The Li River is one of China’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and exploring it on foot offers a unique way to experience its stunning beauty. This easy walking route combines picturesque landscapes with local cuisine, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely day outdoors. Starting from Quanjiazhou (全家洲村) and winding through charming villages and scenic spots, this trail showcases the best of the Li River. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate this delightful walking adventure.
Route Overview
Starting Point: Quanjiazhou Village (全家洲村)
Key Stops: Xiaolong Village (下龙村, Jia Tian Xia scenery) ➔ Riverfront Camping Shops (河边露营小铺) ➔ Laocuntou (老村头) ➔ Jiuma Huashan (九马画山, Li River’s most famous attraction) ➔ Lengshui Village (冷水村, take the ferry to Mashan Pier) ➔ Mashan Pier (马山渡口) ➔ Rent an electric bike to Xingping Ancient Town (兴坪古镇) ➔ Enjoy lunch at Xingping ➔ Head to Yangshuo (阳朔).
Highlights of the Route
- Breath of Fresh Air: Walking along the Li River allows you to breathe in the crisp, fresh air and absorb the invigorating energy of nature. The serene atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Picture-Perfect Moments: The route provides numerous opportunities for photography. With beautiful backdrops at every turn, it’s easy to capture stunning shots with friends or family. Make sure to take plenty of photos along the way to cherish the memories.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the exquisite views of the Li River, especially at Xiaolong Village (下龙村), where you can witness the picturesque landscapes that define the region. The iconic Jiuma Huashan (九马画山), known for its unique rock formations resembling horses, is a must-see.
- Well-Marked Path: The trail is well-established, with outdoor trekking clubs marking the route with red ribbons. This makes navigation easy and stress-free, even for those who aren’t experienced hikers.
- Instagrammable Spots: Don’t miss the chance to take a photo at the 20 RMB background spot in Xingping (兴坪) for a fun and symbolic snapshot.
Walking Time
The entire city walk will take approximately four hours. Although it may seem lengthy, the experience is enjoyable and relaxed. We started our walk at 10:30 AM, taking our time to explore, snap photos, and even enjoy afternoon tea by the riverside. We arrived at our destination by 2:30 PM, pleased with our leisurely pace.
Ferry and Electric Bike Rental
Once you reach Mashan Pier (马山渡口), you can rent electric bikes to travel to Xingping Ancient Town (兴坪古镇). The bike rental is conveniently located near the pier, making it easy to continue your adventure without delay. After a delightful day of exploration, our driver picked us up around 6 PM to return to Yangshuo.
Walking Tips
- Starting Point: Many people prefer to start their walk from Yangdi (杨堤), but due to recent changes preventing ferry services, we chose Quanjiazhou Village (全家洲村), which is equally charming.
- Bamboo Rafting Option: If you’re interested in a different experience, there are opportunities for bamboo rafting between Xingping Pier (兴坪码头) and Jiuma Huashan Pier (九马画山码头). While we opted out of this option, it’s worth checking out if you’re curious about the rafting experience. Consult the large ticket office at the pier for more details.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of drinking water, as there are vendors along the route selling snacks and beverages. You’ll also encounter charming little camping shops offering local treats like fried rice noodles, fried fish, and shrimp, and fresh fruit. Don’t forget to try the renowned “Rizhuhuo (日头火)” rice noodles in Xingping (兴坪)—they’re delicious!