20 places to visit in and around GuiLin and YangShuo, GuangXi province

GuiLin Attractions

Guilin Seven Star Park (七星公园) - Qīxīng Gōngyuán

Description: Guilin Seven Star Park is one of the city's most popular attractions, offering a blend of natural scenery, cultural landmarks, and family-friendly activities. Named after its seven karst peaks resembling the pattern of the Big Dipper constellation, the park features lush greenery, limestone caves, and scenic spots that attract visitors of all ages.

Attractions and Activities:
- Li River (漓江) - Lí Jiāng: Take a scenic cruise or bamboo rafting trip along the Li River to admire Guilin's breathtaking karst landscapes, limestone peaks, and picturesque villages.
- Xianggong Mountain (相公山) - Xiānggōng Shān: Hike to the top of Xianggong Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the Li River winding through the karst mountains. This popular photography spot offers spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas.
- Diecai Hill (叠彩山) - Diécǎi Shān: Explore Diecai Hill's scenic parkland, pavilions, and caves adorned with colorful rock formations. The hill offers hiking trails, viewpoints, and opportunities for cultural exploration amidst Guilin's natural beauty.
- Gudong Waterfall (孤洞瀑布) - Gūdòng Pùbù: Trek through lush forests to discover Gudong Waterfall, a serene natural attraction surrounded by verdant foliage. Visitors can swim in the refreshing pools beneath the cascading falls and enjoy picnics in the tranquil setting.
- Yangshuo County (阳朔县) - Yángshuò Xiàn: Explore the charming countryside of Yangshuo County, known for its idyllic scenery, rural villages, and outdoor recreational activities. Popular attractions include Moon Hill, Yulong River, and picturesque cycling routes.
- Seven-Star Tea Plantation (七星茶山) - Qīxīng Chá Shān: Visit a local tea plantation to learn about traditional tea cultivation and production techniques. Enjoy guided tours, tea tastings, and scenic views of terraced fields amidst Guilin's karst landscapes.
- Yaoshan Mountain (尧山) - Yáoshān: Ascend Yaoshan Mountain for panoramic views of Guilin and the surrounding countryside. The mountain offers hiking trails, cable car rides, and opportunities to explore temples, pagodas, and historic sites.
- Jingjiang Prince City (靖江王城) - Jìngjiāng Wáng Chéng: Discover the history and culture of Guilin at Jingjiang Prince City, a historic site featuring ancient city walls, gates, temples, and gardens. Learn about the city's role in China's feudal past and enjoy scenic strolls amidst well-preserved architectural treasures.
- Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes (桂林两江四湖) - Guìlín Liǎng Jiāng Sì Hú: Take a leisurely boat cruise on Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes, connecting the Li River, Peach Blossom River, and scenic lakes within the city. Enjoy illuminated night cruises, cultural performances, and views of Guilin's skyline and landmarks.

YangShuo Attractions

Yangshuo West Street (西街) - Xī Jiē

Description: Yangshuo West Street, also known as Foreigner Street, is a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of Yangshuo town. Lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and street vendors, this vibrant street offers a lively atmosphere and a taste of local culture.

Attractions and Activities:
- Impression Sanjie Liu (印象刘三姐) - Yìnxiàng Liú Sānjiě: Experience the mesmerizing outdoor performance of Impression Sanjie Liu, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Zhang Yimou. Set against the backdrop of the Li River, this large-scale production showcases traditional music, dance, and lighting effects, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
- Xingping Ancient Town (兴坪古镇) - Xīngpíng Gǔzhèn: Explore the picturesque ancient town of Xingping, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, cobbled streets, and riverside scenery. Highlights include Xingping Ancient Fishing Village, Laozhai Hill, and the iconic backdrop featured on the 20 RMB banknote.
- Big Banyan Tree (大榕树) - Dà Róngshù: Visit the iconic Big Banyan Tree, a massive ancient tree estimated to be over 1,400 years old. Located near Yangshuo, this giant banyan tree is a popular natural landmark and offers shaded areas for picnics and relaxation.
- Yangshuo Cooking School (阳朔烹饪学校) - Yángshuò Pēngrèn Xuéxiào: Join a hands-on cooking class at Yangshuo Cooking School to learn how to prepare authentic Chinese dishes using fresh local ingredients. Classes typically include market tours, cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to savor your culinary creations.
- Butterfly Spring Park (蝴蝶泉公园) - Húdié Quán Gōngyuán: Wander through Butterfly Spring Park to admire colorful butterflies amidst lush gardens and scenic ponds. This tranquil park offers walking trails, pavilions, and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
- Moon Hill (月亮山) - Yuèliàng Shān: Hike or bike to the top of Moon Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape. The hill's distinctive arch-shaped opening provides a unique photo opportunity, and adventurous visitors can explore caves and rock formations along the way.
- Yulong River (遇龙河) - Yùlóng Hé: Enjoy a leisurely bamboo rafting excursion along the Yulong River, surrounded by picturesque karst mountains, bamboo groves, and traditional riverside villages. This scenic river journey offers opportunities for relaxation, photography, and cultural immersion.
- Xianggong Mountain (相公山) - Xiānggōng Shān: Hike to the top of Xianggong Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the Li River winding through the karst mountains. This popular photography spot offers spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas, making it a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
- Yangshuo Climbing Park (阳朔攀岩公园) - Yángshuò Pānyán Gōngyuán: Challenge yourself with rock climbing adventures at Yangshuo Climbing Park, featuring limestone cliffs and crags suitable for climbers of all skill levels. Guided climbing tours, equipment rental, and instruction are available for visitors interested in this exhilarating outdoor activity.
- Jiuxian Ancient Village (九仙古村) - Jiǔxiān Gǔ Cūn: Step back in time at Jiuxian Ancient Village, a well-preserved rural settlement showcasing traditional architecture, stone bridges, and ancestral halls. Explore narrow lanes, visit local artisans, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of this historic village.
- Shangri-La Park (香格里拉公园) - Xiānggélǐlā Gōngyuán: Escape to the serene surroundings of Shangri-La Park, a tranquil oasis featuring gardens, ponds, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can relax amidst lush greenery, enjoy panoramic views of Yangshuo's karst landscape, and experience a sense of peace and tranquility.
- Xanadu Resort (世外桃源度假村) - Shìwàitàoyuán Dùjià Cūn: Unwind at Xanadu Resort, a luxury retreat nestled amidst Yangshuo's picturesque countryside. The resort offers upscale accommodations, spa facilities, outdoor pools, and dining options, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence for discerning travelers.
- Yangshuo Impression Light Show (印象·刘三姐) - Yìnxiàng Liú Sānjiě: Experience the enchanting Yangshuo Impression Light Show, an outdoor performance set against the backdrop of natural scenery and the Li River. Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this multimedia spectacle features colorful lights, music, and dance, creating a mesmerizing cultural experience.

Yangshuo, situated in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes, serene rivers, and vibrant local culture. Here's a guide for visitors to Yangshuo:

Natural Beauty:
Karst Mountains: Yangshuo is famous for its iconic karst mountains, which rise sharply from the surrounding plains, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. Visitors can explore these unique limestone formations by hiking, biking, or taking boat cruises along the Li River.

Li River: The Li River, one of China's most scenic waterways, meanders through the karst mountains of Yangshuo, offering stunning vistas at every turn. A leisurely boat cruise along the Li River is a must-do activity for visitors, providing opportunities to admire the breathtaking scenery and capture iconic views of the karst peaks reflected in the water.

Yulong River: The Yulong River, a tributary of the Li River, is another picturesque waterway that flows through Yangshuo's countryside. Visitors can enjoy bamboo rafting or kayaking on the Yulong River, passing through idyllic villages, rice paddies, and bamboo groves along the way.

Outdoor Activities:
Cycling: Yangshuo is a cyclist's paradise, with scenic countryside roads and trails that wind through rice fields, orchards, and traditional villages. Renting a bicycle and exploring the surrounding countryside at a leisurely pace is a popular activity for visitors.

Rock Climbing: With its towering karst cliffs and limestone peaks, Yangshuo is a premier rock climbing destination in China. Experienced climbers and beginners alike can find suitable routes and climbing spots in the area, with options for guided tours and equipment rental available.

Cultural Experiences:
West Street: West Street (Xi Jie) is the main thoroughfare in Yangshuo's town center and a hub of activity for tourists and locals alike. Lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, West Street offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and soak in the town's unique charm.

Impression Sanjie Liu: Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, Impression Sanjie Liu is a spectacular outdoor performance staged on the Li River. Featuring a cast of hundreds of performers, including local fishermen and farmers, the show combines music, dance, and light effects to showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.

Practical Tips:
Weather: Yangshuo has a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is most pleasant and the landscapes are lush and green.

Accommodation: Yangshuo offers a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and hostels catering to various budgets and preferences. Staying in the town center allows visitors to easily access attractions, restaurants, and transportation options.

Local Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to sample Yangshuo's delicious local cuisine, which includes specialties such as beer fish and Guilin rice noodles. Many restaurants in Yangshuo offer outdoor seating with panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape.

Yangshuo's stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene make it a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of southern China. Whether cruising along the Li River, cycling through the countryside, or immersing oneself in the town's bustling street life, Yangshuo offers unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.

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QiBao Ancient Town, ShangHai

With Roaming N Watching ... With Fyfy & Nyny ... QiBao Ancient Town visitor guide Overview QiBao Ancient Town, located in the MinHang district of ShangHai, is a picturesque water town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, historical sites, and traditional culture. The name "QiBao" means "Seven Treasures," and the town is famous for its seven historic treasures, though only a few remain today. QiBao offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage and a chance to experience traditional JiangNan water town scenery. History QiBao Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years to the Northern Song Dynasty. It flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties as a prosperous commercial hub. Today, QiBao retains much of its historical charm, with well-preserved buildings, stone bridges, and narrow canals that transport visitors back in time. Main Attractions QiBao Temple QiBao Temple is a significant religious and cultural site in the town. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, the temple has undergone several restorations. It is an important place of worship and a symbol of the town's spiritual heritage. QiBao Old Street QiBao Old Street is the heart of the ancient town, lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and food stalls. The street is divided into North Street and South Street, each offering unique experiences and local delicacies. QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum The QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum showcases the traditional Chinese art of shadow puppetry. Visitors can learn about the history of shadow plays, watch live performances, and even try their hand at manipulating the puppets. QiBao Zhuzhai (Old Residences) QiBao Zhuzhai are ancient residential buildings that offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of QiBao's inhabitants. These well-preserved houses reflect the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties and provide insight into the daily lives of ancient Chinese families. Culture and Traditions QiBao Ancient Town is a cultural gem that showcases traditional JiangNan water town culture. The town is known for its traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore the various workshops and studios where artisans create silk, paper-cuts, and other traditional handicrafts. Activities and Experiences Boat Rides One of the best ways to experience QiBao Ancient Town is by taking a boat ride along its narrow canals. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the town's architecture and serene waterways, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. Food Tasting QiBao is renowned for its local delicacies, including QiBao rice cakes, braised pork, and stinky tofu. The food stalls and restaurants along QiBao Old Street offer a wide variety of traditional snacks and dishes that are a must-try for visitors. Cultural Performances Visitors to QiBao can enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional Chinese opera, shadow plays, and folk music. These performances are often held in public squares and cultural centers, providing an authentic cultural experience. Accommodation QiBao Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an immersive experience and a chance to enjoy the town's charm after the day-trippers have left. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QiBao Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: QiBao Ancient Town is located about 18 kilometers from ShangHai city center. It is accessible by metro (Line 9, QiBao Station) or by taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee for the town itself, but some attractions and museums within the town may charge a small fee. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the town's streets are paved with cobblestones and can be uneven. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and cultural sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.