Nestled on the banks of the iconic Li River, just 18 kilometers southeast of Guilin, lies Daxu Ancient Town. With a history stretching back over 1,800 years to the Han Dynasty, Daxu was once a flourishing commercial hub and one of Guangxi’s “Big Four Towns.” Unlike the bustling streets of Guilin, Daxu offers a peaceful escape into a world of black-tiled roofs, smooth stone pathways, and timeless traditions. It’s the perfect place to experience the authentic, old-world charm of China.
Daxu Ancient Town Facts
- Type: Old Town & Village, Cultural & Historic Sites, Ancient Building
- Location: No. 250 Linjiang Road, Lingchuan County, Guilin City.
- Street Length: 2KM
- Best Time: April – November
- Recommended Visiting Time: 2-3 hours
- Opening Hours: All day
- Tickets: Free
Why Visit Daxu Ancient Town?
Forget the modern world for a few hours. Daxu is a living museum. Imagine walking along a 2.5-kilometer-long flagstone street, where the stones have been worn smooth by centuries of footsteps. Picture ancient stone bridges, traditional wooden houses with intricate carvings, and friendly locals going about their daily lives. It’s a rare chance to see a preserved piece of ancient China that feels both historic and alive.
Top Things to See & Do at Daxu Ancient Town
Stroll the Flagstone Street
Take a walk through history. The main street, paved with bluestone slabs, is the town’s backbone. Follow its gentle curve along the river, browse small stalls selling local snacks and handicrafts, and peek into the quiet alleys that branch off from it. This is the heart of Daxu.
Cross the Wanshou Bridge
This beautiful, single-arch stone bridge from the Ming Dynasty is the postcard landmark of Daxu. Walk across it for wonderful photo opportunities of the Li River and the old town. Feel the smooth, worn stones under your feet—each step is a connection to the countless travelers who have crossed here before you.
Explore the Ancient Residences
Look up and admire the architecture! The town is a treasure trove of well-preserved Qing and Ming Dynasty houses. Notice their classic features: wooden structures, black tile roofs, and beautiful carvings on doors and windows.
Pro Tip: For a small fee (10-20 RMB), you can step inside some of the best-preserved homes, like the Yang Jingling Mansion or the Gao Family Compound, to see stunning wooden carvings and tranquil courtyards that are hidden from the street.
Discover the 13 Ancient Docks
Daxu’s history is tied to the river. Look for the series of stone docks that staircase down to the water. These were once bustling with merchants loading and unloading goods onto boats. The Tangfang Dock is particularly evocative. Stand here and imagine the scene centuries ago when Daxu was a vital trade link between Guangxi and Guangzhou.
Visit the Daxu Museum & Guan Di Temple
For a curated history lesson, the Daxu Museum complex is a great stop. It houses a collection of ancient artifacts, from Buddha statues to furniture. The recently restored Guan Di Temple (dedicated to the God of War and Wealth) nearby is a colorful and active temple, offering a glimpse into local spiritual life. History enthusiasts can also find other traces of Daxu’s rich past, including a Qing-era mosque, an assembly hall (万寿宫), and temples dedicated to ancient emperors (汉王庙), all scattered throughout the old town.
Watch the Vibrant Morning Market
Immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of local life by visiting the bustling farmers’ market. It’s a feast for the senses, where you can watch residents barter for fresh produce, meats, and unique handicrafts like woven straw sandals and hats. For an authentic glimpse into Daxu’s trading past, try to visit on a “Fair Day” (dates ending in 2, 5, or 8 of the lunar calendar), when the market is at its most vibrant.
Beyond the Ancient Streets: River & Countryside Experiences
For a different perspective, step beyond the ancient flagstones and enjoy two beloved local activities. Glide across the emerald waters of the Li River on a traditional bamboo raft from the town docks, drifting peacefully past stunning karst scenery and lush riverbanks—a perfect moment of tranquility.
If your visit falls between December and March, complete your day with a visit to a nearby strawberry farm. Enjoy the simple pleasure of picking sweet, sun-ripened berries straight from the field—a delightful experience, especially for families.
Daxu Ancient Town Travel Tips
Here are some useful travel tips for your visit to Daxu Ancient Town:
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit on old stone-paved paths.
- To experience the lively morning market, we recommend arriving around 6 am, and no later than 7 am.
- An open-air movie screening takes place by the river every Saturday evening, often featuring the classic film Third Sister Liu on vintage film reel.
- Look for the “Mail Time” shop near Longevity Bridge where you can stamp postcards with special Li River landscape seals and even mail one to your future self.
- If you visit on the eighth day of the second lunar month, you can experience the traditional temple fair with deity parades and Nuo mask performances.
- Consider renting an e-bike (around ¥30 per day) to explore nearby villages like Xiong Village or Mao Zhou Island at your own pace.
How to Get to Daxu Ancient Town
Starting from Guilin North Railway Station, take Lingchuan bus No. 306 at the Guilin North Railway Station intersection bus stop to Dayu Ancient Town. The whole journey takes 1.5 hours and the ticket price is 3 yuan.