Elephant Trunk Hill
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Elephant Trunk Hill

4.3
·293 reviews·Guilin, China

Iconic karst hill resembling an elephant drinking water, a symbol of Guilin with stunning riverside views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic karst hill resembling an elephant drinking water, a symbol of Guilin with stunning riverside views.

4.3
(293 reviews)

"A wonderful experience when in Guilin, the hike to the top offers spectacular vistas."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Your Passport!

Foreign tourists may need their passport for entry, even if admission is free. Always have it with you.

📸 Golden Hour Photo Ops

The late afternoon light creates stunning photos of the hill and river. Don't miss it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Elephant Trunk Arch

The Iconic Elephant Trunk Arch

Riverside

Witness the natural rock formation that strikingly resembles an elephant drinking from the Lijiang River.

Panoramic River Vistas

Panoramic River Vistas

Summit

Hike up for breathtaking views of the Lijiang River and Guilin city. Best enjoyed during golden hour .

Instagram
Riverside Stroll and Souvenirs

Riverside Stroll and Souvenirs

Base of the hill

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, browse local stalls, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Elephant Trunk Hill is a popular spot, so visiting during off-peak hours can significantly enhance your experience. Early mornings or late afternoons often offer fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. Consider the season, as winter can bring a unique charm.Instagram

Passport and Entry Essentials

While many reviews mention free admission for foreign tourists, always have your passport handy. Some sources suggest it's required for entry. Check for any potential changes in ticketing policies before your visit to avoid surprises.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Unique cozy charm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I think a lot of people don't know Chinese religions #religion #mountain #taoism
@rogerwu_georgedeco
77.1K likes • 374.6K views

🎯 Bring Your Passport!

Foreign tourists may need their passport for entry, even if admission is free. Always have it with you. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photo Ops

The late afternoon light creates stunning photos of the hill and river. Don't miss it! Instagram

Elephant Trunk Hill (象鼻山) is the symbol of #Guilin. The iconic karst mountain, nestled on the banks of the Lijiang River, resembles an elephant drinking water. In 2006, it became a friendly scenic spot with the #Étretat scenic spot in Normandy, #France. cr. 桂林山水拾光
discover_guangxi
23 likes • 554 views
Time to find someone to go to Guangxi together! places to visit in Guangxi, China: 1. Guilin 2. Yangshuo 3. Longsheng Rice Terraces 4. Li River 5. Elephant Trunk Hill 6. Reed Flute Cave 7. Detian Waterfall 8. Mingshi Scenic Area 9. Seven Star Park 10. Silver Cave 11. Xingping Ancient Town 12. Huangyao Ancient Town 13. Sanjiang Dong Village 14. Yueling Ancient Village 15. Bajiaozhai Geological Par...
thetravelingqipao
9.4K likes • 361.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Avoid Peak Crowds

Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities. Reddit

🚢 Consider a River Cruise

Enjoy unique perspectives of the hill and surrounding scenery from the water. Reddit

So grateful to explore this slice of magic with the best guide ever 🫶 🐘 Wandered around the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill 🏞️ Floated through the Two Rivers & Four Lakes—pure serenity 🗼 Caught golden hour at the Sun and Moon Pagodas 🍡 Snacked and strolled through Dongxi Xiang Alley 🧚🏼 Escaped to the dreamscape of Yangshuo County 🏔️ Climbed Xianggong Mountain for those unreal panoramic views Biggest ...
hungrycasey
0 likes • 702 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Your Passport!

Foreign tourists may need their passport for entry, even if admission is free. Always have it with you. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photo Ops

The late afternoon light creates stunning photos of the hill and river. Don't miss it! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Avoid Peak Crowds

Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities. Reddit

🚢 Consider a River Cruise

Enjoy unique perspectives of the hill and surrounding scenery from the water. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and potentially some light hiking to reach viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(293 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Elephant Trunk Hill is widely praised for its iconic natural formation and beautiful riverside setting, offering free entry for foreign tourists and a pleasant walking experience. While many enjoy the views and the lively atmosphere with souvenir stalls, some visitors note that it can get quite crowded, impacting the tranquility of the visit.

"I think it is interconnected with Guilin 2 rivers & 4 lakes because it is nearby to one another. The place is nice, the view is beautiful and it is quite crowded with so many tourists. The entrance is free and there are so many booths and stalls that sell food, drinks and souvenirs. The place is also clean. You can see an elephant shape on the hill and there are also activities like river Cruise and so on here."

Hafizun Mushtafa

"I recommend a stroll around Guilin, where this elephant-shaped hill, a symbol of the city, is located near the center. For foreign tourists, admission is free and no reservation is required. You must have a passport, which obviously applies to all of China."

Edoardo Carta

"Interesting place that has hundred years of history. Nice park to walk around in and enjoy the scenery.

It can be crowded so pick your tune to visit and avoid the crowd."

Joseph Tan

What People Like

Iconic elephant shape
Beautiful riverside views
Free entry for foreigners

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Elephant Trunk Hill is conveniently located near the city center of Guilin, making it easily accessible. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from nearby attractions like the Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area.Reddit Local buses and taxis are also readily available options to reach the hill. Some travelers even incorporate it into a broader Guilin exploration, suggesting it's a central point to visit. Instagram

Yes, Elephant Trunk Hill is often considered interconnected with or very close to the Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes scenic area. It's a key landmark in the vicinity, and many visitors combine visits to both. Reddit

While Yangshuo is a popular destination in Guangxi, Elephant Trunk Hill is located in Guilin. You can visit Elephant Trunk Hill as part of a day trip to Guilin from Yangshuo, but it requires travel between the two cities, which takes about 1-1.5 hours by bus or car. Instagram

The most common and recommended way to travel between Guilin and Yangshuo is by high-speed train or by bus. The journey is relatively short and efficient, allowing for easy day trips or transfers between the two popular tourist hubs. Instagram

Given its central location, walking is a great option if you're exploring Guilin's downtown. Otherwise, local buses and taxis are plentiful and affordable. If you're coming from further afield, consider the high-speed train to Guilin North station and then a taxi or local transport to the hill. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many reviews indicate that admission to Elephant Trunk Hill is free for foreign tourists, and no reservation is typically required. However, it's always wise to confirm current policies before your visit, as these can change. Reddit

Based on traveler feedback, advance booking is generally not necessary for Elephant Trunk Hill, especially for foreign tourists who often enjoy free entry. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, Elephant Trunk Hill is generally accessible for visitors to walk around and enjoy the scenery. It's advisable to check local listings for the most up-to-date information on official operating times, especially if you plan to access specific facilities or activities. Reddit

Yes, it is recommended to have your passport with you when visiting Elephant Trunk Hill, as it may be required for entry, particularly for foreign tourists. Reddit

Information on special passes or discounts is not widely available. However, the general consensus is that foreign tourists can enter for free, making it a very accessible attraction. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunity is capturing the 'elephant trunk' arch from the riverside. For panoramic shots of the Lijiang River and Guilin city, the summit offers spectacular vistas, especially during golden hour.Instagram+1 The riverside promenade also provides lovely angles with the hill in the background. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography. The soft light during these times minimizes harsh shadows and creates a more atmospheric scene. Golden hour, just before sunset, is particularly magical for capturing the hill and river. Instagram

Absolutely! Winter can offer a unique photographic experience at Elephant Trunk Hill, with potential for cozy landscapes and a different ambiance. The hill can even be depicted in 'sweater looks' during this season. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Elephant Trunk Hill. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in areas where it might be disruptive. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the main sights. For landscape shots from the summit, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. A tripod might be useful for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset. :iphone:

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk around the base of the hill, hike to viewpoints for panoramic city and river vistas, and browse souvenir stalls. River cruises are also available, offering a different perspective of the iconic landmark. Reddit

Yes, the area around Elephant Trunk Hill is well-suited for a leisurely stroll. The riverside paths are pleasant, and the park-like setting provides a relaxing environment to enjoy the scenery and take a break from more active sightseeing. Reddit

Elephant Trunk Hill can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Travelers recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest influx of people and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Reddit

Yes, there are numerous booths and stalls selling food, drinks, and souvenirs around the area. Restroom facilities are also typically available for visitors. Reddit

Elephant Trunk Hill holds historical significance and has been a point of interest for hundreds of years. It's a natural wonder that has become a symbol of Guilin, often featured in art and literature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are many booths and stalls located around Elephant Trunk Hill that sell a variety of food and drinks. You can find snacks and refreshments to enjoy while exploring the area. Reddit

Near Elephant Trunk Hill, you can typically find local snacks, beverages, and some quick meal options. These stalls cater to tourists, offering convenient bites as you explore the attraction. Reddit

While there are many stalls selling food and drinks, dedicated restaurants are not a primary feature within the immediate vicinity of Elephant Trunk Hill itself. However, Guilin city center, being nearby, offers a wide array of dining establishments. Reddit

In Guilin, be sure to try Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen), a local specialty. Other popular dishes include beer fish, stir-fried river snails, and various karst-themed cuisine. Instagram

It's a good idea to have a meal before or after your visit, as the stalls offer more snack-like options. Guilin's city center, which is easily accessible from Elephant Trunk Hill, has numerous restaurants offering a wider range of culinary experiences. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Elephant Trunk Hill is a great spot for families, offering a mix of natural wonder and gentle activity. The iconic elephant shape is sure to capture children's imaginations.Instagram The easy walking paths around the base are perfect for little legs, and there are plenty of stalls selling snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy.Reddit The hike to the summit is moderate and can be a fun challenge for older children, with rewarding views as a prize. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds, making the experience more comfortable for younger children. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Elephant Trunk Hill is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, as admission is often free for foreign tourists.Reddit This significantly reduces the cost of exploring a major Guilin landmark. You can save further by opting to walk to the hill from nearby attractions or taking local buses instead of taxis. While there are souvenir stalls, you can easily enjoy the scenery without making purchases. Packing your own water and snacks can also help keep costs down. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Elephant Trunk Hill offers iconic shots and stunning vistas. The 'elephant trunk' arch is a must-capture, especially during the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.Instagram The summit views provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, showcasing the Lijiang River and Guilin's karst scenery.Instagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive shots and a tripod for capturing the best of the golden hour. Be prepared for crowds, as many others will be vying for the perfect shot. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and Symbolism of Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill, or Xiangshan, is a remarkable geological formation composed primarily of limestone. Its distinctive shape, resembling an elephant drinking water, is a result of karst topography, a landscape shaped by the dissolution of soluble rocks like limestone by water over millions of years. This natural archway, known as the Water-Moon Cave (Shuiyue Dong), is not only a visual marvel but also holds cultural and historical significance. The hill has been a landmark for centuries, inspiring poets and artists and becoming an enduring symbol of Guilin.Instagram Its presence along the Lijiang River adds to the picturesque beauty that has made Guilin famous worldwide.

The hill's unique form has led to various legends and stories, further embedding it in local folklore. The Taoist influence is also present in the region, with mountains often holding spiritual importance.TikTok Visitors often feel a sense of awe at the sheer natural artistry of the formation, appreciating its beauty and the stories it holds. The combination of geological wonder and cultural resonance makes Elephant Trunk Hill a truly captivating destination.

For those interested in the natural sciences, Elephant Trunk Hill offers a tangible example of karst processes. The erosion patterns are evident, showcasing how water can sculpt the landscape over vast timescales. The hill's accessibility allows for a close-up appreciation of these geological features, making it an educational as well as a visually stunning experience. It's a place where nature's artistry is on full display, inviting contemplation and wonder.

Experiencing Elephant Trunk Hill: Beyond the Icon

While the elephant-shaped arch is the main draw, Elephant Trunk Hill offers more than just a photo opportunity. Visitors can embark on a moderate hike to the summit, which rewards them with spectacular panoramic views of Guilin city and the winding Lijiang River.Instagram The ascent is manageable for most, and the vistas from the top are frequently cited as a highlight by travelers.Reddit The trails are generally well-maintained, making the climb accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond the hike, the area surrounding the hill is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The riverside promenade is lined with stalls selling souvenirs, local crafts, and refreshments, creating a lively atmosphere.Reddit This provides a great opportunity to soak in the local culture and pick up mementos. For a different perspective, river cruises are available, allowing you to admire the hill and its surroundings from the water, offering a serene and picturesque experience.Reddit

Travelers often recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic lighting and photographic opportunities.Instagram This time also tends to be less crowded than midday. Some visitors even find the area to be a calm and quiet place to take a break from more hectic holiday activities, highlighting its versatility as a destination. Reddit

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