Location & Transportation

Rongshan Lake Scenic Area sits right in the heart of Guilin, Guangxi Province, China. You’ll find it at No. 14, Rongchuan South Road, Xiufeng District—easy to reach whether you’re walking, taking a taxi, or hopping on a local bus. The lake is split into two parts by Yang Bridge, with Rong Lake (west) and Shanxi Lake (east) connected like twin sisters. Both lakes are named after the trees lining their shores: towering banyan trees (rongshu) for Rong Lake and tall Chinese firs (shan) for Shanxi Lake.

To get here, take bus routes 2, 10, or 11 to Yang Bridge Station, or simply stroll here if you’re exploring central Guilin. Nearby landmarks like Sun and Moon Twin Pagodas make it a perfect stop on any Guilin itinerary.

Natural Scenery: A Postcard-Perfect Escape

Rongshan Lake Scenic Area is all about water, greenery, and light. The lakes sparkle day and night, reflecting Guilin’s famous limestone hills, which rise like ancient guardians around the water. In spring, pink cherry blossoms frame the banks, while summer brings lotus flowers floating like poets’ brushstrokes. Come autumn, golden ginkgo leaves blanket the paths, and winter’s misty mornings turn the lakes into dreamy mirrors.

Banyan trees steal the show at Rong Lake. Some are over a century old, their twisted roots and branches creating natural arches. At Shanxi Lake, Chinese fir forests whisper in the wind, and a bamboo grove near Yang Bridge adds a touch of elegance. Don’t miss the lotus pond—a favorite spot for photos, especially at sunset when the sky turns peachy.

Cultural Gems: History and Architecture

This place isn’t just pretty—it’s steeped in stories. Back in the Tang and Song dynasties, these lakes were part of a moat called Nanyang River protecting Guilin’s southern wall. Later, in the Yuan Dynasty, it was renamed Jian Lake (“Mirror Lake” for its clarity). By the Ming Dynasty, as Guilin’s walls expanded, the lakes became calm inner oases.

Today, ancient city walls still stand near Rong Lake, and a restored Ming-era gate hints at Guilin’s military past. Nearby Baozi Hill (a karst peak) and temples like Lengquan Temple add layers of history. Even the bridges here tell tales: Yang Bridge, a stone-arched beauty, has linked the lakes since the Ming era.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

Walking paths loop around both lakes, making it easy to explore. Paved roads are flat, so it’s stroller-friendly. You’ll find benches and shaded rest areas under banyan trees. For a caffeine fix, lakeside cafés serve coffee and snacks, while small shops sell souvenirs like silk scarves or hand-painted fans.

Fancy a boat ride? Paddle boats are available for a quiet glide across the water. If you visit at night, Yang Bridge lights up like a firefly, and the Sun and Moon Pagodas glow gold and silver by the lake.

The Ultimate Day Out

Start early to beat crowds. Walk from Rong Lake to Shanxi Lake, stopping at Yang Bridge for photos. Rent a boat or cycle the 2-kilometer loop. For lunch, try nearby Guilin rice noodles at a lakeside stall. End your day with sunset views from Baozi Hill—the karst peaks against the pink sky are pure Guilin magic.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just want to unwind, Rongshan Lake Scenic Area packs everything Guilin is famous for into one bite-sized paradise. Bring your camera—you’ll use it a lot!