Is it true that a park can mirror the cosmos? Here at Seven Star Park, it seems so. Seven Star Park isn’t just Guilin’s largest park. It’s a microcosm of the city’s natural beauty and historical significance. The park’s name, you see, comes from the seven peaks that mimic the Big Dipper constellation. Four peaks form Putuo Hill in the north. Three peaks create Crescent Hill to the south. The park sits on the east bank of the Li River. It is conveniently located just 1.5 kilometers from downtown Guilin.
Seven Star Park is more than just hills, though. It boasts clear waters, a mystical stone forest, and tranquil valleys. It shelters a rich variety of plants and animals, as well as precious cultural relics. The Flower Bridge, or Hua Qiao, serves as the main entrance. This elegant arched bridge, dating back to the Song Dynasty, crosses where the East River meets the Lingjian Stream. The rivers flow gracefully through the park, adding to its charm.
Putuo Mountain, a central feature of Seven Star Park, is a place of worship for Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. The mountain is dotted with caves and pavilions. One notable cave, Xuanfeng Cave, acts as a natural air conditioner at the mountain’s southwestern foot. Ascend to the mountaintop, and you’ll discover Putuo Stone Forest, Xuanwu Pavilion, and Zhaixing Pavilion. Numerous valuable tablets also adorn the mountain. Between Putuo Mountain and Crescent Mountain lies Light of China Square. This square displays two impressive crafts. One is a stone used for carving murals. The other is the Shi Ji Bao Ding, a 4.6-meter-tall symbol of national prosperity and peace. Halfway up the mountain, you’ll encounter Putuo Jingshe. To the west, the renowned Seven Star Cave, also known as Qixia Cave or Bixu Cave, awaits.
Seven Star Cave, formed from dissolved limestone, is a spectacle of stalactites, stalagmites, and stone pillars. This earned it the title “Residence of the Immortals.” A tourist attraction since the Tang Dynasty, the cave maintains a constant temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. The cave is divided into three sections. The upper part is high and steep. The middle is an 814-meter tunnel open for exploration. The lower part is an underground water channel, offering boat tours. Modern lighting enhances the cave’s magical atmosphere.
Further afield lies Camel Hill. Its name comes from its uncanny resemblance to a camel resting among the trees. This limestone formation adds a touch of whimsy to Seven Star Park’s natural wonders. Seven Star Park is a beloved destination. The locals cherish it. Tourists flock to it. Its pleasant climate makes it a welcoming retreat year-round. Whether you seek natural wonders, cultural treasures, or simply a tranquil escape, Seven Star Park offers an unforgettable experience.