Li River in Guilin

About Li River in Guilin

The Li River, or Li Jiang, is a river in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. It stretches for 83 km (51.5 mi) from Guilin to Yangshuo to Pingle, where it merges with two other streams and becomes the Gui River.

Guilin sits on the west bank of the Li River and is a highly popular site to view its unique Karst topography. There are many outstanding features to view, including the Reed-Flute Cave, which is a magnificent example of natural rock formations. It runs for 240 m (~787 ft) and contains stalactites, stalagmites and other speleothems which are lit with multi-colored lights to enhance the shapes and shadows they create.

The Mountain with Many Splendid Hues also lies on the shores of the Li River, in north Guilin. It consists of many layers of differently-colored rock. Elephant Trunk Hill is said to resemble a huge elephant drinking water with its trunk and is the symbol of Guilin City.

River cruises are the most popular way to explore the area. The river itself is flanked with sheer limestone cliffs covered with greenery. It is noted for its views of water buffalo swimming leisurely and cormorants fishing in its waters, and views of China’s everyday life such as working the rice paddy fields and fishing from rafts.