Elong Hotel Hotels Near Xiangshan Scenic Area - Second Viewing Platform

Stay at Guilin Xiangshan Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from the Second Viewing Platform, offering rooms with panoramic views of the Lijiang River and Elephant Trunk Hill. The hotel provides free shuttles to major attractions and features a local restaurant serving authentic Guilin rice noodles and beer fish, blending comfort with cultural immersion.

Walk to South Gate of Xiangshan Park, then take Bus Line 3 or 18, reaching downtown in under 15 minutes. Alternatively, rent an e-bike along the Lijiang Greenway for a scenic ride through riverside trails—ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and a poetic journey through nature.

The platform offers the best mirror reflection view of Elephant Trunk Hill during early morning hours (6:30–8:00 AM), when mist hovers over the river. Use a tripod and wide-angle lens to capture the ethereal dual-image effect. During festivals, light art installations illuminate the hillside at night, creating dramatic visuals perfect for professional shots.

Enjoy the family-friendly ecological trail and children’s sand play area. Parents can join traditional paper-cutting workshops to explore local intangible heritage. Nearby bamboo raft rides (¥15/hour) offer a relaxed, interactive experience for all ages, combining fun and cultural learning.

Try Guilin sour tangyuan and horse chestnut cake from the local vendor "Xiangshan Food House," made with river-milled horse chestnut flour for a delicate, chewy texture. Don’t miss the beer fish—fresh Lijiang river fish slow-cooked in local beer—richly flavored and served with steaming rice noodles, a must-try culinary highlight.

Visit before 7:00 AM on weekdays for minimal crowds and optimal lighting. Opt for a private guided tour, which allows access to lesser-known paths and historical inscriptions while avoiding large groups, ensuring a peaceful, immersive experience.