A Complete Guide to Daxu Ancient Town

A Complete Guide To Daxu Ancient Town

Daxu Ancient Town (大圩古镇), located just a 30-minute drive from Guilin, is one of Guangxi’s four great ancient towns. With over 2,000 years of history, this well-preserved town was once a key hub for water and land transportation and a bustling center for trade. Unlike many overly commercialized ancient towns, Daxu maintains its authentic charm, offering visitors a peaceful retreat filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and traditional local culture. If you’re looking for a tranquil yet enriching destination, Daxu is the perfect place to explore.

Highlights of Daxu Ancient Town:

Daxu Ancient Town is a hidden gem that retains its original charm, making it a refreshing contrast to other commercialized tourist destinations. The atmosphere is relaxed, with fewer visitors and less commercialization. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient stone-paved roads, historical relics, weathered buildings, and traditional homes that offer a glimpse into the past. The quiet ambiance invites you to slow down and listen to the whispers of history.

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: The town is open all day.

Suggested Duration: Plan to spend about three hours exploring the town.

Best Time to Visit: Daxu is beautiful year-round, but the mild climate of spring and fall makes these seasons ideal for a visit.

Getting There:

Location: Daxu Ancient Town is located on the eastern bank of the Lijiang River, just outside Guilin.

By Bus: From Guilin city, you can take the No. 306 bus, which will bring you directly to Daxu in about 40–50 minutes. Alternatively, take a direct bus to Guanyan from the Guilin Long-Distance Bus Station, which takes around 40 minutes with a fare of around 4.5 RMB.

By Car: Driving or renting a car is another convenient option, with parking available near the town.

Top Attractions in Daxu Ancient Town:

Daxu Ancient Town Area & Maozhou Island: The town is divided into two main areas—Daxu Ancient Town and Maozhou Island (毛洲岛). The entrance to the town features a small museum, which houses an intriguing collection of old plaques and relics, providing an insightful look into the town’s past.

Wanshou Bridge (万寿桥): This impressive and sturdy stone bridge is not only a beautiful piece of architecture but also holds significant cultural importance for the locals, much like Guilin’s iconic Elephant Trunk Hill. Surrounded by scenic beauty, it is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Maozhou Island (毛洲岛): This island offers a variety of farm-to-table experiences, with numerous local farmhouses serving delicious, hearty meals. If you’re visiting around lunchtime, Maozhou Island is the best place to stop for an affordable and filling meal. After eating, you can even pick fresh fruits at a reasonable price, making for a fun and immersive experience.

Stone-Paved Old Street (石板老街): Daxu’s old street is remarkably well-preserved, with its stone-paved road still intact. Strolling along the street, you’ll see traditional houses lining both sides, each one telling its own story of the town’s rich history. Walking down this street is like traveling through time, as the ancient architecture and quiet atmosphere reveal the stories of past generations.

The Docks: Daxu Ancient Town boasts 13 docks, surpassing even Guilin, which has only 8 docks. The most frequented dock is the one leading to Maozhou Island, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring both the town and the island.

Food Recommendations:

No trip to Daxu is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Be sure to try: Lijiang Clear Water Fish (漓江清水鱼), Daxu Oil Tea (大圩油茶), Pig’s Feet and Loach Soup (猪脚泥鳅汤), Fried Silverfish Omelette (银鱼煎蛋), and Traditional Rice Cakes (松糕, 桂花糕). Pair these with a cup of tea or coffee as you relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings of the town.