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With See World ...
The landscape around GuiLin and the Li River is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring unique karst formations, lush greenery, and picturesque waterways. This area, often celebrated in Chinese art and poetry, offers some of the most iconic scenery in China. Here are the key highlights of this beautiful region:
### Karst Mountains
1. **Unique Karst Topography**: The landscape is dominated by karst mountains, which are characterized by their steep, rugged limestone peaks. These formations were created by millions of years of erosion, resulting in a landscape that appears almost otherworldly.
2. **Famous Peaks**: Notable peaks include Elephant Trunk Hill, shaped like an elephant drinking water, and Fubo Hill, which offers panoramic views of Guilin city and the surrounding countryside.
### The Li River
3. **Li River Cruise**: The Li River (LiJiang) is famed for its breathtaking scenery. A popular activity is taking a river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The cruise passes by some of the most picturesque landscapes, including towering karst peaks, bamboo groves, and traditional fishing villages.
4. **Scenic Highlights**: Key scenic spots along the river include the Nine Horse Fresco Hill, which resembles a mural of nine horses, and the Reflection of Yellow Cloth Shoal, which is famously depicted on the 20 yuan banknote.
### YangShuo
5. **Yangshuo Town**: Yangshuo, a small town located at the end of the Li River cruise, is surrounded by karst mountains and is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as rock climbing, cycling, and hiking.
6. **West Street**: Known as the oldest street in Yangshuo, West Street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
### Outdoor Activities
7. **Cycling and Hiking**: The countryside around Guilin and Yangshuo is ideal for cycling and hiking. Visitors can explore the scenic beauty up close by biking through rice paddies, along the river, and into the mountains.
8. **Rock Climbing**: The karst formations provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing. Yangshuo has become a hotspot for climbers from around the world.
### Rivers and Caves
9. **Yulong River**: A tributary of the Li River, the Yulong River is less crowded and offers serene, beautiful views. Rafting on bamboo rafts is a popular way to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
10. **Caves**: The region is home to numerous caves, such as Reed Flute Cave and Silver Cave, known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights.
### Cultural Heritage
11. **Traditional Villages**: Alongside the natural beauty, the area is dotted with traditional villages where visitors can experience the local culture, architecture, and way of life.
12. **Impression Sanjie Liu**: An outdoor night show directed by Zhang Yimou, set against the backdrop of the Li River and the karst mountains. It features traditional songs and dances performed by local villagers and fishermen.
### Eco-Tourism
13. **Sustainability Efforts**: There is a growing focus on eco-tourism and sustainable practices to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region while providing meaningful experiences for visitors.
### Conclusion
The landscape around Guilin and the Li River is a masterpiece of nature, with its dramatic karst mountains, verdant valleys, and clear waters. This region offers a mix of breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, making it one of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in China. Whether cruising down the Li River, exploring caves, or cycling through the countryside, visitors are sure to be captivated by the serene and majestic beauty of Guilin and its surroundings.
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Music and dance, spring 2018
