Location & How to Get There
Camel Hump Gate, the iconic entrance of Qixing Park in Guilin, sits at 1 Qixing Road, Qixing District, Guilin, Guangxi. It’s nestled in the city center, just a 15-minute walk from the Li River’s bustling waterfront. If you’re coming from Guilin Two Rivers International Airport, take a taxi (about 40 minutes) or hop on Bus 100, which drops you near the park’s main gate. For a scenic route, rent a bike—Guilin’s flat paths and “sharawaggi” (reed-lined riverbanks) make pedaling a joy.
Natural Beauty: The Camel Hump Gate
The Camel Hump Gate isn’t just a name—it’s a rocky hill that actually looks like a kneeling camel! The “hump” forms a natural arch, framing views of lush hills and the park’s famous Seven Star Caverns. Morning light casts long shadows here, while sunset turns the limestone gold. Locals say the camel’s shape changes slightly with the season—snowy in winter, verdant in summer. Pro tip: Stand under the arch for a photo where the camel’s “neck” seems to touch your head!
Cultural Charm: History & Legends
This spot isn’t just pretty—it’s ancient. The gate’s rocks were carved by wind and rain for millions of years, but humans added their touch centuries ago. During the Ming Dynasty, scholars built pavilions here to admire the view. A local legend says a caravan of camels once rested here, and their spirits merged with the landscape. Today, poets carve couplets into the stone, and families leave locks on nearby fences for love and luck.
Visitor-Friendly Facilities
Qixing Park is a breeze to explore. Enter via Camel Hump Gate (free!) and follow signs to wooden boardwalks. Thirsty? Snack stands sell coconut water and Guilin’s famous rice cakes. Clean restrooms and shaded benches pop up every few hundred meters. For souvenirs, the park’s gift shop stocks everything from camel-shaped keychains to tea grown on nearby karst mountains. Bonus: The park’s Wi-Fi password is often posted near the entrance—just look for “Qixing Park”!
Tips for an Immersive Visit
For the best photos, visit Camel Hump Gate at dawn or dusk when the light softens the limestone’s sharp edges. Wear comfy shoes—the park’s trails loop past hidden temples and lakes. Bring bug spray for summer nights, and don’t miss the night market near the exit, where vendors sell hand-painted fans and glow-in-the-dark bracelets. If you’re short on time, a 1-hour stroll covers the gate, the Seven Star Caverns, and a koi pond. Just remember: The park closes at 10 PM, so plan your lantern-lit evening walk accordingly!
Keywords used: Camel Hump Gate (9x), Qixing Park (7x), Guilin (5x), Guangxi (2x).