Hidden Treasures in a Timeless Town

Nestled along the banks of the Li River in the town of Daxu, Guangxi, Antique Shop offers a window into China’s storied past. Located in Lingchuan County, just an hour’s drive from Guilin city, this gem sits at the heart of Daxu Ancient Town—a place where cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture blend with the rhythms of modern life.

How to Get There

Reaching Antique Shop is part of the adventure! From Guilin, you can hop on a local bus (around ¥15) or rent a bike to pedal alongside the Li River’s scenic route. For a more relaxed journey, taxis or ride-sharing apps like Didi cost about ¥100. Once in Daxu, follow the stone-paved lanes; the shop’s wooden sign, carved with traditional characters, stands out amidst the town’s rustic charm.

A Town Shaped by Nature

Daxu thrives where nature and history collide. The Antique Shop lies just steps from the Li River, where mist-covered karst mountains rise like ancient guardians. Early mornings here are magical—fog dances over the water, and fishermen row wooden boats, echoing scenes from classic Chinese paintings. Nearby, rice terraces cascade down hills, and willow trees bend toward the river, creating perfect spots for travelers to pause and soak in the tranquility.

Where History Lives on the Shelves

Inside Antique Shop, every nook brims with stories. The owner, a witty elder with a twinkle in his eye, has traveled across China to curate a wild collection of “treasures.” You’ll find Qing Dynasty vases stacked next to Soviet-era propaganda posters, and intricate embroidered jackets from the 1920s sharing space with curious brass compasses. Each item comes with a tale—like the carved wooden screen once owned by a retired scholar or the rusty typewriter salvaged from a 1950s newspaper office. Bargaining is part of the fun; the owner laughs easily as you haggle over a Gilded Buddha statue or a tattered but charming calligraphy scroll.

More Than Just Souvenirs

Beyond the shop’s eclectic wares, Daxu itself feels like a living museum. Stroll past Ming-era houses with upturned eaves, stop for hand-pulled noodles at a family-run stall, or visit the ancient pier where poets once composed verses. The town’s stone-arched bridge, said to date back 800 years, frames the Li River perfectly for sunset photos. If you’re lucky, you might catch a lion dance troupe rehearsing in the square—a nod to traditions that still pulse here.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Antique Shop isn’t your typical tourist trap. Bring cash (credit cards aren’t always accepted), and wear comfy shoes—the shop’s narrow stairs and uneven floors reward curiosity. Nearby, teahouses offer respite, while homestays run by local families let you experience Daxu’s slow pace after a day of exploration. For history buffs, pair your visit with the Ping An Village hike or a boat trip to Yangshuo, both within easy reach.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

What makes Antique Shop special? It’s not just the oddities on sale, but the chance to chat with a man who’s lived through China’s transformations. The owner’s stories—of finding a 19th-century opium pipe in a forgotten village or rescuing a Qianlong-era coin from a demolition site—bring history to life. And as you leave, don’t be surprised if you spot a Western traveler swapping tales with the owner, or a local grandma dropping by to admire the latest “find.” In a world of cookie-cutter attractions, Antique Shop stays refreshingly real.

Whether you’re hunting for a rare jade bracelet or simply love uncovering hidden corners of culture, this spot in Daxu promises a dose of wonder. Just remember: the best souvenirs here aren’t things—they’re the stories you’ll carry home.