Daxu Ancient Town

What are the most recommended things to do in Daxu Ancient Town?

Walk along the ancient bluestone street to admire Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.
Visit Longevity Bridge (Chengyang Bridge) to enjoy river views and local scenery.
Explore traditional shops and family museums that preserve old crafts and antiques.
Take a boat ride on the Li River for a peaceful experience and great photo opportunities.
Enjoy local Guilin snacks such as rice noodles and glutinous rice cakes sold by street vendors.

Introducing Daxu Ancient Town

Daxu Ancient Town is located on the east bank of the Li River, southeast of Fuzi Rock and north of Mopan Mountain, 23 kilometers from Guilin. It is one of the four ancient "Wei Towns" in Guangxi. Founded in 200 AD, Daxu Ancient Town's ancient streets stretch for 2 kilometers along the Li River. The narrow streets are paved with bluestone slabs, and well-preserved old houses are lined on both sides.

The residential buildings in Daxu Town are low in the south and high in the north, built along the river and against the mountain. Most of them are three- or four-courtyard buildings, connecting to the docks and alleys outside and the ancient commercial street inside.

Climate and best time to travel

Daxu Ancient Town has a subtropical monsoon climate with a relatively mild climate, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Daxu Ancient Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Daxu Ancient Town, located on the east bank of the Li River about 20 km south of Guilin, dates back over 1,000 years to the early Song Dynasty. It was once a major commercial hub along the river and an important distribution center in Guangxi. The town’s well-preserved architecture, old wharves, and traditional customs reflect its historic prosperity and the cultural essence of ancient southern China.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Location: Daxu Town, Lingchuan County, Guilin City, Guangxi Province.
From Guilin City: Take Bus 306 or 307 to Daxu Ancient Town (around 40 minutes), or hire a taxi/ride-share (about 30 minutes).
Private tours from Guilin are also available and often include a stop at Crown Cave nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open all day; best visited between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Morning visits are recommended for a quieter experience and better photography light.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to Daxu Ancient Town is free. Some private family museums or traditional houses may charge a small fee (5–10 RMB), payable on-site in cash or mobile payment.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required. Walk-in visits are welcome at any time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow 2–3 hours to explore the ancient streets, visit traditional homes, and enjoy local food. Add an extra hour if combining with a Li River boat ride.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The Old Bluestone Street lined with ancient wooden houses.
Longevity Bridge over the Li River.
Old Docks and Wharf area where trading boats once arrived.
Traditional family museums, such as Huang Family Hall and Li Family Courtyard.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guides are available at the entrance or through Guilin tour agencies, mostly in Chinese. English-speaking guides can be prearranged in Guilin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The riverside near Longevity Bridge for panoramic Li River views.
The old street lined with wooden buildings and hanging red lanterns.
High points near the bridge during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main gate → walk along the bluestone street → visit Longevity Bridge → explore family museums and antique shops → enjoy local snacks → take a riverside walk before returning.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The town is open at night but generally quiet. There are no organized light shows, but the lantern-lit streets in the evening create a peaceful atmosphere.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends and holidays can be busy with domestic tourists.
Weekdays and early mornings are the best times to avoid crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets are located near the entrance and main street.
Several teahouses, snack stalls, and small restaurants along the street.
Souvenir shops and handicraft stalls selling local products.
Benches and shaded areas along the riverside for resting.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The bluestone street is uneven and slightly slippery when wet, so caution is needed for elderly and disabled visitors. Children can visit safely under supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; some small stalls may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries serving Guilin rice noodles, fried river fish, and glutinous rice cakes.
Teahouses offering a traditional Chinese tea experience with river views.