In southern China, a river winds through the region, flanked by rolling karst hills. This is the Li River, renowned for its picturesque scenery and often called a “hundred-mile gallery.”
Located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the most famous starting point of the Li River is in Guilin, where towering mountains and crystal-clear waters define the landscape. It is considered one of the most iconic natural beauties of China. Besides its scenic splendor, the Li River is also an important cradle of Chinese culture, offering travelers a glimpse into rich ethnic traditions and historical relics along its shores.
Now, let’s embark on this dreamlike journey to explore the natural wonders and cultural stories of the Guilin’s Li River.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of the Li River
The Li River isn’t just a winding body of water; it is a witness to history and a bearer of culture. Throughout the ages, this river has served as a cultural bond connecting China’s past and future, and even the world.
The Role of the Li River in Trade
As a vital waterway in southern China, the Li River has long been a key transport route linking the Central Plains with the Lingnan region. In 219 BC, during the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the construction of the Lingqu Canal successfully connected the Xiang and Li Rivers, uniting the Yangtze and Pearl River basins. This not only strengthened central rule over the Lingnan area but also fostered cultural and material exchanges.
The Li River played a pivotal role in waterway trade throughout history, driving the prosperity of cities along its banks, such as Guilin.
The Li River in Literature and Art
With its unique natural beauty, the Li River has inspired countless literary and artistic works throughout Chinese history. Poets of Han Yu and Yu Anqi, captured its splendor in their verses. In the Song dynasty, Wang Zhenggong’s famous phrase “Guilin’s scenery is the best under heaven” further popularized the Li River’s allure.
Artists, too, have been mesmerized by its landscapes. Renowned painters like Xu Beihong and Li Keran immortalized the river’s karst peaks and tranquil waters in their masterpieces.
The Cultural Diversity of the Li River
Beyond its natural grandeur, the Li River also embodies the rich and diverse cultural heritage of China. It has witnessed the blending of various cultural influences over the centuries, from Central Plains culture to Lingnan traditions, and later the integration of multiple ethnic cultures.
The Li River basin is home to ethnic groups like the Zhuang and Miao, who preserve their distinctive folk customs, adding to the river’s cultural richness.
Recent Archaeological Discoveries
Recent findings suggest that the cultural history of the Li River can be traced back to the Late Neolithic period. Archaeologists have unearthed numerous prehistoric relics and stone tools in the Guilin area, providing concrete evidence of early human settlement along the river.
These discoveries enrich our understanding of the Li River’s ancient cultural origins.
The Beauty of the Li River Throughout the Seasons
The Li River in Guilin, often likened to a green gem, offers stunning scenery throughout the year. Each season reveals a new face, like a slowly unfurling scroll of landscape paintings.
Spring: Full of Vitality
In spring, both sides of the Li River awaken with life. The fresh greenery emerges, and flowers such as peach blossoms, pear blossoms, and cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, transforming the Li River into a picturesque landscape. Willow fluff floats gently in the breeze, adding a fresh touch of green to the river. This is a season filled with energy and renewal, where visitors can fully embrace the vibrant pulse of nature.
Summer: A Refreshing Escape
In summer, the waters of the Li River become a refreshing retreat, perfect for escaping the heat. The river’s cool, clear waters offer a calming respite, and the shady trees along the riverbanks provide a natural canopy, shielding visitors from the scorching sun. The river is so transparent that one can easily spot small fish swimming beneath the surface. For those looking for a cool escape during the hot summer months, the Li River is the ideal destination.
Autumn: A Harvest Painting
In autumn, the banks of the Li River are adorned with golden hues as trees don their yellow coats, and the rice fields are ready for harvest. The sight of abundant crops and fruits is particularly inviting. A gentle breeze brings refreshing coolness, while thin layers of mist rise from the river, veiling Li River in a mysterious atmosphere. This is a season of abundance, where visitors can experience the serenity and fruitful charm of autumn.
Winter: A Tranquil Snowy Scene
Even in winter, despite the biting cold, the Li River remains crystal clear. The trees along its banks are cloaked in a layer of frost, exuding a serene and peaceful beauty. Snowflakes fall gently, covering the Li River in a soft white blanket, turning it into a pristine winter wonderland. This is a season of purity and tranquility, where visitors can appreciate the quiet and serene beauty of winter.
How to Fully Experience the Li River
To help you fully appreciate the beauty of the Li River in Guangxi, we’ve prepared a detailed guide for three classic ways to explore it: bamboo rafting, river cruises, and hiking. Each offers a unique perspective of the river’s charm.
1. Bamboo Rafting: A Close Encounter with the Li River
- Cost and Routes:
- Bamboo rafting on the Li River typically runs from Yangdi to Nine Horse Fresco Hill, a two-hour journey, with prices ranging from 100 to 200 RMB.
- Another popular route is from Xingping to Nine Horse Fresco Hill, which takes about 1.5 hours and is slightly less expensive.
- Scenic Views:
- Starting from Yangdi, you will pass by iconic spots such as Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Reflection. The crystal-clear water reflects the towering karst peaks, offering breathtaking views.
- The bamboo raft is steered by an experienced boatman, allowing you to enjoy a serene and intimate experience with the river’s tranquility and grandeur.
- Unique Experiences:
- On the raft, visitors can engage in traditional activities like “net fishing,” providing a glimpse into the life of the local fishermen along the Li River.
- Early morning or late afternoon is the best time for photography, as the mist rising from the river adds a poetic touch to the landscape.
2. Li River Cruise: A Relaxing Scenic Journey
- Cost and Routes:
- The Li River Cruise typically runs from Guilin city to Yangshuo, a 4-5 hour journey, with ticket prices ranging from 250 to 400 RMB.
- Cruises offer various services, including meals and guided commentary about the scenic spots.
- Scenic Views:
- On the cruise, you’ll pass by the scene depicted on the 20 RMB note, Yellow Cloth Reflection, as well as other famous landmarks like Nine Horse Fresco Hill and Elephant Trunk Hill.
- Unique Experiences:
- The cruise ships have observation decks, providing the perfect spot for taking photos. You can also enjoy cultural performances onboard that showcase the traditional customs of the Li River region.
- Relish local delicacies like Guilin rice noodles while admiring the scenic landscape, making for a memorable dining experience.
3. Hiking: A Close Connection with Nature
- Recommended Route:
- The hiking trail from Yangdi to Xingping stretches for about 10 kilometers and takes 4-6 hours, ideal for those who enjoy trekking.
- This route covers the essence of the Li River, including landmarks such as Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Reflection.
- Scenic Views:
- Hiking allows you to immerse yourself in the river’s surroundings, with lush forests and rustic villages offering an up-close look at nature’s beauty and the simplicity of rural life.
- Along the way, you might encounter wildflowers, streams, and even wildlife, making the hike an exciting natural adventure.
- Unique Experiences:
- You’ll have the chance to meet local villagers and learn about their daily lives and culture.
- Spend a night in a mountain cabin, away from the noise of the city, where you can gaze at the stars and experience the peacefulness of the natural world.
Tips:
- Best Seasons: Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for visiting the Li River in Guilin, with pleasant weather and stunning scenery.
- Safety Tips: Regardless of your chosen activity, always follow local safety guidelines and be mindful of your personal belongings.
By choosing one of these three experiences, you’ll get to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Li River. Each encounter offers something unique, ensuring that your memories of this iconic river will last a lifetime.
Major Attractions Along the Li River
Several famous attractions are scattered along the banks of the Li River, each offering its own natural beauty and cultural stories. Below, we provide a detailed introduction to the five must-see spots along the Li River.
Nine Horse Fresco Hill (九马画山)
- Location & Features: Located in the upper reaches of the Li River, it is one of the river’s scenic highlights. The natural rock formations resemble horses, and local legend says that those who can identify all nine horses are considered wise.
- Travel Tips: It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft, making it easier to spot and photograph the details of the rock formations. You can view the hill up close by taking a bamboo raft or river cruise.
- Tickets & Transportation: No separate ticket is needed as you can see it during the boat trip.
- Special Experience: Take part in a local guide’s “horse-counting” game to add some fun to your visit.
Yellow Cloth Reflection (黄布倒影)
- Location & Features: A classic view of Li River’s scenery, this spot is so iconic that it is featured on the back of China’s 20 RMB banknote. The clear water reflects the green mountains and trees, creating a tranquil scene like a traditional Chinese painting.
- Travel Tips: The best time to visit is in the early morning or after rain when the reflections on the water are the sharpest, making it a prime location for photography.
- Tickets & Transportation: No ticket is required; you can enjoy the view by taking a boat ride.
- Special Experience: Spend time at the best viewing points and capture different angles of the reflection for lasting memories.
Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山)
- Location & Features: Situated at the junction of the Li River and Peach Blossom River in downtown Guilin, this famous hill resembles an elephant drinking from the river with its long trunk, making it one of Guilin’s most iconic landmarks.
- Travel Tips: It’s recommended to visit in the evening when the scenery of the hill and river is particularly stunning.
- Tickets: Adult tickets cost around 70 RMB.
- Special Experience: Climb to the top of Elephant Trunk Hill for panoramic views of Guilin city and the Li River.
Crown Cave (冠岩)
- Location & Features: Located on the eastern bank of the Li River, Crown Cave is famous for its unique karst landscape and underground cave system, making it a natural wonder along the Li River.
- Travel Tips: Plan for half a day to explore the caves and enjoy the light shows and underground riverboat rides inside.
- Tickets: Adult tickets cost around 120 RMB.
- Special Experience: Take an underground boat ride through the cave for an exciting adventure.
Xingping Ancient Town (兴坪古镇)
- Location & Features: Perched along the Li River, Xingping Ancient Town has a history of over a thousand years and retains its traditional architecture and rich local culture.
- Travel Tips: It’s best to explore on foot, allowing you to soak in the town’s peaceful atmosphere and history. Be sure to try local snacks and check out handcrafted souvenirs.
- Tickets & Transportation: No tickets are required, and you can reach the town by bamboo raft or river cruise.
- Special Experience: At night, the town’s lantern-lit streets and stone pathways take on a magical feel, offering a unique side of Xingping.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the Li River, with cool weather and picturesque scenery.
- Safety Notice: When taking boat trips, always follow safety guidelines and keep an eye on your personal belongings.
- Environmental Awareness: Please be mindful of the environment—don’t litter, and help preserve the natural beauty of the Li River.
By exploring these attractions, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Li River. Every spot offers an unforgettable experience.
Li River Itinerary Suggestions
To help you experience the beauty of the Li River, we have carefully designed two itineraries. Whether you wish to explore nature in depth or immerse yourself in local culture, there’s an option for everyone.
One-Day Highlights Tour
Morning: Departure from Guilin to Yangdi
- Starting Point: Depart from Guilin city, taking the first boat or bamboo raft.
- Reason: Morning departures allow you to enjoy the best weather and sightseeing conditions throughout the day. Starting from Guilin, you’ll quickly transition from the city to the natural embrace of the Li River, witnessing the seamless blend of urban and natural beauty.
- Scenic Views: As you cruise or raft along, you will pass through layers of verdant hills and bamboo forests, reflected in the clear waters. The landscape seems like a flowing painting of mountains and rivers. Along the way, you’ll catch views of pastoral life, where mountains, water, villages, and fields coexist in harmony—this is the essence of the Li River.
- Special Experience: Choose a window seat on the boat or raft, feel the breeze on your face, breathe in the fresh air, and listen to the symphony of the river and wind. The ever-changing landscape is a photographer’s paradise, providing countless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Li River.
Midday: Yangdi to Nine Horse Fresco Hill
- Lunch Recommendation: Upon reaching Yangdi, you can savor local specialties such as Guilin rice noodles and Li River fish at a local restaurant or snack stall, experiencing the flavors of Guilin.
- Tour Highlights: The stretch between Yangdi and Nine Horse Fresco Hill is the highlight of the Li River tour. The natural rock formations on the hill resemble nine galloping horses, with each horse vividly detailed. Spotting all nine horses adds an element of fun and legend to your journey.
Afternoon: Nine Horse Fresco Hill to Xingping Ancient Town
- Transportation: Continue downstream by bamboo raft or boat, enjoying the refreshing river breeze.
- Tour Highlights: As you journey from Nine Horse Fresco Hill to Xingping Ancient Town, you’ll pass the Yellow Cloth Reflection, another iconic landscape along the Li River. This serene scene, which appears on the back of the 20 RMB note, features mountains mirrored perfectly in the river. Xingping Ancient Town is steeped in history, with well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Stroll along its streets and experience the quiet charm of this ancient town.
Evening: Xingping Ancient Town to Yangshuo
- Best Time: Enjoy the sunset at Xingping Ancient Town, where the golden hues reflect off the Li River, creating a breathtaking view in contrast to the ancient architecture.
- Nightlife: After arriving in Yangshuo, you can experience the bustling night market on West Street and sample local delicacies.
Two-Day In-Depth Experience
Day 1: Guilin City to Xingping Ancient Town
Morning: Departure from Guilin to Yangdi
- Starting Point: Depart from Guilin city, taking the first boat or bamboo raft.
- Scenic Views: On the journey from Guilin to Yangdi, enjoy the bamboo groves, mountain peaks, and villages that line the Li River, embodying the perfect harmony of nature.
- Special Experience: Get up close to the river’s crystal-clear waters and capture the natural beauty along the way.
Midday to Afternoon: Yangdi to Nine Horse Fresco Hill
- Transportation: Continue downstream by bamboo raft or boat.
- Lunch Recommendation: Enjoy local dishes like Li River fish and bamboo rice at Yangdi for a taste of Guilin’s culinary delights.
- Tour Highlights: At Nine Horse Fresco Hill, join the “horse-counting” game as you try to spot the nine horses on the cliffside, blending natural wonder with local folklore.
Evening: Nine Horse Fresco Hill to Xingping Ancient Town
- Scenic Views: On the way to Xingping, take in the quiet beauty of the Yellow Cloth Reflection, capturing its perfect mirror image on the still waters.
- Special Experience: Wander the streets of Xingping Ancient Town, where traditional architecture and rural life coexist, offering a glimpse into the region’s history.
Night: Stay Overnight in Xingping Ancient Town
- Accommodation Experience: Stay in a local guesthouse in the ancient town, enjoying authentic local food and the peaceful atmosphere that descends over Xingping by night.
Day 2: Xingping Ancient Town to Yangshuo
Morning: Xingping to Yangshuo
- Transportation: Continue your journey downstream by boat or bamboo raft to Yangshuo.
- Scenic Views: As you head toward Yangshuo, admire more of the Li River’s scenic wonders, such as Snail Hill, Piercing Mountain, and Dragon Head Mountain. Each landmark tells its own unique story.
Midday: Lunch in Yangshuo
- Lunch Recommendation: Savor local favorites like beer fish and rice noodles in Yangshuo, a culinary journey through the heart of Guangxi.
Afternoon: Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
- Tour Highlights: After arriving in Yangshuo, don’t miss the chance to raft on the Yulong River. Unlike the grandeur of the Li River, the Yulong River offers a more peaceful, pastoral experience. As you drift through rice paddies and small villages, you’ll feel a sense of serenity and poetic beauty.
Evening: West Street in Yangshuo
- Nightlife: In West Street, Yangshuo’s bustling hub, explore the lively night market, try street food, and soak in the vibrant local culture. The street is filled with bars, handmade crafts, and delicious snacks, making it the perfect place to experience the region’s culture and nightlife.
When planning your trip, keep an eye on the weather and select activities based on your interests.
Practical Travel Information for the Li River
If you’re planning a trip to the Li River, the following practical travel information is a must-read.
Local Cultural Experiences
The Li River regularly hosts cultural activities that provide you with deeper insights into the history and culture of the river’s region. By participating, you can enjoy the natural beauty and humanistic charm of the Li River, making your trip even more colorful.
Li River Fishing Fire Festival
- Time: Held during specific times each year, this festival showcases the traditional fishing culture of Li River fishermen.
- Experience: Watch fishermen light small lamps on their boats to attract fish—a unique and ancient fishing method. You can also enjoy traditional folk performances and local operas, fully immersing yourself in the local culture.
Yangshuo West Street Night Market & Handicrafts
- Best time to visit: Evening
- Experience: Stroll along West Street in Yangshuo, the cultural and commercial hub of the area, where the night market is bustling. You can sample local snacks such as Yangshuo rice noodles and oil tea, or shop for handcrafted items like bamboo weavings and embroidered balls, experiencing the charm of local artisanship.
Folk Performances in Xingping Ancient Town
- Best time to visit: All day
- Experience: In Xingping Ancient Town, you can explore ancient buildings and appreciate the town’s rustic tranquility. Folk performances, including mountain songs and ethnic dances, are regularly held, giving you a close-up look at the culture of the Li River region.
Calligraphy and Painting at Li River Art Academy
- Location: Li River Art Academy
- Experience: Participate in a calligraphy and painting workshop at the academy, where local artists teach the basics of Chinese painting. You can try your hand at painting the mountains and rivers of the Li River using traditional brush and rice paper techniques, immersing yourself in Chinese cultural heritage.
Rock Climbing in Yangshuo
- Location: Karst peaks around Yangshuo
- Experience: Rock climbing in Yangshuo blends nature with sport. Under the guidance of professional instructors, you can climb the unique karst peaks, experiencing both the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature. Rock climbing also offers a unique way to learn about Yangshuo’s geography and natural environment.
Local Food Recommendations
No trip is complete without tasting local delicacies. Let’s explore the must-try dishes of the Li River region.
Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉)
Guilin rice noodles are a famous local snack, renowned for their unique preparation process and delicious taste. The noodles are smooth and tender, served with a flavorful broth and various toppings like pickled beans, braised beef, and crispy intestines. The rich flavors will leave you craving more.
Yangshuo Beer Fish (阳朔啤酒鱼)
A signature dish of Yangshuo, beer fish is made from fresh river fish cooked with beer, chili, and garlic. The fish is tender, and the beer adds a subtle fragrance that enhances the natural sweetness of the fish. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting the area.
Bamboo Rice (竹筒饭)
Bamboo rice is a specialty of the Li River region. Selected rice and ingredients are placed inside bamboo tubes and slowly grilled over charcoal. The rice absorbs the bamboo’s fragrance, giving it a unique and delicious taste.
Li River Snails (漓江田螺)
Li River snails are caught from the river and stir-fried with chili, garlic, and ginger. The snails are tender and full of flavor, offering a spicy and savory taste. This dish not only reflects the natural bounty of the Li River but is also a local culinary favorite.
Oil Tea (油茶)
A traditional drink from the Guilin area, oil tea is made by frying tea leaves, ginger, and peanuts together, then crushing them and steeping in boiling water. It has a rich, slightly spicy flavor and is known for its refreshing properties. Paired with local rice cakes or pickled vegetables, it’s the perfect breakfast or afternoon tea choice.
Water Chestnut Cake (马蹄糕)
Water chestnut cake is a traditional Guilin dessert made from water chestnut flour. The cake has a chewy texture, is mildly sweet, and is filled with crunchy pieces of water chestnut. Its translucent appearance and refreshing taste make it a great way to sample local desserts.
Best Time to Visit the Li River
The optimal time to visit the Li River and Guilin is from April to October each year. During this period, you can enjoy the lush greenery along the riverbanks and fresh air, while avoiding the crowded peak travel season. However, it’s recommended to plan your trip outside of China’s public holidays for a more peaceful and comfortable experience.
Photography Tips for the Li River
The Li River attracts many photography enthusiasts with its unique karst landscapes and scenic views. To help you capture the essence of the Li River, here are some professional photography tips.
Best Times for Photography
- Early morning and late afternoon: These times offer soft, diffused light that enhances the contrast and color gradients in the scenery, making them the ideal periods for capturing the Li River’s landscapes.
Recommended Photography Spots
- Xiang Gong Mountain: Known as a “photographer’s paradise,” it offers an exceptional vantage point to capture the First Bend of the Li River and stunning sunrises.
- Da Mian Mountain: Perfect for panoramic shots of the Li River. A wide-angle lens will allow you to take in the grandeur of the scenery.
- Yellow Cloth Reflection: This spot is famous for the reflection of the landscape on the water. The best time to shoot is early morning or late afternoon, when the sun creates a beautiful reflection on the water’s surface.
Photography Techniques
- Lighting: Utilize the soft light of the morning and evening to produce more harmonious and visually appealing photographs.
- Composition: Techniques such as the rule of thirds and symmetry can create more balanced and engaging images.
- Shutter Speed: When photographing flowing water, use a slower shutter speed to create a smooth, silky effect, adding a dynamic element to your photos.
- Post-processing: Adjusting parameters like color, contrast, and saturation during post-processing can make your photos more vivid and striking.
Essential Packing List
When planning your Li River trip, here’s a recommended packing list to ensure you have everything you need:
Personal Documents & Travel Papers
- ID card
- Passport (for international travelers)
- Travel insurance documents
- Booking confirmations (for hotels, transportation, etc.)
Clothing & Gear
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Long-sleeve clothing and pants to protect against insect bites
- Lightweight jacket for cooler nights
- Rain gear, such as a foldable umbrella or light raincoat
- Swimsuit (if planning to take part in water activities)
- Change of clothes and underwear
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Photography Equipment
- Camera, lenses, and spare batteries
- Tripod (for stable shots and night photography)
- Memory cards
- Cleaning kit, including lens cloth and air blower
Health & Safety
- Common medications, such as cold medicine, motion sickness pills, and band-aids
- Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and body wash
- First aid kit
- Insect repellent
Travel Accessories
- Power bank and chargers
- Cables and adapters
- Backpack or travel bag for carrying personal items
- Waterproof bag to protect electronics from moisture
- Maps, guidebooks, or a downloaded travel app
Finances & Payments
- Cash
- Credit or debit card
- Small change for tips or minor purchases
Other Recommendations
- Bring snacks and water based on your preferences
- Consider carrying some local currency for use in remote areas
- Respect local customs and consider bringing small local gifts
Make sure to tailor this checklist to your specific needs and travel plans, and double-check everything before departure to avoid leaving behind essential items.
Travel Safety Tips
While enjoying the natural beauty, safety should always come first. Here are some safety guidelines to ensure a pleasant and secure trip to the Li River:
- Check the weather: Before departing, stay informed about weather forecasts and safety warnings from relevant authorities, especially for hazardous weather. Adjust your itinerary accordingly.
- Follow safety regulations: Always adhere to safety signs and warnings at tourist sites. Do not enter restricted areas or engage in risky activities.
- Choose appropriate activities: Participate in activities like rafting or rock climbing cautiously, and only under the supervision of professional guides.
- Keep your valuables safe: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. Store them in a hotel safe and keep your belongings within sight.
- Health protection: Depending on the season and region, bring personal protective gear, necessary medication, and documents. Pay attention to food hygiene to prevent illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea.
- Respect local customs: Be a responsible traveler by respecting cultural heritage, avoiding graffiti, taking care of public facilities, and observing local customs.
Conclusion
The Li River is a destination that truly captivates the heart and is waiting for you to explore. Here, every step is a painting, and every breath feels like poetry. Let’s embark on a journey to the Li River, to discover, explore, and experience the joy and freedom of being a traveler.
Start planning your trip to the Li River today! Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, the Li River is a destination you can’t afford to miss. Not only will you capture stunning landscapes in your photos, but you’ll also ignite a deeper passion for life and a thirst for new experiences.
