Location & Transportation

Duoye Ancient Village Snake King Li Scenic Area sits in the Yan Mountain District of Guilin, near the intersection of Dayan Road and Rural Road 026. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Guilin City Center, making it a perfect day trip. To get there, you can:

  • Drive yourself: Plenty of free parking is available near the entrance.
  • Take a taxi: Ask the driver to navigate to “Dayuan Intersection” and walk 150 meters northeast.
  • Public transport: Bus lines 25 or 30 drop you close by, but check schedules online.

The area feels tucked away but easy to reach, surrounded by rolling hills and rice fields.

Natural Scenery: Rice Terraces & Mountain Views

Duoye Ancient Village Snake King Li Scenic Area is famous for its lush rice terraces that change with the seasons. In spring, the fields turn bright green, while autumn brings golden hues—perfect for photos! A winding river cuts through the valley, reflecting nearby karst mountains (those tall, pointy hills Guilin is known for).

A wooden walking path loops around the village, taking you past waterfalls, bamboo groves, and spots where you can spot local wildlife like butterflies and birds. The “Snake King Li” part of the name? Legend says a snake deity once protected the village, and you’ll see statues or carvings hinting at this story.

Cultural Highlights: Ancient Village & Local Life

The ancient village here dates back centuries, with traditional mud-walled houses and thatched roofs. Many buildings are restored, but they still feel authentic. You’ll see:

  • Old stone bridges over streams, great for photo ops.
  • Artisan workshops where locals make tools, cloth, or snacks like sugar cakes.
  • Performances: Some days, villagers dress in ethnic Zhuang costumes and dance, offering a glimpse into their heritage.

Don’t miss the “Snake King Temple”—a small shrine with carvings and offerings. Guides might share folklore about why the village honors this mythical figure.

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Facilities

Duoye Ancient Village Snake King Li Scenic Area is family-friendly but mostly outdoors. Wear comfy shoes—there’s some uneven terrain. Here’s what’s available:

  • Restaurants: Try local dishes like oil-tea snake soup (don’t worry, it’s optional!) or bamboo rice.
  • Toilets: Clean public restrooms are marked on maps.
  • Souvenir Shops: Buy handmade crafts, tea, or snacks.
  • Guides: Hire one for deeper history or photo tips (they speak basic English).

Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat, especially in summer. There’s shade, but it gets hot!

Experience: A Relaxing Escape with a Twist

Visiting Duoye Ancient Village Snake King Li Scenic Area feels like stepping into a live-action postcard. Start at the rice fields, then wander the village to chat with craftsmen. The mountain backdrop makes every corner picturesque. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a sunset over the karst peaks—worth waiting for!

It’s less crowded than big-name Guilin spots, so you can stroll without crowds. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore calmly. Pro tip: Go on a weekday for extra tranquility!

Whether you love nature, culture, or just snapping pretty photos, Duoye Ancient Village Snake King Li Scenic Area offers a mix of all three. Add it to your Guilin itinerary for a memorable day!