Lingui

Did the sweet osmanthus trees whisper secrets to the ancient Baiyue people? Lingui, nestled between Guilin and Yangshuo, holds the answers. Lingui District is part of Guilin. It’s a place where the dramatic karst mountains rise like jagged teeth from the earth. These mountains bear witness to centuries of history. Lingui was once a vital link on the route from central China to Guangdong. The Ling Canal, built by the first Qin emperor in 214 BC, connected the Xiangjiang and Lijiang Rivers, transforming Lingui into a crucial southern town. This canal opened up trade routes between the sea to the north and the Central Plains. The very name “Guilin,” and therefore also Lingui, derives from the fragrant sweet osmanthus trees that once blanketed the area. Imagine the scent of those blossoms carried on the breeze. Lingui wasn’t always known as Lingui. It bore the name Shi’an County, established in 111 BC. Then, in 634 AD, it was renamed Lingui County. Over the centuries, Lingui remained a key point in the region, serving under various administrations from the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Republic of China. Even during World War II, Guilin, and with it Lingui, became a pivotal military, transport, and cultural hub. Today, Lingui District embraces a blend of old and new. It retains its rural charm, yet stands as a testament to China’s evolving narrative. For those seeking a deeper connection with Guilin’s history and natural splendor, Lingui offers a unique perspective. While the city of Guilin bustles with activity, Lingui provides a tranquil retreat. Here you can appreciate the enduring beauty of the karst landscape and perhaps even hear the whispers of the sweet osmanthus trees.