Asia 2005 Journey Day Sixteen

                                   Guilin, China

                                            

                                            May 19, 2005:  Overcast and occasional showers. The gem of China is Guilin.  Our day included 

                                            visits to Fubo park, Elephant Trunk park, and for the delight of tourists for decades, the Reed Flute Cave.

                                            The city is smaller in scale to other visited cities and has a significant well treed promenade next

                                            to the Li river.

 

                                            Guilin is set among an endless string of mountains that seem to be spires next to the Li River.  Ancient

                                            artists have called these mountains "Dragon's teeth" spread about the land.  Our first stop included a 

                                            hike to the top of Fubo mountain for a overall view of the river and city.  The park is named after

                                            a well know warrior general.  From the peak, one could see the bamboo rafts crossing the river.  The

                                            next stop was Elephant park.  Again, another spire type mountain that has a section that  bridges over 

                                            into the river creating the appearance of an elephant drinking water.  Almost all mountains and cave 

                                            require a sense of imagination to see the various faces or characters.

 

                                            The highlight of today's trek was Reed Flute Cave.  Only known by the local residents until 1962.  Prior

                                            to this date, the cave was used as a hiding area from any enemy forces.  Once the local people were

                                            comfortable with the China government, information was provided to all about this marvelous creation.

                                            The cave has been enhanced with multi color lights and reflection pools.  The overall effect is one of

                                            endless awe.

 

                                            The afternoon ended with a visit to a tea tasting room.  Much was learned as to culture and procedures

                                            for properly preparing and serving tea leaves.  The small snacks that accompanied the tea were very

                                            tasty and some were very unique to the area.  One snack did not have an English translation and

                                            is made from a local fruitage.

 

                                            Guilin is very much alive at night with neon and colored lights on hotels, trees, pagodas, and bridges.

                                            A centralized pedestrian way leads from extensive shops and restaurants to a large public square.  A

                                            new hotel has a water feature presentation each night at 8:30 p.m.  It includes the largest man-made

                                            waterfall in the World.  The main water flow starts at the roof of the hotel and travels down the window

                                            side of the hotel.  Lights and other water features are located at the base of the hotel.  Obviously, it 

                                            makes for a tourist and local viewing tradition.

 

                

                                         

                                                   

                                                                 

                                                                   

                                                                

                                                                   

                                                                      

                                                                 

 

                                           Travel specs:  Nissan touring car

 

                                            Return to Asia 2005