Location & How to Get There
Jiuxian Village sits quietly along the Yulong River in Yangshuo, Guangxi—a hidden gem just a 15-minute drive from bustling Yangshuo town. If you’re coming from Guilin, hop on a bus to Yangshuo, then grab a taxi or rent a bike to explore this off-the-beaten-path spot. The village’s 1,400-year history feels alive as you roll into its narrow lanes, surrounded by limestone hills and rice paddies.
Natural Scenery: River, Hills, and Tranquility
The Yulong River is Jiuxian’s backyard, and it’s seriously scenic. Imagine floating past karst mountains, bamboo groves, and water buffalo grazing—this is what Jiuxian Village overlooks. The river’s gentle current makes it perfect for bamboo rafting, and the village itself feels like a pause button: no loud tours, just birdsong and rustling leaves. In spring, pink lotus flowers dot the water, while winter mornings wrap the river in mist, like a Chinese watercolor painting.
Cultural Gems: Ancient Walls and Secrets
Step into Jiuxian, and you’re walking through history. The village’s buildings wear their age proudly—think gray bricks, curved horse-head roofs, and dark tiles that look straight out of a dynasty drama. Locals still live here, so peek politely into courtyards to spot drying laundry or cats napping on stone steps.
One cool secret? A buried Guiyi Ancient City (a.k.a. “Old Town of Loyalty”). All that’s left is a ancient well carved with the phrase “Guard the Old”—a nod to the villagers’ stubborn dedication to preserving their way of life. It’s tiny, but the vibe is huge.
Food and Facilities: From Rafting to Feasting
After rafting the Yulong River, chances are you’ll land in Jiuxian for lunch. The go-to spot is Lao Gen Farmhouse Restaurant, famous for its massive portions and homestyle flavors. Think crisp river fish, sour soup with bamboo shoots, and rice cooked in traditional wood-fired stoves. Budget tip: A meal for two with drinks costs about \(15–\)20, and leftovers are practically guaranteed.
The village is small but has a few guesthouses run by local families. Staying overnight means waking up to mountain views and breakfast made by grandmas—fresh noodles, eggs, and tea.
The Experience: Slow Living at Its Best
Jiuxian isn’t about ticking off sights—it’s about soaking in calm. Sit on a riverbank bench, watch ducks chase fish, or chat with elderly villagers who’ll smile even if they don’t speak your language. The lack of crowds makes it easy to lose track of time. For a quieter alternative to Yangshuo’s busy West Street, this is your jam.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid tour groups. And bring cash—credit cards aren’t everywhere, but the laid-back vibe makes it feel like an old-school adventure.
In short, Jiuxian Village is Yangshuo’s best-kept secret. It’s got history, nature, and food that’ll make you wish you could move in. Just don’t tell too many friends—let’s keep this one chill. 🌄
