Sun and Moon Pagodas Guilin
Iconic twin pagodas on Shanhu Lake, symbolizing balance and beauty, especially stunning when illuminated at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Sun and Moon Pagodas Guilin
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic twin pagodas on Shanhu Lake, symbolizing balance and beauty, especially stunning when illuminated at night.
"The pagodas are a must-see, especially at night when they glow, creating a magical Guilin experience."
📸 Capture the Night Glow
Visit after dark to see the pagodas beautifully illuminated. It's a must-see sight!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Guilin can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially if you plan to explore surrounding areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sun and Moon Pagodas at Night
Shanhu Lake
Witness the pagodas illuminated, casting a magical glow on the water. A truly iconic Guilin night view.
Daytime Reflection
Shanhu Lake
See the golden and silver towers mirrored perfectly on the calm surface of Shanhu Lake. A serene and picturesque scene.
Cultural Significance
Shanhu Lake
These pagodas symbolize balance and duality, reflecting Taoist philosophy. Learn about their meaning and symbolism.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Navigating Guilin's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Night Glow
Visit after dark to see the pagodas beautifully illuminated. It's a must-see sight! 
💧 Stay Hydrated
Guilin can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially if you plan to explore surrounding areas.
🦟 Bug Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water. Pack repellent for a more comfortable experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Lake
Walk around Shanhu Lake for different perspectives of the pagodas and the surrounding scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Night Glow
Visit after dark to see the pagodas beautifully illuminated. It's a must-see sight!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Guilin can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially if you plan to explore surrounding areas.
🦟 Bug Repellent is Key
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water. Pack repellent for a more comfortable experience.
🚶♀️ Explore the Lake
Walk around Shanhu Lake for different perspectives of the pagodas and the surrounding scenery.
💰 Buy Tickets at Office
If approached by vendors selling tickets, proceed to the official office to purchase.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the illuminated Sun and Moon Pagodas at night, often calling it a magical and iconic Guilin experience. The daytime reflections on Shanhu Lake are also praised for their beauty. While the pagodas themselves are a highlight, some find the immediate surrounding area less developed, and advise preparedness for heat and mosquitoes if exploring further afield.
"Went for the photo op. The town you start at is pretty blah but the photo that takes you a few minutes might be worth it."
Lang Nguyen
"The moon hill is one of its kind with a moon like hole in the middle, it looks interesting. You can walk up the hill, on the way there is a temple as well which is worth visiting. We went up on a hot and humid day but still going up the steps was not much effort. Worth visiting if you are in this area."
Vijay Joshi
"The Moon Hill is a interesting mountain formation in the Yangshou area. The Moon Hill can be visited by walking 1.5km up a step set of stairs. The walk is pretty rough, but you dont need to be skilled. At the top theres a platform where you can se the whole mountain. The entrance fee is 11¥ pr person."
Simon Godsk Grome
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sun and Moon Pagodas are located in the heart of Guilin on Shanhu Lake, making them easily accessible. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the lake. Many hotels are within walking distance, offering a convenient base for exploration.
Yes, local buses frequently service the area around Shanhu Lake. You can check local transit apps or ask your accommodation for the best bus routes.
If you're staying near Shanhu Lake or the city center, walking is a great option. It allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.
For attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill and the pagodas, taxis and ride-sharing apps are efficient. High-speed trains connect Guilin to other major cities, making it a good transit hub. +1
The pagodas are a central feature of Shanhu Lake, which is part of the larger 'Two Rivers and Four Lakes' scenic area. Elephant Trunk Hill is another prominent nearby attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Viewing the Sun and Moon Pagodas from the outside is generally free. However, if you wish to enter certain areas or explore specific attractions around Shanhu Lake, there might be separate entrance fees.
The pagodas are visible at all times, but their illuminated display is best seen at night. The surrounding park areas may have specific operating hours.
While specific combined tickets might vary, it's worth inquiring at the local tourism office or your hotel about any package deals that include the pagodas and other nearby sights like Elephant Trunk Hill.
It's best to purchase tickets for specific attractions at their respective official ticket offices. Be wary of unsolicited vendors selling tickets, and always buy from authorized sources.
Shanhu Lake itself is a public area, and viewing the pagodas from its banks is free. Some activities or boat tours on the lake may incur charges.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful natural light for stunning photos. At night, the pagodas are illuminated, creating a magical ambiance perfect for capturing unique shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the pagodas and their reflections. For night shots, a tripod will help ensure sharp images.
The banks of Shanhu Lake offer excellent vantage points. Look for elevated spots or areas with clear reflections for the most picturesque shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in populated areas and near landmarks. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in Guilin.
Travelers often share photos of the pagodas illuminated at night, their reflections on the lake during the day, and the surrounding cityscape.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Besides admiring the pagodas, you can stroll around Shanhu Lake, enjoy the city views, and explore nearby attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill. Boat tours on the lake are also popular.
Weekends and holidays tend to be busier. Visiting during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late evening, can offer a more peaceful experience.
Yes, there are usually public restrooms and various food and drink vendors around Shanhu Lake and the city center.
Take your time to walk around the lake, observe the pagodas from different angles, and appreciate their beauty both day and night. Consider a boat ride for a unique perspective.
The areas around Shanhu Lake are generally flat and paved, making them accessible. However, some surrounding attractions might involve stairs or uneven terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the pagodas themselves are the main draw, nearby attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill also offer interesting sights for younger visitors. Pack snacks and drinks, as well as mosquito repellent, to ensure a comfortable outing for everyone. The relatively short viewing time needed for the pagodas makes it a good option for families with young children who may have shorter attention spans.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Experiment with different angles and times of day to get the most out of your visit. Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the 'golden hour' light, which can add a warm glow to your photos. A tripod is highly recommended for night photography to ensure sharp images. Don't forget to explore the surrounding lake area for unique compositions and reflections.
+1🚶 Solo Travelers
Engage with the local culture by trying street food or taking a boat tour. The illuminated pagodas at night offer a beautiful and safe evening activity. Connecting with other travelers or locals can enhance your experience, and many find Guilin to be a welcoming city for independent exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism of the Sun and Moon Pagodas
Constructed with intricate details, the pagodas are a testament to traditional Chinese architecture. The Golden Pagoda, with its seven stories, is adorned with bronze tiles, while the Silver Pagoda, with its eight stories, features white tiles. They are connected by an underwater tunnel, adding a unique element to their design and further emphasizing the concept of unity. This tunnel allows visitors to pass between the pagodas, experiencing their duality firsthand.
Locals and visitors alike are drawn to the pagodas for their aesthetic beauty and symbolic meaning. They are particularly popular for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts a magical glow, and at night when they are illuminated, creating a breathtaking spectacle against the dark sky. The pagodas serve as a constant reminder of balance, harmony, and the cyclical nature of life.
+3Experiencing Guilin's Nightlife and Scenery
+1Beyond the pagodas, Guilin's 'Two Rivers and Four Lakes' scenic area offers a broader nighttime experience. Boat tours on the Li River or the lakes provide a unique perspective of the illuminated karst mountains and city skyline. The reflections of the pagodas and surrounding lights on the water create a mesmerizing scene, often described as 'fairytale-like'.
While the pagodas are a must-see, remember that Guilin's natural beauty extends beyond the city center. The surrounding karst landscapes are renowned worldwide. For a complete Guilin experience, consider combining your visit to the pagodas with a boat trip on the Li River or exploring other natural wonders like Elephant Trunk Hill, especially during the magical hours of dawn or dusk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit