Location & Transportation

Xingping Fishing Village sits along the winding Li River in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, near Yangshuo County. To get there, you can take a bus or private car from Yangshuo (about 1 hour) or hop on a scenic river cruise from Guilin. For adventurous travelers, biking from Yangshuo is a popular option—the route offers stunning views of karst peaks and rice paddies. Once in Xingping Town, it’s a short walk to the village, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old houses welcome you.

Natural Landscape

The heart of Xingping Fishing Village is its riverside setting. The Li River wraps around the village like a silk ribbon, with jagged limestone mountains rising on the opposite bank. Locals call these peaks “Liyu Mountain” (carp-shaped), “Jinwa Mountain” (golden tile), and “Baijia Mountain” (pen rest), each with its own myth-filled silhouette. At sunset, the river reflects hues of orange and pink, while morning mists often cloak the peaks like a watercolor painting. It’s no wonder this spot inspired Chinese poets—the scenery here feels straight out of a classical scroll!

Cultural Heritage

Step into Xingping Fishing Village, and you’re walking through history. Founded in 1506 during the Ming Dynasty, its 48 traditional houses still stand as they did centuries ago. Wander past black-tile roofs, horse-head walls (a classic Southern China design), and wooden doors carved with lotus flowers or dragons. Many buildings date back nearly 500 years, yet remain surprisingly intact. Look closely: windows are framed with intricate patterns, and eaves curve upward like bird wings. This isn’t a museum—locals still live here, drying clothes across stone courtyards or chatting on doorsteps.

Architectural Details

What makes Xingping Fishing Village unique? Its Ming-Qing era Guangxi-style houses. Unlike typical Chinese courtyards, these lean into hillsides, creating a tiered layout. Roofs slope steeply to shed rain, while white walls contrast with dark wood beams. Some houses even have hidden carvings: peep through gates to spot gilded dragons or painted phoenixes. The tight cluster of homes (covering 1.5 hectares) feels almost fortress-like, yet every corner offers a photo-worthy view of the river or mountains.

Local Life & Amenities

Despite its popularity, Xingping Fishing Village stays calm. Families run small guesthouses where you can sip tea on a balcony overlooking the Li River. Try liuzhou screwfish (a local delicacy) at riverside stalls, or buy handwoven bamboo baskets from artisans. There’s no entry fee, but respect rules: avoid loud noise in residential areas, and stick to marked paths. Boat tours depart nearby if you want to see the village from the river—a different magic altogether.

Immersive Experience

Visiting Xingping Fishing Village feels like time-travel. Start early: dawn light softens the mountains, and fishermen paddle wooden boats (some still use cormorants!). By midday, sunlight dances on the river, casting diamond-like sparkles. For the best shots, climb the steps behind the village for a bird’s-eye view of terracotta roofs meeting emerald waters. End your day at a riverside café, watching lanterns flicker to life as dusk falls. Whether you’re here for history, photography, or simply peace, Xingping Fishing Village wraps you in stories—and scenery—unlike any other place.