Jingxi, Guangxi Province

The small city of Jingxi, located just a few dozen kilometers from the border, lives up to its reputation as "Little Guilin". The most stunning section of the "most beautiful highway", the He’na Expressway, passes through here, which says it all. In general, Jingxi is more suitable for group and self-driving tours, as the attractions are scattered and public transportation is not very convenient. However, scenic beauty abounds. D1: Arrival and Jingxi City Tour Zhongshan Park → Hu Zhiming and Zhuang People Exhibition Hall → Wuyuan Bridge → Wetland Park → Dalongtan Reservoir → Jinshan Mountain Although Zhongshan Park is small, it offers a glimpse into local customs. By the Nantan River, the mountains are reflected in the water. Cross Wuyuan Bridge, Jinshui Bridge, and the E’quan Stele, and you'll hear the gentle flow of the river as people wash clothes on the dam. The Wetland Park is suitable for children, with a swimming area open in the summer for water play. Dalongtan Reservoir has a viewing platform. During the high-water season, the dam forms a waterfall, and there is a light show at night. Nearby Jinshan Mountain is small and easy to climb, offering panoramic views of Jingxi City from the summit. Public transportation: Take bus No. 25 from Jingxi Station, or ride a shared electric bike or take a three-wheeled vehicle to the city center. Accommodation: Hotels are concentrated opposite Jingyu Passenger Transport Station. Food: Pig blood sausage, various types of rice noodles, Fanjiduo (a local specialty), Ciba Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), etc. Packaged five-color sticky rice, Shagao (a type of shortbread), and puffed rice are sold on Xinsheng Street. D2: Jingxi City → Jiuzhou → E’quan Inside the old city of Jiuzhou, there are Zhuangyin Pavilion and Wei Clan Ancestral Hall, but unfortunately, they retain limited historical charm. In the "Hometown of Hydrangeas", you can watch hand-sewing and experience Zhuang culture. By the E’quan River, the old stone bridge, Xinwang Bridge, and the surrounding mountains, along with the villagers washing clothes, are reflected in the river, creating a picturesque scene. The Wenchang Pavilion and the surrounding peaks form a picturesque view. The vast sea of flowers is perfect for group photos. Jiuzhou is about 7 km from E’quan, and there is no public transportation. The riverside road is now well-maintained, like a colorful ribbon winding through the green mountains and clear waters. Walking is recommended for an immersive experience. Upon reaching E’quan, take a look at the Fifteen-Hole Bridge before checking into your accommodation. Stroll around the scenic area before dark. The advantage of this arrangement: You can enter the scenic area through the back door without a ticket after 19:00 and before 08:00. Public transportation: Many buses from Jingyu Passenger Transport Station pass through Jiuzhou. The journey takes about 30 mins. Accommodation: There are homestays in both Jiuzhou and E’quan. Consider staying one night in each place. Food: Small restaurants in the scenic area mainly serve home-style dishes at moderate to high prices. Scrambled eggs with water grass is a local specialty. D3: Leisurely E’quan and Return Trip The E’quan scenic area is not large. The spring is bottomless, surrounded by clear water and green mountains. Algae grows like flowers, and geese and fish swim freely. There's no need to plan a specific route to see the Dragon God Temple, the E’quan Stele, and the Lily Pad Walkway. Just immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Experience a bamboo raft ride and walk the mountain trails. Don't stop at the first viewing platform. Walk around the mountain to the "Lingquan Evening Glow" cliff for the complete experience. Return to the city center and visit Jinxiu Ancient Town in the evening before departing the next day. Or, extend your trip by 2–3 days to visit Quyang Lake and Tongling Grand Canyon. Public transportation: Jingyu Passenger Transport Station is a transportation hub, but buses to the scenic areas are infrequent and time-consuming. Accommodation: Nian’an Village next to E’quan is a homestay village. It's not far from the city center. Food: Breakfast shops in the scenic area are open from 08:00 to 12:00, offering rice noodle soup, porridge, etc. At other times, you can only order dishes from restaurants.