Guilin
... is known chiefly for its spectacular setting on the Lijiang River and its beautiful historic buildings.
Guilin's scenic splendour is difficult to comprehend. Large emerald-green limestone karsts seemingly float on the Li River, whose natural beauty and historic treasures combine to create a magical landscape.
Its symbol is Elephant Trunk Hill [Xiangbi], which really does look like a giant elephant dipping its trunk in the water to drink. It was a sacred place and there are ancient inscriptions carved in and around the moon-shaped cave under the elephant's 'throat'. The Puxian Pagoda stands at the top of the hill. It too has many inscriptions from the Tang and Song Dynasties. Another highlight created by the action of water on the limestone of the area is the Reed Flute Cave [Lu Di Yan], with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Slitary Beauty Peak [Wangfu] is also worth a visit, while Seven Star Park has a decent geological museum.
Near the centre of the city lies the Tomb of Prince Jingjiang, which epitomises the wealth enjoyed by the area during the Ming Dynasty. The best place to head to get a flavour of the culture that many different people have bought to the region is the Li River Folk Customs Centre.
Loading special offers... Please wait.
It can take up to 30 seconds to load the offers.
