Okay, if you live in a country other than China, chances are you have never had the pleasure of savoring the unique flavors associated with Asian cuisine.  Even if you were to purchase the best Chinese cookbooks, capturing the true essence of Chinese food would be impossible.  However, if you were planning a trip to Guilin and you love to cook, why not take classes from master chefs.

Just imagine being able to learn how to cook authentic Chinese food and being able to take your newfound knowledge home where the same foods and flavors could be replicated perfectly!  When you add cooking classes into your schedule while in Guilin, this exactly the outcome.  You could wow family and friends, giving them a look into your Guilin trip without ever leaving home.

Unlike other cities in China, Guilin is known for cuisine that is a wonderful balance of Sichuan, Hunanese, and Cantonese, which means dishes are sweet and spicy all rolled into one.  One of the most intriguing aspects of taking cooking classes while in Guilin is that many classes include a trip to the local market so you can learn about and be involved in choosing raw ingredients.  However, cooking there are also all-inclusive schools in Guilin where needed ingredients are provided.  The following are a few options for you to consider.

•  Yangshuo Cooking School – Classes taught at this Guilin school includes five mouth-watering dishes.  The instructors speak great English, have amazing talent, and they enjoy teaching and answering questions.  You would have a choice of locations for learning to cook authentic Chinese food, in a traditional farmhouse or on the Li River.  What makes this school so unique is that the concept is based on having students actually make the dishes rather than just watch.

• Cloud 9 Restaurant – At this restaurant, half-day classes are offered, with each class taught in English.  In addition to learning a number of specialty dishes, you would also gain knowledge about the Chinese culture and customs.  These classes offer teaching of three dishes and at the end of everything being made, you get to enjoy the delicious food.  This cooking school can accommodate as few as two people or as many as eight people.

Also check out Li River Cruise