Pingle travel guide and discussion

· Guilin's Highest Peak: Refers to Yaoshan, located in the eastern suburbs of Guilin, with an elevation of 909.3 meters. It is said, "If you don't reach the top of Yaoshan, you haven't seen Guilin's scenery." · Hot Springs: There are two well-known hot springs around Guilin: 1. Longsheng Hot Spring: Located in Longsheng Various Nationalities Autonomous County, known as "South China's Number One Spring," with water safe for direct drinking. 2. Xianjia Hot Spring: Located in Pingle County, Guilin, it is a national AAA-level tourist attraction with a serene environment. 📅 Five-Day Essential Itinerary Based on the attractions you listed, I have designed a 5-day itinerary that includes Yaoshan and the classic Longsheng Hot Spring. Day 1: Arrive in Guilin, Check in at the City Emblem · Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Guilin and check into your hotel. · Evening: Visit Elephant Trunk Hill. As the emblem of Guilin, this is a must-visit spot. The park is now free to enter, but remember to book in advance via the official mini-program. It is recommended to visit at dusk to clearly see the hill’s shape and enjoy the "Elephant Hill Water Moon" night view. · Night: Recommended to walk or take a boat tour of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes to enjoy the dazzling city nightscape. Day 2: Li River Panorama and Yangshuo West Street · Morning: Drive to the pier and take a cruise along the classic section of the Li River (such as from Yangdi to Xingping). You will see iconic scenes like the background of the 20 RMB note and the reflection of Huangbu. · Afternoon: The cruise arrives in Yangshuo. Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling along West Street, and enjoy local delicacies like beer fish in the evening. Day 3: Yangshuo Countryside Scenery · Morning: Experience the Yulong River bamboo raft drifting (recommended section from Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian). Unlike the grandeur of the Li River, this area is more peaceful and picturesque. · Afternoon: Rent an electric bike or bicycle in Yangshuo and leisurely ride through the Ten-Mile Gallery, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Day 4: Climb High for a Panoramic View and Hot Spring Relaxation · Morning: Return from Yangshuo to Guilin city and head to Yaoshan. Take the cable car up the mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of Guilin from the summit. · Afternoon: Go directly from Yaoshan to the Longsheng Hot Spring Resort Area, about a 2-hour drive. Stay overnight in the hot spring area to soak away the fatigue of continuous travel and enjoy "South China's Number One Spring" surrounded by forest. Day 5: Departure · Morning: Relax a bit more in the hot spring area or visit the nearby Longji Rice Terraces (if the season is right, the golden terraces in September-October are spectacular). Then, depending on your schedule, return from Longsheng or Guilin. 💡 Key Travel Tips To make your trip smoother, here are some important reminders: · Ticket Booking: Elephant Trunk Hill requires free online advance reservation. For Li River cruises and Yulong River bamboo rafts, be sure to book tickets early during holidays. · Transportation: The Li River cruise from Guilin city to Yangshuo is one-way, so pay attention to your luggage. Renting electric bikes in Yangshuo and nearby areas is very cost-effective. For Longsheng Hot Spring, it is recommended to charter a car or take a tourist shuttle bus. · Food Recommendations: Besides beer fish, be sure to try authentic Guilin rice noodles, as well as local specialties like Lipu taro with pork and stuffed field snails. · About "Wildman Valley": Currently, information is lacking. You can try asking local taxi drivers, hotel front desks, or reputable travel agencies in Guilin to see if it is a local nickname or a niche outdoor spot.

Guilin is stunning and best visited in September–October. It's a trip you won't regret. September–October is the prime window for Guilin: summer storms have passed, the Li River water level has receded, and the water is at its clearest. Daytime temperatures in the city are 22–28°C, with mornings and evenings around 18°C. On Longji Mountain, daytime temperatures are 18–24°C, dropping to 12–15°C at night. At this time, the morning mist in Xingping on the Li River isn't stifling, there are no long lines for Yulong River bamboo rafts, the Longji Rice Terraces turn from green to gold, osmanthus flowers fill the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area, and the golden rice fields of the Yangshuo Ten-Mile Gallery contrast with the karst peaks. It's a destination where you can fully experience "the world's best scenery + golden autumn terraces + misty bamboo rafts + osmanthus-scented old town" all in one trip. Elephant Trunk Hill is about CNY 55; it's the symbol of Guilin and 1 hour is enough. The banks of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes are free; the night lights + Rongshan Lake are the most gentle, and you can skip the cruise. Jingjiang Prince City/Duxiu Peak is about CNY 100; climb to the top to see the old city skyline. The Li River 3-star cruise is about CNY 210, and the 4-star is about CNY 360 (Mopanshan/Zhujiang—Yangshuo). For flexibility, take the Xingping—Nine Horses Fresco Hill bamboo raft for about CNY 90–140/person. Yulong River bamboo rafts (Shuiedi—Gongnong Bridge is about 40 mins, Jinlong Bridge—Jiuxian is about 90 mins) are CNY 200–430 for a two-person raft; manual poling is the most magical. Longji Rice Terraces admission is CNY 80 (valid for 3 days for Jinkeng/Ping'an/Guzhuangzhai). The Golden Buddha Peak cable car is about CNY 55–60 one-way, or CNY 98–100 round-trip. Silver Cave is about CNY 60, Reed Flute Cave is about CNY 65; these are great autumn alternatives. "Impression Liu Sanjie" starts at CNY 218; the October night shows aren't stuffy. Xingping Ancient Town, Yangshuo West Street, Ten-Mile Gallery, and Daxu Ancient Town are mostly free. Classic 4 days, 3 nights: Day 1 Arrive in Guilin > Elephant Trunk Hill > Jingjiang Prince City/Dongxi Alley/Xiaoyao Tower > Two Rivers and Four Lakes night walk (stay near Guilin Station/Elephant Hill); Day 2 Li River highlights (Yangdi—Xingping) > Take photos with the ¥20 background > Xingping Ancient Town > Evening stroll in Yangshuo West Street (stay in Yangshuo/Yulong River); Day 3 Yulong River bamboo raft > Ten-Mile Gallery cycling (Moon Hill/Big Banyan Tree) > Evening "Impression Liu Sanjie" or Yulong River night drift (stay in Yangshuo); Day 4 Longji Rice Terraces (Jinkeng Dazhai Thousand-Layer Terraces + Golden Buddha Peak, or Ping'an Village Seven Stars Around the Moon) > Stay in the village to watch the sunrise, or return to Guilin. 3-day condensed: D1 Guilin city; D2 Li River + Yangshuo; D3 Longji day trip (but staying one night is more worth it). Half-day arrival version: Elephant Trunk Hill > Dongxi Alley > Two Rivers and Four Lakes; even if you arrive by high-speed train at Guilin Station/Guilin North, it's worth it. Accommodation: Xiufeng/Elephant Hill/Qixing (Guilin Old Town) are the top choices for first-timers, chain hotels are CNY 130–260, close to rice noodle shops + lake strolling. Yangshuo County/Yulong River banks are CNY 150–400; stay near Yulong River if you want to photograph the morning mist. In Longji, Tiantou Village in Jinkeng Dazhai offers window views of the terraces for CNY 200–600; Ping'an Village has mature facilities for CNY 120–300; Guzhuangzhai is the quietest. Late September and Oct 8–Oct 20 are the best value. From Oct 1–Oct 7, hotel prices in Yangshuo + Longji double and there are lines for bamboo rafts, so avoid this period if you can. Food: Guilin is a mix of Hunan spice + Cantonese freshness + Northern Guilin mountain flavors + city-wide osmanthus fragrance. The soul of Guilin rice noodles is the "two-tael braised meat noodles"—eat it dry first, then add soup. The crispy pork belly and fragrant braised sauce are key; try old shops like Laodongjiang/Chongshan/Tiexi for CNY 5–8. For Yangshuo beer fish, it's braised with beer using swordfish or catfish; it's only authentic if the fish scales are fried crispy and edible. Avoid the "pay by weight" traps on the main West Street; head to Binjiang Road or old shops in the alleys, averaging CNY 80–120 per person. Lipu taro braised pork is powdery, sticky, and absorbs the oil—a must-order in Guilin restaurants. Gongcheng oil tea is made by pounding tea leaves with ginger and garlic, served with fried rice; it's slightly bitter at first but has a sweet aftertaste—have a set in the morning. Pingle eighteen stuffed dishes/stuffed river snails/stir-fried Li River shrimp/Quanzhou vinegar blood duck are hearty Northern Guilin dishes. In autumn, enjoy limited-edition osmanthus cakes, osmanthus lotus root, and osmanthus lattes everywhere. For night markets, go to Tiexi, Shijiayuan, Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, the back alleys of Yangshuo West Street, or Xingping Old Street. For souvenirs, buy Guilin Sanhua liquor, Jinshunchang osmanthus cakes, dried Lipu taro, Guilin fermented bean curd, and Gongcheng persimmon cakes (look for the autumn/winter seasonal ones). Avoiding traps: Don't believe the "CNY 10 beer fish" on West Street; don't eat rice noodles at scenic spot entrances; order a small bowl of oil tea first; buy Sanhua liquor at supermarkets or time-honored brands, don't buy loose "ancestral" versions; ask about the fish species and unit price before ordering Yangshuo beer fish. A few reminders: Longji's golden autumn is short—it turns from green to yellow in mid-to-late September, is at its most golden around Sept 20–Oct 15, and harvesting begins in late October; by November, only the ridges remain. Jinkeng Dazhai has the most grandeur, Ping'an Village is easier for seniors and children, and Guzhuangzhai is less crowded and has the most authentic "sun-drying autumn" scenery. For Yulong River, choose the 7:30–9:30 AM manual rafts; the mist among the rice fields and karst peaks is ten times better than in the afternoon. Xingping's Yellow Cloth Shoal reflection has the most water vapor in the morning, giving you the highest chance of seeing the view from the ¥20 note. For the first bend of the Li River, view it from Xianggong Mountain; it's most spectacular 1 hour before sunset (admission about CNY 80–90). Private cars cannot enter the Longji villages; park at the visitor center and transfer to a sightseeing bus (about CNY 40–50), and don't miss the last bus. The mountaintop is 7–8 degrees cooler than the bottom, so bring a light jacket/light down jacket. The ridges have no railings, and stone steps are slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes. Guilin—Yangshuo—Longji are spread out; high-speed train + direct bus can handle the main route, but for deep Longji/niche spots in Xingping, chartering a car (about CNY 350–450/day) or self-driving is smoothest, but avoid driving on the winding mountain roads of Longji at night. In September–October, standing on a Yulong River bamboo raft, the morning mist makes the karst peaks look like a light ink painting, the rice waves of Longji burn gold layer by layer in the sunrise, the scent of osmanthus in Dongxi Alley mixes with the aroma of crispy pork from the rice noodles drifting across Rongshan Lake, and an old man in Xingping leads an ox across the Yellow Cloth Shoal reflection—in that moment, you'll understand why Guilin's autumn is the most rewarding limited-time experience of "Li River, rice terraces, bamboo rafts, and osmanthus fragrance." Visit off-peak; it's truly worth it.

After a few days of traveling around town with my cousin and six-year-old daughter, we finally spent our last night in the remote Qingpuli Xiangguo. Initially, I was worried about the remoteness and inconvenience, but the further we rode the rented electric scooter in, the more breathtaking the scenery became 🌿 We experienced a bit of speed and excitement along the way, with my child spreading her arms wide to feel the wind, saying it felt so good 👀 Once we arrived, our hearts immediately calmed down—we were surrounded by truly beautiful mountains and rivers, as if we had stumbled upon someone's hidden paradise. The housekeeper had sent detailed directions beforehand 📍. As soon as we arrived at the room, the air conditioning was already set to the most comfortable temperature. My six-year-old daughter was the first to notice this moment of comfort: "Mommy, Auntie is so thoughtful!" The next morning, we had a freshly made breakfast. My daughter's eyes lit up ✨. There was lean pork porridge, red bean buns, steamed corn, steamed sweet potato and egg 🥚, freshly cooked rice noodles, and more—even the plating showed care. My cousin couldn't resist taking pictures and posting them on WeChat Moments: "A carefully prepared breakfast 🍳!" The little one tried everything and kept praising how delicious it was 😋 Right next to the guesthouse was a water sports center where you could ride jet skis and hot air balloons, perfect for outdoor camping and barbecues. We saw many families having meals there while we were strolling around! At that moment, I thought, this is probably what the urge to retreat to a secluded place feels like—not because you're escaping something, but because you've encountered such beautiful scenery and such wonderful people 💚 After a few days of traveling around town with my cousin and six-year-old daughter, we decided to spend our last night in the remote Qingpuli Xiangguo. Initially, I was worried about the remoteness and inconvenience, but the further we rode on the rented electric scooter, the more breathtaking the scenery became 🌿 We experienced a bit of speed and excitement along the way, and the child stretched out her arms to feel the wind, saying it was so comfortable 👀 When we finally arrived, my heart immediately calmed down—we were surrounded by truly beautiful mountains and rivers, as if we had stumbled upon someone's hidden paradise. The housekeeper sent detailed directions in advance. 📍As soon as we arrived at the room, the air conditioning was already set to the most comfortable temperature. My six-year-old child immediately noticed this thoughtfulness: "Mommy, Auntie is so considerate!" The next morning, a freshly made breakfast was served. My daughter's eyes lit up! ✨ There was lean pork congee, red bean buns, steamed corn, steamed sweet potato and egg, freshly cooked rice noodles, and more—even the presentation showed care. My cousin couldn't resist taking pictures and posting them on WeChat Moments: "A thoughtful breakfast! 🍳" The little one tried everything and kept praising how delicious it was! 😋 Right next to the guesthouse is a water sports center where you can ride jet skis and hot air balloons, making it especially suitable for outdoor camping and barbecues. We saw many families having meals there while we were strolling around! At that moment, I thought, this is probably what the urge to retreat to a secluded place feels like—not because you're escaping anything, but because you've encountered such beautiful scenery and such wonderful people. 💚

Don't want to talk, don't want to plan a complicated itinerary, and don't want to be annoyed by crowds? Pick a gentle small town and stay for 3 days—it's the most effective way for adults to recharge🌿 🏔 Yunnan · Shaxi | Time stands still on the Ancient Tea Horse Road Highlights: Yujin Bridge, 6:30–7:30 AM, mist over the Heihui River, old men leading horses slowly crossing the bridge; sit and relax at the Sideng Street ancient stage; Xingjiao Temple to see Ming Dynasty murals (no photos inside); Librairie Avant-Garde Shaxi Bai Bookstore, renovated from an old granary, with vast rice fields outside the window; touch the wood carvings of the old horse caravan residence at Ouyang Courtyard. Admission to the ancient town is free Itinerary: Day 1: Carpool from Dali/Jianchuan to town > Sideng Street > Yujin Bridge sunset; Day 2: Early morning mist > Xingjiao Temple > Spend half a day at the Avant-Garde Bookstore > Hike in the rice fields; Day 3: Market day on Friday, buy local goods and head back Food: Chickpea jelly CNY 3–5, grilled milk curd CNY 5/skewer, Bai-style clay pot, wild mushroom hot pot. You can eat until you're full for CNY 50–60 per person ⚠️: The ancient town has many bluestone paths and slopes, making suitcases difficult to use; a backpack is easiest. Large temperature difference between morning and night, bring a light jacket. Weak signal in the mountains, download offline maps in advance 🌿 Guangxi · Huangyao | A thousand-year-old poetic realm surrounded by karst landscapes Highlights: Dailong Bridge is the most photogenic stone arch bridge in the town, with golden light on the water in the morning; the Dragon Claw Banyan tree is over 500 years old, with aerial roots hanging like dragon claws; the Immortal Ancient Well has 5 square pools in a row, where grandmas still wash clothes; Stone Jumping Bridge has 31 stone piers to hop across the stream; 3 km of bluestone streets, breathtakingly beautiful when reflecting after rain. Adult full-day tickets are about CNY 66–100 (students/seniors CNY 44); if staying in the ancient town, you can enter/exit freely with your room card Itinerary: Day 1: Transfer to the special line at Hezhou Station > Dailong Bridge > Ancient Banyan Tree > Stroll along the stone streets > Night tour of the flowing water alleys; Day 2: Early morning empty streets > Ancient stage > Guo Family Courtyard > Snack tour in the side alleys before heading back Food: Fermented bean curd rice noodles, stuffed tofu, stuffed pumpkin flowers, river fish with rice wine, lemon duck with mountain yellow peel, mugwort rice cakes ⚠️: Main street influencer shops are overpriced; local old shops in the side alleys offer better value. Stone paths are slippery when wet, wear non-slip flat shoes. Many mosquitoes in the evening, carry repellent. Some snack stalls only accept cash 🏘 Zhejiang · Nanxun | The true Jiangnan hidden in the Baijianlou buildings Highlights: Baijianlou is a 400-meter cluster of Ming and Qing dynasty residences along the river, free to visit, with morning mist and lantern reflections from 6:00–8:00 AM; Xiaolian Zhuang is the private garden of the richest man in the late Qing Dynasty, with 10 acres of lotus ponds and pavilions; Jiayetang Library is one of the four great libraries of Jiangnan; Zhang Shiming's Former Residence is the No. 1 Residence in Jiangnan, featuring a fusion of Baroque ballrooms and Chinese carved beams; Liu's Tihao is a red-brick Western-style building, great for unique photos; night boat tours are CNY 40/person, passing through bridges and alleys amidst the sound of oars and lantern shadows. The main street of the ancient town is free; a joint ticket for the 6 major gardens costs CNY 75–85 and is valid for 2 days Itinerary: Day 1: High-speed train to Nanxun Station > Baijianlou morning view > East Street snacks > Tongjin Bridge > Night boat tour; Day 2: Xiaolian Zhuang + Jiayetang > Zhang Shiming's Former Residence > Liu's Tihao > Zhang Jingjiang's Former Residence > Return Food: Double-topping noodles CNY 15–22, Xun trotters, Dingsheng cake CNY 3–5/piece, Xiuhuajin, smoked bean tea, orange cakes ⚠️: If you don't stay for a night, you've wasted the trip; waterfront homestays in Baijianlou are CNY 150–260/night. Refuse the low-price free ticket tricycle scams; buy tickets through official channels. Stone paths are narrow and slippery, watch your step when taking night photos. Return to your homestay at noon to escape the heat before heading out again 💡 All 3 small towns are suitable for a slow solo stay. Shaxi is the most pristine and healing, Huangyao has the best landscape atmosphere, and Nanxun is the most convenient and livable. Choose the one closest to you and set off now

Our family chose this designer hotel for our summer vacation, and as soon as we arrived, we felt it was truly unique. The entire three-story building is full of design flair, featuring over 1,000 sqm of public space. It's free from the hustle and bustle, feeling more like an art space hidden along the Li River. The homestay's guest rooms were independently created by 5 designers, each with its own unique aesthetic. Among them, Dream and Maze are particularly popular, art-focused room types. ▫️Dream (stayed here this time) Created by a female architect from Harvard-Tsinghua, inspired by Escher's optical illusion art. 2D and 3D blend ingeniously, as if stepping into a dreamlike secret realm beyond reality. Pale pink + white color palette. Lighting and appliances are all hidden behind black concealed doors, minimizing the presence of electronics. The space is dreamlike, perfect for atmospheric photos. ⚠️ This is an art-focused design, suitable for an immersive aesthetic experience ▫️Maze: Magical geometric space, a real-life Monument Valley, with a strong artistic feel. ▫️Structure: Large, minimalist Japanese-style space, a good choice for families prioritizing comfort and practicality. ▫️Ripple: Mountain view room, airy and soft. ▫️Peace: Mountain view room with a bathtub, perfect for relaxing. ▫️Innocence: LOFT duplex with high ceilings, choose this if you like lofts. ▫️Secret: Excellent privacy, beautiful light and shadow. The entire house is furnished with high-quality furniture and branded toiletries, ensuring a premium living experience. Thoughtfully provided children's slippers. I especially love the public areas here, where I can accompany my child to read, draw, and do crafts, or just quietly drink tea and chat. It's also great to do nothing at all; just sit by the window and gaze at the Li River landscape. 💡 Tips for traveling with kids: We recommend not overpacking your itinerary; slowing down makes for a more comfortable vacation. You can take a walk by the Li River in the morning, return to the homestay to rest and play in the afternoon, and wait quietly on the terrace in the evening. Food recommendations ✨: Don't miss Pingle Eighteen Stuffed Dishes, Li River fish, oil tea, and local rice noodles.

It's not that I can't afford Yangshuo, but I was scared off by netizens talking about "tens of thousands of people," so I decided to skip Yangshuo and come to the more distant Pingle instead. It's a niche hidden gem where you'll mostly find local residents. ⚠️ Ten-Mile Gallery: Navigate to Ertang Middle School, drive straight along the main road, pass the highway bridge, then turn left to reach the hidden Ten-Mile Gallery. Drive up the mountain. The roads are paved, and you can park anywhere to take photos. Every spot is photogenic, and the entire route features karst landscapes. Remember, stay out of the grass—watch out for snakes. ⚠️ Rongjin Ancient Banyan Cluster: Not recommended, you can skip this. Staying at Yunduo Hotel in Pingle County tonight. It's affordable and the environment is nice.

With the arrival of the Spring Equinox, flowers in Guilin are blooming non-stop! More than a dozen types of flowers including cherry blossoms, peach blossoms, sea cabbage flowers, azaleas, magnolias, yellow trumpet trees, rapeseed flowers, poppies, Chinese milk vetch, and pear blossoms are blooming in succession, painting a springtime panorama across the region. 【Magnolia】 Blooming period: Late February to late March. In Huayu Village, Gongcheng, purple magnolias proudly stand on branches, their colors bright and fragrance enchanting; the magnolias at Jingjiang Princes’ City complement the ancient charm of Duxiu Peak, elegant and ethereal; in Chuanshan Park, magnolias stand by the river, their reflections forming a picturesque scene, serene and poetic. 【Yellow Trumpet Tree】 Blooming period: Late March to early April. Along the creek in Lingshang Village, Huixian Town, Lingui, 260 yellow trumpet trees bloom in clusters, their golden flower cascades shining on the water, bright and vibrant. 【Cherry Blossom】 Blooming period: Early March to early April. Nanxi Mountain Park’s hundred-acre cherry blossom garden is divided into three major areas: Cherry Blossom Garden, Cherry Blossom Island, and Cherry Blossom Valley, creating a strong festive atmosphere; Fuchiu Ecological Park’s late cherry blossoms grow beautifully by the mountains and water in a staggered layout; the Peach Blossom Island scenic area in Pingle’s Changtan integrates the essence of Eastern gardens, offering an immersive cherry blossom painting experience. 【Rapeseed Flower】 Blooming period: March to early April. The hundred-acre flower fields by the water at Jinji Lake Prairie in Yongfu bloom profusely, exuding a strong pastoral vibe; the golden flower belts of the Buni Terraces in Longsheng wind through Yao village stilted houses, full of natural charm; along both banks of the Yulong River in Yangshuo, thousands of acres of rapeseed flowers stretch endlessly, blending mountains, water, and flower fields harmoniously. 【Sea Cabbage Flower】 Blooming period: Late March to June. In the clear river section of Baishou Town, Yongfu, the nationally protected second-level plant sea cabbage flower quietly floats, its pure white flowers dancing lightly with the waves, a natural testament to excellent water quality. 【Peach Blossom】 Blooming period: Early March to mid-April. Lingchuan’s Haiyang Township boasts 26,000 acres of peach orchards covering the hillsides in blazing color; navigate to “Haiyang Tian Tao Modern Specialty Agriculture” to reach them; in Guanzhuang Village, Shuiche Town, Guanyang, ancient peach trees with gnarled branches and abundant blossoms look like snow or mist, creating a fairyland. 【Poppy】 Blooming period: Mid-March to April. The 18,000㎡ flower sea by the Lijiang River in Lotus Source spreads along the terrain, with pink and tender yellow interwoven like a Monet oil painting; Guilin Garden Expo Park has a dedicated flower viewing path where visitors walk among flowers and the scenery comes alive like a painting. 【Chinese Milk Vetch】 Blooming period: Mid-March to April. In Goudi Fields, Daqiao Village, Lingchuan, wild Chinese milk vetch blooms in large patches, the largest viewing area in Guilin, fresh and radiant. 【Pear Blossom】 Blooming period: Late March to early April. The 10,000-acre pear orchard in Daren Village, Guanyang, looks like mist and snow, and driving through it feels like traveling through a sea of flowers; the hundred-acre fragrant pear orchard in Piaoli Town, Longsheng, is nestled among Miao villages, rustic and tranquil. 【Azalea】 Blooming period: Late March to April. The 70-acre azalea garden at the Guilin Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences gathers more than 20 varieties; the azalea garden in Qixing Park has over 3,000 large azalea plants arranged to create scenic views; in Xiaopingle Village, Haiyang Township, 500 acres of high mountain azaleas bloom fiercely in the wind; in Ziyuan’s Shiliping, Jinzi Mountain, Shiwangu Field, and Nanbaoding high mountain grasslands, the red azaleas light up the mountains in April, shrouded in mist, magnificent and extraordinary. 【Internet-famous Gardens】 Blooming period: March to June. At Hongding Garden, roses and cherry blossoms intertwine, instantly entering a Monet dreamscape; Xin’er’s Garden is a nine-acre rose-themed garden with over 500 varieties, professionally maintained and self-cultivated, a pilgrimage site for rose lovers. Guilin itself is a spring garden without walls—whether it’s a spring outing, a bike ride, or a riverside stroll, you may encounter unexpected floral surprises. Come to Guilin and start your unique journey!

Trapped in the hustle and bustle for far too long, we are constantly rushing for success, grasping for possessions, and demanding quick results. This relentless pressure keeps our minds tightly wound, blinding us to countless beautiful moments. A short getaway from the noise finally helped me uncover the true essence of a relaxed life, found in the unhurried pace of unfamiliar streets. For this trip, I let go of all restlessness. Instead of chasing a packed itinerary, I chose to calmly immerse myself in the slow rhythm of a new place, allowing my long-tensed body and soul to completely unwind. In the early morning, the alleys were peaceful and serene beneath a soft, clear sky. The morning market stalls were neatly arranged, and vendors greeted passersby with quiet voices and unhurried movements. There was no chaotic noise, only the warm, grounding essence of daily life. Strolling through the market, I picked a cozy, local eatery to sit down and enjoy a simple, hot breakfast. The ingredients were fresh, the flavors comforting, and though it lacked fancy packaging, it was filled with authentic, heartwarming flavor 🥢. Wandering the narrow streets during the day, I was surrounded by the gentle rhythm of everyday life. People strolled by leisurely, chatting softly. Shopkeepers took their time organizing goods and sweeping their storefronts. Everything unfolded with a natural, unhurried grace. Letting go of my own urgency, I quietly observed the vibrant street scenes. When I grew tired, I sat down, cleared my mind, and sipped on light tea, letting my thoughts settle in the embrace of slow time. As evening approached, the subtle scent of home-cooked meals drifted through the air, and a gentle night sky draped over the town. Small shops gradually turned on their warm lights. A hot, home-style dinner proved simply healing, smoothing away any lingering restlessness in my heart. This slow-paced journey taught me a profound lesson: much of life’s anxiety stems from being 'in too much of a rush'—rushing to succeed, rushing for perfection, rushing to escape the ordinary. We often forget that life is meant to be a long experience, not a sprint to the finish line. By learning to slow down, follow our natural rhythm, and move forward without panic, we can truly protect our inner peace and find lasting stability. As the scholar Wang Guowei once said, 'Only when life is lived slowly can true peace be found.'

As a longtime guide who frequently explores the lesser-known routes in eastern Guilin, I can confidently say that 90% of tourists visiting Guilin have no idea about this fairyland hidden in the countryside of Pingle. You don’t have to squeeze into the crowds in Yangshuo; just drive along the 3-kilometer cement road to Dayandi Village and you’ll step right into a living ink-wash landscape 🥳 This is Pingle’s most charming natural karst gallery, where clusters of small peaks rise abruptly from the rice fields like fresh bamboo shoots, scattered across the open farmland. The lush greenery of the mountains drifts into your eyes with the breeze. Locals also share a romantic legend: long ago, the Nine Immortals traveled here, and one immortal, enchanted by the mountain and water scenery, refused to leave and transformed into the graceful Jade Maiden Peak. The other eight immortals nestled nearby, becoming the eight connected peaks known today as the Eight Immortals Peaks. An old aqueduct built in the 1970s stretches across the fields. Though no longer used for irrigation, it has become a unique vintage photo frame. Standing beneath it to shoot the mountain scenery, you can easily capture timeless landscape masterpieces. In summer, when the rice waves roll, the wind carries the fresh scent of the crops, and the mountain peaks flicker in and out of the cloud shadows. Even passing villagers will smile and chat with you, creating a completely unpretentious atmosphere unlike typical tourist spots. This place is only 4 kilometers from the Guilin-Wuzhou Expressway exit and just a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin city, all on smooth cement roads, so no worries about scraping your car’s undercarriage. No admission fee is required. Stroll slowly along the village paths, and when tired, sit by the rice field ridges and listen to the birdsong circling the mountain peaks. All the stress of rushing around can be dissolved by this countryside mountain and water scenery. Guangxi Surrounding Tours

Stayed at Life Hotel in Guilin, and it was incredibly impactful⛰️ Took the family for a 4-day, 3-night slow trip in Guilin + Yangshuo! Convenient taxi rides throughout, comfortable for the whole family! Bringing elderly and children to Guilin is truly comfortable! "Guilin's landscape is the best under heaven" is not just a saying; the natural scenery here is like a painting, and the air is as fresh as if it’s been washed. If you bring elderly and children, I recommend staying two nights each in Guilin city and Yangshuo, so you can explore the essence of Guilin without too much back-and-forth travel. 🏠 Accommodation Highlights: Guilin, known for its world-class landscape, has hotels that are part of the scenery! This time we stayed at Youxianyi Villa outside the city, a stunning cultural and artistic boutique hotel with strong northern Guangxi cultural features and an oriental charm. Outside the huge floor-to-ceiling windows, the morning mist over the Li River drifts gently, and at dusk, golden light spreads across the river. Opposite is Peach Blossom Island. Lying here daydreaming is the best state of travel! The butler service offers tea art classes and cooking experiences, making you feel like you’re truly “living like a local in Guilin.” The most interesting part was discovering the hidden gem guesthouse Mijing • Valley on the Yulong River, carefully renovated from several northern Guangxi ancient residences. The courtyard hides an art gallery by an oil painting master. In this lively century-old earthen courtyard, you can read paintings, enjoy tea, and watch the mountains while kids chase butterflies around the yard. This is the right way to enjoy Guilin’s slow life! 🌈 4 Days 3 Nights Essential Itinerary (No Rush Version) Day 1: City Emblem Check-in · First Impressions of the City Arrive in Guilin at noon and head straight to Elephant Trunk Hill, the "city emblem of Guilin" (enter through Gate 1, free before 7 am). The giant elephant shape drinking water from the river is truly breathtaking, with the Li River flowing gently at its feet. This is Guilin’s city business card! Next to Elephant Hill is Zizhou Park, where you can see the full view of Elephant Trunk Hill across the river. In the evening, go to East and West Alleys, an old street district from the Ming and Qing dynasties now turned into an artsy neighborhood. The cobblestone streets and wooden arcade buildings make you feel like you’ve traveled back to the Republic of China era. The ancient theater stage, old teahouses, and boutique shops are all worth exploring. At night, immerse yourself in the Guilin Impression Show to experience Guilin’s thousand-year cultural heritage, extending your good mood for the day! Day 2: Li River Scenery · Landscape Painting Scroll The highlight of the day is the classic Li River section! Take a boat from Guilin in the morning (about 4 hours). The boat glides over clear water, with karst peaks reflected on both sides. The Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection, scenes printed on the RMB, appear vividly before your eyes. Sitting by the boat’s edge watching the landscape slowly pass by, the air is filled with the sweet scent of river water. In the afternoon, arrive in Yangshuo and visit Xingping Ancient Town, a 1700-year-old town hidden by the Li River. The ancient street is short but every stone slab tells a story. The RMB 20 background viewing platform is nearby—take out your bill and snap a photo! Stay at Yangshuo’s “Landscape Residence” — Huashan Yun She, a secret high-altitude retreat at 398 meters elevation. Lying in bed, you can see the overlapping mountains and the first bend of the Li River, facing the Yellow Cloth Reflection on the RMB 20 bill across the river. Falling asleep with the mountains and water, even your dreams turn a shade of green! Day 3: Yulong River Rafting · Countryside Cycling Wake up in the morning sunlight at the guesthouse and watch the mist rise from the mountains—a truly healing scene. In the morning, enjoy bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. Unlike the big boats on the Li River, the bamboo raft is quieter, and the water is as clear as jelly. Sitting on the raft, watching the green water and mountains reflected, the boatman gently pushes the bamboo pole, and the boat slowly glides over the water. Time slows down here. In the afternoon, rent a small electric scooter (about 50 RMB/day) to freely cycle along the Ten-Mile Gallery by the Yulong River. This is Yangshuo’s most beautiful scenic road, with Moon Hill, Big Banyan Tree, Butterfly Spring, and Totem Ancient Road scattered along the way. Both sides are picturesque countryside with rice fields, villages, and peaks interspersed. The breeze brings endless greenery. At dusk, ride into West Street in Yangshuo, a famous “foreigner street” blending Chinese and Western cultures. Cafes and bars line the cobblestone street. Pick any spot to sit, have a cold drink, and watch the people pass by leisurely. Day 4: Explore Guilin’s Backyard Garden Before leaving, spend half a day at the local secret “Guilin Backyard Garden” — Huixian Glass Fields, about an hour’s drive from Yangshuo. Once one of Guilin’s most underrated spots, it now has hiking trails and viewing platforms. From above, the farmland mirrors the blue sky, white clouds, and karst peaks, looking even more beautiful than with the naked eye! The whole hill has a relaxed vibe of “I’m here, come if you want.” If time allows, visit Longmen Shuiyan for an adventure. This underground river wonderland maintains a cool constant temperature year-round. Wearing a headlamp, walk through it and experience the primal charm of karst landforms. Finally, with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories, end this world-class landscape journey. 💡 Accommodation Recommendations · 🏨 Guilin City: For staying in the scenery, top picks are Zhixing Boutique Hotel (huge floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Li River, opposite Peach Blossom Island) and Youxianyi Villa outside the city (Northern Guangxi style + butler service); for an Instagram vibe, try Julan’an Guesthouse with its popular rooftop photo spot. · ⛰️ Yangshuo: For staying in the clouds and sea of clouds, must-stay Huashan Yun She (398m elevation wild luxury retreat overlooking the first bend of the Li River); for wabi-sabi style, choose Freedom Bird Miye (panoramic mountain view king room with karst peaks); for art lovers, pick Mijing • Valley (ancient residence courtyard + oil painting gallery); the new Chinese-style Qiyue Waterfront Resort near Ten-Mile Gallery is also a great choice. 🌴 Hidden Gems (Add if time permits) Longtan River “Jelly Water” — 1.5 hours from Guilin city, this natural jelly-colored pool hidden in the mountains has high mineral content that makes the water a clear emerald green. Multiple natural pools of varying depths are tucked in the canyon. Visiting here in summer to play in the water and cool off is a real treat, nicknamed “Guilin’s Semporna” by netizens. Dingyi Art Space — An artistic secret hidden in a village, 14 minutes by car from Huaqiao Rongji. It looks like an ordinary house outside, but inside it’s filled with the scent of wood and hundreds of wood carving artworks surround you. Time slows down here. 🍜 Recommended Food (Authentic local flavors, from budget to luxury) · Guilin Rice Noodles: Coming to Guilin without slurping a bowl of rice noodles is like not coming at all! Find a local street stall with a queue. The noodles are smooth and springy, paired with special broth—this is how Guilin locals start their day. · Yangshuo Beer Fish: Made with fresh Li River fish stewed with local beer. The fish is tender and flavorful, and the rich broth is perfect with rice. It’s the signature dish at every Yangshuo restaurant. · Guilin Oil Tea: A local morning tea ritual made by pounding tea leaves, old ginger, and garlic in oil to create a thick tea soup, served with crispy rice puffs and peanuts. The bittersweet taste is addictive. · Longsheng Sanmen Beef Skewers: A must-order at night markets! Beef skewers sizzle over charcoal, sprinkled with chili and cumin, full of meaty aroma. The entire Xianhu Road night market is filled with this familiar smoky flavor. · Guilin Dessert Trio: Water chestnut cake, osmanthus cake, and glutinous rice balls—sweet but not greasy, every bite tastes like old Guilin. 📝 Travel Tips: · Best Season: April to October is the golden travel period. April-May offers misty ink-wash scenery on the Li River; September-October has clear autumn skies and the best views. Avoid July-August summer crowds and heat for more comfort. · Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat (strong UV during the day), mosquito repellent, lightweight hiking shoes (lots of mountains). Bring rain gear and light jackets when traveling with elderly and children. · Yangshuo Tips: Bamboo rafting on Yulong River is best in the morning for fewer people and peaceful scenery; Ten-Mile Gallery is best explored by bike for freedom to stop and go; for sunrise and sunset views, Xianggong Mountain is a classic spot. No rushed travel, only Li River morning mist, Yulong River bamboo rafts, and the evening breeze of Ten-Mile Gallery. Guilin’s landscape heals the soul, and the lingering charm of the trip is probably the moist breeze from the river and the salty aroma of that bowl of Guilin rice noodles in your memory. Highly recommended!🌄

If you still don’t know how great Pingle Zhixing Guesthouse is for spring photos, especially if you love shooting spring masterpieces, this guide is a must-save for those looking for unique photo spots in Guilin. 📸 Room balcony floor-to-ceiling windows The gentle morning side light around nine o’clock, with mist floating over the river, and Peach Blossom Island across the way serving as a natural backdrop. Leaning on the railing in a plain cotton-linen dress, no need to pose deliberately—the photos come out like ink wash paintings with a natural smoky atmosphere. 📸 Rooftop tea café Go half an hour before sunset, order a coffee and stand at the edge of the terrace. Backlit silhouettes with the entire Guiliang Bay dyed golden by the setting sun behind you, the shimmering water looks so stunning that the photos don’t even need filters. 📸 Courtyard under the persimmon tree The courtyard is perfectly green in spring. Sitting by the tea table with fresh fruit and snacks at hand, you can look up to see the river view. A casual snap instantly conveys a relaxed vibe, and many friends ask for the address when posted on social media. Besides being great for photos, staying here is especially comfortable. The entire guesthouse is built on a hillside, covering about ten acres with only a dozen rooms, quiet and private. The decor is simple yet stylish, with spacious rooms renovated from old buildings, soft and comfortable bedding, and attentive butler service who even helps with luggage. The guesthouse restaurant offers great value dishes; the kiln chicken and steamed Guilin fish are both worth trying. There are not many rooms in the entire guesthouse, so be sure to book early for Labor Day travel. If you wait too long, you’ll only be left admiring others’ experiences✨ Click the blue guesthouse name in the text or the product card below to book now!

Guilin Pingle, this small town hides many unknown beauties. As the boat slowly glides over the emerald river, the karst peaks on both sides seem to tell stories of a thousand years. Here, not only is there charming natural scenery, but also a rich cultural heritage, with every brick and tile exuding a sense of history. Today, I want to take you into a special hotel—the Wyndham Guilin Pingle Hotel—to experience this tranquility and beauty together.🌟 🚗 Convenient transportation, the starting point for exploration 🚀 The moment I arrived at the Wyndham Guilin Pingle Hotel, I was deeply attracted by its location. The hotel is located at No. 9 Zhaozhou Avenue, Nanzhou New District, not only close to Pingle Ertang Bus Station, Gongcheng Station, and Yangshuo Station, making travel very convenient, but also near the famous Yangshuo Ten-Mile Gallery and Yulong River Scenic Area, just a 20-minute and 30-minute drive away respectively. Imagine enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel in the morning, then easily setting off on a spontaneous trip.🍃 🏡 New Chinese style charm, the warmth of home 🏠 Stepping into the hotel, a unique oriental charm greets you. The new Chinese-style courtyard architecture is not only elegant but also makes you feel the warmth of home. Each room is over 50 square meters, spacious and bright, equipped with a private balcony and a fold-out sofa bed, and even a private garden courtyard, allowing you to enjoy a moment of peace amid a busy journey. At night, sitting on the private balcony, feeling the breeze and listening to the distant sound of the river, the comfort is beyond words.🌙 🎉 Rich entertainment facilities, joy everywhere 🎉 The hotel's entertainment facilities are equally impressive. A 550-square-meter grand banquet hall, a 260-square-meter outdoor garden terrace, outdoor swimming pool, KTV, tea room, mahjong room, and billiards are all available. Whether for family gatherings or friends’ get-togethers, this place can meet your needs. Especially on the outdoor garden terrace, sipping tea and chatting with a few friends, or hosting a small party by the pool at night, will become unforgettable memories of this trip.🍹 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Warm service, feeling at home 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Lastly, I must mention the hotel’s service. During my stay, I deeply felt the enthusiasm and attentiveness of the staff. From check-in to check-out, every employee greeted each guest with the sincerest smile. They patiently answered every question, helped us plan our itinerary, and ensured our trip was pleasant and smooth. This feeling of being at home makes it hard to forget even after leaving.💖 Wyndham Guilin Pingle Hotel is not just a hotel, but a warm home, a fun paradise, and a place you will want to linger in. If you are planning an unforgettable trip, this place is definitely worth a try.🌟

Guilin photo check-in guide, recommended treasure places not to be missed 1. Yulong River (Jinlong Bridge - Jiuxian section) An important tributary of the Li River, originating from Mao'er Mountain in Huajiang Yao Ethnic Township, Xing'an County, Guilin City, flowing through Yangshuo, and joining the Li River at Gongcheng River in Pingle County. The Yulong River Scenic Area features elegant and winding peaks on both sides, with countless shapes, and the riverbanks are adorned with green trees and red flowers swaying, creating a breathtaking view. - 2. Li River The Li River Scenic Area is one of the largest and most beautiful karst mountain and water tourism areas in the world. The Li River is 164 kilometers long and is the essence of Guilin's scenery. - 3. Xingping Ancient Town Located northeast of Yangshuo, 25 kilometers from the county seat, the Li River makes a large bend here, forming a unique "jade belt of green lotus" landscape. The ancient town contains many cultural sites such as ancient streets, ancient bridges, ancient opera stages, ancient temples, ancient forts, and famous residences. - 4. Ten-Mile Gallery Located at Moon Hill in Yangshuo, it is called the Ten-Mile Gallery of Yangshuo because of the beautiful scenery along the road, poetic and picturesque. The mountain, water, and rural scenery here is one of the representative natural landscapes of Guangxi. - 5. Silver Cave Located in Maling Town, Lipu County, Guilin City, it is a karst cave tourism area featuring unique karst landform landscapes. It is known as one of the "world's cave wonders." - 6. Mao'er Mountain The highest peak in South China, it is also a national nature reserve and forest park. Mao'er Mountain's natural ecology and original appearance are well preserved, making it an excellent destination for mountaineering, adventure, and hiking. -

Known as the "Famous Tourism Village of Tianfu," this place feels more like a hidden paradise deep within a sea of bamboo compared to the bustling ancient towns. Destination Overview Key Features: Qing Dynasty ancient residential complex + Kangxi Emperor's bestowed ancient tea garden + ten-thousand-mu bamboo forest Location: Pingle Town, Qionglai City (about 16 km from Pingle Ancient Town, about 101 km from Chengdu city center) Best Seasons: Spring (tea picking, enjoying fresh greenery), Summer (cooling off), Autumn (viewing red leaves) Recommended Duration: 1 day (suitable for self-driving; mountain roads are narrow and require cautious driving) 🗺️ Must-Visit Attractions Li Family Courtyard Highlights: One of the largest Qing Dynasty residential complexes in western Sichuan. Built during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty, it has 149 rooms. Features: Preserves the plaque "Imperial Grace and Favor" bestowed by Emperor Guangxu, along with numerous ancient farming tools and papermaking equipment, offering deep insight into the local historical family culture. Zhushang Huaqiu & Imperial Tea Garden Highlights: The guesthouse is located on the mountaintop with excellent views, right next to the tea garden bestowed by Emperor Kangxi. Features: Home to an ancient tea tree over 1,300 years old. In the early morning, you can see the tea garden shrouded in mist and experience tea picking or tasting. Ten-Mile Bamboo Sea Corridor Highlights: A vast bamboo forest stretching from the foot to the top of the mountain. Features: Perfect for hiking and breathing fresh air. In summer, it serves as a natural cooling shelter; in autumn, the bamboo forest intertwined with red leaves creates a very healing scenery. 🚗 Transportation and Accommodation Suggestions Transportation: Self-driving (recommended): Navigate to "Qionglai Huaqiu Village" or "Zhushang Huaqiu," about 1.5-2 hours in total. The last section of the mountain road is rugged with many curves, so drive carefully. Public Transport: You need to first reach Qionglai city, then transfer to Pingle Town, and finally take a taxi into the village. It’s quite troublesome, so self-driving is recommended. Accommodation Recommendations: Zhushang Huaqiu: A popular local guesthouse featuring a wild luxury style, built on the mountain with white walls and blue tiles, perfect for photography. 🥢 Food Recommendations Huaqiu Tea: A must-try local specialty with a fresh and tender taste. Farmhouse Dishes: Such as bamboo shoot chicken stew, firewood chicken, smoked sausage. Special Dishes: Tea leaf scrambled eggs (made with fresh tender buds, smooth and delicious), cold mixed wild vegetables (such as purslane and fresh hemp).

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the flowers in Guilin! More than a dozen types of flowers including magnolia, rapeseed flowers, cherry blossoms, sea purslane, peach blossoms, poppies, Chinese milk vetch, pear blossoms, azaleas, and popular themed gardens are blooming one after another, creating a flowing springtime panorama. The flowering period lasts from late February to June, covering multiple districts and counties across the city. There are both wild flower seas nestled in the mountains and waters, as well as carefully crafted garden floral landscapes. [Magnolia] Magnolias are in full bloom in Huayu Village, Gongcheng Town, Gongcheng Yao Autonomous County, Jingjiang Princes’ Palace in Guilin, and Chuanshan Park. The purple magnolias stand proudly on the branches, with petals as smooth as jade and a subtle fragrance that is refreshing; the ancient charm of Jingjiang Princes’ Palace complements the elegant magnolias, and the magnolia reflections in Chuanshan Park create a serene and poetic scene. [Yellow Trumpet Tree] About 260 yellow trumpet trees are planted along the creek in Lingshang Village, Huixian Town, Lingui. The golden flower clusters hang from the branches, swaying like bells in the spring breeze, bright and passionate. The flowering period is concentrated from late March to early April. [Cherry Blossoms] The cherry blossom theme park in Nanxi Mountain Park covers about 100 acres and includes three main viewing areas: Cherry Blossom Garden, Cherry Blossom Island, and Cherry Blossom Valley. Fuqiu Ecological Park is nestled by the mountains and water, with late cherry blossoms scattered in the valley. The Changtan Peach Blossom Island Scenic Area in Pingle County integrates Eastern garden aesthetics to create an immersive cherry blossom painting. [Rapeseed Flowers] In Yongfu County, the Jinji Lake Grassland has hundreds of acres of rapeseed flowers blooming continuously; the terraced fields of Longsheng Buni are layered with golden waves of flowers, with Yao village stilt houses peeking through; along the banks of the Yulong River in Yangshuo, thousands of acres of rapeseed flowers stretch endlessly, full of pastoral charm. [Sea Purslane] In Baishou Town, Yongfu County, clusters of pure white sea purslane bloom on the clear river sections from March to June every year. Known as the “water willow,” it is a nationally protected wild plant of the second level, only found in pure water quality areas. [Peach Blossoms] The peach forest in Haiyang Township, Lingchuan County covers a total area of 26,000 acres, with villages like Xiaopingle and Shuitou covered in pink clouds; in Guanzhuang Village, Shuiche Town, Guanyang County, the ancient peach trees with gnarled branches and abundant blossoms look like snow and mist, creating a fairyland. [Poppies] At Lotus Source Ecological Farm, 18,000 square meters of poppies sway pinkly by the Li River, forming gradient color bands with snapdragons and violets; the Guilin Garden Expo Park has dedicated flower paths in the flower fields, where pink and pale yellow intertwine like a Monet oil painting. [Chinese Milk Vetch] After the spring exposure of the fields at the bottom of Gongping Lake in Daqiao Village, Gongping Township, Lingchuan County, wild Chinese milk vetch blooms in large patches. It is the largest viewing site for Chinese milk vetch in Guilin, with a light purple flower carpet spreading between green mountains and clear waters. [Pear Blossoms] In Daren Village, Guanyang County, tens of thousands of acres of pear orchards bloom like snow, painting an ink-wash scroll with the mountain villages and forests; in Piaoli Town, Longsheng County, hundreds of acres of fragrant pear orchards are in full bloom, and every household in Menghua Village is surrounded by pear trees, full of spring vitality. [Azaleas] The Guilin Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has a 70-acre azalea specialty garden with more than 20 varieties; the Azalea Garden in Qixing Park centers around a pavilion with over 3,000 large azalea plants arranged in a scenic layout; in Xiaopingle Village, Haiyang Township, 500 acres of alpine azaleas, along with the high mountain azalea seas in Shili Pingtan of Ziyuan County and Nanbaoding, look even more magnificent and splendid amid the mist. [Popular Gardens] The Red Roof Garden combines roses, cherry blossoms, and verbena, resembling Monet’s garden; Xin’er’s Garden, located at the Yaoshan Flower Base in Diecai District, covers nine acres and displays more than 500 varieties of roses, combining professionalism with naturalistic aesthetics. Come to Guilin and start your unique journey now!

Starting from Ji Hotel Chengdu Western China International Expo City Xinglong Lake Wetland Park Store, it's a 1-hour drive directly to the slow-paced life of Western Sichuan, perfect for bringing parents or friends! Must-Visit Ancient Towns List · Huanglongxi: Chengdu people's water play paradise 🌊 Bluestone slab streets + Ming and Qing dynasty old buildings. Must-try: Yigen Mian (One-Noodle) and Old Chengdu Liangfen (Jelly Noodles)! · Pingle: Baimo River flows through the town 💦 Parents love drinking tea by the river, while young people rush for bamboo sea rafting and traditional papermaking. · Jiezi: Authentic Western Sichuan ancient town 🍂 Spectacular century-old ginkgo trees. Tang Mabing (Sesame Cake) and Ye'er Ba (Leaf-wrapped Rice Cake) are amazing when eaten hot! · Luodai: Living fossil of Hakka culture 🏯 Visit guild halls, eat 'Sad Liangfen' (Jelly Noodles) and Aihuang Momos (Mugwort Buns), and you can also climb the Jinlong Great Wall. · Anren: Republic of China-style museum town 🚃 Take a 'ding-ding' tram to tour the old streets. Liu's Manor + Jianchuan Museum are so fascinating you won't want to leave. · Wufengxi: Secluded ancient town nestled by mountains and rivers 🌄 Guansheng Palace overlooks the river view. Tengjiao Duck (Rattan Pepper Duck) and Hongyou Shuijiao (Chili Oil Dumplings) are incredibly fragrant! · Huaiyuan: Hometown of the 'Three Delights' 🍡 Must-try: Donggao (Frozen Cake), Ye'er Ba (Leaf-wrapped Rice Cake), and Doufu Lianzi (Tofu Curtains). Sitting in a 2-yuan teahouse for an afternoon is super relaxing. · Yuantong: A living specimen of 'Along the River During the Qingming Festival' 🏞️ Confluence of three rivers + Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The Qingming Festival fair in April is incredibly lively! · Xinchang: The largest ancient town in Western Sichuan 🍲 Fatty Intestine with Blood Curd and Sesame Oil Duck are a foodie's dream. The hundred-meter-long Qing dynasty residences are perfect for photos. 🚗 Travel Tips Driving is the most convenient, with parking in ancient towns costing 5-10 yuan/day; you can also take a high-speed train then transfer to a bus. A 2-day, 1-night stay in a B&B is recommended. For parents, prioritize Huanglongxi, Luodai, or Anren. Wearing Hanfu or Qipao for photos will make your social media shine!

📍Address: Huangzuishan, Pingle Town, Qionglai City, Chengdu, Sichuan (Just navigate to "Western Sichuan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area" to get there~🚗) 🚗Transportation Guide: Self-driving perks: Free parking 🅿️ at the scenic area! Public transport: From Chengdu East Station ➡️ Qionglai Station, transfer to bus 118 to Pingle Ancient Town, then take a 45-minute taxi ride to arrive~ ⏰Opening Hours: Oxygen station open all day 08:00-17:00 (No entry after 17:00🚫) 🎫Tickets: 59 RMB, go for it! 🐥 Super affordable price~ 💚Must-visit spots in the scenic area: ✨Walk across two stunning wooden bridges, red & green, breathtakingly beautiful! 🎨Every snapshot is a masterpiece (see photo 2)~ ✨National AAAA-level scenic area certification! 95% forest coverage 🌿, a natural oxygen bar for sure! ✨Small bridges, flowing water, and homes 🏠, crystal-clear spring water 💦, perfectly embodying the "Bamboo Source Beyond the World"! 🍽Tips for visiting: ✅The visitor center is connected to a scenic restaurant, highly recommend trying local specialties~ ✅The mountain trail is perfect for hiking 🚶‍♀️, and you can rent mountain bikes 🚴‍♀️ for a leisurely ride ✅No worries if you bring kids— the children's playground facilities are very complete 🎠 💡Warm Tips: The bamboo sea isn’t very large, you can explore it all in 3-4 hours! Fewer people on weekends, away from city noise, truly so healing 💆‍♀️~ It’s best to come in the morning when the air is freshest!

Spring in Chengdu is so comfortable that staying indoors on the weekend feels like a waste of such great weather. But don’t want to go to Huanglongxi and count heads? These four ancient towns reachable by high-speed rail within 1 hour are quiet, affordable, and full of local life—perfect for daydreaming alone or strolling slowly with a companion. Two days and one night, with a budget of 200-350 RMB per person, this is the right way to explore around Chengdu. 1. Jiezi Ancient Town | Springtime Moments in the Teahouse 🍵 Next to Chongzhou, quieter than the back mountain of Qingcheng. In March, Jiezi enjoys fresh mountain breezes, and the old street’s stone slabs shine under the sun. Find a riverside teahouse and sit for an entire afternoon. 🚄 Transportation: Take high-speed rail from Chengdu West Station to Chongzhou Station (about 20 minutes), then transfer by bus or taxi (about 30 minutes) ⏰ Duration: 2 days 1 night 💰 Budget: 200-300 RMB per person ✨ Weekend Relaxation Guide The old streets in the town center crisscross, and with few tourists in March, any alleyway is perfect for empty shots. The riverside teahouse at Weijiang River sets up outdoor seating by late March, where a 10 RMB cup of plain tea can keep you seated for hours. Climb Fengqi Mountain at dusk; the evening bell of Guangyan Temple and the mountain breeze are especially soothing. 🥢 Local Flavors (All trustworthy ingredients) · Jiezi Tangmabing (old brand, brown sugar filling, 5 RMB) · Huaiyuan Three Delicacies (Ye’erba, Donggao, Tofu Curtain) · River Fresh (Qingshui fish, priced by weight, can be cooked with Douban or pickled vegetables) · Local Cured Bacon (smoked locally, fatty but not greasy) · Soy Milk Mantou (street breakfast, soft and slightly sweet) 📸 2-Day Relaxation Itinerary 𝐃𝐚𝐲 1 Arrive in Chongzhou → Check into ancient town guesthouse → Afternoon tea by the river → Evening climb Fengqi Mountain to watch the sunset → Dinner with river fresh fish on the old street 𝐃𝐚𝐲 2 Early morning stroll on the empty old street → Buy Tangmabing as a souvenir → Lunch with cured bacon → Leisurely wander back 💡 Relaxation Tips: Tourists increase after 10 AM on weekends, so it’s best to arrive Friday night or early Saturday; choose a guesthouse by Weijiang River with mountain views from the window, starting at 150 RMB. 2. Taian Ancient Town | The Forgotten Corner at the Foot of Qingcheng Mountain 🌲 Quickly reached from Dujiangyan Station but always overshadowed by the famous Qingcheng Mountain. In March, Taian is fresh green, and the old riverside houses are so quiet you can only hear the water. 🚄 Transportation: Take high-speed rail from Chengdu Xipu Station to Dujiangyan Station (about 25 minutes), then transfer by bus or taxi (about 40 minutes) ⏰ Duration: 2 days 1 night 💰 Budget: 200-300 RMB per person ✨ Weekend Relaxation Guide The town is small, with one main street, but the advantage in March is no crowds. Find a riverside guesthouse balcony, brew some tea, and watch the mountains and water as time slows down. At night, the lights of small bars reflect in the river, and a slightly tipsy walk back to the guesthouse is very peaceful. For the energetic, the next day you can enter the back mountain of Qingcheng from the town. 🥢 Local Flavors (All chicken, duck, beef, and pork) · Stir-fried local cured bacon with garlic sprouts (local specialty) · Ginkgo stewed chicken (one of Qingcheng’s four delicacies, fresh soup and tender meat) · Taian fish (river fresh, spicy and flavorful) · Qingcheng old cured bacon (vacuum-packed for takeaway) · Wild vegetable omelet (March is the season for wild vegetables) 📸 2-Day Relaxation Itinerary 𝐃𝐚𝐲 1 Arrive in Dujiangyan → Enter the mountain to Taian Ancient Town → Check into riverside guesthouse → Afternoon riverside walk → Evening drinks at a small bar 𝐃𝐚𝐲 2 Early morning stroll on the empty old street → Or hike Qingcheng back mountain for fresh air → Lunch then leisurely return 💡 Relaxation Tips: If you want to visit Qingcheng back mountain, the entrance is close to the town, ticket 20 RMB; choose riverside accommodation, clean rooms from 100-150 RMB. 3. Pingle Ancient Town | The Western Sichuan Water Town by the Bamboo Sea 🎋 Pingle in Qionglai has bamboo seas, old bridges, and riverside wooden houses but is much quieter than surrounding ancient towns. The March sunshine is just right, and photos come out with a natural filter. 🚄 Transportation: Take high-speed rail from Chengdu East/South Station to Qionglai Station (about 40 minutes), then transfer by bus or taxi (about 20 minutes) ⏰ Duration: 2 days 1 night 💰 Budget: 250-350 RMB per person ✨ Weekend Relaxation Guide Leshan Bridge is the March photo hotspot, with the ancient bridge and flowing water paired with old wooden houses on both banks, very Jiangnan-like. If you don’t want to move much, find a teahouse by the river, lie back on a bamboo chair for half a day. For the energetic, visit Lugou Bamboo Sea, where the fresh green bamboo forest and few people make for a peaceful walk. 🥢 Local Flavors (All trustworthy meat) · Milk soup noodles (Qionglai specialty, white broth with fresh flavor, 8 RMB) · Bobo chicken (spicy red oil flavor, 1-2 RMB per skewer) · Bamboo sea roast chicken (local chicken slow-cooked until tender) · Old bridge tofu (riverside small shop, crispy outside and tender inside) · Wild vegetable series (fish mint, wild onion stir-fried with cured meat) 📸 2-Day Relaxation Itinerary 𝐃𝐚𝐲 1 Arrive in Qionglai → Go to Pingle Ancient Town → Check into old street guesthouse → Afternoon photo shoot at Leshan Bridge → Tea by the river → Dinner with milk soup noodles 𝐃𝐚𝐲 2 Morning visit to Lugou Bamboo Sea (less crowded) → Return to town for Bobo chicken → Buy some bamboo crafts → Return 💡 Relaxation Tips: Bamboo Sea requires half a day, ticket 15 RMB; choose accommodation in the old street with wooden houses and green tiles visible from the window, starting at 120 RMB. 4. Shangli Ancient Town | The Ink Painting by Ya’an 🎨 Shangli in Ya’an is freshest in March. The stone slabs shine after spring rain, stilted buildings reflect in the Baima River, and the whole town looks like a freshly painted ink painting. 🚄 Transportation: Take high-speed rail from Chengdu West Station to Ya’an Station (about 1 hour), then transfer by bus or taxi (about 50 minutes) ⏰ Duration: 2 days 1 night 💰 Budget: 200-300 RMB per person ✨ Weekend Relaxation Guide The town is surrounded by Baima River, connected by three stone bridges. Any bridge is a great photo spot. Erxian Bridge is the town’s highlight, with ancient bridges, old trees, and houses, and the March light is especially gentle. Walking along the river, you’ll see many students sketching, full of artistic atmosphere. For activity, Bifeng Gorge is nearby, where you can see pandas on the way. 🥢 Local Flavors (All homestyle meat) · Ya fish (signature claypot Ya fish, fresh soup and tender meat) · Dada noodles (hand-pulled noodles, chewy and flavorful) · Stir-fried local cured bacon with potato slices (Ya’an specialty) · Bridgehead barbecue (pork belly, beef skewers) · Brown sugar guokui (street snack, freshly baked) 📸 2-Day Relaxation Itinerary 𝐃𝐚𝐲 1 Arrive in Ya’an → Go to Shangli Ancient Town → Check into riverside guesthouse → Afternoon photo shoot at Erxian Bridge → Riverside walk watching sketching → Dinner with Dada noodles 𝐃𝐚𝐲 2 Early morning stroll on the empty ancient town → Buy cured bacon souvenirs → Or visit Bifeng Gorge to see pandas → Lunch then return 💡 Relaxation Tips: Bifeng Gorge is on the way back, visit if time allows; choose riverside stilted buildings for accommodation with river views from the window, starting at 130 RMB. 💰 Comparison of Spending Power in the Four Towns (per person for 2 days 1 night) Jiezi: 200-300 RMB (cheapest for tea) Taian: 200-300 RMB (most economical accommodation) Pingle: 250-350 RMB (bamboo sea requires ticket) Shangli: 200-300 RMB (fish dishes slightly more expensive) 🎯 How to Choose? 🍵 For daydreaming and tea: Jiezi (many riverside teahouses) 🌲 For mountain seclusion: Taian (quiet with water sounds) 🎋 For photo opportunities: Pingle (bamboo sea + old bridge) 🎨 For artistic slow living: Shangli (sketching + ink painting vibe) 💚 For those who want to “escape” Weekends in Chengdu don’t have to be spent squeezing into popular ancient towns. These four lesser-known places are just an hour by high-speed rail, with accommodation around a hundred RMB and tea for ten RMB. A casual stroll here is healing. Whether alone or with someone, the feeling of relaxation truly comes from fewer people.

Free to visit! Hawthorn flowers are so photogenic! Even on cloudy days, the shots come out great~ Casual shots give off that fresh spring first-love vibe🌿 🌸 Outfit & Makeup · Top picks: White/cream/light blue/pale pink solid colors, dresses/knitwear work best · Avoid: Bright red, big floral prints, highly saturated colors—they steal the spotlight from the flower sea · Makeup: Light foundation + soft pink lips + subtle glitter eyeshadow, a natural look that's enchanting ☀️ Lighting & Angles · Best time: Before 9 AM / after 4 PM, soft light that won’t darken your face · Backlight/side backlight: Petals look translucent, hair glows—stunning · Low-angle upward shots: Use the blue sky as background, avoid crowds + look taller and slimmer · Telephoto 2x-3x zoom: Blurs background, keeps the frame clean and elegant 📸 Universal Poses (No Awkwardness Version) 1. Gently hold a flower branch, smell the flowers with a side glance, eyes softly looking into the distance 2. Look back with a light smile, candid walking shots feel more natural 3. Sit under the flowers on the grass, support yourself with hands behind, stretch legs sideways to elongate them 4. Framing composition: flower branches around the face, close-ups tell more stories 5. Back view + hand reaching to touch flowers, full of atmosphere 🧴 Filter Settings (Xingtu app) · Filter: Clear +50 | Original +30 · Light -15 | Brightness -10 | Contrast +12 · Saturation -8 | Sharpen +25 | Highlights -10 · Temperature -5 | Tint +8 Whiter flowers, clearer skin tone, no filter fails The gentleness of hawthorn flowers is the romance spring brings~ Tag your bestie and go shoot a pure white flower sea photoshoot!

Although the holiday is over and everyone has started returning to work, the festive atmosphere is still steaming hot in the ancient towns around Chengdu. From the first day of the lunar new year to the Lantern Festival, Chengdu locals know how to extend the celebration. Take advantage of the good weekend weather, hit the road to these 5 ancient towns, and catch a lively and fiery year-end folk custom event~ 【Chengxiang Ancient Town】Chengxiang Town, Qingbaijiang District Chengxiang Ancient Town in Qingbaijiang has a 1,600-year history and is the only ancient town in Chengdu that has preserved the millennium-old county governance layout, earning it the nickname "Little Chengdu." The "Village Sugar Festival" series of events continues until the Lantern Festival (March 3), making it one of the longest-lasting places to experience the New Year atmosphere around Chengdu. The Xiuchuan Square "Xiangdudu Cultural Tourism Market" remains open until this weekend, offering a one-stop shop for local specialties, intangible cultural heritage crafts, and global goods. The "Time Post Office" event on West Street continues until the Lantern Festival, where you can send a postcard to your future self. The Hundred-Meter Bench Dragon Parade will make a stunning appearance on the evening of March 3, the Lantern Festival. This giant dragon, made by connecting ordinary benches, will weave through the ancient streets to the sound of gongs and drums, embodying hopes for the new spring in its lively dance. The "Riverside Blessing" event at the West Street West Archway continues until the Lantern Festival. Light a flower lantern and make a wish, watching the river lanterns float away, filling the moment with a strong sense of ritual. The Sichuan Opera Art Center offers two daily performances, letting you fully enjoy authentic Sichuan flavor. Walking on the ancient town’s bluestone paths, you’ll realize that the New Year in Chengdu never truly ends. 【Luodai Ancient Town】Luodai Town, Longquanyi District Luodai Ancient Town in Longquanyi is the top Hakka town in western China, with over 95% of its residents being Hakka. As a well-preserved Hakka ancient town, its New Year celebrations carry distinct Hakka characteristics. The Wufenglou Square "Luodai Memory Light and Shadow Show" starts promptly at 7:00 PM every night, using ancient buildings as a backdrop and light and shadow as a brush to paint a beautiful and dreamy night scene of the town. The intangible cultural heritage iron flower show by Yuanyang Lake features molten iron at 1600°C bursting into the air, transforming into a golden rain showering the lake—a truly ultimate Chinese romantic spectacle. On weekends, you might also catch the God of Wealth parade and lion dances bringing blessings. At the old street’s Village Sugar Festival and Zengzi Market, Hakka snacks like sour jelly, oil-boiled goose, and swan eggs are steaming hot, perfect for strolling and snacking through a relaxed afternoon. 【Pingle Ancient Town】No. 139 Xingxin Street, Pingle Town, Qionglai Pingle Ancient Town in Qionglai is known as the "Qin and Han Culture · Western Sichuan Water Town" and is the first post station on the Southern Silk Road. By the Baimo River, the thousand-year-old banyan tree still stands lush and green. The 2026 "Pingle Chinese New Year" event themed "Dragon Horse Celebrates the New Year" is ongoing. The hundred-meter bamboo dragon winds magnificently through the town’s alleys. Along with classic Sichuan opera performances, sitting in a riverside teahouse, cracking sunflower seeds while watching the show, locals will tell you: this is the right way to celebrate the New Year. When tired from walking, find a riverside stilted teahouse, order a cup of gaiwan tea, and watch bamboo rafts drift slowly down the river. At dusk, lanterns along the river light up one by one, bathing the entire town in a warm yellow glow—every snapshot is a healing masterpiece. 【Haiwozi Ancient Town】Haiwozi Ancient Town, Tongji Town, Pengzhou Haiwozi Ancient Town in Tongji, Pengzhou, formerly known as "Qushang," is the founding site of the ancient Shu Kingdom and shares origins with the Sanxingdui and Jinsha archaeological sites. The ancient Shu "Junshan Drum" still beats, its powerful rhythms echoing not just the New Year spirit but thousands of years of grandeur. On the town’s streets, intangible cultural heritage folk performance troupes weave through, with "face-changing and fire-spitting" acts drawing gasps of amazement. Be sure to visit the newly opened container-style rooftop café "Wo Coffee" in the ancient town. Sitting on the roof tiles with a cup of latte art coffee, watching people come and go below, this blend of old and new relaxation perfectly captures the essence of celebrating the New Year in Chengdu. Hold a freshly fried oil cake and nibble on half a shiny hot oil-boiled goose—this is how to leisurely spend the last moments of the holiday. 【Wufengxi Ancient Town】Wufeng Town, Jintang County Wufengxi Ancient Town in Jintang is the only mountainous ancient town among Chengdu’s top 10 ancient towns. Named after its five main streets—Jinfeng, Qingfeng, Yufeng, Baifeng, and Xiaofeng—it is known as "Half Mountain, Half River, Half Town." Nestled by the mountains and water, its buildings are arranged in a charming, staggered layout. Red lanterns still hang throughout the streets, and intangible cultural heritage folk performances continue in rotation. On weekends, you can join intangible cultural heritage craft workshops, and stalls selling trendy cultural products and local delicacies remain open. In the riverside teahouses, locals gather in small groups chatting leisurely—this is the everyday New Year for Chengdu people. There are also Qing Dynasty residences characteristic of the Tuojiang River, and the magnificent Guan Sheng Temple and Nanhua Palace. Most buildings on the five streets are wooden structures, and strolling through them, you can truly feel the unique charm of Western Sichuan’s ancient towns. The New Year in Chengdu is never a rushed carnival, but a ceremony to be savored slowly. This weekend, take the last chance before the Lantern Festival to visit these ancient towns. You’ll find the festive spirit still waiting for you on the bluestone paths, shining in the lanterns, blooming in the iron flowers, and warming in the gaiwan tea... Before the New Year atmosphere fades, hurry to Chengdu for a date with these ancient towns.

The Guijiang River in Pingle, Guilin is absolutely stunning! 🤩 This is the lower reaches of the Li River, with green peaks stretching along both banks like a giant painting. When the sun shines, it’s like the real-life version of Wang Ximeng’s "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains"! ✨ 📍Recommended check-in spot: Li River Scenic Area No. 3 Bamboo Raft Tour Address: Li River Scenic Area, Pingle County, Guilin City, Guangxi Opening Hours: 08:00-17:00 (Ticket sales and entry stop at 17:00) On a sunny day, taking a bamboo raft here is simply amazing! 🌞 Under the sunlight, the clear waves ripple, and the distant mountains layer upon layer, with a splash of green painting the scene vividly before your eyes. If you’re lucky, you might even see the reflection of the ancient tower on the shore! 🏯 Key points: ✨ Best time for bamboo rafting: 9-11 AM, the lighting is perfect ✨ It’s super easy to take stunning photos on the bamboo raft; wearing traditional-style clothing is recommended ✨ The solitary ancient tree by the lake is perfect as a photo foreground On a sunny day at the Guijiang River, you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped into Wang Ximeng’s painting! Every snap is a breathtaking shot that will wow your friends on social media 📸

New ways to enjoy misty Guilin are here! Today, let's explore the hidden gem in Yang'an Township, Pingle County, which is simply breathtaking~🌿 📍Location: Taoyinggong Ancestral Temple (Taocun, Yang'an Township, Pingle County, Guilin, Guangxi) This place is truly healing! The continuous drizzle adds a mysterious veil to this land🌧️ ✨Recommended spots to check in: The plum blossoms bloom wildly, white petals drifting in the wind The babbling brook soothes the soul Distant mountains like ink paintings, gently wrapped in light mist The pastoral scenery seems to have pressed the pause button⏸️ 📸Photo tips: 1. Wear light-colored clothes for better shots~ 2. Bring a transparent umbrella☔ to instantly create artistic photos 3. Visit on a rainy day for the best effect! The mist makes it look like a fairyland Distant mountains, fields, streams... all the beautiful elements gather here! Hurry and check it out before too many people discover it~

Visiting Guilin for the Spring Festival? No need to rack your brain for plans! The Li River banks hold the warmth of everyday life, ancient villages preserve old traditions, scenic spots offer full discounts, and intangible cultural heritage events abound, letting you unlock authentic New Year vibes amidst the mountains and waters~ Quickly save this comprehensive guide and join a rendezvous of nature and reunion🌟! 1️⃣ Scenic Spot Special Offers💰 ✅ Natural Wonders ✔ Longsheng Hot Spring Scenic Area♨️: Exclusive benefit for Shenzhen residents! Show valid ID for 50% off tickets, only 50 RMB/person after discount, valid until December 31, 2026. Soak in 40℃ natural medicinal springs surrounded by bamboo terraces and mist, a winter wellness must-have~ ✔ Gongcheng Three Temples and Two Museums Scenic Area🏯: February 16 - 17, free admission nationwide with valid ID! Home to the "Lingnan’s First Temple" Confucian Temple, from February 18 - 23, presenting a free Spring Festival themed event with Confucian or Martial Temple adult tickets, experience the collision of millennia-old culture and New Year spirit. ✔ Jinzhong Mountain Scenic Area🌿: February 17 - 22, free bonfire parties! Enjoy karst sinkholes, soak in underground hot springs a thousand meters deep, play golf—all in one place with no price increase during the Spring Festival, excellent value. ✅ Vacation and Leisure ✔ Guilin Qianjiadong Guangyuehua Resort Hotel🏡: From now until February 28, 20% off all room packages! Includes buffet breakfast, tea by the hearth, specialty dining, glass plank road + hot spring therapy, nestled in pristine forest, Yao ethnic medicinal bath SPA for ultimate relaxation, perfect for family vacations. ✔ Gongcheng Hongtu Persimmon Season Sweet Garden Homestay / Shidu Homestay🍅: February 17 - March 3, 20% off accommodation! Standalone design hidden in vast persimmon groves, with a mahjong room, perfect for friends and family gatherings and countryside relaxation. ✔ Half Day Leisure Hotel☕: February 15 - March 5, 45% off all room types including double breakfast, enjoy group purchase discounts for Longdong Gorge Scenic Area, and receive blessing ribbons for an immersive rural tranquility experience. 2️⃣ Intangible Cultural Heritage Spring Festival Highlights🎨|Unlock Authentic Cultural New Year Flavors 🔥 Immersive Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences ✔ Guilin Yanshan Park🐲: February 17 - 21 (Lunar New Year Day 1 to 5), century-old garden hosts Bench Dragon intangible cultural heritage performances at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM; from Day 1 to 3, enjoy Republic of China era intangible cultural heritage snack fairs (9:00-17:00), browse markets, taste snacks, appreciate ancient charm, and feel the elegance of literati and heritage allure. ✔ Guihai Stele Forest Museum📜: February 15 - 23 packed with activities! Rubbing experience, paper cutting and spring couplet writing, "Jingjiang City Map" puzzle hunt, plus public tours exploring Song Dynasty Guilin city secrets. Starting February 15, a mobile exhibition of cliff carving rubbings lets you touch the "history book on the cliff." ✔ Reed Flute Cave Scenic Area🎶: February 17 - 21 (Day 1 to 5), "Flute Melody Concert" at the Crystal Palace with flute, guzheng, and pipa playing classics; daily Five Blessings parade with interactive gifts of chocolate coins/ingots, enjoy cave wonders plus folk atmosphere. ✔ Elephant Trunk Hill Scenic Area🐘: February 17 - 21, a fusion of technology and tradition! God of Wealth robot parade distributing blessing cards, "Spring Horse Riding" popular photo spot, lion dance and green picking performances, plus Hanfu etiquette, tea art experiences, sugar blowing, and oil tea intangible heritage stalls. 🔥 Folk Parade Celebrations ✔ Longji Terraces Scenic Area🔥: February 18 - 22 (Day 2 to 6), "Golden Dragon Spring Festival" torch and fireworks show, Zhuang ethnic sister torch parade in the terraces, stunning night views; February 17 - 19 (Day 1 to 3) features lusheng welcome, Dong ethnic pipa singing, bamboo pole dance, and other ethnic song and dance New Year greetings, atmosphere at its peak. ✔ Yitian West Street🧧: February 17 (Day 1), auspicious lion dance garden tour celebrating the New Year, God of Wealth distributing red envelopes along the street, lion dance green picking performance adds festivity, perfect for shopping and photo ops. ✔ Luojin Town, Yongfu County🎤: February 1 - 19 Spring Festival series with colorful opera shows, dragon and lion dances, pitch-pot garden games, plus the 3rd Baba Festival featuring spring baba competitions and zongzi wrapping experiences, immerse in local New Year flavors. 3️⃣ Celebrate the New Year in Museums📚|Great Places for Spring Festival Learning ✔ Guilin Museum: Four major exhibitions throughout the holiday: Guangxi Dinosaur Science Exhibition (until 4/8), Year of the Horse Global Zodiac Culture Exhibition (2/6-4/8), New Malayan Chinese History and Culture Exhibition (2/5-4/12), Twenty-Four Solar Terms Flower and Cultural Relics Exhibition (2/6-4/8), perfect for kids to explore cross-civilization knowledge; Day 1 to 3, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM "Shenma Camp・Cultural Relics Playground" with fun challenges like horse puzzles, one-stroke drawing of mythical creatures, horse relic puzzles, win cultural creative prizes. Day 1 Spring Dance to Welcome the New Year, Day 2 Patriotic Poetry Recitation, Day 3 Peking Opera Kids Show, Lantern Festival features cute horse-shaped dough modeling, handcraft your own intangible cultural heritage horse🐎. ✔ Guihai Stele Forest Museum: 🐴 February 5 - March 3 Guilin Stone Carving Culture Exhibition, immersive rubbing + digital imaging of stone carving masterpieces; Day 1 to 7 "Galloping Horse Boating Dragon Hide" all-day experience with stone carving rubbing, self-guided exploration, plus paper cutting and spring couplet writing to bring home blessings🧧. ✔ Guilin Jingjiang Prince Mausoleum Museum: 🐴 Public tours Day 1 to 7, Ming dynasty costume photo ops with provided attire, Hanfu wearers welcome to bring their own for photos📸; Day 1 to 3 watch digital films about the Ming Dynasty, Day 4 to 5 join relic guards to patrol the mausoleum, Day 6 to 7 play Ming customs games to win souvenirs. ✔ Li Zongren Relics Exhibition Hall: 🐴 Hands-on experience with Guilin woodblock color printing, printing blessings and Li Zongren calligraphy; Play traditional pitch-pot games, collect stamps for cultural creative bookmarks, write New Year wishes on the message wall; Day 1 to 8 offers public lectures on wartime history, daily exhibits of Mr. Li Lun’s donated relics and Ms. Hu Yousong’s life. ✔ Zengpiyan Site Museum🏞️: Free admission on February 15, and February 17 - 23 (closed February 16), February 17 (Day 1) features "Endless Riding Fun" garden tour, February 18 - 23 daily public lectures at 10 AM and 3 PM, February 19 (Day 3) includes public research activities exploring the footprints of ancient inhabitants. ✔ Guilin Art Museum🖼️: February 4 - March 3 "History Book on the Cliff" Guilin Stone Carving Culture Exhibition, immersive rubbing + digital imaging of cliff stone carving masterpieces; also features national painting masters’ invitational exhibition and landscape sketching demonstrations, celebrate the New Year in an artistic atmosphere. 4️⃣ County and District Special Activities✨|Unlock Niche New Year Flavors ✔ Longsheng County⛰️: February 17 - 19 Longsheng Hot Spring Scenic Area "New Year Climb and Blessing" event, Longsheng residents enjoy discounted tickets at 12 RMB, check in at "Longsheng Heavenly Ladder" to receive intangible heritage blessing bags; February 19 - 23 free open-air movies at Longji Terraces Cultural Square (Dong and Yao ethnic themes), February 24 Longsheng Autonomous Counties Dragon and Lion Dance Competition, February 26 Longsheng original ecological mountain song duet performances, full of Dong and Miao ethnic New Year vibes. ✔ Lipu City🎭: February 17 - 21 Yinziyan Scenic Area 3rd God of Wealth Culture Festival, lion dance, face-changing, God of Wealth parade and other folk performances; February 26 - March 2 16th Lantern Festival Quyi Competition featuring Guangxi opera, fishing drum, skits, and more. ✔ Pingle County🎆: January 10 - March 4 Yuantou Town Spring Festival series, float parades, 🎇fireworks shows, open-air movies, rural karaoke contests, plus "Yuanlai You Ni" short video challenge inviting you to capture the New Year spirit. Mountains and waters as the stage, New Year flavor as the soul🏮~ This Spring Festival, come to Guilin to visit scenic spots, enjoy intangible cultural heritage, savor delicious food, and 🏞 unlock the most authentic joy of reunion in the world-renowned landscape. See you in Guilin! Image source: Guilin Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism

Located in Qionglai, Chengdu, Pingle Ancient Town, formerly known as "Pingluo," has a history of over 2,000 years. It was the first post station on the Southern Silk Road heading west from Chengdu and a key site on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Strolling here to the melody of "Old Street," the slow pace and lively local atmosphere blend perfectly, creating a fully immersive vibe. 🏮The ancient street at the heart of the town preserves well the Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. The bluestone pavement has been worn smooth by time, and the wooden doors and windows with upturned eaves are full of historical charm. There is no excessive commercial noise here, only the leisurely hustle and bustle of daily life. Walking along the alleys, both body and mind can completely relax. 🌊The Baimo River flows through the town, with ancient trees flourishing along its banks. Teahouses and restaurants line the water. Find a riverside seat, brew a cup of clear tea, watch the river flow gently, and see the light and shadows reflected on the water. The weight of history and the vitality of nature blend here softly. 🌉The Leshan Bridge, with a history of over a hundred years, is a landmark of the ancient town. This seven-arch stone bridge spans the river and is known as the "First Bridge of Qiongnan." The weathered marks on the bridge tell stories of time. There is also the Pingsha Luoyan specialty commercial street, gathering themed bars, unique tea houses, and Chinese restaurants, making it very pleasant for strolling and resting. 🍜When visiting Pingle, be sure to try the local flavors. The creamy soup base of the milk broth noodles is rich, and the noodles are chewy—a warm bowl that is super comforting; the spicy and fragrant Bobo Chicken is an authentic Sichuan snack that will captivate you with every bite. The ancient town is free to enter, parking is only 10 yuan per car, and 2-4 hours is just right for a visit. No need to rush or squeeze through crowds. Accompanied by the tune of "Old Street," enjoy the bridges, the water, and the old streets, and immerse yourself in the gentle and pleasant atmosphere of this millennia-old town.

★ In the early Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, a merchant from Guangdong came to Guangxi to open a pawnshop named "Renyi Xiangya," which was later renamed "Yi'an Pawnshop." Due to proper management, "Yi'an Pawnshop" quickly became the most important pawnshop in the entire Yangshuo and Guilin area, and it has been preserved to this day, commonly known as Shazi Pawnshop. ★ Shazi Pawnshop is located in Shazi Village, Shazi Town, Pingle County, Guilin City, Guangxi, on the banks of the Chajiang River. The main building is a 7-story high-rise, featuring a spiral staircase and trapezoidal shelves inside. The total area covers 456 square meters (pawnshop area 390 square meters) and is connected to a building in Pukou. Due to its large scale, this pawnshop is known as "Guangxi's Number One Pawnshop." Its architectural structure reflects the typical style of Qing Dynasty pawnshops. Despite enduring over a century of wind, frost, rain, and snow, it remains as magnificent as ever. ★ In recent years, the Pingle County Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Sports, and Tourism has actively sought funding and increased efforts to repair cultural relics. Meanwhile, Shazi Pawnshop has been included as a site for cadre education and training. Through the establishment of a cultural history museum, it has received over 6,000 visitors. On January 13, 2025, it was listed as the eighth batch of autonomous region cultural relic protection units by the People's Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Pingle Ancient Town is located southwest of Chengdu. It is a well-preserved water town in western Sichuan with a history dating back to the Western Han Dynasty. The town’s core "Nine Ancients" charm and unique intangible cultural heritage crafts together form a vivid living picture of Bashu life. To help you quickly understand, here are the key highlights of Pingle Ancient Town: 🏞️ Key Highlights: The "Nine Ancients" Charm of the Ancient Town · The "Nine Ancients" include: ancient streets, ancient temples, ancient bridges, ancient trees, ancient dams, ancient workshops, ancient roads, ancient customs, and ancient songs. · Touring Highlights: · Stroll through 33 Ming and Qing dynasty ancient alleys and experience the authentic urban life of western Sichuan. · Admire Leshan Bridge—the largest existing seven-arch stone arch bridge from the Qing Dynasty in western Sichuan. · Experience the Golden Dam (Feisha Dam), an ancient hydraulic marvel that creates the unique landscape of "one river dividing into three waters." 🎋 Cultural Essence: National Intangible Cultural Heritage and Unique Crafts · Intangible heritage/crafts: porcelain bamboo weaving, traditional papermaking and bamboo hemp work songs, Tea Horse Road and gaiwan tea culture, and fire well salt boiling (ancient natural gas utilization). 📍 Basic Information and Transportation · Address: Pingle Town, Qionglai City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province. · Admission: The ancient town scenic area is free to enter. · Transportation: · By car: About 1.2 hours drive from Hanting Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Yongfeng Hotel. · Public transport: Direct buses to Pingle Ancient Town are available from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station, East Bus Station, etc., with a travel time of about 2 hours. Work is busy, so take a day for life~ After sightseeing and taking photos, return to Hanting Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Yongfeng Hotel on the Second Ring Road🏨 (ps: The Second Ring Road elevated highway Huahua has new updates recently)

Guilin! Tongle New District, Binjiang Road!! Who doesn't know about this hotel with river and river view rooms??? Our family of three went there last weekend, and it was truly stunning! The scenery at the confluence of the three rivers is unforgettable, and the hotel's architecture looks like a pyramid. Standing inside feels like being in Egypt, super cool! 💁 Service 🔸 The front desk lady was super enthusiastic, the check-in was very fast, and she thoughtfully introduced us to nearby attractions. 🔸 The hotel's parking lot is really big, it was full of cars, but there was still a spot for us. Friends driving here can come with peace of mind. 🔸 The coolest thing is the hotel's food delivery robot, which brought a lot of fun to my little one (my daughter). Every time ordering felt like a little adventure. 🏨 The room we stayed in We stayed in a river view room. Opening the window, you can see the beautiful river surface, and at night you can see the lights on the opposite shore, really super romantic. The room's interior decoration was very cozy, and the bedding was very comfortable. After a good night's sleep, we felt refreshed. Especially the hotel provided a children's bed and baby chair, which is really thoughtful for families with kids. This stay really made me feel like not wanting to leave. Every morning walking by the river, and every night watching movies with family in the room, this leisurely pace of life makes you want to stay a few more days. I hope to have the chance to come back here next time and experience a different slow life.

In the autumn when the persimmons turn red, come and enjoy a healing countryside tour in Pingle! This year's persimmon orchard has become super atmospheric, with many new photo spots, instantly bringing you back to the slow countryside life~🍂 【Trip Highlights】 🍅 Immersive Picking Experience: In Pingle Town's persimmon orchard, you can pick fresh persimmons by hand and feel the joy of the autumn harvest. Remember to wear comfortable shoes! 📸 Upgraded Popular Photo Spots: This year, the persimmon orchard added many rural-themed backdrops, including scarecrows, swings, and vintage farming tools. Every shot looks like an Instagram-worthy masterpiece. ⛰️ Mountain and Countryside Healing Time: Standing in the orchard, you can gaze at the overlapping mountain ranges and the labor scenes under the blue sky and white clouds, like a moving pastoral painting. 【Practical Information】 📍 Address: Pingle Town, Pingle County, Guilin City, Guangxi 🕒 Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November 🎫 Ticket: 30 RMB/person (including picking experience) 📸 Photo Tips: It is recommended to wear light-colored clothes; the light is softest from 3 to 5 PM. 【Food Recommendations】 ✅ Persimmon Cakes: Freshly picked persimmons can be processed on-site into persimmon cakes, sweet but not greasy. ✅ Farmhouse Restaurants: There are many farmhouse restaurants near the orchard; it is recommended to try the local native chicken and seasonal vegetables.