Location & Transportation

Da Xu Ancient Town lies nestled along the northern bank of the Li River in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. To reach this hidden gem, take a taxi or private car to 258 Linjiang Road, Lingchuan County (look for the “Li River Scenic Area” sign). If you’re arriving from Guilin city, it’s about a 1-hour drive. For budget travelers, buses from Guilin Station to Lingchuan County stop nearby, and locals are happy to guide you the last 10-minute walk to Da Xu’s historic core.

Natural Landscapes: Li River & More

The real star here is the Li River, which flows right beside Da Xu Ancient Town. Grab a bamboo stool by the water’s edge to watch fishermen cast nets at dawn or join a boat tour to see the iconic Snail Mountain (a limestone peak shaped like, well, a giant snail!). For a quieter escape, wander to Wanshou Bridge—a 500-year-old stone bridge where smooth steps double as the perfect sunset-watching spot. The river’s mist often blankets the town in early morning, making photos look straight out of a Chinese painting.

Cultural Highlights: History & Architecture

Step into Da Xu’s narrow lanes, and you’re walking through 200 years of history. Most buildings here date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, with cyan-blue brick walls and tiled roofs that seem frozen in time. Pebble-worn paving stones underfoot tell tales of generations, while workshops like bamboo weavers and grass-shoe makers still operate as they did centuries ago. Don’t miss the herbal doctor’s clinic (ask locally for its location) or the old-school barbershop where seniors gather for shaves and stories.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Vibes

Unlike overcrowded Yangshuo, Da Xu feels genuinely untouched. Many homes only host elders and children, giving the town a slow-paced, almost dreamlike atmosphere. Locals might wave you into their courtyards to try homemade rice wine or share tales of the town’s past. At night, the lack of neon lights means stars blanket the sky—perfect for stargazers.

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Do

  • Footwear: Wear comfy shoes—those cobblestone streets can be uneven!
  • Cash: Some stalls don’t accept cards, so carry small bills.
  • Food: Try riverfish cooked at riverside huts. Ask for the day’s catch, and pair it with sugarcant-infused tea.
  • Day Trip Combo: Pair Da Xu with nearby Guanyan (famous for underground rivers) and Gudong Waterfall (a jungle hike with waterfalls you can climb!).

Immersive Experiences: How to Enjoy Da Xu

Start your day at Wanshou Bridge before sunrise. The morning light reflects off the Li River, casting a golden glow on the karst mountains. Later, explore the ancient marketplace (if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a weekly fair with folk dances). By late afternoon, sip tea at a riverside table while fishing boats drift by. For a unique souvenir, buy handwoven bamboo baskets or grass sandals directly from artisans—they’re happier to chat than to pressure you into buying.

Staying Overnight (If You’re Lucky)

While most visitors day-trip from Guilin, a few homestays exist in restored antique houses. Ask locals for recommendations—they often know families renting rooms. Even simpler, book a hotel in Lingchuan and return after dark to experience the town’s eerie, lamp-lit charm.

In short, Da Xu Ancient Town is a time capsule. It’s not polished like Venice or as commercialized as Beijing’s hutongs—instead, it’s raw, real, and quietly magical. Perfect for travelers who want to step back into China’s rural rhythms without the crowds. Just remember: bring patience, a sense of wonder, and maybe a phrasebook—