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Guilin is located in the northeast of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous
Region and is, with its magical scenery, considered to be one of the most beautiful cultural and historical cities in
China. The landscape boasts thousands of square kilometres of karst limestone crops that starkly shoot up from a flat
plain of fields and lush bamboo. The Lijiang River winds through the region and a cruise will bring visitors closer to
experience the ambiance of Guilin. Its solitary hills, clear winding waters, and unique caves prove the popular saying
correct: "...the mountains and water of Guilin are the finest under heaven." Since the land between the
peaks is flat, Guilin is an ideal place for riding bicycles.
Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan)
Just a short distance from town is Reed Flute Cave, an underground
cavern of exotic rock formation in incredible shapes and colours. This palace of natural art is named for the kind of
reed growing near the cave that make fine flutes. The cave is located in Guangming Mountain in northwest Guilin and a
path leads through a 45 minute circuit.
Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbi Shan)
This is a famous landmark that has long been considered the symbol of
Guilin. It sits on the junction of the Yangjiang and Lijiang Rivers and resembles an elephant with its trunk in the
river.
Seven Star Cave (Qixingyan)
The Seven Star Cave has a reputation of being the cave residence of
immortals. This cave zigzags about a kilometre deep and contains more than 40 sites including varieties of stalactites,
stalagmites, huge stone slabs and pillars.
Folded Brocade Hill (Diecai Shan)
The Folded Brocade Hill is also known as Mount Gui or Fengdong, and
consists of other peaks perfect for climbing. All have superb views from their summits. These myseriously shaped
formations have caves containing ancient statues with inscriptions.
The Lijiang River
Undoubtedly speaking, a trip on the Lijiang (Li) River is the
highlight of a visit to Guilin. It rises from Cat Mountain in Xing'an county to the northeast of Guilin and winds its
way through Guilin and Yangshuo. A 40 km cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is breathtaking and highly recommended to all
visitors to the area.
Underground Water Hill (Fubo Shan)
This fascinating hill rises out of flat ground, holds back the river
flow and forms a deep pool at the bottom of the hill. It is located in northeast Guilin, facing down the Li River on
the east.
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