Exploring Xingping Ancient Town: A Poetic Journey Along the Li River

In Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi, Xingping Ancient Town stands like a rustic pearl along the Li River. With its rich history, unique karst landscape, and picturesque Li River scenery, it attracts countless visitors seeking tranquility and antiquity. Here's a carefully prepared travel guide to help you discover the unique charm of this thousand-year-old town. Preparation 4. Documents: Bring your ID card for hotel check-in and ticket purchases (if needed). 5. Clothing: Guilin has a mild climate with distinct seasons. Spring - pack a light jacket for changeable weather; Summer - wear light, breathable clothes and bring sun protection items including UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen; Fall - pleasant weather but cool mornings and evenings, bring a long-sleeve top; Winter - relatively cold, pack warm clothes including thick cotton clothing, scarves, and gloves. 6. Other items: Comfortable sneakers are essential for walking around the town. Photography enthusiasts should bring cameras with extra batteries and memory cards to capture the town's scenery. Pack adequate water and light snacks for energy, and rain gear just in case. How to Get There 4. Bus: Frequent buses run from Yangshuo South Bus Station to Xingping every 15-20 minutes. The fare is about CNY 10, and the journey takes about 35 minutes. 5. Self-driving: Convenient and flexible, simply set your navigation to Xingping Ancient Town. Parking lots are available nearby, with fees ranging from CNY 10-20 per day. 6. Li River cruise: From Guilin, take a Li River cruise downstream to Xingping Ancient Town's dock. This allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along both banks. Ticket prices vary by boat type and route, with standard boats around CNY 215 and luxury boats around CNY 360. Must-Visit Attractions 5. Xingping Old Street: The core area of the town features numerous Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. The weathered walls and ancient doors exude historical charm. Walking here feels like stepping back in time. Entry is free, and you can shop for souvenirs and try local snacks at various specialty stores. 6. 20 Yuan Note Scenic Spot: This is the exact view featured on the 20 Yuan banknote. From the viewing platform, you'll see the perfect match between the scenery and the banknote image - rolling mountains, winding Li River, and bamboo rafts floating by. Visitors can take photos at this free attraction. 7. Xingping Section of Li River: Known as the essence of Li River scenery. Take a bamboo raft downstream to see unique peaks resembling various shapes, like camels crossing the river or a child bowing to Guanyin. Raft tickets cost about CNY 118 per person (prices may vary), and the trip takes about 40 minutes. 8. Laozhai Mountain: Located beside the Li River, it offers panoramic views of both the river and town. A 30-40 minute steep climb leads to the summit, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Li River winding around the town amid karst peaks. Climbing is free but exercise caution on the rugged path. Special Experiences 3. Li River Cormorant Fishing Show: At night, watch traditional fishing performances on the Xingping section. Fishermen wearing bamboo hats and straw capes light up their rafts while trained cormorants catch fish. The fishing lights twinkle on the water, creating a mystical atmosphere against the night scenery. Check locally for show times and prices (CNY 50-100 per person). 4. Traditional Handicraft Making: Some craft shops offer hands-on experiences like painting round fans or making bamboo crafts. Create unique souvenirs under local artisans' guidance. Experience fees vary by activity, typically CNY 30-80 per person. Local Specialties 4. Beer Fish: A must-try local dish. Fresh Li River fish is cooked with beer instead of water, resulting in tender meat infused with malty flavors and special sauce. Prices range from CNY 40-80 depending on fish type and size. 5. Stuffed River Snails: River snail meat is minced with pork and spices, then stuffed back into the shells and cooked. This local specialty combines the freshness of snails with savory meat filling. CNY 15-25 per serving. 6. Mugwort Rice Cakes: Made with young mugwort leaves and glutinous rice flour, available with sweet (sesame, peanut) or savory (pickled vegetables, green beans) fillings. These soft, fragrant cakes aid digestion. CNY 2-3 each. Accommodation Recommendations 4. Luxury: - Yangshuo Sugar House Hotel: Riverside location in a converted sugar mill, featuring unique industrial-modern design. Spacious rooms, luxury amenities, multiple restaurants, bars, and swimming pool. CNY 1,500-3,000 per night. 5. Budget-Friendly: - Xingping Youth Hostel: Conveniently located near Old Street. Clean dorms and double rooms ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. CNY 50-150 per person per night. 6. Boutique Experience: - Xingping Guesthouses: Various traditional-style guesthouses in town, CNY 200-800 per night. Many preserve traditional architecture with elegant decor and views of the river or town streets. Itinerary and Tips 3. Two-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Arrive and check in. Lunch at local restaurants trying beer fish and stuffed snails. Afternoon: explore Old Street, visit the 20 Yuan viewpoint. Evening: stroll through town and watch the cormorant fishing show. - Day 2: Climb Laozhai Mountain for sunrise. Breakfast with local snacks including mugwort cakes. Morning bamboo raft tour on Li River. Check out after lunch and depart, possibly visiting other Yangshuo attractions en route. 4. Travel Tips: - Wear life jackets and follow staff instructions during bamboo rafting. Secure personal belongings. - Check cormorant fishing show schedules and dress warmly for evening performances. - Follow safety guidelines during handicraft experiences. - Choose reputable restaurants and be mindful of prices when buying souvenirs. - Wear appropriate footwear for Laozhai Mountain and don't litter. - Check weather forecasts, pack accordingly, and respect local customs. Xingping Ancient Town awaits your discovery along the Li River. Come explore its ancient streets, admire the river scenery, savor local cuisine, and experience the town's tranquil charm. Start your poetic and historical journey in Xingping Ancient Town today!