Location & How to Get There

Xing'An Ancient Town sits in a hidden corner of Guilin, about an hour’s drive from Guilin city center. It’s nestled along the banks of the Lian River, which flows into the famous Li River. To reach it, most travelers fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Xing’an County. From there, it’s a short walk or bike ride to the town’s cobblestone streets. If you’re coming by train, Xing’an Station is just a 15-minute ride away, making it super easy to access this peaceful escape.

Natural Scenery: A Slice of Rural Beauty

Xing'An Ancient Town is all about unspoiled nature. The Lian River winds through the area like a silk ribbon, with mist-covered hills rising in the distance—think of it as a smaller, less crowded version of the Li River landscapes. In spring, cherry blossoms and watermelon fields paint the banks in pink and green, while autumn brings golden rice paddies that look like a painting. For photography fans, the old stone bridges and water wheels near the river make perfect backdrops. Don’t miss the early morning or sunset, when the light dances off the water and the town feels like a time capsule.

Historical Vibes: Walking Through Time

This isn’t just any old town—Xing'An Ancient Town has been around for over 1,200 years! Wander its narrow lanes to spot Ming and Qing dynasty buildings with tiled roofs and wooden carvings. The ancient city walls still stand tall, and you can walk along parts of them for epic views. A must-see is the Water Street, where shopkeepers sell handmade crafts and snacks right by the river. For history buffs, check out the Mao’s Anxi Alley, named after Mao Zedong, who once visited the town. It’s a cool mix of old-school charm and revolutionary history!

Cultural Gems: Temples & Traditions

The town’s heart is its cultural heritage. Start at the Lingqu Canal, an ancient waterway built over 2,000 years ago—it’s one of the oldest canals in the world! Nearby, the Lingqu Temple (built during the Tang Dynasty) blends Buddhist and local architecture. For a deeper dive, visit the Ancient Architecture Museum, where you can see how people lived centuries back. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional dance performance in the town square, where locals wear colorful costumes and play drums.

Practical Tips: Food, Stays, & More

Xing'An isn’t overrun with tourists, so accommodation is cozy but simple. Stay in a family-run guesthouse for an authentic feel—some even have river views! For food, try Guilin米粉 (rice noodles) at street stalls or order beer fish at a riverside restaurant. The town is small, so you can explore on foot, but renting a bike is fun for day trips to nearby villages. Be sure to visit the local market early—it’s a treasure trove of fresh fruits, herbs, and handmade goods.

Why You’ll Love It: Off-the-Beaten-Path Charm

What makes Xing'An Ancient Town special? It’s quiet, real, and full of surprises. Unlike busy spots like Yangshuo, here you’ll meet locals going about their day, kids playing by the river, and elders chatting on stone benches. Bring your camera for the misty mornings, your appetite for street food, and your sense of adventure for hidden alleys. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just relaxing, Xing'An Ancient Town offers a genuine Chinese countryside experience without the crowds.

Key words: Xing'An Ancient Town, Lian River, Lingqu Canal, Water Street, ancient architecture, Guilin cuisine, rural landscapes, cultural heritage, photography spots, off-the-beaten-path.