I Captured the Impressionistic Landscape of a Song Dynasty Painting

If Guilin is a stroke of genius by Mother Nature, then Yangshuo is the most vibrant chapter in this landscape painting. As the saying goes, "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven, and Yangshuo's scenery is the best in Guilin." Once you set foot on this land, you'll understand that the beauty here goes far beyond simply "pretty." 🌅 Lijiang River: The Soul of the Landscape Scroll The Lijiang River winds through Yangshuo, its waters as clear as a mirror, reflecting the rows of bizarre peaks on both banks, like a slowly unfolding ink painting scroll. Take a bamboo raft downstream, feel the gentle breeze on your face, and watch the ripples in the water. This is the embodiment of "a journey through a painting." The scene depicted on the back of the 20 RMB banknote is from the Xingping section of the Lijiang River. Witnessing this picturesque scenery with your own eyes, you'll understand the meaning of "love at first sight." 🌳 Ten Mile Gallery: Cycling through Pastoral Idyll Not a single attraction, but a scenic route connecting Yangshuo's most beautiful spots. Rent an e-bike and ride slowly along Highway 321. The scenery along the way is a feast for the eyes. The natural stone arch on Moon Hill resembles a bright moon hanging high in the sky; the giant banyan tree provides ample shade, a testament to the passage of time; and the Yulong River, like a green silk ribbon, meanders through the mountains, known as the "Little Lijiang River." Take a bamboo raft down the river, listening to the gentle sounds of water and paddles, as if time itself has slowed down. 🏮 Yangshuo West Street: A Fusion of East and West Nightlife As night falls, West Street comes alive. Red lanterns hang high along the ancient streets, complementing the bars and Western restaurants, creating a unique blend of East and West. Find a small shop, order a cocktail, listen to the soulful singing of live performers, and experience the romance and vibrancy of Yangshuo's nightlife. Or, wander through the bustling crowds, savoring local snacks like Guilin rice noodles, beer fish, and bamboo chicken, taking your taste buds on a journey of their own. 🎭 Impressions Sanjie Liu: A Must-See Show This show encapsulates thousands of years of Guilin's history and folklore. Hundreds of actors perform in a three-dimensional space, singing the legends of the Bagui region across time and space. From the fishing and hunting life of the Zengpiyan people to the touching legend of Liu Sanjie and the modern prosperity of Guilin, this performance takes you on a journey through the past and present of Guilin. 📸 Photography Tips: 1. For photos on the Lijiang River bamboo rafts, choose the morning for soft lighting and emerald green water. Sit at the front of the raft with the landscape as your backdrop for stunning photos. 2. While cycling along Ten Mile Gallery, take photos at the popular Yulong River embankment, rapeseed flower fields, and rice paddies. Wear light-colored clothing for better results. 3. For evening photos on Yangshuo West Street, use the bar lights to create atmospheric shots. 4. During the Impressions Sanjie Liu show, capture the different lighting effects in various scenes. For example, during Liu Sanjie's singing, the stage lighting is brilliant, perfect for portraits and full-stage shots. 🚗 Transportation Guide: 1. To get from downtown Guilin to Yangshuo, you can take a bus, high-speed train, or hire a car. Buses depart from Guilin South Bus Station or Qintan Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 hrs. High-speed trains depart from Guilin Railway Station or Guilin North Railway Station to Yangshuo Station, followed by a bus or taxi to the county seat. 2. Transportation within Yangshuo County is convenient, with shared bikes and e-bikes readily available, making them the best choice for exploring Ten Mile Gallery and other attractions. 🍜 Food Recommendations: 1. Beer Fish: Yangshuo's signature dish. The fish is tender, and the aroma of beer permeates every fiber. A must-try! We recommend Sister Xie's Beer Fish and Sister Xie's Gold Medal Beer Fish. 2. Guilin Rice Noodles: Smooth noodles in a fragrant marinade, topped with pickled beans, peanuts, and other ingredients. Pure noodle bliss! You can't go wrong with any small shop. 3. Lipu Taro with Braised Pork: The Lipu taro is soft, sweet, and glutinous, while the braised pork is rich but not greasy. The combination offers a rich and layered flavor, making it a must-try specialty. Yangshuo is a dream you don't want to wake up from, a deep conversation with nature. Here, you can slow down, embrace the gentle landscape, and experience the beauty of life. Come to Yangshuo and embark on a journey through mountains and waters!