Nice Horse Fresco Hill

Gazing up at Nice Horse Fresco Hill, do you see them? The ethereal steeds, frozen in time on the colorful cliff face. Nice Horse Fresco Hill, also known as Nine Horses Fresco Hill, is a true wonder of nature, a captivating blend of art and landscape located on the Li River, around 60 kilometers from Guilin. This natural canvas, over 400 meters high and 200 meters wide, presents a breathtaking spectacle of yellow, white, black, grey, and green hues. These colors blend together, creating the illusion of a giant painted screen. Legend whispers that these nine horses were celestial steeds from the Heavenly Palace. They escaped their heavenly duties when the Monkey King, tasked with their care, became lax. The horses, enchanted by the beauty of the Li River, descended to earth to drink from its pristine waters. A painter, captivated by their beauty, attempted to capture them on canvas. Startled by his presence, the horses bolted, seeking refuge in the cliff face. They became one with the rock, forever immortalized on the stone canvas of Nice Horse Fresco Hill. Locals believe that only those with a discerning eye and vivid imagination can identify all nine horses. Premier Zhou Enlai, a distinguished visitor to Nice Horse Fresco Hill in the 1960s, reportedly identified all nine. General Chen Yi, intrigued, asked how many Premier Zhou saw. The Premier, with a twinkle in his eye, replied, “Eighteen.” Nine on the cliff, and nine reflected in the clear waters of the Li River. Nice Horse Fresco Hill offers more than just visual delight. Behind this natural masterpiece lies a gorge, perfect for drifting. Imagine the thrill of navigating the 3.5-kilometer course, with its 180-meter drop, on a raft, the cool spray of the river on your face. Whether you arrive by boat, raft, or hike from the nearby Xingping Town, a visit to Nice Horse Fresco Hill is an unforgettable experience. The hill is a testament to the power of nature’s artistry. It is a place where myth and reality intertwine, leaving a lasting impression on all who behold it.