Embark on an enchanting journey as we set off at a designated morning hour to conquer the majestic Xianggong Mountain, a mere 20-minute climb to the summit where the first bend of the Li River unfolds before your eyes, a panorama that captures the essence of Guilin's landscape. This is the heart of the Li River, surrounded by the karst peaks, the river itself, and the villages, presenting a unique perspective of Guilin's scenery.
Next, we glide on a bamboo raft along the Li River, where reflections of the mountains dance in the clear waters, and the banks are adorned with cattle and cormorants, creating an idyllic scene reminiscent of a fairyland.
We then step back in time as we explore Xingping Ancient Town, the backdrop of the 20-yuan note, a tranquil town that has preserved its historical charm for over 1700 years, a place where time slows down and the beauty of a jade belt of clear waters is revealed.
From the comfort of our vehicle, we admire the Ten-Mile Gallery, the first colored road in Yangshuo County, the core scenic belt of Yangshuo, as if we are witnessing the slow unveiling of a Chinese landscape painting scroll.
The most anticipated part of our journey is the Yulong River scenery, where we opt for a leisurely bike ride, allowing us to pause and explore the over 1400-year-old Jiuxian Ancient Village, untouched by excessive development and surrounded by fields.
A unique arrangement awaits us at the General's Mansion, a coffee corner by the rice paddies, where we can enjoy a peaceful holiday amidst the tranquility of the rural setting, with the backdrop of brick houses and the gentle rise of cooking smoke, a true taste of the local life.
As evening falls, we make our way to the West Street, a historic street with a history of over 1400 years, where the 400-meter-long bluestone path exudes a classical charm, perfect for a leisurely stroll and savoring the atmosphere.
