Bamboo rafting on the Li River Xingping section (Chaobanshan Mashan Pier, electric bamboo rafts for a smooth ride, includes the 20 CNY background scenery and Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, 50-minute stop from 10:20-11:10); Dining time 12:00-12:40; Xingping Ancient Town (walking on stone-paved roads, visiting souvenir shops, experiencing the rustic charm, 1-hour stop from 12:50-13:50).
Xingping Ancient Town is located in the northeastern part of Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and is a thousand-year-old ancient town with a history of over 1,700 years.
Bamboo raft on the Xingping section of the Li River (Chaobanshan Mashan Pier, adult ticket: 120 CNY/person, child ticket: 60 CNY/person, free for children under 90cm);
Xingping Ancient Town is open to the public for free. The bamboo raft opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Note: Bamboo rafts require a minimum of 2 passengers (shared rafts available). Wear non-slip shoes, secure your belongings to prevent water accidents. Gratuities are optional and at your discretion.
Here is a detailed introduction about it:
Historical origins
Xingping Ancient Town was established in 265 AD during the Wu Kingdom of the Three Kingdoms period, originally serving as the administrative seat of Shang'an County. During the Jin Dynasty's Taishi era, Shang'an County was renamed Xiping County while retaining its administrative center. In 590 AD during the Sui Dynasty, Xiping County was abolished and reorganized into Yangshuo County. Over time, the name "Xiping" gradually evolved into "Xingping" through colloquial usage. With a history spanning over 1,700 years, the town preserves its ancient heritage to this day.
Natural Views and Travel Features
Yellow Cloth Reflection: Named after the riverbed's beige stone slabs resembling a spread yellow cloth, it is the crown jewel of the Li River and the scenic backdrop for the 20-yuan note in China's fifth series of RMB. At dawn when mist lingers, the reflection of peaks and fishing boats dotting the river creates a scene like an ink-wash painting.
Nine Horses Fresco Hill: The natural horse-shaped patterns on the cliff face showcase nature's extraordinary craftsmanship. Standing approximately 400 meters tall and 200 meters wide by the river, the colorful rock wall resembles a giant painted screen from afar, making it a landmark attraction along the Li River.
Presidential Fishing Village: Sun Yat-sen landed here in 1921. After President Clinton's visit in 1998, the ancient town gained further fame. The fishing village retains its rustic charm and is an excellent place to experience local folk customs.
5. Red Culture and Historical Memory
Xingping Ancient Town was the activity area of the Linyang Allied Forces during the Anti-Japanese War. In 1942, the Linyang Allied Forces was established in Xingping, using the Li River as a battlefield to sink Japanese ships and seize large quantities of supplies, becoming a key force in the anti-Japanese resistance in northeastern Guangxi. The ancient town still preserves relics and stories related to the war today.
6. Travel Experience and Surrounding Facilities
The ancient town features Xingping Pier, where travelers can take a bamboo raft or cruise to explore the highlights of the Li River while enjoying the picturesque landscape along the way. Nearby attractions such as the Sanqianli Scenic Resort, Xianggong Mountain, and Laozhai Mountain offer travelers a variety of tourism options.
The ancient town and its surrounding areas feature various restaurants, inns, and souvenir shops, forming a well-developed tourism service system. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies such as Yangshuo rice noodles, beer fish, and Li River shrimp, as well as purchase unique souvenirs with local characteristics.
Xingping Ancient Town, with its profound historical and cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and unique travel experiences, attracts numerous domestic and international visitors for sightseeing. It is an essential part of Guilin's landscape tourism.
