Liu San Jie Water Park (刘三姐水上公园) is located along the Li River segment from Yangshuo County to Puyin Township, renowned for its stunning mountain and water scenery, often referred to as the “Diamond Waterway.” This scenic area is situated in the downstream section of the Li River, stretching approximately 20 kilometers, with around 40 square kilometers of waterfront parkland on both sides.
This route serves as an extension of the picturesque Li River landscape between Guilin and Yangshuo, creating a complete impression of the “Hundred Miles of Li River, Hundred Miles of Gallery.” It allows visitors to experience the captivating symphony of the Li River in all its splendid beauty.
Along the banks of the water park, numerous tourist attractions can be found, such as Shutong Mountain, Zhuobi Peak, and the Twin Lions of Snow Ridge. In addition to the breathtaking landscapes, the area is particularly notable as many scenes from the film Liu San Jie were filmed along the route from Yangshuo to Fuli, leaving traces of Liu San Jie’s presence throughout, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing among visitors.
Travel Information about liu San Jie Water Park
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
Tickets:
- Entrance: 130 yuan
- Boat Ticket: 160 yuan
- Impression Liu San Jie Standard Ticket: 218 yuan
Opening Hours:
- Impression Liu San Jie:
- Regular performances start at 20:00 on weekdays.
- Weekend and Golden Week performances begin with the first show at 19:40 and the second show at 21:10.
- During Golden Week, there may be a third show.
- The performances generally pause for about one month before the Spring Festival.
- Other attractions are open all day.
Best Time to Visit
The park is suitable for visits year-round, with the best time being from April to October, when the water levels are ample.
Access and Transportation
Location: From Yangshuo County to Liugong Village in Puyin Township.
Transportation:
- Visitors can board boats at the Yangshuo Foreign Affairs Wharf, with departures at 9:30 daily. During peak tourist seasons, an additional boat may leave at 15:00.
- The round-trip journey typically takes about three hours to complete, with no stops or disembarkation allowed during the cruise.
- Alternatively, visitors can choose to bike or hike through the scenic sections.
Scenic Rating
- Beauty: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★★★
- Adventure: ★★
- Cultural Experience: ★★
- Uniqueness: ★★
Highlights of Liu San Jie Water Park
Liu San Jie Singing Stage
Liu San Jie Singing Stage is situated at the confluence of the Li River and Tianjia River, with the renowned Shutang Mountain visible across the water. The stage seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings, being nearly entirely covered in greenery with plantings such as tea trees and ferns.
The lighting and sound systems are discreetly integrated into the environment, and the water stage is constructed from bamboo rafts, which can be dismantled and hidden when not in use, minimizing any impact on the Li River’s water and riverbed.
The seating area is designed in terraced levels to align with the natural topography, harmonizing with the surroundings. Additionally, structures such as the Drum Tower, Wind and Rain Bridge, and VIP seating area exude a strong ethnic character. Notably, the entire construction was completed without the use of any iron nails, a feat that leaves many in awe.
Impressions of Liu San Jie
“Impressions of Liu San Jie” is a groundbreaking performance that combines the stunning landscapes of the Li River, the rich culture of Guangxi’s ethnic minorities, and the artistry of China’s elite creators. It is recognized as the country’s first “real-scene performance” that integrates the natural beauty of the Li River into a live stage show.
The large-scale performance uses the breathtaking scenery of the Li River as its backdrop, featuring twelve mountain peaks and an expansive sky. The theme of “Impressions of Liu San Jie” creatively interweaves classic songs, ethnic customs, and the vibrant fishing lights of the Li River, all presented through a harmonious blend of four thematic colors: red, white, silver, and yellow. This innovative approach beautifully restores the relationship between humanity and nature.
The production employs sophisticated environmental art lighting and unique fog effects to create a dreamy, poetic visual experience. For the first time, the ancient beauty of Guilin’s landscapes is showcased under vibrant lights, revealing their elegance, softness, allure, and mysterious charm. “Impressions of Liu San Jie” can be viewed as a luxurious lantern festival, constructing an unprecedented spectacle of stage lighting art that elevates the essence of Guilin’s scenery to new heights.
Shutong Mountain
Opposite the Li River Scenic Theater lies Shutong Mountain, renowned for its sheer cliffs and lush treetops at the summit. The mountain gets its name from a prominent upright boulder that separates from the main body at its midpoint. When viewed from a distance, this boulder resembles a scholarly youth in flowing robes, engrossed in reading a book.
Visitors can also appreciate the unique shapes of the surrounding peaks. To the east of Shutong Mountain is Zhuobi Peak, characterized by its pen-like form, hence the name “Zhuobi Wenfeng” (Scholar’s Pen Peak). To the south is Jigong Mountain, which resembles a rooster heralding the dawn, inspiring the saying “The scholar hears the rooster’s crow and reads.” Together with Zhuobi Peak, Jigong Mountain, Lingren Mountain, and other surrounding peaks, Shutong Mountain casts reflections in the river, creating a stunning “crystal world” where the mountains appear to float upon the water. This enchanting landscape captivates all who visit.
Legend of Shutong Mountain:
According to legend, in ancient times, there was a young scholar who served a wealthy young master under the Bi Lian Peak. The spoiled heir was only interested in play, delegating all scholarly tasks to the scholar. Years passed, and while the clever young scholar made significant academic progress, the wealthy heir remained uneducated.
When the time came for the imperial examination, the young master brought the scholar with him to the capital. Ultimately, the heir failed, while the scholar earned a place on the honor roll. However, the scholar, who had no interest in seeking official titles, resolutely abandoned the wealth and fame that lay within reach. He returned to his hometown and continued his studies diligently, year after year, day after day. This dedication persisted for thousands of years.
Over time, the scholar’s essence became fused with the mountains and waters of Yangshuo, allowing him to witness the grand narratives of humanity and to remain aloof amidst the murky depths of the bureaucratic world. His spirit endures in the breathtaking scenery, embodying the timeless pursuit of knowledge and virtue.
Fuli Ancient Town
Fuli Ancient Town is located in the northeast of Yangshuo County, approximately 8 kilometers from the county seat. With over a thousand years of history, Fuli Ancient Town is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and unique culture. The town is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces a river on the fourth, earning it the elegant reputation of “Three Mountains Surrounding the Ancient Town, One River Embracing the Oasis.”
Part of the filming for the movie Liu Sanjie took place in Fuli, adding to its charm. The town is not only known for its picturesque scenery but also for its prominent status as a hub for traditional Chinese painting, often referred to as the “Hometown of Chinese Painting Fans.”
Fuli Ancient Town is also notable for its diverse cultural heritage, as nearly half of its population consists of migrants. This has contributed to a rich blend of traditions, including the preservation of ancient Nuo culture. The local Nuo music and dance are well-preserved, offering significant historical and artistic value.
What to do:
- Shopping: Fuli Ancient Town features an old street known as Fan Street, famous for its numerous painted fans. Visitors interested in local crafts can purchase a fan as a lovely souvenir.
- Market: The Fuli market is bustling and lively, especially during market days. Crowds gather to shop, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with local goods and flavors.
- Food: The food stalls in the Fuli Agricultural Market are highly renowned throughout Yangshuo. Visitors can savor a variety of delicious local dishes, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
- Walking and Biking: Walking or cycling from Yangshuo to Fuli is an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the scenic countryside. The walk takes about two hours, while a bike ride can be completed in just one hour.
- Temple Fair: Every year on the eighth day of the fifth lunar month, Fuli holds a grand temple fair, attracting worshippers from near and far to pay homage to Mazu, the sea goddess. During this time, Fuli Ancient Town comes alive with festivities, making it a vibrant and lively place to visit.
Liugong Village
Liugong Village is located along the banks of the lower reaches of the Li River, in the Puyi Township of Yangshuo. Compared to Fuli Ancient Town, Liugong Village exudes a more rustic charm. Once a vital dock on the Li River, it was a bustling hub for merchants during the peak of water transport. Today, while the dock remains, the lively atmosphere has faded, leaving behind a peaceful ambiance characteristic of ancient villages.
The architecture in Liugong Village features eaves that jut out and intricately carved beams, showcasing the rich heritage of the Ming and Qing dynasties. One of the standout examples of this architectural style is the Deyue Tower, where visitors can climb to a small pavilion at the top for stunning views of the picturesque Li River scenery.