It's not that Guilin is unaffordable, but that Sanmenhai offers better value for money. Tired of crowded tourist hotspots and craving a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure? Don't hesitate—

It's not that Guilin is unaffordable, but that Sanmenhai offers better value for money.

Tired of crowded tourist hotspots and craving a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure? Don't hesitate—come to Sanmenhai! This hidden gem boasts world-class scenery at an incredibly affordable price, making it a high-value travel destination.

1. Highlights of the Scenic Area

Sanmenhai Scenic Area is located in Fengshan County, Hechi City, Guangxi, and is a core area of the world's karst landforms, renowned as the "Karst World Geopark." Here, mountains, water, caves, and sky blend seamlessly. Take a boat ride through the area and experience the magical "mountains with seas and doors above the water"—a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

2. Itinerary Suggestions

- Morning: Arrive at the scenic area and purchase tickets (approximately 98 RMB per person, including boat fare; students enjoy half-price discounts with valid ID). Start early to avoid crowds. Board the boat for a mesmerizing cave exploration, passing through three "sky windows." The first window bathes the lake in dreamy Tiffany blue—perfect for photos. The second window features stunning stalactites illuminated like a crystal palace. The third window has a natural stone bridge—make a wish as you pass through!
- Noon: Enjoy local cuisine at nearby farmhouse restaurants. Try hemp seed soup (creamy with a hint of bitterness) or sour fish soup (spicy and appetizing). Don’t miss the fragrant five-color sticky rice!
- Afternoon: Take a short break before hiking along the riverside trail. Reach the first viewpoint in about 20 minutes for a panoramic view of the seven sky windows, arranged like the Big Dipper. Continue to Feilong Cave (free entry) to see stalactites resembling dragon claws. Adventurous travelers can explore the undeveloped Mawang Cave (guide required) with its underground river and sinkholes.

3. Transportation Guide

- Self-drive: Navigate to "Sanmenhai Scenic Area"—about 30 minutes from Fengshan County. Enjoy the karst landscapes, but drive carefully on winding mountain roads.
- Public transport: From Hechi’s Jinchengjiang Station, take a bus to Fengshan County, then transfer to Sanmenhai. Alternatively, fly to Nanning or Guiyang and take a bus to Fengshan.

4. Accommodation Recommendations

- Scenic area homestays: Shouyuan Holiday Apartment (around 200 RMB/day, including meals, 5-minute walk to the dock) or Xingfu Jiayang Wellness Apartment (250 RMB/day, all meals included).
- County hotels: For comfort, try Vienna International Hotel in Fengshan; for budget options, City Comfort Inn is a great choice.

5. Photography Tips

- Golden hours: 9–11 AM for peacock-blue waters under direct sunlight; 6–7 PM for sunset-lit cliffs.
- Best shots: Use HDR on your phone to capture "sky window light beams," wide-angle shots of the "seven-star" sky windows from the viewpoint, or silhouette shots at Feilong Cave’s entrance.

6. Important Notes

- Crowds: Arrive early during peak seasons (e.g., Labor Day, National Day) to avoid long queues.
- Hiking gear: Wear non-slip shoes (caves are wet) and bring mosquito repellent in summer.
- Eco-rules: No smoking, littering, or swimming in the underground river (protected area).
- Drones: Obtain permission from management before flying.

Visit Sanmenhai for an unforgettable, budget-friendly adventure—your unique exploration awaits!