Xingping area

The main reason is the light. Staying in Xingping lets you see the twenty-yuan view at dawn and climb Xianggong Hill before the day-trippers arrive. The town is small and quiet, with a handful of cafés and restaurants, and the riverfront is pleasant in the evening.

It is also a good base for the Yangdi–Xingping bamboo raft, which starts upstream and ends near town. The cruise versus raft guide explains the route.

Accommodation is mostly small guesthouses, some with river views and roof terraces. Quality varies, and English is limited at many. Book ahead in peak season and confirm transport, since some guesthouses are down narrow lanes.

Food is local and simple: rice noodles, river fish, stuffed vegetables, and beer. The main street has a few tourist-oriented places, but the side lanes are better. The Xingping ancient town guide covers what to see.

Xingping is about 45 minutes by bus from Yangshuo and 40 minutes by car. The high-speed train station called Yangshuo is 20 minutes away, which makes Xingping a convenient arrival point from Guilin or Guangzhou. Buses stop in the early evening, so plan late arrivals carefully.

If you are coming from Guilin, the train to Yangshuo Station plus a taxi is often faster than the bus to Yangshuo town and another bus back. The railway stations briefing explains the details.

Photographers, couples, and anyone who wants a quiet base with scenery. It does not suit travellers who want nightlife, a wide restaurant choice, or easy shopping. Families may find it too quiet, though the river and rafts are a draw.

If you want a mix, stay two nights in Xingping and one in Yangshuo. The 3-day Li River and Yangshuo route does exactly that.