A Soulful Dialogue with Nature at Ming Shi Pastoral

Stumbling into a Real-Life Shangri-La | A Comprehensive Guide to Ming Shi Pastoral Guangxi, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, hides a real-life Shangri-La—Ming Shi Pastoral. Here, clustered peaks, sprawling rice paddies, and the meandering Ming Shi River create a picturesque scene, like a scroll painting slowly unfolding, leaving visitors captivated and reluctant to leave. Below, I'll share my authentic experiences, practical tips, and helpful advice. 🏞 My Experience: From the moment I stepped into Ming Shi Pastoral, I was mesmerized by the scenery. Towering karst peaks rise between rice paddies and the river, while the crystal-clear Ming Shi River reflects the blue sky, white clouds, and lush greenery. Bamboo rafts glide gently across the water, creating ripples. In the distance, Zhuang villages dot the landscape, with wisps of smoke rising from chimneys, adding a touch of life. Time seems to slow down here, and a sense of tranquility washes over you. I chose to stay at the Ming Shi Nali Hotel, where the 270° view from my room allowed me to soak in the surrounding landscape the moment I woke up. The hotel's dining was also excellent, with a rich breakfast selection and fresh juices. The Chinese restaurant offered a comfortable ambiance and a diverse menu. It was truly a delightful experience. 🚗 Getting There: From Nanning, take a bus from Xixiangtang Bus Station to Daxin County. Then, transfer to the "Daxin - Ming Shi - Detian" tourist bus at Daxin Bus Station. The fare to Ming Shi is CNY 10. Alternatively, take the direct "Nanning - Ming Shi - Detian" tourist bus from Nanning. Self-driving is also a convenient option. 🎡 Things to Do: - Bamboo Raft Ride: This is the classic way to explore Ming Shi Pastoral. Drifting downstream on a bamboo raft, with a gentle breeze in your hair, you can admire the unique peaks, verdant bamboo groves, and rice paddies along the riverbanks. Snacks and tea are provided on the raft, and a guide will explain the sights along the way, offering insights into the local culture and stories. - Cycling Tour: Rent an electric scooter or bicycle and enjoy a leisurely ride along the paths by the river and rice paddies. I recommend starting from Ming Shi Nali Hotel and cycling along Ming Shi Bridge to Yulin Dam and Happiness Bridge. This route offers the most scenic views of the pastoral landscape. - Hiking: Stroll along the paths through the fields and by the river, breathing in the fresh air and feeling the gentle breeze. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of rural life. 🍱 Food Recommendations: - Roast Suckling Pig: A local specialty, best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The crispy skin and tender meat are incredibly flavorful. - Grilled Pork Sausage: The addition of wild pepper gives this sausage a unique and delicious taste. - Farmhouse Cuisine: Savor the natural flavors of fresh, locally sourced vegetables. ❗ Tips for Your Visit: 1. Avoid holidays if possible, as the crowds will be smaller, and accommodation and rental prices may be lower. 2. Mosquitoes are common in the mountainous area, so bring mosquito repellent and anti-itch cream. 3. When renting an electric scooter, check the vehicle's condition, including the battery level and brakes. 4. Bargain for goods if prices are not clearly marked, especially near tourist areas. Journey through the landscapes and unlock your inner peace at Ming Shi Pastoral ❤️