Pingxiang Travel Guide

Plan a memorable trip to Pingxiang with this comprehensive travel guide that covers must-visit attractions, activities, local culture, travel logistics, and more.


Introduction to Pingxiang

Nestled in the central Guangxi region of southern China, Pingxiang is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure enthusiasts. The city is home to plenty of natural wonders, including mountains, forests, caves, and rivers, and boasts a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the Qin and Han dynasties. In recent years, Pingxiang has emerged as a major tourist hub in China, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, warm hospitality, and irresistible local cuisine. In this travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Pingxiang.

List of Places to Visit in Pingxiang

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pingxiang Museum: This museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Pingxiang and the Guangxi region.

  2. Pingxiang City Wall: Built in the Ming dynasty, this ancient wall is a testimony to Pingxiang’s rich history and architecture.

  3. Daxu Old Town: This charming village on the banks of the Li River preserves the traditional architecture and way of life of southern China.

  4. Ling Canal: This ancient engineering marvel, built in the 3rd century BC, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that connects the Yangtze River and the Pearl River, facilitating trade and commerce.

Natural Attractions of Pingxiang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tian Ping Shan Scenic Area: With its breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams, Tian Ping Shan is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.

  2. Yangshuo Moon Hill: This iconic karst mountain, with a large hole in the center that resembles a moon, is one of the most photographed landmarks in China.

  3. Longji Rice Terraces: These stunning terraced fields, cultivated for over 700 years by the Zhuang ethnic minority, offer a striking sight during the rice harvest season in September and October.

  4. Malinghe Canyon: This picturesque canyon, known as the “Chinese Grand Canyon,” is a popular spot for rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pingxiang

  1. Lantian to Pinggan Ancient Trail: This scenic 8.5 km trail, starting from Lantian village, passes through some of the most beautiful countryside landscapes of Pingxiang.

  2. Lishui River Bike Trail: This 15 km-long bike trail, starting from the Lishui River, traverses scenic rural areas, ancient bridges, and traditional villages.

  3. Yangshuo Xingping Hike: This 10 km-long hike, starting from the picturesque town of Xingping, offers breathtaking views of the Li River, karst mountains, and rice terraces.

Best Things to Do in Pingxiang: Activities and Tours

  1. Rafting on the Lijiang River: This thrilling 4-hour rafting tour on the Lijiang River, through stunning karst landscapes, is a must-do activity for adventure seekers.

  2. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Guilin landscape, famous for its karst peaks, winding rivers, and lush forests.

  3. Guilin Night Cruise: Enjoy a scenic night cruise on the Li River, dotted with colorful lights, bridges, and cultural performances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pingxiang

Day 1: Visit Pingxiang Museum and explore the ancient City Wall Day 2: Hike in the Tian Ping Shan Scenic Area and visit the Ling Canal Day 3: Visit the charming Daxu Old Town and cycle along the Lishui River Bike Trail Day 4: Go rafting on the Lijiang River and enjoy a Guilin Night Cruise Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Guilin landscape and visit Yangshuo Moon Hill Day 6: Explore the Longji Rice Terraces and hike to the hilltop villages of the Zhuang ethnic minority Day 7: Visit the Malinghe Canyon and do some rock climbing or kayaking

Food and Drink Scene of Pingxiang

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Guilin Rice Noodles: This iconic dish of Guilin consists of soft rice noodles in a light broth with toppings such as pickled bamboo shoots, fried peanuts, and pork slices.

  2. Braised Pork with Bamboo Shoots: This delectable dish, made with tender pork belly and fresh bamboo shoots, is a local favorite in Pingxiang.

  3. Glutinous Rice Dumplings: These sweet dumplings, filled with unique ingredients such as taro, lotus seeds, and jujube paste, are a popular snack in southern China.

Local Beverages

  1. Xinghuacun Rice Wine: This traditional Baijiu made from glutinous rice and spring water in the Xinghuacun village is a must-try for liquor enthusiasts.

  2. Kumquat Juice: Made from fresh kumquats grown in the Guangxi region, this refreshing tart juice is a perfect beverage to beat the summer heat.

Where to Stay in Pingxiang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Guilin Shangri-La Hotel: This luxury hotel in Guilin, a short distance from Pingxiang, offers beautiful river views, fantastic amenities, and world-class dining.

  2. Pingxiang Backpacker Hostel: This cozy hostel in Pingxiang’s historical center is perfect for budget travelers and offers clean rooms, friendly staff, and a chill atmosphere.

  3. Mingdu Hotel: This contemporary hotel in the heart of Pingxiang city provides comfortable rooms, beautiful views, and a convenient location.

What to Buy in Pingxiang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Traditional Handicrafts: Pingxiang is famous for its beautiful handcrafted porcelain, wooden sculptures, and batik fabrics, which make excellent souvenirs.

  2. Tea and Spices: The Guangxi region is known for producing high-quality tea and spices such as cassia, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorn, which are great gifts to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Pingxiang

The people of Pingxiang are warm, hospitable, and deeply proud of their cultural heritage. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with a smile, dressing modestly in temples, and taking off shoes while entering houses.

Best Time to Visit Pingxiang

The best time to visit Pingxiang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its breathtaking best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pingxiang

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Learn basic Chinese phrases and etiquette
  • Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and interact with locals

Don’t:

  • Photograph people without their permission
  • Litter or damage the natural beauty
  • Haggle aggressively when shopping

Safety and Health

Safety in Pingxiang

Pingxiang is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but visitors should exercise common sense precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and following local customs and guidelines.

Health in Pingxiang

Visitors should take precautions against common health risks in China, such as water contamination, air pollution, and mosquito-borne diseases. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to Pingxiang.

Getting to Pingxiang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pingxiang

The nearest airports to Pingxiang are the Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) and the Nanning Wuxu International Airport (NNG), both of which offer regular flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Pingxiang

Pingxiang has a well-connected bus network, with daily services from Guilin, Nanning, and other cities in Guangxi.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Pingxiang by train, with frequent services from Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities in China.

How to Get Around in Pingxiang

The best way to explore Pingxiang is by renting a bicycle or hiring a private car and driver. Taxis and buses are also available, but visitors should negotiate fares beforehand.

Where to Go Next from Pingxiang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Guilin: This picturesque city, known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Guangxi.

  2. Yangshuo: This charming town on the banks of the Li River is famous for its karst mountains, rice paddies, and outdoor activities.

  3. Nanning: The capital of Guangxi province, located a few hours’ drive from Pingxiang, is a bustling city with a rich history and modern attractions.

Conclusion

Pingxiang is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Pingxiang. Happy travels!