Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山) stands as the emblematic mountain of Guilin and a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting this scenic city. Nestled at the confluence of the Taohua River (桃花江) and the Li River (漓江), this remarkable formation resembles a giant elephant drinking from the water, giving it its evocative name. With its stunning views, rich history, and beautiful surroundings, Elephant Trunk Hill is not just a symbol of Guilin; it offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike. This guide will provide essential information for your visit, including how to get there, what to see, and the best photography spots.
Location and Accessibility
Address: 1 Binjiang Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin (桂林市象山区滨江路1号)
Admission Fee: Free! Visitors can scan a QR code at the entrance to enter the park. During holidays, it is advisable to make a reservation in advance via the Guilin Xiangshan Scenic Area Management WeChat account.
Transportation:
- Public Transport: Take the bus and get off at the Xiangshan Park Station.
- Bicycle Rentals: Shared bikes are available for hire.
- Taxis: A convenient option if you prefer a direct route.
Opening Hours: The park is open from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
Entrance Gates:
- Gate 1: Entrance and exit open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, accommodating the most visitors.
- Gate 2: Exit only, open from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
- Gate 3: Entrance only, open from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
Quick Photography Route
For a quick visit, enter through Gate 3 and walk 150 meters along the path to reach the first viewing platform (第一观景台), where you can capture stunning photos of the hill. After taking pictures, exit through Gate 2. This route will take approximately 20 minutes, making it perfect for those short on time. Gate 3 is conveniently located near the main road and is close to the bustling East and West Streets (东西巷).
Comprehensive Exploration Route
If you have more time, you can fully explore Elephant Trunk Hill by entering through Gate 1. Upon entering, you’ll have a clear view of the hill, and you can follow the crowd towards the designated trail marked “Back Mountain Path Entrance” (后登山道入口). From there, head to the Shuiyue Cave (水月洞) before returning to the path to climb to the summit, which takes about 15 minutes. At the top, you’ll find the majestic Puxian Pagoda (普贤塔), which is reminiscent of an elephant carrying a treasure pot, symbolizing good fortune.
After enjoying the panoramic views from the summit, you can descend via the “Front Mountain Path” (前登山道). The steps can be quite steep, so those with knee issues or a fear of heights should proceed with caution. After descending, cross the bridge to the opposite bank and head to the first viewing platform to capture some more photographs. You can choose to exit through Gate 2 or continue exploring the park before exiting.
Key Attractions Within the Scenic Area
Elephant Eye Rock (象眼岩): Located at the mountain’s midpoint, this rock formation features a tunnel that allows for passage through Elephant Trunk Hill.
Puxian Pagoda (普贤塔): Situated at the peak, this pagoda reflects the legend of Puxian Bodhisattva, whose steed is said to be an elephant. At night, it resembles an elephant holding a precious pot, symbolizing auspiciousness.
Shuiyue Cave (水月洞): Accessible via a small path on the east side of Elephant Trunk Hill, this circular cave formed at the water’s surface is a lovely spot to explore.
Best Photography Spots
First Viewing Platform (第一观景台): Capture the essence of Elephant Trunk Hill by standing with your back to the mountain or facing it, allowing for creative shots that blur either the model or the landscape.
Riverbank at the First Viewing Platform: Have your model sit by the riverbank for a serene photo opportunity.
Stone Benches Nearby: Position friends to crouch down while shooting from below to avoid the crowds and create interesting angles.
Bamboo Raft Photos: For a small fee of 10 RMB, you can take photos on a bamboo raft at the water’s edge, offering a unique perspective of the hill.
Accommodations
For convenience, consider staying near Guilin Central Square (中心广场). This area offers easy access to various attractions within walking distance, making it an ideal base for your explorations.