Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Li River (Li Jiang)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey through the majestic landscapes surrounding the Li River (Li Jiang), a gem in Guilin renowned for its breathtaking scenery which has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Our specially curated wheelchair-accessible itinerary ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Day 1: Arrival in Guilin

Start your journey by flying into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, which is well-equipped with facilities for disabled travelers. From here, take an accessible taxi or arrange for a wheelchair-friendly shuttle to your accommodation in Guilin city. Spend your evening at the bustling Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, which is flat and easy to navigate. Enjoy local snacks and perhaps a relaxing foot massage at one of the accessible spas.

Day 2: Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo

In the morning, head to Zhujiang Pier (about 40 minutes from Guilin) by an accessible van, where you"ll board a wheelchair-friendly riverboat. As you cruise down the Li River, marvel at the karst landscapes - limestone peaks shrouded in mist creating a stunning natural ink painting. The boat features accessible restrooms and designated spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring unobstructed views of landmarks like Elephant Trunk Hill and Nine Horses Hill.

Day 3: Exploring Yangshuo

Disembark in Yangshuo and explore its accessible paths. Visit the Yangshuo Park, which offers paved pathways and gorgeous views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a local tea house that accommodates wheelchairs.

Day 4: Return to Guilin

Take an accessible van back to Guilin. Before your departure, visit the Reed Flute Cave, known for its accessible paths and spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations illuminated by colorful lights—a magical conclusion to your Li River adventure.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Longji Rice Terraces

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure at Longji Rice Terraces

Explore the stunning beauty of Longji Rice Terraces with our wheelchair-friendly itinerary, designed to ensure everyone can experience one of China’s most picturesque landscapes.

Getting There

Start your journey from Guilin, where you can catch an accessible bus or arrange a private van equipped with a wheelchair lift. The drive offers scenic views of the lush Guangxi countryside, setting the tone for the natural beauty that awaits. Upon arrival at the Longji area, utilize the specially designed eco-friendly buses that accommodate wheelchairs, making stops at various accessible viewing points.

Touring Longji

Begin at the Ancient Zhuang Village, where flat paths and boardwalks make it easier for wheelchairs and scooters. Admire centuries-old wooden houses and learn about the Zhuang people"s rich culture and history. The village provides accessible restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Next, head to the Ping’an Village, which has been made more accessible through recent improvements. A motorized cable car allows everyone to ascend comfortably, offering panoramic views of the terraces’ intricate patterns—something not to miss during the planting season in early summer or when the paddies are golden before the harvest in autumn.

Not-to-Miss Highlights

1. Viewpoint 1 (Nine Dragons and Five Tigers): Accessible via a paved path, this spot offers a breathtaking view where you can see the terraces curve and wind like dragon’s backs.

2. Viewpoint 2 (Seven Stars Around the Moon): Also reachable by a well-maintained path, this area provides a spectacular perspective on the terraces, especially enchanting during sunset.

Interesting Fact

The terraces were built over 650 years ago during the Yuan dynasty and are maintained till today by Zhuang and Yao communities, showcasing an ancient method of water management and sustainable agriculture.

Return Trip

Wind down as you take the cable car back, reflecting on the serene beauty and cultural richness of Longji. The same accessible transport options are available for a comfortable ride back to Guilhome.

Tips

Plan your visit in the late spring or early autumn for the best weather and views. Always check ahead for the operational status of facilities to ensure a smooth experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Xingping Town (Xingping Village)

Why Visit?

Xingping Town Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Welcome to Xingping, a quaint village set amidst the stunning karst landscapes along the Li River. This peaceful locale is not only rich in natural beauty but also remarkably accessible for travelers using wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Morning: Arrival & Ancient Street Exploration

Begin your day by arriving in Xingping from Guilin or Yangshuo. Both cities offer accessible public buses equipped with lifts, ensuring a smooth ride to Xingping. Once there, head to the ancient Xingping Old Street. The entrance to this historic street features ramps, and the stone paths are mostly flat and manageable for wheels. Enjoy the morning browsing through the 1,000-year-old market street, where the architecture transports you back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Don"t miss the local handicrafts, perfect for unique souvenirs.

Midday: Riverside Views at Xingping Wharf

For lunch, make your way to a riverside café near Xingping Wharf. Most cafes here are accessible, offering ramps and ground-floor seating. Post-lunch, enjoy the serene views of the Li River — the backdrop famously featured on the 20 Yuan note. The wharf area is paved and flat, allowing for easy navigation and an opportunity to take some stunning photographs.

Afternoon: Fisherman"s Show on the Li River

In the afternoon, experience the traditional cormorant fishing show. Accessible boat tours are available that accommodate wheelchairs, letting you witness this ancient fishing method up close. Book your tour in advance to ensure availability of an accessible boat.

Evening: Sunset at Laozhai Mountain

Conclude your day with a view of the sunset from the base of Laozhai Mountain. While the mountain itself may not be fully accessible, the surrounding area offers panoramic views and is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on your day in Xingping.

Useful Tips

- Always check in advance with attractions for the latest accessibility information.

- Consider hiring a local guide who can assist with navigating less accessible areas and enhance your experience with insightful stories and facts about Xingping.

Enjoy a day soaking in the charm and beauty of Xingping, a gem that proves adventure is accessible to everyone!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan)

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure at Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin

Embark on a delightful day at Guilin"s iconic Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan), marveling at its natural beauty and unique shape that resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the Li River. This limestone karst tower, an emblem of Guilin’s enchanting landscape, is not only a visual delight but also accessible for those on wheels.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early to avoid the crowds and make the most of the serene morning atmosphere. Elephant Trunk Hill is located at the confluence of the Li River and Peach Blossom River, easily accessible by public transport. Take bus No. 2, 16, or 23 directly to the hill, or if you prefer a more scenic route, hire a taxi from your hotel. The park"s entrance is well-equipped with ramps and accessible facilities ensuring smooth navigation for wheelchair users and mobile scooters.

Midday: The Water Moon Cave

Navigate to the Water Moon Cave located at the base of the hill on the riverside. This semi-oval opening allows the river to pass through and creates a captivating view resembling a full moon, especially mesmerizing on a sunny day. The paths here are smooth and flat, making them easy to explore in a wheelchair.

Afternoon: Visit to Yunfeng Temple

Conclude your tour with a visit to the nearby Yunfeng Temple, accessible through a paved pathway. Although parts of the temple might be less accessible, the main courtyard offers a peaceful spot for reflection and is reachable via an accessible route.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that the hill has been an inspiration for numerous poets and artists throughout Chinese history? The unique shape and the picturesque surroundings make it not just a natural wonder but also a muse for creativity.

With thoughtful facilities ensuring accessibility, Elephant Trunk Hill promises a rewarding experience for all its visitors, regardless of mobility concerns.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Seven Star Park (Qixing Gongyuan)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Seven Star Park, Guilin

Introduction

Nestled along the Li River, Guilin"s Seven Star Park (Qixing Gongyuan) offers a splendid mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and accessibility for wheelchair and mobile scooter users. The park, named after the seven peaks that resemble the Big Dipper constellation, spans over 120 hectares and provides paved pathways and scenic views that are perfect for a leisurely, accessible outing.

Getting There

The park is centrally located in Guilin, easily accessible by taxi or public transport. Inform your driver about the entrance nearest to the Qixing District, which provides smooth, step-free access. Visitors with mobility challenges are advised to use the main entrance where wheelchair-friendly facilities are readily available.

Tour Itinerary

Morning - Explore the Geological Wonders

Start your day at the Seven Star Cave. This illuminated cave features flat, paved pathways and is accessible by wheelchair, allowing you to marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Information panels in English provide insights into the cave’s geology.

Midday - Relax by the Flower Bridge

Head to the historic Flower Bridge, a reconstructed version of a Song dynasty bridge. This spot offers gorgeous views of the surrounding peaks and is a great place for a relaxed picnic. The nearby lawns are smooth and flat, perfect for wheelchairs and scooters.

Afternoon - Visit the Panda House

Conclude your tour at the Panda House. Although smaller than those in major zoos, it’s an accessible venue to see China"s beloved pandas. The paths around the enclosure are well-maintained and wheelchair-friendly.

Practical Tips

- Restrooms with wheelchair access are available near major attractions.

- The park is vast, so consider renting a mobility scooter at the entrance for ease of travel.

- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as shaded areas can be sparse.

Enjoy your visit to Seven Star Park, where natural beauty and accessibility go hand in hand!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.