The traditional Chinese word shanshui, which literally means mountain and water, is often used to describe landscape.
However, no matter how grand the mountain is, the scene is not considered complete unless complemented by a lake, a river or a sea. For Chinese poets and landscape painters, perfect scenery must have three qualities: hills that rise up abruptly from the ground, rivers or streams that meander around the hills, and a gently undulating terrain that embodies the gracefulness of nature and exudes beauty in all weather.
The city of Guilin in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region is classic shanshui. In fact, for thousands of years, the Chinese have said that “the best scenery under heaven is found in Guilin.” The magnificent karst landscape stretches 83 kilometers from Guilin to Yangshuo along the Lijiang River.
Taking a cruise on this section of the river, tourists can see most beautiful scenery, including Qifeng in suburban Guilin, the spectacular formations between Caoping and Xingping, and the ancient town of Yangshuo and its surroundings.
In the first day I arrived, I noticed the trees beside the street reveal that we have entered the semitropical region, because I can see the umber trees everywhere. This made me exciting.
The first morning I leave the pier of Guilin and downstream along the Lijiang River. About seven kilometers south of the city proper, I see numerous karst hills rise abruptly from the ground. From the boat, I can only pass by and admire the scenic façade. So I go ashore and walk into the valley, now I find even more awesome scenery. The massive hills seem bundled, but actually each stands alone distinctly, showing off unique beauty. Climbing up a hill in the morning when clouds and mist shroud the peaks, I feel engulfed in an enchanted fairyland scene.
The next impressive destination is Yangshuo West Street, popularly known as “foreigners’ street”. The signboards of all the stores and restaurants on this street have foreign names, and foreigners are seen here and there sitting in a café or bar. On sale in the store are all kinds of tourist souvenirs and traditional Chinese handicrafts. I bought three hand-painted T-shirts for my family, which accompanies me through my trip. I also bought some presents for my parents. My farther are interested in calligraphy, so I bought an exquisite brush pen. Then I rent a bicycle and riding through the street. To the south I reach the Jinbao River, a branch of Lijiang River, is also striking. Fishermen spreading nets on the rive and farmers ploughing in the paddies, while graceful hills fill the background.
It is such a worthy trip.
I would like to share my traveling experience with all the travel fans. Everyone, have a nice trip.
