The Fake Mountains of Guilin

The karst formations of the Guilin region in southern China are stunning. It is hard to believe that they were created naturally as they rise skyward along the Li River. An old Chinese saying is 'Guilin's scenery is best among all under heaven' and it is easy to see where this sentiment came from. Matthew and I traveled down to see this famous region of China with Rod and Jesse and had the time of our lives floating down the Li River as well as biking through the rice patties between these monoliths. The city of Yangshuo is located a couple of hours south of Guilin and has become a major domestic as well as foreign tourist destination because of the gorgeous scenery. Looking out our hotel window each morning was a wonderful way to start the day. We took a couple of lazy boat rides down the Li River which allowed us to take in the beautiful mountains in a relaxed manner. We floated past farmers with their water buffaloes as well as tons of tourists taking as many pictures as we were. There are still men fishing with cormorants but you wonder if it isn't just another photo op. It is easy to see why the back of the 20 Yuan bill displays the Li River as it flows through these mountains.

Another great way to see the countryside is to rent bikes and cruise around for the day. It was extremely hot and humid but we still enjoyed meandering along the country roads and lanes between the mountains. One of our highlights was climbing up Moon Hill for a magnificent (how many more synonyms for incredible can I use?) view. There were a few ladies selling water bottles and offering us a short cut up Moon Hill for only a few Yuan so we took them up on it. Rod found visiting with them quite entertaining while we rested in the shade. It's amazing how much knowing the language adds to your travel experiences.

We got a real chuckle out of seeing many of the local men walking around trying to stay cool by lifting up their shirts so we had to give it a try ourselves. We found wandering through the streets and markets of Yangshuo to be almost as entertaining as the landscape. There is so much to see in this area of China and we felt like we had only taken a nibble out of it. Matthew and I are both putting Yangshuo on our 'We'll Be Back' list.