The Li River

At the 5 star hotels in Alicante Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa we keep travelling around Asia to discover the hidden secrets of its culture. Today we are taking you to South China to find out about one of the most famous rivers in the country: Li River.

The Li River or Lijiang borns in the Mao’er Mountain in Xing’an County, and flows in southern direction through the cities of Guilin, Yangshuo and Pingle. Due to its landscape, the river has become one of the main tourist attractions in China. CNN has included it in a ranking of the world’s 15 best rivers for travellers.

One of the most practised activities by tourists and Chinese citizens is the Li River cruise. The most famous trip is the one that goes from Guilin to Yangshuo, over 83 kilometres long.

This is the best way to see the different and attractive corners the region hides such as the Karst Mountains surrounding the river, which have led to many proverbs and legends. Geologists affirm this area was part of a huge ocean 300 million years ago and due to the movements of the continental landmasses the peaks have become what they are today. Another important attraction is the Elephant Trunk Hill, which is known as the symbol of Guilin; the Mural Hill, the Seven Star Park, and the Reed Flute Cave, a cave with a large number of stalactites, stalagmites and rocky curtains.

From the boats people are also able to see the traditional cormorant fishing. Fishermen use cormorant birds to catch sweetfish.

One of the main curiosities behind the Li River is that the image on the reverse side of the 20-Yuan note shows scenery around the river. Besides, the river was part of one the most ancient and important trade routes in South China.

If you like to contemplate Asia´s beautiful natural sceneries, we invite you to discover the pools of our luxury hotel in Alicante Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa. You will love their spectacular Asian design and the materials used in their construction. Your chance to visit Asia without leaving Spain!