Guilin
Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin
Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan) sits at the meeting point of the Li River and the Peach Blossom River, and it is the single most recognizable emblem of Guilin. Over hundreds of millions of years, water and weather carved this karst outcrop into the unmistakable silhouette of an elephant lowering its trunk to drink. Between the "trunk" and the "leg" sits the celebrated Water Moon Cave, a near-perfect arch through which the river flows. On a still night, the moon appears both in the sky and reflected in the water beneath the arch, giving the cave its poetic name and making it the city's official emblem.
Elephant Trunk Hill rising above the Li River in Guilin
What to See
The star attraction is the Water Moon Cave, best viewed from the riverside path or from a bamboo raft drifting just offshore. Climb the stone steps to the summit and you reach the Puxian Pagoda, a slender brick tower built in the Ming Dynasty that resembles the handle of a sword pressed into the elephant's back. The park also includes Aiqing (Love) Island, riverside gardens, and quiet viewing pavilions. Photographers prize the classic head-on angle that captures the full arch with the pagoda crowning the hill.
Opening Hours & Tickets
The scenic area is generally open daily, roughly 06:30–18:30 from April to October and 07:00–17:30 from November to March (evening light shows may extend hours in peak season). The standard adult ticket has historically run around 55–70 RMB, with free entry for children under 1.2 m; some recent reports describe simplified QR-code entry. Hours and prices change seasonally, so always confirm on-site or by phone before visiting.
Getting There
The hill is in central Guilin, only a short ride from the train station and downtown hotels. Local buses and taxis reach the main gate in minutes, and many visitors simply walk along the Li River from the city center. Combine it with a stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic loop nearby.
Best Season & Practical Tips
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather, greener hills, and clearer skies. Early morning brings soft light and thinner crowds; the evening illumination is dramatic but busy. Wear comfortable shoes for the summit climb, bring sun protection in summer, and carry a light rain layer, as Guilin sees frequent showers.
Elephant Trunk Hill illuminated at night
Highlights
- Water Moon Cave, the natural arch that is Guilin's official city emblem
- Elephant-shaped karst silhouette over the Li River
- Ming Dynasty Puxian Pagoda crowning the summit
- Bamboo-raft views from the river just offshore
- Evening illumination and riverside gardens
Travel Tips
Best photo spot
Shoot head-on from the riverside path to catch the full arch with the Puxian Pagoda on top; soft early-morning light works best.
Avoid the crowds
Arrive right at opening or in the late afternoon to dodge tour groups; the evening light show is beautiful but very busy.
Confirm entry details
Hours, ticket prices, and entry method change seasonally; check on-site or by phone before you go (subject to on-site conditions).
