Things To Do
in Dashouping

Dashouping is a scenic town set among limestone hills and winding rivers in southern China. It blends traditional wooden architecture with lush green terraces and a relaxed rural pace. Visitors explore narrow streets lined with markets, tea houses, and craft shops while sampling fresh river produce.

The region offers easy access to nature, friendly locals, and a climate ideal for year-round exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Dashouping
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Dashouping Ancient Town, where you can wander through the cobbled streets lined with traditional architecture and local crafts. Enjoy a light breakfast at a cozy café, sampling fresh local pastries and tea. Capture the morning sun as it glistens over the town's historic structures.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking mountains surrounding Dashouping. Stop at various lookout points to soak in panoramic views of lush valleys and cascading waterfalls. Reward yourself with a hearty lunch at a mountain restaurant, enjoying regional specialties while surrounded by nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to the town for an evening stroll along the riverside, where charming lanterns illuminate the path. Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant, tasting delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Conclude your day with a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Dashouping Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the area. Engage with local artisans demonstrating their craft, gaining insight into traditional techniques. Enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients.

afternoon
:

Afterward, take part in a calligraphy workshop led by a skilled artist, where you'll learn the ancient art and practice your strokes. Spend some time exploring the local markets, filled with vibrant textiles, crafts, and fresh produce. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant known for its homemade noodles and dumplings, experiencing authentic flavors.

evening
:

In the evening, join a cooking class hosted by a local chef, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor in a communal dining setting, sharing stories and laughter with fellow participants. Finish the day by visiting a local tea house, sipping on fragrant tea while enjoying the ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
💧Bottle of water (0.5L)$0.5-1
Coffee or tea at cafe$1-3
🥟Street snack$0.5-2
🚆Local bus ride (single trip)$0.5-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich scenery and friendly locals
  • Well-preserved old town with easy day trips
  • Tourist infrastructure is still developing in some areas
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife options in smaller venues
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
  • "我迷路了" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Dashouping

Visit one of these nice places.

Moon River Overlook

A vantage point above the river offering reflections of karst hills at dawn and soft morning light.

Old Town Gate at Twilight

Timber-framed buildings with lanterns along a cobbled street, ideal for golden-hour shots.

Dashouping Waterfall Terrace

Tiered pools and mossy rocks framed by green hills; best captured in the morning for mist and light.

Tea Plantation Steps

Terraced tea fields rolling into the hills with overlook points suited to wide landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dashouping

Dashouping's cuisine blends Guangxi flavors with Cantonese techniques, featuring freshwater fish, rice noodles, tofu, and aromatic herbs.

Dashouping Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Guilin-style Rice Noodles

Chewy rice noodles in a clear, peppery broth with pickled vegetables; widely available from street stalls and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Claypot River Fish with Ginger

Freshwater fish braised with ginger, scallions, and soy; best enjoyed at riverfront restaurants.

Stir-fried Mountain Greens with Tofu

Seasoned greens tossed with tofu and chilies for a light, savory dish common in markets.

Tofu with Preserved Vegetables

Silky tofu simmered with fermented vegetables for a comforting home-style meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dashouping Old Town Market

Morning market offering fresh produce, fish, pickles, and snacks from local vendors.

Riverside Night Market

Vibrant evening stalls with skewers, dumplings, desserts, and seasonal treats along the water.

Tea Terrace Market

Markets near tea plantations selling dried teas, herbs, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The rainy season typically runs from May through September, bringing frequent showers and lush greenery. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities, while winter remains relatively mild compared to harsher northern regions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Etiquette Rule

Queue patiently, greet with a nod or smile, and address elders with respect. Avoid loud conversations in temples or religious spaces, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and use both hands when giving or receiving items.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good, but be mindful of petty theft in crowded markets and on public transport. Exercise caution near river edges and in forested areas after dark. Keep valuables secure, wear appropriate footwear for uneven stairs, and have travel insurance in case of minor injuries or cancellations.

Tipping in Dashouping

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas and in higher-end establishments; small tips for guides or hotel staff are common.

Payment Methods

Cash (CNY) is widely accepted; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; some larger hotels and restaurants also accept international cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible; carry water, wear light clothing, and seek river breezes or shaded trails.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and clearer skies; excellent for hiking and photography with colorful foliage in nearby plantations.

Winter

Cool to mild temperatures; foggy mornings are common in valleys; indoor tea houses provide warm respite.

Spring

Warm and lively with blossoming trees; expect higher humidity and pleasant outdoor conditions for day trips.

Nightlife Guide

Dashouping at Night

Dashouping features a relaxed nightlife scene centered on riverside tea houses, small bars, and night markets. Seasonal festivals and folk performances occasionally animate the streets. Most venues close after late evening, creating a tranquil atmosphere suitable for a quiet evening stroll or light socializing.

Hiking in Dashouping

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Moon Gorge Trail

A scenic route along limestone gorges with river views and varied elevation.

Tea Terrace Loop

Circular hike through terraced tea fields with panoramic hilltop overlooks.

Forest Falls Route

Shaded forest path leading to a cascading waterfall—great for a half-day trek.

Airports

How to reach Dashouping by plane.

Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)

Major gateway for the region; from Guilin it’s a convenient base for reaching Dashouping by road or rail.

Nanning Wuxu International Airport (NNG)

Large regional hub with broad domestic connections; transfer options to Dashouping via train or bus.

Liuzhou Bailian Airport (LZH)

Regional airport serving Liuzhou and nearby towns; useful for shorter hops within Guangxi.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dashouping is walkable in the town center, with compact streets and riverfront promenades. Some areas involve stairs and slopes, including hillside viewpoints, so wear comfortable shoes. A short taxi or scooter ride helps reach outlying sights quickly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han

Predominant ethnic group in the area; Mandarin is widely spoken alongside local dialects.

Zhuang

One of Guangxi's largest minority groups; influences local crafts, music, and festive traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and community courts; common in local leagues and gatherings.

Table Tennis

A staple pastime in homes and clubs, with casual games at parks and community centers.

Badminton

Popular in parks and indoor gyms; often played in the evenings after work.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are winding and sometimes narrow, especially near hills. Public buses connect Dashouping to surrounding towns, and taxis or ride-hailing options are commonly available. Rail connections to Guilin or Nanning are convenient for longer trips, while traffic around markets can be busy on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dashouping.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; look for tofu, mushroom dishes, and vegetable stir-fries. Communicate no meat or fish and ask for oil-free broths; many places can customize dishes. In markets, rely on fruit, vegetables, tofu, and noodles; avoid fish-based condiments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Dashouping through local clinics and a district hospital. For more advanced care or emergencies, travel to Guilin or Nanning where larger hospitals and international-standard facilities are available. Carry basic medications and keep a local copy of emergency contacts.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

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