Elephant Trunk Hill

Sight 1

Elephant Trunk Hill

象鼻山

Elephant Trunk Hill. Elephant Trunk Hill is the city card of Guilin, named for its resemblance to a giant elephant drinking from the river. Between the elephant's trunk and legs, a natural "Water-Moon Cave" has formed, through which the river flows, merging with its reflection to create a perfect full moon—the most iconic image of Guilin. At the hilltop stands the Puxian Pagoda, built in the Ming Dynasty as a solid brick structure that blends seamlessly with the mountain. Stone carvings on the cliff face bear inscriptions and poetry from scholars of past dynasties. The site is beautiful year-round, offering different scenery whether viewed from a boat or along the riverside, making it an unmissable stop to experience the essence of Guilin's landscapes.

Sight 2

Water Moon Cave

水月洞

Water-Moon Cave. Water-Moon Cave is the most poetic wonder of Elephant Trunk Hill, nestled between the elephant's trunk and its body. It derives its name from its shape, which resembles a full moon hanging over the river. The Li River water flows through the cave, and on moonlit nights, the cave's reflection joins with the water's surface, creating a breathtaking scene where "a bright moon lies beneath the water, while a bright moon floats upon it." This is the very essence of the "Elephant Hill's Water-Moon" imagery that defines Guilin's landscapes. The cave walls bear cliff inscriptions from successive dynasties, exuding an air of ancient elegance. Whether you approach by raft for a close view or admire it from the shore at a distance, you can appreciate the unique charm of nature intertwined with human culture. Admission is free, and the site is open all day. It is best visited in the early morning or at dusk, when the shifting light and shadows are especially captivating.

Sight 3

Puxian Pagoda

普贤塔

Puxian Pagoda. Standing atop Elephant Trunk Hill, the Puxian Pagoda is a landmark ancient pagoda of Guilin. This Ming-dynasty brick-and-stone Buddhist pagoda features a distinctive shape that resembles a treasured vase from afar, yet also evokes the sword hilt on an elephant's back, blending seamlessly with the mountain's contours. From beside the pagoda, visitors can gaze down upon the meandering Li River and the captivating cityscape of Guilin in delightful harmony. The pagoda takes its name from Samantabhadra Bodhisattva in Buddhism, reflecting the region's profound Buddhist cultural heritage. As the crowning touch of the Elephant Trunk Hill scenic area, the Puxian Pagoda bears the marks of centuries of history and stands as an exceptional vantage point to experience the interplay of Guilin's natural landscapes and cultural traditions.

Sight 4

Elephant Eye Rock

象眼岩