Geographical Location

Lijiang Bay Scenic Area lies in Qingshan Town, Lipu County, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region—a region celebrated for its karst landscapes. Nestled along the winding Li River, this hidden gem is about a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin city center, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. The area blends riverine beauty with lush hills, often described as “a bay within waters, and mountains hidden within mountains,” earning it the nickname “Guilin’s Most Captivating Bay.”

Getting There

To reach Lijiang Bay Scenic Area, you have a few options:

  • By car: Rent a vehicle in Guilin and follow signs to Lipu County. The scenic route offers glimpses of rural life and rice paddies.
  • Public transport: Take a bus from Guilin to Lipu County (~1 hour), then transfer to a local minivan or taxi to Qingshan Town.
  • Tour groups: Many Guilin travel agencies offer day trips, which include round-trip transport and guided visits.
    The entrance is easy to spot at No. 1 Qingshan Town—just ask locals for directions if needed!

Natural Wonders: A Feast for the Eyes

Lijiang Bay’s landscape feels like a scene from a Chinese painting. The river winds through towering limestone peaks, creating a “bay within a bay” effect. Visitors rave about:

  • Boat rides: Cruise the Li River to admire jagged cliffs, emerald waters, and hidden caves. Locals call it “the soul of Guilin’s scenery.”
  • “Cave of Nine Villages”: This tunnel-like cavern earned the nickname “Nine Villages in a Cave” for its vibrant rock formations. Stalactites drip like chandeliers, and sunlight filters through cracks, creating a magical glow.
  • Panoramic viewpoints: Hike to overlooks for bird’s-eye views of the bay’s twisting river and layered hills.

Cultural Treasures: Step Back in Time

Beyond nature, Lijiang Bay honors human history. Here, you can:

  • Explore Yongsulong Ruins: Discover the oldest traces of Lipu’s original inhabitants, dating back thousands of years. Ancient tools and pottery fragments tell stories of early riverside communities.
  • Visit the Culture Museum: Learn how local Zhuang and Yao minorities lived harmoniously with the land. Interactive exhibits showcase traditional farming, fishing, and festivals.
  • Watch folk performances: Seasonal shows feature dances, songs, and crafts, offering a glimpse into Guilin’s vibrant heritage.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Lijiang Bay Scenic Area is designed with travelers in mind:

  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, shaded resting areas, and riverside cafes serve local specialties like beggar’s chicken (baked in clay) and freshwater fish.
  • Guided tours: English-speaking guides are available to explain geological features and cultural tales.
  • Accessibility: Paths are paved, but wear comfy shoes—some trails involve mild hiking or boat steps.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and vivid greenery. Summer brings rain (pack a light jacket!), while winter reveals misty, ethereal landscapes.

An Unforgettable Experience

A day at Lijiang Bay Scenic Area feels like opening a storybook. Start with a morning boat ride, then lose yourself in the cave’s glittering chambers. Afternoons are perfect for wandering ruins or snapping photos of terraced fields. End your trip with a riverside meal, listening to the Li River’s gentle lap against the banks. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or photography enthusiast, this “First Bay of Guilin” promises memories as timeless as its landscapes.

Pro tip: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of memory cards for your camera!