Location & Accessibility

Xingping Shuizhai sits along the iconic Li River in Yangshuo County, Guilin. It’s nestled on County Road 097 in Xingping Town, a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin city. The easiest way to reach here is by taking a bus or taxi to Xingping Town and then walking along the riverside path—you’ll spot the cluster of traditional houses and docks that make up this waterside gem. If you’re coming from Yangshuo, it’s just a 30-minute bike ride!

Natural Beauty: A Postcard Come Alive

Xingping Shuizhai is all about river life. Imagine waking up to mist-covered limestone peaks rising straight from the crystal-clear Li River. The area is famous for its karst mountains, which look like giant green-topped teeth jutting out of the water. At sunrise, the reflections on the river create a scene straight out of a Chinese painting. Many visitors rent bamboo rafts here to glide through the scenery, passing fishermen with cormorants and floating bamboo huts. Don’t miss the view of Mount Jiushi (Nine Horses Hill) near the waterfront—locals say it resembles nine horses drinking water when seen from certain angles!

Culture & Local Life

This isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a working river village. Families here have lived off the Li River for generations, fishing, farming, and hosting guests. You’ll see elderly women washing clothes in the river and kids playing by the docks. Some homes double as homestays, where you can chat with hosts over a cup of sugar tea. In the evening, the village lights up, and vendors sell grilled river fish skewers—a must-try! For a deeper dive, visit the nearby Xingping Ancient Town to explore cobblestone streets and old temples.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Facilities: There are clean restrooms, a small visitor center, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. Boat rentals are available for DIY river trips, but hiring a guide adds fun facts about the area’s history.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather, but winter’s low season means fewer crowds. Avoid rainy days, as trails can get slippery.
  • Photo Ops: Sunrise and sunset are magical here. Use a zoom lens to capture details like fishermen’s nets or birds diving into the river.

A Day in Xingping Shuizhai

Start early with a riverside breakfast (try mifen, a local rice noodle dish). Rent a bike to cruise along the riverbank, stopping at fruit stalls and photo viewpoints. By midday, take a bamboo raft to see the scenery from the water—it’s calming and gives a new perspective on the towering cliffs. End your day with a walk through Xingping Town’s night market, where you can buy handwoven souvenirs or sample youzhai cha (oil-fried glutinous rice balls).

Why You’ll Love It

Xingping Shuizhai isn’t about ticking off attractions—it’s about soaking in authentic rural charm paired with jaw-dropping nature. Whether you’re paddling past karst peaks, chatting with riverside families, or simply sitting by the water with a cold drink, this spot lets you escape without feeling overly touristy. Bring good walking shoes, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with pockets full of river pebbles and camera rolls bursting with memories!