Location & How to Get There

Lingqu Canal Water Street sits in Xing’an County, Guilin, nestled inside Lingqu Park along Shuangling Road. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin’s city center, or 40 minutes by bus. If you’re flying into Guilin Liangjiang Airport, take a taxi or shuttle to Xing’an—it’s totally worth the trip! The canal itself snakes through the park, so just follow the water sounds or signs saying “Lingqu Canal Water Street” to find it.

Natural Scenery: A Riverside Escape

Imagine walking along a cobblestone path next to a calm, ancient canal. Lingqu Canal Water Street is lined with willow trees and little bridges that look like they’re straight out of a Chinese painting. In spring, pink blooms reflect on the water, and even on hot summer days, the shade from trees keeps things cool. You’ll see ducks swimming in the canal and locals paddling traditional bamboo rafts—it’s like stepping back in time. Don’t miss the morning or sunset; the light turns the water golden, and Lingqu Canal Water Street feels extra magical.

History & Culture: Ancient Engineering Marvel

Here’s the coolest part: Lingqu Canal Water Street is part of the oldest canal in the world, built over 2,200 years ago during China’s Qin Dynasty! Back then, emperors wanted to connect rivers for trade and irrigation. The canal here uses clever “split water” design—a system of sluices and locks that still works today. At the park’s museum, you can see old tools and learn how workers carved through mountains to build this. Even now, the canal hums with life, just like it did centuries ago.

Things to Do: More Than Just Watching

Start with a boat ride! Small wooden boats tour Lingqu Canal Water Street, passing under ancient arches and through narrow waterways. On shore, try walking the “Emerald Walk”—a trail named for its greenery. Stop at tea houses for a drink, or buy snacks from vendors selling rice cakes and grilled squid. If you’re feeling brave, rent a traditional Zhuang outfit for photos—trust me, it’s fun!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for mild weather.
  • Wear: Comfy shoes! The streets are stone, and you’ll want to explore every corner.
  • Guides: Hire one if you like history—they’ll explain why Lingqu Canal Water Street’s design is still studied by engineers.
  • Photo Spots: The “Four Sluice Bridge” and the canal’s split-water section are must-pics.

Food & Facilities: No Worries!

You won’t go hungry here. Lingqu Canal Water Street has street food stalls with dumplings, oil-fried dough sticks, and sugared plumpp (a chewy rice snack). For meals, nearby restaurants serve Guilin’s famous beer fish and spicy rice noodles. Clean restrooms, souvenir shops, and free Wi-Fi hotspots are scattered along the street. Parking is easy too—just look for the lots near Lingqu Park’s entrance.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Lingqu Canal Water Street isn’t just a pretty place—it’s living history. Unlike other tourist spots, this canal still works! Watch locals use it to wash clothes, transport goods, or just chat by the water. It’s peaceful yet full of stories. Whether you love nature, history, or just taking relaxing strolls, this spot has something for everyone. Come early to beat crowds and catch the mist rising over the canal—it’s pure magic!