Location & How to Get There

Qincheng Water Street lies in Xing’an Ancient Town, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It’s nestled along the banks of the Ling Canal, a 2,200-year-old waterway that connects the Yangtze and Pearl Rivers. To reach here, fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, then take a 1.5-hour bus or taxi to Xing’an. The street itself is a 1-kilometer stretch along the canal, blending history with vibrant local life.

Natural Scenery: Where Water Meets History

The Qincheng Water Street winds alongside the crystal-clear Ling Canal. The water is so clear you can see fish swimming beneath traditional wooden boats. In the evening, lanterns lining the canal create a magical glow, reflecting off the water like stars. Willow trees drape over the banks, and lotus flowers bloom in summer, adding splashes of pink and white to the scene. It’s peaceful yet lively—perfect for a stroll or a boat ride.

Cultural Highlights: Step Back in Time

This street isn’t just about nature—it’s a living museum. The Han Dynasty-style buildings transport you back over 2,000 years. Key sights include:

  • Niangniang Bridge: A stone arch bridge said to be named after a Ming Dynasty queen.
  • Wanli Bridge: Legend has it this bridge was built to celebrate Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s “march of 10,000 miles.”
  • Qinwen Liushang Scenic Area: Inspired by ancient poets’ gatherings, it’s a cozy spot for picnics by the water.
  • Huguang Guild Hall: A historic meeting place for traders from Hunan and Guangdong.

You’ll also find carved sculptures along a 100-meter corridor, showing scenes from local folk tales, and the Three Generals’ Tomb, honoring soldiers who protected the canal.

Architecture & Art: Details That Fascinate

Every inch of Qincheng Water Street feels designed for explorers. Look up to admire wooden eaves painted in red and gold, and down at stone-carved doors etched with dragons and phoenixes. The Ling Canal Museum (housed in a restored temple) explains how this ancient waterway shaped China’s trade. For art lovers, the brick-carved wall near North Street is a masterpiece of岭南 (Lingnan) craftsmanship.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Open 24⁄7: Daytime is great for photos, but nighttime is magical with lights.
  • Boat Rides: Rent a bamboo raft (~$5) to see the canal from the water.
  • Food: Try Guilin rice noodles at street stalls or dumplings at Lakeside Teahouse.
  • Souvenirs: Local shops sell hand-painted fans, clay figurines, and Ling Canal postcards.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Qincheng Water Street isn’t just a tourist trap—it’s where history, culture, and nature mix effortlessly. Whether you’re sipping tea in a百年 (century-old) teahouse, watching women wash clothes by the canal, or listening to opera at the古戏台 (ancient stage), you’ll feel the soul of Xing’an. Come here to escape modern life and walk through China’s past, one stone bridge at a time.

(Key words: Qincheng Water Street, Ling Canal, Niangniang Bridge, Wanli Bridge, Qinwen Liushang, Huguang Guild Hall, Lingnan architecture, boat ride)