Emerging from the mists of time, Zixia Valley beckons. It’s a hidden gem nestled within the broader Shishan Scenic Area. Zixia Valley shares its majestic presence with other notable attractions. These include Bajiaozhai, Tianyi Alley, and Chili Peak. Zixia Valley is part of a unique scenic area that straddles two provinces. On the Guangxi side, it falls within the Bajiaozhai Scenic Area. Just across the border, in Hunan, it becomes part of the Shishan Scenic Area.
Zixia Valley and the surrounding area offer a diverse experience for visitors. For those seeking a day trip, the Guangxi side, with its concentrated scenic beauty and a manageable four-hour climb, is ideal. If you have more time, consider starting your journey from the Hunan side. This approach allows for a more leisurely exploration. You can savor the views from the summit and even venture partway down towards the Guangxi side for a closer look. Zixia Valley holds a special allure for photographers. Imagine capturing the unique rock formations known as “Group of Snails Gazing at the Sky”, “Pod of Whales Frolicking in the Sea”, and “Dragon Head Incense”. The valley’s remote location offers a tranquil escape from bustling crowds, ensuring an intimate experience with nature’s wonders.
Navigating the ticketing system can be a bit puzzling. The single attraction on the Guilin (Guangxi) side has a set price. However, a combined ticket covering several attractions on the Hunan side offers a more comprehensive, albeit slightly pricier, option. Unfortunately, these tickets aren’t interchangeable, so choose wisely based on your planned itinerary. Reaching Zixia Valley requires a bit of planning. If you’re driving, simply navigate to “Bajiaozhai Scenic Area”. For those arriving by high-speed rail from Guangxi, disembark at Guilin North Station and catch a direct bus to the scenic area. From Hunan, take the high-speed rail to Dongkou Station and then grab a taxi.
Finding accommodation near Zixia Valley depends on your chosen approach. On the Guangxi side, homestays near the mountain entrance offer convenience, although they may be limited. The Hunan side presents a wider array of choices, with options ranging from a few kilometers outside the scenic area to those further into town. Keep in mind that if you’re driving, you’ll need to return the same way you entered. Climbing up one side and descending the other isn’t feasible by car. You’d face a considerable detour on mountain roads, and there’s no transportation available for the return trip. Zixia Valley, despite its remote location and perhaps because of it, promises an unforgettable journey into a realm of natural wonders.