Location & Accessibility

Maozhou Island sits in the heart of Guilin’s Li River wonders, just 20 kilometers south of downtown Guilin in Lingchuan County. This lush island lies in the middle section of the Li River, making it a perfect day trip from Guilin. It’s part of Daxu Ancient Town’s landscape, separated by the river yet connected by a short ferry ride. The address? Maozhou Island, South Wanxilu, Daxu Town, Lingchuan, Guangxi—easy to find on maps or local signposts.

To get there, drive or take a bus to Daxu Town (about 30 minutes from Guilin), then hop on a local ferry. The crossing is quick, and the views of the town’s old rooftops and karst hills along the river make the journey half the adventure.

Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis

Maozhou Island is all about nature. Covered in trees and fruit orchards, it feels like a mini jungle. The Li River splits the island into three parts, creating a “river within a river” shape—locals call it a “chuan” (川) pattern. Walk along winding paths, cross tiny bridges, and you’ll see why it’s called the “largest island on the Li River.”

In spring, blossoms cover the islands like pink and white clouds. Summer brings shade from tall banyan trees, while fall offers ripe fruits you can pick (with permission!). The air here is crisp, especially early morning when mist hovers over the water. Bring a camera—every angle looks like a painting.

Cultural Charm: Village Life

Unlike crowded tourist spots, Maozhou Island keeps it real. The 86 households here live traditional lives. Visit a family’s courtyard to see how they grow oranges, rice, and veggies. Many open their homes as “farmhouse stays” (农家乐), where you can cook local dishes with hosts or try grilling river fish over an open fire.

The island’s vibe is calm. Elders chat by the river, kids play by the ferry dock, and cyclists zip through orchards. For a deeper dive, combine your visit with Daxu Ancient Town’s cobblestone streets and Ming-era buildings—it’s like stepping back in time.

Things to Do: Active or Relaxed

Maozhou Island suits all travelers. Want action? Rent a bike to explore narrow paths, or hike to hidden viewpoints for photos. Try a bamboo raft ride on the Li River—it’s cheaper than cruise boats and lets you soak in the scenery up close.

For relaxation, sit by the river with a book or sip tea in a garden cafe. In autumn, join fruit-picking tours (like persimmons or loquats). At night, the sky here is dark enough for stargazing, away from city lights.

Stay & Eat: Homely Comforts

Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses to cozy homestays. Families often rent out clean rooms with shared kitchens—perfect for budget travelers. Meals focus on fresh ingredients: think stir-fried river shrimp, bamboo shoots, and sticky rice cakes. Don’t miss breakfast: eat steamed buns with homemade jam while watching ducks swim by.

The island has a few shops selling snacks or crafts, but bring cash (cards aren’t everywhere). Locals are friendly—they’ll point you to the best spots or share stories about the island’s history.

Why Visit Maozhou Island?

It’s rare to find a place so close to a tourist city yet utterly peaceful. Maozhou Island isn’t about ticking off attractions—it’s about breathing clean air, eating home-cooked meals, and watching life move slowly by the river. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a sunset dinner, it’s the cure for urban rush. Come early, stay late, and let the Li River’s rhythm reset your mind.

Tip: Weekdays are less crowded. Wear comfy shoes—there’s no motorized traffic, but lots of walking on uneven paths.