Location & How to Get There

Chuanshan Stone is nestled in the Chuanshan Park area of Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It’s super easy to reach—just 5 km south of Guilin city center. If you’re coming from the train station, hop on Bus 10 or Bus 32, both of which drop you right near the park entrance. Alternatively, grab a taxi (about 15 RMB from downtown) or rent a bike; the park has smooth paths and signs in English.

Natural Beauty: A Slice of Guilin’s Fame

Guilin’s landscapes are famous for their karst peaks, and Chuanshan Stone is no exception. The park centers around a towering limestone hill with a natural hole through its base, like a giant rock sculpture. Climb up to the Moon Bridge for a postcard view of the Li River winding through the hills. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the stone, while morning mist adds a mystical vibe. Don’t miss the “Mile-Long Art Gallery”—a riverside trail where local artists sell paintings of Guilin’s iconic scenes.

Cultural Treasure: The Carvings on Chuanshan Stone

The real star here is the Chuanshan Stone inscription, a massive cliff carved with ancient poems and calligraphy. These date back over 800 years to the Song Dynasty, when scholars would carve their work into the rock. One famous piece reads, “A river flows through mountains like silk”—a nod to Guilin’s otherworldly scenery. Even if you don’t get Chinese, the elegant brushstrokes and scale of the carvings (some as tall as a person!) feel deeply historic. Look closely: the stone’s texture makes each character look like it’s part of the mountain itself.

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Wear

The park is compact but hilly, so wear comfy shoes! Bring sunscreen, especially if you plan to hike the “Small West Peak” trail. There’s a decent-sized gift shop with custom fan art and tiny carved replicas of Chuanshan Stone. For snacks, the on-site café serves bubble tea and mooncakes, but the nearby “Restaurant at the Edge of the World” (walk 10 mins) has killer views over the Li River.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

Avoid the crowds by exploring the “Secret Garden” path behind Chuanshan Stone. It leads to a bamboo grove where locals practice tai chi. On weekends, street performers sometimes play traditional instruments near the Moon Bridge. If you visit during the Guilin Lantern Festival (check dates online!), the park glows with hundreds of lanterns hanging from the trees—perfect for Instagram.

Why You’ll Love It

Chuanshan Stone packs Guilin’s best bits into one bite-sized spot: dramatic karst scenery, ancient art, and zero tourist hassle. Spend 2–3 hours here, then walk 15 minutes to Elephant Trunk Hill for more iconic photo ops. Pro tip: Come just before sunset—the golden light makes the carvings on Chuanshan Stone look like they’re glowing from within.