Location & Accessibility

Qingshitan Tourism Resort lies in Yanbei Village, Qingshitan Town, Lingchuan County, just 28 kilometers north of Guilin city. It’s nestled in the upper reaches of the Li River, making it a short drive (about 30-40 minutes) from downtown Guilin. If you’re flying into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, the resort is roughly an hour away by car. Local buses connect Lingchuan County to the resort, but renting a car or taking a taxi offers more flexibility to explore this vast area.

Natural Wonders

Qingshitan (literally “Green Lion Pool”) is often called “South China’s Largest Lake”, covering 30 square kilometers of crystal-clear water. The resort includes three interconnected lakes—East Lake, West Lake, and Fair Lake—surrounded by lush hills and forests. The water here is so pure that on sunny days, it glows like glass. Boat tours are a must: glide past towering cliffs, spot fishermen casting nets, and feel the cool breeze. In spring, cherry blossoms line the shores, while autumn turns the hills into a fiery orange-red canvas. For hikers, trails wind through dense bamboo forests and lead to hidden waterfalls, perfect for photography.

Cultural Highlights

Though Qingshitan is known for its nature, don’t miss the local villages like Yanbei. Here, you can chat with friendly Zhuang and Han residents, try farm-fresh noodles, or watch elderly craftsmen weave baskets. The area also hosts seasonal festivals, like fishing competitions in summer or harvest celebrations in fall. While there are no ancient temples or grand palaces, the simplicity of rural life offers a refreshing contrast to busy cities.

Practical Tips

The resort is sprawling (170 sq km total!), so plan your visit. Start at the visitor center near East Lake for maps and bike rentals. Accommodation ranges from lakeside hotels to budget inns; camping is allowed in designated areas. Bring cash for small stalls, though bigger hotels take cards. For food, try freshwater fish hotpot or mountain mushrooms—local specialties.

Adventure & Relaxation

At Qingshitan, you can go all out or chill. Rent a kayak to explore coves, hike to Lion Rock for panoramic views, or cycle along lakeside paths. Families love the children’s playground and picnic spots. For something unique, try night fishing under lanterns. If you’re tired, book a lakeview room and spend hours watching mist rise over the water—it’s pure serenity.

This place feels worlds away from Guilin’s tourist crowds. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a week, Qingshitan’s mix of wilderness and warm hospitality will leave you refreshed. Just remember: bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and a camera—you’ll need it!