Xilin County

What are the most recommended things to do in Xilin County?

  • Explore the scenic natural landscapes, including rivers, hills, and forests around Xilin County.
  • Visit local ethnic villages to experience Zhuang and other minority cultures.
  • Hiking and trekking in the surrounding hills and nature reserves.
  • Photography of lush landscapes, traditional architecture, and local festivals.
  • Experience local cuisine at markets and small eateries in town.
  • Attend seasonal cultural events and traditional performances if visiting during festivals.

Introducing Xilin County

Xilin County, under the jurisdiction of Baise City in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is located at the westernmost tip of the region, at the junction of Guangxi, Yunnan, and Guizhou provinces (regions). Home to 14 ethnic groups, including Zhuang, Han, Miao, and Yao, ethnic minorities make up 90% of the county's population, and Xilin County enjoys the status of an ethnic autonomous county. The "Father Ma Incident" (also known as the "Xilin Incident"), the catalyst for the Second Opium War, occurred in Xilin County. Furthermore, Xilin County, Baise City, known as the hometown of Chinese tangerines, is also renowned for its Muscovy duck.

Climate and best time to travel

No severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Xilin County is rich in tourism resources, including the Wanfeng Lake Scenic Area, the Bawan Water Source Cave, the Zhoubang Cave Group, the Nalaocen Family Building Complex, the ancient commercial port of Daxia, the ancient town of Huocha, etc., as well as cultural landscapes such as the ancient Jucheng Kingdom bronze coffin, the bronze drum relics bronze coffin, and the bronze drum.

Local specialties include tung oil, tea oil, roasted ginger, Job's tears, tea, black fungus, chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, hawthorn, flue-cured tobacco, ganoderma, yam, Polygonum multiflorum, and wild smilax. The Xilin water buffalo is one of 13 nationally recognized fine buffalo breeds, and the yellow cattle is one of three fine breeds in Guangxi. Xilin Mallard and black-bone chicken are excellent local poultry breeds.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Xilin County

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

Xilin County is a culturally rich area in Baise, Guangxi, with a significant population of ethnic minorities, particularly the Zhuang people. It is known for its natural beauty, traditional villages, and folk customs, making it an important site for cultural preservation and eco-tourism.

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

Xilin County is located in Baise, Guangxi Province. It can be reached by bus or taxi from Baise city. Local taxis and walking are common for exploring villages and scenic areas within the county.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Scenic areas are generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes.

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

Most natural and cultural sites in Xilin County have low entrance fees, typically around 20–50 RMB. Tickets can be bought offline at the entrance, and some popular scenic spots may allow online booking through official tourism platforms.

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

Booking is optional for most attractions but recommended during weekends and holidays. Booking 1–2 days in advance is sufficient for popular sites.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full day is sufficient for visiting main scenic spots, cultural villages, and enjoying local cuisine.

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

  • Ethnic minority villages showcasing Zhuang culture
  • Rivers, hills, and forested areas for hiking
  • Local markets and traditional craft workshops
  • Scenic viewpoints for photography

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English or other language services are limited and may require arranging in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Hilltops overlooking rivers and valleys
  • Traditional village streets and houses
  • Local markets and festival areas for cultural shots
  • Forest trails and waterfalls

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with an ethnic village visit in the morning, followed by hiking in nearby scenic hills, then explore markets and local eateries in the afternoon. End with sunset views at rivers or hilltops.

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

Night visits are generally limited. Special cultural performances may occur during festivals, but light shows are uncommon.

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

Weekdays and off-peak seasons are least crowded. Holidays and weekends attract more tourists, especially in cultural villages.

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

Facilities include public toilets, small eateries, water stations, resting areas, and souvenir shops in key villages and scenic spots.

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

Most village areas and lowland scenic spots are accessible, but hiking trails and some hill viewpoints may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and small cafes offer regional Guangxi cuisine, often near village centers or main scenic spots.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants. Halal options may be limited but can be found in certain eateries in town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, budget hotels, and small inns are available in Xilin County town and near major scenic areas.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Nearby rivers and forested areas for nature walks
  • Other Baise scenic spots and cultural villages
  • Local craft workshops and markets

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell traditional crafts, textiles, Zhuang jewelry, and local food products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Buses and taxis connect Xilin County to Baise city and neighboring counties. Private car rentals or tour services are convenient for reaching remote villages and scenic spots.