Location & Accessibility

Lijiang Source Grand Canyon, located in Xing’an County, Guilin, Guangxi, is nestled in a pristine valley that marks the origin of the iconic Lijiang River. The canyon sits about 60 kilometers north of Guilin city, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. To get there, you can drive along the G72 expressway and take the Xing’an exit, then follow local signs (look for “Lijiang Yuan” on maps). Public buses from Guilin’s Qixia Bus Station also run regularly, and taxis are affordable if you’re traveling with a group.

Natural Wonders: A Breath of Fresh Air

Lijiang Source Grand Canyon is a nature lover’s paradise. The highlight? The “Ten-Mile Bamboo Sea,” a lush valley filled with towering green bamboo stalks that sway gently in the wind. The air here is incredibly fresh, thanks to high levels of negative ions—think of it as a natural spa for your lungs! The canyon’s climate is unpredictable but magical; you might experience sunny weather, a light drizzle, or even a cool breeze all in one hike. Locals say, “One mountain, four seasons; ten miles, different worlds”—and they’re not exaggerating.

The source of the Lijiang River itself is crystal clear. You can see fish swimming in the streams, and the water tastes surprisingly sweet (though drinking directly isn’t advised!). Mineral-rich springs like Longtan (Dragon Pool) and Shengtao Xiaozhu (Listening to Waves Pavilion) add to the canyon’s charm. For photography fans, sunrise at Yingbin Pu (Welcoming Waterfall) and sunset at Longfeng Ge (Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion) are must-see moments.

Cultural Spots & Hidden Gems

Beyond its natural beauty, Lijiang Source Grand Canyon has plenty of cultural touches. The Fengge Ting (Phoenix Song Pavilion) offers stunning views and traditional tea tastings, while Tianfei Quan (Flying Dragon Spring) features a mythical carving linked to ancient rain rituals. If you’re up for a swim, Tianran Yuchang (Natural Bathing Pool) lets you dip in the river’s pure waters. For a quieter vibe, Xitong Bei (Rhinoceros Back Rock) and Weiyan Shongshi (Towering Dangerous Rocks) are perfect for solo reflection.

Don’t miss the Da Niu Tan (Giant Salamander Pool)—named after the rare animals once found here—or the Jie Tan (Abstinence Pool), a serene spot where legend says ancient hermits purified themselves. These spots blend history, folklore, and raw nature in a way that feels both exotic and welcoming.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

The canyon is well-equipped for tourists. A visitor center provides maps and guided tour info, while stone pathways and wooden boardwalks make hiking easy. Bring cash for small vendors selling snacks or souvenirs, though bigger hotels in Xing’an accept cards. Wear comfortable shoes—the terrain can be slippery when wet.

For a full experience, plan 4–6 hours. Start early to avoid crowds and catch the morning mist rising over the bamboo forest. Pack layers: the microclimate means it can get chilly in the shade or warm under the sun. Finally, bring a waterproof phone case—you’ll want to snap photos of Xiao Swan Lake (a tranquil pond) and Zhongliu Dike (a rock formation splitting the river) without worrying about drips!

Why You’ll Love It

Lijiang Source Grand Canyon isn’t just another pretty place—it’s a chance to disconnect. Whether you’re sipping tea at Pinming Yuan (Tea Savoring Garden), listening to waterfalls at Tingtao Xiaozhu, or simply breathing in the oxygen-rich air, the canyon offers a slow-paced retreat. Families will enjoy the interactive spots like Shoutao Tan (Roaring Waves Pool), while adventurers can challenge the Xinyuan Bei (Heart-Racing Cliff) trails. It’s rare to find a spot so close to a major city (Guilin) that still feels utterly wild.

In short: Lijiang Source Grand Canyon is where Guilin’s famed karst mountains meet lush jungle, mineral-rich waters, and enough photo ops to fill your Instagram feed. Come ready to hike, breathe deeply, and lose track of time in one of China’s hidden gems.