Guilin is situated on the River Li and surrounded by extraordinary limestone hills that rise from the plain like inverted cups or like nature's version of London's "Gerkin". You can take a river cruise to view these natural wonders - which I did, despite the pouring rain - or you might prefer a night-time cruise around the illuminated canals that surround the city. You could even wander around the park and hope for a glimpse of a panda bear - but watch out for the umbrella-toting bike riders!
One thing is for sure; if you go with a tour company, even one as excellent as China Highlights you will end up in some sort of a "factory" - but at least as far as one factory in Guilin is concerned, that is something to look forward to.