Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill is the most iconic landmark of Guilin, located at the junction of the Li River and Taohua (Peach Blossom) River. This unique limestone formation resembles a giant elephant drinking from the river with its trunk, making it the perfect symbol of Guilin's stunning landscape. The hill has been inspiring poets and artists for over a thousand years, as captured in the ancient verse: "The moon reflects in the water below, while floating above; The water flows but the moon stays, when the moon goes the water still flows."

Overview

Rising 55 meters above the river and spanning approximately 200 meters in length, this 3.6-billion-year-old limestone formation creates an incredibly lifelike elephant silhouette. The most distinctive feature is Water Moon Cave (Shuiyue Cave), a moon-shaped arch formed between the elephant's trunk and legs. This natural arch, spanning 17 meters in length and 12 meters in height, creates magical reflections when moonlight shines through it.

Main Attractions

Water Moon Cave

The Water Moon Cave is the hill's most famous feature. This natural arch creates stunning visual effects as the river flows through it, especially during full moons when the water and moonlight create the famous "Moon in the Water" spectacle. The cave contains over 50 ancient inscriptions from various dynasties, including works by famous poets and scholars.

Puxian Pagoda

Located at the summit, this 13.6-meter-tall pagoda was built during the Ming Dynasty. Also known as the Sword Handle Pagoda due to its shape, it features unique Tibetan architectural elements and adds to the hill's distinctive silhouette. The pagoda's second level contains a carved image of Puxian Buddha, from which it derives its name.

Love Island

Situated on the north side of the scenic area, Love Island was created in 1983 during a river dredging project. The island features romantic walking paths, sculptures, and excellent viewing points of Elephant Trunk Hill. It's a popular spot for couples and photographers.

Yunfeng Temple

Located at the southwestern foot of the hill, this temple was originally built in 1214 during the Song Dynasty. Though rebuilt several times, it maintains its historical significance and houses various cultural exhibitions about Guilin's history.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

• Daily: 7:00 - 21:30
• Last entry: 21:00

Admission

• Free admission (advance reservation required)
• Reservations can be made through the official WeChat account or major travel platforms

Getting There

From Guilin Airport:

• Airport Bus Line 1 to Civil Aviation Building, then walk 950m
• Public Bus 16 to Minzhu Road Station

From Guilin Railway Station:

• Bus 16 or 23 directly to Elephant Hill Park Station
• Walking distance: 20-40 minutes

From Guilin North Railway Station:

• Bus 100 to Nanxi Hospital Station, then transfer to Bus 58
• Bus 1 to Airport Road or Cuizhu Road Station, then transfer to Bus 2

Photography Tips

Best Photo Spots

1. First Viewing Platform: The classic textbook view of the hill
2. Water Moon Cave: Capture the unique arch and water reflections
3. Summit: Panoramic views of Guilin city and Li River
4. Bamboo Rafts: Unique water-level perspectives (¥10 per ride)

Best Times for Photography

• Early Morning: Soft light and fewer crowds
• Sunset: Golden hour lighting on the limestone
• Full Moon Nights: Capture the famous "Moon in the Water" effect

Visiting Tips

1. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
2. Allow 1-2 hours for a complete visit
3. Wear comfortable walking shoes for climbing
4. Bring sun protection and water during summer
5. Consider visiting during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for the best weather
6. The hill has three entrances:
   • Gate 1: Main entrance (7:00-18:00)
   • Gate 2: Exit only (7:00-21:30)
   • Gate 3: Entrance only (7:00-21:30)

Quick Route

For a quick visit, enter through Gate 3, walk 150 meters to the first viewing platform for photos, then exit through Gate 2. This takes about 20 minutes.

Complete Route

For a full experience, enter through Gate 1, visit Water Moon Cave, climb to the summit via the back trail (15 minutes), visit Puxian Pagoda, descend via the front trail, and exit through Gate 2. This takes about 1-1.5 hours.