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Xingping Ancient Town is famous for its stunning riverside views and well-preserved ancient architecture. Visitors can take a boat ride along the Li River to enjoy the picturesque karst mountain landscape, explore the town's traditional streets, and visit local markets. The ancient town is also known for its historical sites like the Xingping Old Town, which offers a glimpse into the local culture. Photography enthusiasts can capture the beautiful scenery and ancient buildings, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Located on the east bank of the Li River, where the river meanders and turns, Xingping is home to the design on the back of the 20-yuan RMB. After rafting the highlights of the Li River, you can visit this area. Compared to the bustling West Street, Xingping's quaint, polished bluestone slabs embody the authentic character of Yangshuo.
Xingping boasts eight scenic areas, including Jiumahua Mountain, Luoshui Mountain, Lianhua Rock, and Tianshui Village, and over 20 scenic spots. Clinton's visit to Xingping Fishing Village has drawn numerous tourists, both Chinese and international, to the area. While you're there, don't forget to try Xingping's famous "Songhua Candy." The lustrous, brownish-yellow candy is crispy, with dense grains, a sweet and fragrant aroma, and melts in your mouth.
March-October
1-3 hours
Entrance is free, but the entrance fee to the fishing village is 10 yuan per person.
Monday to Sunday, January 1st to December 31st: 08:30-17:30
Xingping Ancient Town is a historic town with a history dating back over 1,000 years. It played an important role as a trading center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The town is situated along the Li River, which has made it a significant location for agriculture, trade, and tourism. It is known for its traditional buildings and narrow lanes that reflect the rich culture and architecture of the region.
Xingping Ancient Town is located in Yangshuo County, in the Guilin region of Guangxi Province. It is approximately 70 kilometers from Guilin, and can be accessed by bus, taxi, or private car. From Guilin, buses and taxis are available to take you to the town, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once in Xingping, the town is easily navigable on foot.
Xingping Ancient Town is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is most vibrant. The Li River’s beauty is particularly striking in the early morning and late afternoon, so these times are ideal for boat tours and photography.
There is no entrance fee to visit Xingping Ancient Town itself. However, boat tours along the Li River require a ticket, which typically costs between 150 and 300 CNY depending on the type of boat. Tickets can be purchased directly at the pier or through local travel agencies. It is advisable to buy tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets for boat tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons (Spring Festival, Golden Week, etc.). It’s best to book at least a few days ahead to secure your spot, particularly if you plan to go on a popular boat tour.
You will need about 2-4 hours to explore the main attractions in Xingping Ancient Town, including the boat ride on the Li River, wandering through the town's historic streets, and visiting local markets and temples. If you want to take more time to explore nearby villages or do additional hikes, you could spend a whole day in the area.
The must-see highlights include the Li River boat cruise, where you can admire the famous karst mountains. The Xingping Old Town itself is a highlight, with its ancient streets and traditional architecture. Don't miss the panoramic viewpoint at the top of Xiang Gong Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the Li River and surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available and can be booked in advance. These tours are generally in Mandarin, but some guides may speak English. Audio guides may also be available at some tourist sites or provided through local hotels or tour agencies. English-speaking tours can be arranged with a private guide.
The best viewpoints for photography are at the top of Xiang Gong Mountain, where you can capture panoramic views of the Li River and karst peaks. The boat ride along the Li River offers numerous opportunities for stunning photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is perfect.
A recommended route is to start with a morning boat tour along the Li River, followed by a walk through Xingping Old Town to explore its narrow alleys, traditional houses, and local markets. In the afternoon, hike up Xiang Gong Mountain for panoramic views. You can also visit local tea plantations or enjoy a bicycle ride through nearby scenic areas.
Night visits are not particularly common in Xingping, as the area is more suited to daytime activities. However, you can enjoy a peaceful evening walk through the ancient town or along the river. Light shows are not typically held in Xingping, but nearby Yangshuo does have evening light shows, such as the famous "Impression Liu Sanjie" show, which features a stunning water and light performance.
Xingping Ancient Town can get crowded, especially during public holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit during the off-season (autumn or winter) or on weekdays. Early mornings are the least crowded times to visit the town and take a boat ride on the Li River.
There are basic facilities in the town, including public toilets, food stalls, and small shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. For more options, head to the nearby town of Yangshuo, which has a wider range of restaurants, cafes, and more comprehensive facilities.
Xingping Ancient Town is largely pedestrian, and while it is accessible for children and the elderly, the steep climb to Xiang Gong Mountain might not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Boat rides are a good alternative for those who prefer less walking. However, disabled access to some areas of the town may be limited.
Cash is still commonly used in Xingping, especially in small shops and food stalls. However, mobile payments via Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and cards can be used at some larger establishments and hotels.
There are several small local restaurants and cafes in Xingping offering traditional Guangxi dishes, such as rice noodles, fish, and grilled meats. If you're looking for more dining options, Yangshuo, a nearby town, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to international tastes.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in local restaurants, primarily consisting of rice, vegetables, tofu, and noodles. Halal food may be limited, but some restaurants in Yangshuo cater to halal dietary requirements.
There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in Xingping, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more upscale accommodations, you can head to Yangshuo, which has a wider selection of hotels, including international chains and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the famous Yulong River, Moon Hill, and the "Impression Liu Sanjie" light show in Yangshuo. You can also visit the Fuli Ancient Town, known for its traditional architecture and ancient art, as well as the Longji Rice Terraces, located a few hours from Guilin.
Souvenir shops in Xingping sell traditional Guangxi handicrafts, including woven items, embroidery, tea, and local artwork. Pu'er tea and silk products are popular souvenirs. In Yangshuo, you'll find a wider variety of souvenirs, including Western-style goods.
After visiting Xingping, you can continue your trip by bus or taxi to Yangshuo, which is about 30 minutes away. From Yangshuo, buses or taxis are available to take you to Guilin or other parts of Guangxi Province.
