Back from Mingshi Pastoral, truly a dream on earth.

🌞 Mingshi Pastoral in July is like a painting splashed with summer's vibrant colors—karst peaks glow with bluish hues under the sunlight, endless green rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see, bamboo rafts glide across mirror-like rivers, and even the breeze carries the sweet fragrance of grass and ripening rice. This ultimate guide will help you explore this "Little Guilin" to the fullest! 🚗 How to get there & routes: - External transport: The most convenient way is self-driving, about 2.5 hours from Nanning via highways and county roads with good conditions. Alternatively, take a high-speed train from Nanning East Station to Chongzuo Station, then a 1-hour taxi to Mingshi Pastoral. For hassle-free travel, many one-day or two-day group tours from Nanning include transport and tickets. 🗓️ Itinerary: 🌿 Day 1: Immerse in pastoral slow living - Morning: Arrive and head straight to [Mingshi Pastoral Scenic Area]. Take a bamboo raft ride (~1 hour) where the boatman poles along while pointing out peaks, rice fields, and villages, sharing legends like "Camel Peak" and "Thumb Mountain"—every snapshot looks like a landscape painting! - Noon: Lunch at a nearby farmhouse restaurant—try local river fish and wild vegetables. - Afternoon: Rent an e-bike (~¥30/day) and ride along Mingshi River, passing [Mingshi Village] and [Jiuzhou Ancient Town]. Stop to photograph rice fields or relax under riverside trees, soaking in the pastoral tranquility. - Evening: Return to your accommodation for a breathtaking sunset that paints the peaks gold and crimson. 🌿 Day 2: Discover hidden gems - Morning: Visit [Detian Transnational Waterfall] (~1 hour drive), Asia’s largest cross-border waterfall. Marvel at its thunderous cascade and views of Vietnam. Walk the "Skywalk" for a jaw-dropping perspective! - Noon: Lunch near Detian—try Vietnamese spring rolls. - Afternoon: If time allows, explore [Longgong Fairyland] cave with its dazzling lit stalactites, like an undersea dragon palace, before heading back. 🍲 Must-try foods: - Mingshi River fish: Freshly caught, simply boiled or pan-fried—tender and flavorful. - Bamboo-tube rice: Sticky rice with cured meat and mushrooms, steamed in bamboo for a fragrant twist. - Sour bamboo shoots with beef: A Guangxi specialty—pungent and perfect with rice. - Ai Baba: Mugwort-glutinous rice cakes, subtly sweet with herbal notes. - Vietnamese chicken pho: Light and refreshing, served with lime and chili. 🏡 Accommodation: - Pastoral homestays: Many riverside options (¥200–500/night) like "By the Water Homestay" or "Mingshi Art Hotel" offer rice-field views and starry nights from terraces. - Scenic-area hotels: Convenient with breakfast/raft tickets included (¥500–800/night), ideal for laid-back travelers. 💡 Tips: - July is hot—wear hats, sunscreen, and bring a mini fan for rafting. - Morning rafting avoids rain and offers softer light for photos. - Ride safely on roads; wear comfy shoes for cycling/walking. - Carry cash—some vendors don’t accept mobile payments. - Respect local customs; avoid disturbing village life. Mingshi Pastoral in July holds summer’s most healing moments. Take this guide and embrace the poetry between mountains and water!