
Xingping Ancient Town Yangshuo
Step back in time in Xingping, a historic town on the Li River, famous for its iconic 20 Yuan banknote scenery and challenging Laozhai Mountain hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Xingping Ancient Town Yangshuo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Xingping, a historic town on the Li River, famous for its iconic 20 Yuan banknote scenery and challenging Laozhai Mountain hike.
"The 20 Yuan view is absolutely breathtaking and worth the trip alone!"

📸 Rent Hanfu for Photos
Many shops offer Hanfu rentals for memorable photos against the ancient backdrop.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike Laozhai Mountain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 20 Yuan Viewpoint
Li River
Witness the iconic karst landscape immortalized on China's 20 Yuan banknote. A must-see for any visitor.
Laozhai Mountain Hike
Laozhai Mountain
Conquer the steep climb for unparalleled panoramic views of the town and the Li River. Worth every step!
Li River Cruise/Ferry
Li River
Experience the serene beauty of the Li River with a boat trip or a local ferry crossing.
Xingping Ancient Town Streets
Xingping Ancient Town
Wander through historic streets lined with traditional shops, eateries, and photo studios.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike for Epic Views
Timing is Key for Authenticity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Rent Hanfu for Photos
Many shops offer Hanfu rentals for memorable photos against the ancient backdrop.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike Laozhai Mountain.
💰 Negotiate Prices
For souvenirs and some services, don't hesitate to negotiate prices.
🚆 Train Spotting Spot
Find the 'Shanshui Lieche' spot for unique photos of trains with karst mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Rent Hanfu for Photos
Many shops offer Hanfu rentals for memorable photos against the ancient backdrop.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike Laozhai Mountain.
💰 Negotiate Prices
For souvenirs and some services, don't hesitate to negotiate prices.
🚆 Train Spotting Spot
Find the 'Shanshui Lieche' spot for unique photos of trains with karst mountains.
Stay Overnight for Charm
Experience the town's tranquility after the day-trippers leave.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xingping Ancient Town is praised for its classic beauty and the iconic 20 Yuan banknote view, offering a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of shops and eateries. While some find the town small and similar to Yangshuo, its charm and the opportunity for stunning photography, especially from Laozhai Mountain, make it a worthwhile visit. Public transport is convenient, and prices are generally reasonable.
"It's a small town with a lot of tourists. The town is very nice and beautiful. Looks classic and classy. There are many things available you can buy here from food, souvenirs, service and so on. The price is reasonable and some places you can negotiate. There is also a pier for those who want to cross the river. Here is the place where you can see the picture from 20 Yuan clearly. Like the environment here. The public transport is also easily available."
Hafizun Mushtafa
"This old ancient town is relaxed, calm and hospitable. I had a leisurely walk in those few streets multiple times throughout the day and every time something new caught my attention. The boat ride on lijiang was alright, I thought it was worth it just to see the mountains that are featured on the rmb 20 dollar note. Food choices are plenty and there are restaurants / bars / coffee shops selling both traditional Chinese dishes and western dishes, including a pizza specialist. In terms of heritage, the old theatre is certainly very photogenic with a hip coffee shop next door."
Helen Yu (Chestnut Journal)
"If you are staying at Yangshuo, you have the option to take a day trip to Xingping which is just a bus trip away. For a day trip I would not really recommend it unless you go for hiking but is perhaps better to do it you stay in this neighborhood.
The ancient town itself is smaller than I thought and very similar to Yangshuo. Still great to see though."
Fan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a local bus from Yangshuo Bus Station directly to Xingping Ancient Town. The journey takes about 40-60 minutes. Some travelers also opt for a taxi or private car.
Yes, you can take a bus from Guilin to Xingping, or combine it with a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, then transfer to Xingping.
The town is very close to the Li River, with a pier for local ferries and cruises. Walking is the easiest way to reach the docks.
While cars can access the town, parking can be limited. Many visitors prefer to park outside the main pedestrian areas.
Xingping is a walkable ancient town. For longer distances or to reach trailheads, local taxis or electric bikes might be available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to Xingping Ancient Town itself is generally free. However, specific attractions within or around the town, like the Li River cruise or Laozhai Mountain access, may have separate fees.
Xingping Ancient Town is accessible at all hours, as it's a living town. Shops and restaurants typically operate from morning until late evening.
Prices for Li River cruises can vary. A shorter local ferry crossing is much cheaper than a full cruise. It's best to check current prices at the dock.
While the hike itself is accessible, there might be a small fee for accessing certain viewpoints or facilities on Laozhai Mountain.
Tickets for cruises and other activities can usually be purchased directly at the respective piers or ticket booths within the town.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The iconic view featured on the 20 Yuan banknote is best seen from the banks of the Li River near Xingping. Look for signs or ask locals for the specific viewpoint.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
Yes, there's a specific spot known as 'Shanshui Lieche' (Mountain-Water Train) where you can capture trains with the karst mountains in the background.
Absolutely! Many shops in Xingping Ancient Town offer Hanfu and other traditional costume rentals for photoshoots.
Beyond the 20 Yuan view, the ancient streets, the old theatre, and the Li River itself offer numerous picturesque scenes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a mix of traditional Chinese dishes, local snacks, ice cream, and even some Western options like pizza.
Yes, many small restaurants serve local Guangxi cuisine. Look for places offering dishes like river fish or local vegetables.
While not as common, some restaurants can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request. It's best to ask.
Don't miss trying the Guihua jelly sold by street vendors for a refreshing local treat.
Yes, you can find charming cafes and bars, some with hip vibes, perfect for relaxing after exploring.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can walk through the main streets in about half an hour. However, to truly enjoy the atmosphere, hike Laozhai Mountain, and take a boat trip, plan for at least half a day or an overnight stay.
It can get crowded with day-trippers, especially during peak seasons. Visiting on weekdays or staying overnight can provide a less crowded experience.
You can enjoy a leisurely walk, hike Laozhai Mountain, take a Li River cruise, rent traditional clothing for photos, and sample local snacks.
Yes, the town is filled with shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, clothing, and other items.
It can be done as a day trip from Yangshuo, but many recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate its charm and avoid the crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hike up Laozhai Mountain might be too strenuous for very young children, families can still enjoy the views from the base of the mountain or opt for a less demanding walk along the riverbanks. Renting traditional clothing for fun family photos is also a popular and engaging activity. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as exploring can be tiring for little ones.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Food options range from cheap and tasty local snacks sold by street vendors to more affordable meals in small eateries. Negotiating prices for souvenirs can also help stretch your budget further. For a budget-friendly river experience, opt for a local ferry crossing instead of a full Li River cruise. Staying in a guesthouse within the ancient town can also be more economical than hotels in larger cities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond these famous spots, the ancient streets themselves are incredibly photogenic, with their traditional architecture, bustling shops, and local life. The Li River offers opportunities for capturing reflections and the unique karst formations. Don't forget the 'Shanshui Lieche' spot for unique train and landscape compositions. Renting traditional attire can add an extra layer of visual interest to your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic 20 Yuan View
Many visitors find that simply standing by the river and taking in the view is a profound experience. The tranquility of the water, combined with the dramatic geological formations, creates a scene that feels almost otherworldly. While the view is accessible from various points along the river, seeking out the specific '20 Yuan spot' ensures you're getting the exact composition seen on the currency.
Conquering Laozhai Mountain
The reward at the summit is spectacular. You'll be greeted with sweeping vistas of Xingping Ancient Town nestled beside the winding Li River, all framed by the dramatic karst landscape. This elevated perspective offers a completely different appreciation of the region's beauty and is often considered the highlight of a visit by adventurous travelers. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate clothing, as the climb can be demanding, especially in warmer weather.
Exploring the Ancient Streets
As you wander, you'll discover numerous shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and snacks. It's a great place to pick up unique mementos or simply soak in the ambiance. You'll also find quaint cafes and restaurants serving local delicacies. Don't miss the old theatre, a photogenic spot that often has a hip coffee shop nearby, blending the old with the new. The town is also conveniently located near the Li River, with piers for cruises and local ferries readily accessible.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit