Two Rivers and Four Lakes

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled in the heart of Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the Two Rivers and Four Lakes (Liangjiang Sìhú) is a UNESCO-recognized urban water system blending natural karst landscapes with human ingenuity. Comprising the Li River (Lijiang), Peach Blossom River (Taohua Jiang), and four interconnected lakes—Rong Lake (Rónghú),杉 Lake (Shānhú), Guì Lake (Guìhú), and Wood Dragon Lake (Mùlónghú)—this 14.5km water network was first engineered during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) and restored in the 1990s. It embodies Guilin’s motto “Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven,” harmonizing Han-Zhuang architecture, Confucian gardens, and Buddhist temples with the Li River’s emerald waters.

Architectural Layout & Design
The system integrates ancient canals, modern bridges, and ecological restoration:

• Water Network: A interconnected web of rivers and lakes linked by 19 bridges (e.g., the 1400-year-old Xīnghuā Bridge and the glass-bottomed Riyue Shuangtá Pavilion Bridge), forming a continuous 14.5km waterway loop.
• Cultural Landmarks: The 900-year-old Dūxiù Pea k (a Confucian tower), the 1,200-year-old Qíngqī Temple, and the 18th-century Lingqu Canal sluice gates.
• Eco-Design: Solar-powered lighting, permeable pavements, and wetland restoration projects (e.g., the 2020 Guì Lake Reed Bed Renewal) align with sustainable tourism principles.
• Nightscape Magic: LED-lit bridges, floating lantern displays, and moonlit reflections create a "Venice of the East" ambiance.

Major Attractions & Experiences

• Boat Tours: Cruise through illuminated caves, past ancient pagodas, and under arched stone bridges while learning about local legends.
• Historic Sites: Explore the 1,300-year-old Rónghú Pavilion, the 800-year-old Dūxīu Tower, and the 16th-century East-West Alley (Dōngxī Xiàng).
• Cultural Performances: Evening "Li River Folk Song" shows, traditional fisherman’s cormorant fishing demonstrations, and calligraphy workshops.
• Photography Spots: Sunset over Riyue Shuangtá Pavilion Bridge, dawn mist over Mùlónghú Lake, and night views of the 10,000-lantern waterway.

Ticket Information & Packages

• General Admission: Free entry to lakeshores; boat tours (¥120–280/adult) include night cruises with live narration.
• VIP Experiences: ¥500–800 for private gondola rides with classical music and champagne service.
• Opening Hours: 24/7 access; boat tours operate 18:00–22:00 daily (seasonal adjustments).
• Bundled Options: Combine with Elephant Trunk Hill or Ree d Flute Cave tours for ¥300–600.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transport: Buses 2/5/10 to "Li River Dock" stop; subway Line 1 to Central Square (5-minute walk).
• Self-Drive: 10-minute drive from Guilin Railway Station; parking at lakeside lots (¥10/day).
• Walking/Cycling: Stone-paved lanes connect all lakes; bike rentals (¥30–50/day) for 8km circular routes.
• Airport Access: Limousine service from Guilin Liangjiang Airport (¥80) or helicopter tours (¥1,500/group).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: April–June (spring blooms, misty mornings) and September–November (golden autumn, clear nights). Avoid July–August monsoons.
• Photography: Dawn for misty lake vistas; golden hour for bridge reflections; night for lantern-lit landscapes.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove shoes in temples; respect quiet zones; avoid touching ancient inscriptions.
• Packing Essentials: Layered clothing (15–25°C), polarized sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and sturdy shoes.
• Eco-Practices: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade silk scarves; avoid single-use plastics.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Boat tour + visit to Elephant Trunk Hill (1km walk).
  • Afternoon: Explore Longji Rice Terraces or Silver Cave’s geological wonders.
  • Evening: "Impression Sanjie Liu" outdoor show or night market dining.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Naxi Dongba rituals in Lijiang or Tibetan medicine museums in Shangri-La.
• Extended Itineraries: 3-day Guilin tour including Li River cruise, cormorant fishing on Yulong River, and helicopter tour of Meili Snow Mountain.

Two Rivers and Four Lakes is a symphony of earth and water—where ancient bridges whisper legends, and the river guards the wisdom of millennia. As a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, it continues to inspire global travelers seeking both natural grandeur and cultural depth in China’s Southwest, redefining urban riverine beauty with every illuminated arch and moonlit ripple.