Dreaming on the Li River: Listening to the poetic music of nature among the mountains and rivers

#Mainland Travel The following is a detailed description of the Guangxi Li River travel experience, you can adjust it according to your actual situation: Preliminary preparation • Documents: Bring your ID card, which is an essential document for purchasing tickets at scenic spots, taking public transportation, etc. • Clothing: Prepare appropriate clothing according to the season. In the summer, you need to prepare light and breathable clothing, sun protection products (such as sun hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) and anti-mosquito bite medicines; in the spring and autumn, you can prepare long-sleeved shirts and thin jackets; in the winter, it will not be particularly cold, but you should bring a thick jacket just in case. • Other items: Prepare a camera or mobile phone to record the beautiful scenery of the Li River; bring an appropriate amount of drinking water, which may be expensive to buy in the scenic area; if you plan to go hiking, prepare a pair of comfortable sports shoes. Transportation • External transportation ◦ Plane: You can first arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, where there are various transportation options to the Li River Scenic Area. After taking the airport shuttle to the city, transfer to a bus or taxi; you can also choose to take a taxi or online car-hailing service directly to the Lijiang Scenic Area, but the cost is relatively high. ◦ Train: Guilin has several railway stations, Guilin Station and Guilin North Station are more commonly used. After exiting Guilin Station, you can take a bus or taxi to the Li River Scenic Area, which is relatively close; after exiting Guilin North Station, it is recommended to take a taxi or online car-hailing service, which is more convenient and quick. ◦ Car: There are also direct buses from surrounding cities to the Lijiang Scenic Area. • Internal transportation ◦ Bamboo rafting: This is the most classic way to explore the Li River. There are bamboo rafts available for rent at the docks along the Li River, and the prices for bamboo rafting on different routes vary. ◦ Sightseeing cruise: If you have a large group or want to tour the Li River more comfortably, you can choose to take a sightseeing cruise. There are different types of boats and routes to choose from. ◦ Hiking: Some sections of the Li River are also suitable for hiking. You can appreciate the natural scenery more deeply along the way, but it requires a certain amount of physical strength and time. Attractions Experience • Li River Essence Section (Yangdi - Xingping) ◦ Yangdi Wharf: One of the starting points of the Li River, the landscape here looks particularly mysterious in the mist. Departing from the pier on a bamboo raft, you will see strange peaks on both sides of the river and the river water as clear as a mirror, as if you are in a flowing landscape painting. ◦ The Husband-Waiting Stone: A large stone that is said to be the incarnation of Lady Meng Jiang. From a distance, it looks like a woman standing by the river, waiting for her husband to return. The image is lifelike and adds a touch of cultural heritage. ◦ Nine Horses Painting Mountain: One of the famous landscapes of the Li River, on a mountain wall by the river, there are many naturally formed stones and textures. From a distance, it looks like a picture of galloping horses. It is said that people who can see nine horses will bring good luck, so it attracts many tourists to stop and watch. ◦ Reflection of yellow cloth: "The essence of Li River is in this scene", the prototype of the pattern on the back of the 20-yuan RMB note is here. The river water is clear, the reflections are sharp, the mountains and water blend into one, and it is as beautiful as a fairyland. ◦ Xingping Ancient Town: An ancient and quiet town along the Li River, which retains a large number of Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. You can stroll along the stone streets of the ancient town and feel the quaint charm. You can also visit various specialty shops and taste the local delicacies. • Yulong River Rafting (Yangshuo Section) ◦ Yulong River: Also known as the “Little Li River”, it is famous for its tranquility and beautiful scenery. Compared with the magnificence of the Li River, the Yulong River is more gentle and delicate. While rafting on the Yulong River, you can enjoy the pastoral scenery along the way and feel the tranquility and harmony of nature. ◦ Ten-mile Gallery: A scenic belt located on the bank of Yulong River. It is a ten-mile long section with unique mountains and green trees on both sides, and the pastoral scenery can be seen at a glance. In addition to rafting, you can also choose to hike or cycle to fully experience the charm of the Yulong River. Activities • Bamboo rafting experience: Take a bamboo raft downstream. The raft moves slowly along with the flow of the river, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Li River up close. There is usually a boatman on the raft. In addition to controlling the direction of the raft, he will also explain to tourists the history and culture of the Li River and the origins of the attractions along the way, adding a cultural atmosphere. • Hiking and Exploring: For tourists who like hiking, the Li River has special hiking routes where you can enjoy different scenery along the way and go deep into local villages to learn about the local customs and practices. • Photography: The beautiful scenery of the Li River is very suitable for photography. Whether you are photographing mountains and rivers, characteristic buildings or folk customs, you can create amazing works. Visitors can look for the best shooting angles at various scenic spots, or ask local photographers to take commemorative photos for them. Food Recommendations • Lijiang Beer Fish: Made with fresh river fish from the Lijiang River as the main ingredient, cooked with beer. The fish is tender and the aroma of beer blends with the deliciousness of the fish, creating a unique flavor. • Yangshuo stuffed snails: snail meat is mixed with pork, spices, etc., then stuffed back into the snail shell and cooked. It is delicious and rich in taste and is a local specialty. • Li River Water Snail Beef: This is a traditional dish made from beef fed with Li River water. The meat is tender and delicious. • Oil tea: A special drink with a strong tea aroma and greasy taste, it can quench thirst and satisfy hunger. It is a favorite breakfast food for locals. Accommodation options • Hotels in Guilin City: If you want to enjoy convenient living services in the city, you can choose to stay in a hotel in Guilin City. There are hotels of various grades to choose from in the city, and transportation and shopping are relatively convenient. • B&Bs along the Li River: To experience the beauty of the Li River more deeply, you may choose to stay in a B&B along the Li River. In the homestay, you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the Li River in the early morning and feel the peaceful atmosphere at night. • Accommodation near Yangshuo West Street: If you plan to visit Yangshuo, you can choose to stay in a hotel or inn near Yangshuo West Street. The transportation here is convenient, and you can also enjoy the bustling night view of West Street at night. Travel Tips • Book your tickets and accommodation in advance: Especially during the peak tourist season, there are many tourists on the Li River, and booking in advance can ensure a smooth trip. • Pay attention to weather conditions: The weather on the Li River is changeable, so it is recommended that you pay attention to the local weather forecast and carry rain gear with you. • Respect local customs and habits: The Lijiang River area has unique customs and cultural traditions. You should respect local customs and habits during your travels. • Safety first: When taking a bamboo raft, hiking and other activities, please pay attention to safety, abide by the regulations, and follow the instructions of the staff.