Xingping Ancient Town, nestled alongside the stunning Li River, offers visitors a picturesque escape filled with breathtaking landscapes and a charming atmosphere. This quaint town invites you to slow down and enjoy the beauty of nature, especially as the sun sets over the river, creating a mesmerizing scene reminiscent of classic Chinese paintings. With its manageable size, Xingping is perfect for a day trip, allowing you to explore its surroundings on a rented electric scooter. In this guide, you’ll find an ideal itinerary for your visit to this enchanting destination.
Morning: Exploring the Town and Iconic Views
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the ancient town, which can be explored in about an hour. The old streets are lined with local shops and quaint eateries, making it a perfect place to soak in the atmosphere. If you’re keen on photography, consider dedicating an afternoon to capturing the iconic “Fishing Boat Evening Song” scene. You can even bring along different outfits to create a stunning photoshoot by the river.
A highlight of your visit is the famous viewing platform, where you can capture the picturesque scene featured on the 20 RMB banknote. Be sure to bring a 20 RMB note with you for the perfect backdrop! The viewing platform offers an excellent vantage point, but be aware that it can get crowded. Alternatively, you can take photos along the river, where you might find local fishermen with their cormorants, creating an authentic atmosphere for your pictures.
Afternoon: Cycling Along the River and Scenic Stops
After exploring the town, rent an electric scooter for a fun and scenic ride along the river. As you head toward the background featured on the 20 RMB note, continue straight until you reach a small path leading down to the riverside. This less-traveled route provides stunning views and ample photo opportunities, especially of the Yellow Cloth Reflection.
Next, make your way to Mashan Pier (马山码头) to view the renowned Jiuma Huashan (九马画山). Cross the river to reach the best viewpoint of the mountain, where legend has it that spotting nine horses among the rock formations will bring you good fortune. As you explore, let your imagination run wild as you try to count the hidden horses—it’s a fun challenge for visitors!
Visiting Xianggong Mountain
After enjoying the views at Mashan, head over to Xianggong Mountain (相公山). To reach the mountain, you’ll need to take a boat across the river. Electric scooters are allowed on the ferry, but there is an additional fee for crossing. Xianggong Mountain is a paid attraction, with an entrance fee of 60 RMB. The recently renovated hiking trail allows you to reach the summit in about 20 minutes, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Li River and surrounding landscape.
If time permits, consider spending the night in Xingping or at the foot of Xianggong Mountain. Waking up early to witness a stunning sunrise over the river is a truly magical experience. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a spectacular sea of clouds enveloping the mountains.
Additional Tips
Xingping has three main piers: Xingping Pier (兴坪码头), Egen Di Pier (厄根底码头), and Mashan Pier (马山码头). It is recommended to cross from Mashan Pier, as it tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed ride and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Li River.