museum located within the park, featuring rotating exhibitions of Chinese painting and calligraphy.

Tourists entering Seven Star Park through a traditional Chinese gate with stone lions

How to get there

Seven Star Park is located in the northeastern part of Guilin, about 3 km from the city centre. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or ride-hailing app (DiDi), which takes around 15 minutes from the city centre and costs ¥15-20. Alternatively, you can take bus routes 11, 18, or 58 to the Seven Star Park stop. If you're coming from the Li River cruise, it's a short drive from the pier. Our private tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you can combine the park with other highlights like Elephant Trunk Hill or Reed Flute Cave in a single day.

Tickets & practical info

Admission to the park is ¥55 (peak season) or ¥45 (off-peak), which includes entry to Seven Star Cave. The park is open daily from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM (peak season) or 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM (off-peak). Tickets can be purchased at the gate, but we recommend booking through our guide to skip the queue. Foreign credit cards are not accepted at the ticket office; bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay linked to an international card.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the park is lush. Early morning (before 9 AM) is ideal to avoid crowds and see locals practicing tai chi. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays, when the park can get very busy. If you want to see the cave without the throngs, go right when it opens at 8:30 AM.

Tips from our guides

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park is large and includes some uneven paths and stairs, especially if you climb Camel Hill.
Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light in Seven Star Cave; some areas are dimly lit despite the coloured lights.
Hire a guide or use an audio guide to understand the geological and historical significance of the karst formations and inscriptions.
Visit the park's lesser-known areas like the bonsai garden and the zoo for a quieter experience away from the main tour groups.
Carry cash for small vendors and toilets, as some don't accept digital payments, and keep your ticket handy for re-entry if you plan to leave and come back.

Ancient Tang Dynasty stone inscriptions carved into a mossy cliff in Seven Star Park

FAQ

How long does it take to explore Seven Star Park?

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the main highlights, including the cave and Camel Hill. If you want to see everything, including the zoo and museum, allow 4 hours.

Is Seven Star Cave suitable for children or elderly visitors?

The cave has a paved walkway with some stairs and slippery sections. It's manageable for most, but those with mobility issues should take it slow. Wheelchairs are not recommended inside the cave.

Can I buy tickets with a foreign credit card?

No, the ticket office only accepts cash (CNY) or Chinese mobile payments. We recommend linking your international card to WeChat Pay or Alipay before your trip, or having your guide purchase tickets for you.

What is the best way to get to Seven Star Park from Guilin city centre?

A taxi or DiDi is the most convenient, costing around ¥15-20 and taking 15 minutes. Public buses are cheaper but can be crowded. Our private tours include hotel transfers for a hassle-free experience.