Xingping Ancient Town
Cuddled in the northeastern corner of Yangshuo County, just 25 kilometers from the county seat, lies Xingping Ancient Town, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine seamlessly. It is no wonder that the striking landscape depicted on the back of the 20-yuan Chinese banknote is set right here in Xingping. The town is cradled by the winding Li River, which makes a grand loop around the area, shaping the town’s remarkable charm. With its harmonious blend of mountains and water, Xingping captivates visitors with its timeless elegance. Whitewashed walls, black-tiled roofs, and narrow stone alleys give this riverside gem an atmosphere of serenity and antiquity, making it arguably the most beautiful ancient town along the Li River.
Despite the passage of time, many of Xingping’s ancient buildings, constructed predominantly from bricks and tiles, remain largely intact, offering a vivid glimpse into the town’s storied past. To the southeast of the main street lies the site of the former Xiping County, now known as Shizi Dan (the Lion’s Basin). Here, the town’s ancient city walls can still be discerned, and shards of old bricks, tiles, and ceramics are scattered across the area, bearing silent witness to a once-bustling county town where horse-drawn carriages and traders once thrived. Now, the scene has been replaced by the peaceful calm of green mountains and a handful of scattered village houses.
Perhaps the most enigmatic feature of Xingping is the ancient banyan tree that still stands near the site, its massive trunk requiring eight people to encircle. Legend has it that this tree was planted during the town’s founding over 1,730 years ago. Astonishingly, the banyan’s roots have gradually enveloped five Buddha statues and a massive stone, weighing around 20 tons, drawing them into its embrace as though absorbing the ancient energy of the land. This unique spectacle seems to whisper stories of the town’s deep historical roots and its resilience through the centuries.
A Symphony of Nature and Art
Xingping’s allure, however, extends far beyond its historical treasures. The town is graced by the legendary Li River, which flows through its southwestern reaches for over 20 kilometers. The landscape along the riverbanks is nothing short of breathtaking. Jagged peaks rise in succession, their silhouettes sharp like sword blades piercing the sky. Each mountain seems to take on a different form, creating an almost otherworldly terrain. The river, with its emerald-green waters, winds its way around these towering formations, reflecting their images on its glassy surface. Majestic bamboo groves line the riverbanks, their verdant shoots swaying gently in the breeze. Weeping willows form natural canopies along the shores, their delicate branches draping over the water like curtains of green silk.
As you sail down the river, you’ll see sailboats dotting the water’s surface, their silhouettes set against the imposing backdrop of the peaks. These sights blend together in perfect harmony, creating a picturesque scene that has captivated artists, poets, and photographers for centuries. Indeed, Xingping’s landscapes are considered to be the very essence of Guilin’s iconic scenery, which is renowned worldwide for its beauty.
Among the many natural wonders in the area, the famed Nine-Horse Mural Hill stands out as a must-see attraction. This dramatic cliff face is so named because its streaked patterns resemble the shapes of nine wild horses galloping across its surface. According to legend, the more horses a person can discern, the more luck they are destined to have. Just downstream lies Yellow Cloth Shoal, where the reflection of the surrounding mountains creates a mesmerizing image that looks as if it has been perfectly mirrored in the water. It is a sight so stunning that it has been immortalized in traditional Chinese ink paintings for generations.
Nearby, there’s also the intriguing Monk Quarrel, where two rocky formations appear to be in an eternal debate, locked in a playful argument for eternity. Morning Board Hill offers a panoramic view of the entire town and river, giving travelers a sense of the grand scale of Xingping’s natural splendor. Rongtan, a tranquil retreat, invites visitors to lose themselves in its captivating scenery, as mist swirls around the green slopes of the iconic Qingluo Mountain.
A Land Steeped in History and Mystery
As one ventures deeper into the town, a walk through Xingping is like stepping back in time. This ancient settlement has managed to preserve its original charm despite the changes brought by modernity. The town’s narrow stone-paved streets, lined with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses, offer a quaint glimpse into daily life in centuries past. Local artisans still craft goods by hand, and the air is often filled with the scent of local delicacies.
For those seeking even more adventure, a visit to the nearby Fishing Village is highly recommended. This ancient village, once graced by two former U.S. presidents during their visits, exudes an air of mystery and rustic beauty. Its weathered buildings, charming stone pathways, and simple way of life offer a refreshing contrast to the fast pace of modern cities. The people of this village continue to live in harmony with nature, much as they have for generations, making it a place where time seems to have stood still.
Karst Wonders and the Iconic Lotus Cave
Another one of Xingping’s natural marvels is the Lotus Cave, a karst formation that many consider to be among the most extraordinary in the world. This cave system, shaped over millions of years, boasts an otherworldly beauty. Inside, visitors are greeted by towering stalactites and stalagmites, the walls adorned with formations that resemble blooming lotus flowers. The ethereal lighting and cool, damp air create a dreamlike atmosphere, making it easy to understand why the cave has become a favorite among explorers and nature lovers alike.
The Iconic 20-Yuan Backdrop
One of the most recognizable views of Xingping is the one immortalized on the back of the 1999 edition of the 20-yuan Chinese banknote. This view, known as “Xingping Big River Back,” showcases the serene beauty of the town’s riverscape, with its delicate balance of mountain peaks and flowing water. This iconic scene has attracted countless travelers who seek to see with their own eyes the breathtaking vista that has graced millions of currency notes.
An Eternal Source of Inspiration
For centuries, the beauty of Xingping has inspired countless poets, painters, and travelers, many of whom have sought to capture its essence through words, brushstrokes, or photographs. Its pristine landscapes, rich history, and harmonious coexistence of natural beauty and human life make it a truly unique destination. Today, Xingping continues to enchant all who visit, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquil beauty of one of China’s most stunning regions.
Whether you come for the history, the scenery, or simply the chance to experience a piece of China’s timeless charm, Xingping Ancient Town promises an unforgettable journey through a place where nature and culture meet in perfect harmony.
