Elephant Trunk Hill, in Xiangshan Park on the bank of the Li River, is the landmark that Guilin is known by. The rock really does look like an elephant dipping its trunk into the water, and a gap between the trunk and the body forms Water Moon Cave, where the moon appears reflected in the river on the right night. A small pagoda stands on top, said to resemble a vase carried on the elephant's back. The park is a pleasant, easy visit with paths along the river, calligraphy inscriptions in the cave and views across the water to the city. Entry is cheap, and the hill is close enough to downtown hotels to walk to. This half-day Guilin city tour takes in Elephant Hill Park along with a nearby tea plantation, which adds a pleasant countryside break.
Getting there and opening times
The park is at Binjiang Road in Xiangshan district and opens early in the morning, closing in the early evening, with slightly shorter hours in the colder months from November. City buses and the sightseeing bus stop at Xiangshan Park, and from the waterfront hotels around the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area it is an easy walk. Because the entrance is inexpensive, the park gets busy with tour groups, so early morning is the quietest time.
What to see
The best view of the elephant is from the riverbank, where you can photograph the trunk and the arch of Water Moon Cave together. Inside the cave, more than fifty inscriptions in classical calligraphy have been carved into the walls, a reminder that poets and scholars have admired this view for centuries. The path continues around the hill, and in good weather the moon reflected through the arch is one of the most romantic sights in the city, so a visit at dusk or on a night cruise is worth considering.
Practical advice
The hill is a short stop, so combine it with other things, such as a Li River cruise, Reed Flute Cave and the evening lights of the Two Rivers and Four Lakes. The ground can be slippery near the water, and the climb to the top, where it is allowed, is steep, so wear sturdy shoes.
In summer, the shade is limited, so bring water and a hat. Tour operators often bundle the hill into a city day, so check what is included and choose the one that gives you the time you want here.
What to expect
The experience
A visit to a riverside park around the elephant-shaped hill, with Water Moon Cave, calligraphy carvings and views over the Li River, part of a half-day city tour.
Best time
Early morning for fewer crowds, or dusk when the moon can show through the arch.
How long
One to two hours for the park, and a half day with the tour's other stops.
Tips
Photograph the elephant from the riverbank, wear shoes with grip near the water and pair the park with Reed Flute Cave or an evening river walk.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want to see Guilin's symbol up close without spending much.
- Families
- Easy paths, a recognisable shape for children and space to wander by the river.
- Couples
- Moonrise through the arch and a riverside walk make it a romantic stop in the evening.
- Pair with
- Reed Flute Cave, the Two Rivers and Four Lakes lights and a Li River cruise.
- Time needed
- One to two hours, longer with a half-day city tour.
Good questions
How long do I need at Elephant Trunk Hill?+
About one to two hours is enough for the park, the cave and the riverside photographs. It combines easily with other city sights.
What are the opening hours?+
The park opens early and closes in the early evening, with slightly shorter hours between November and March. Check ahead if you plan a late visit.
Can I climb to the top?+
Where the path is open, the climb is steep and can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. Most visitors enjoy the view from the riverbank instead.
What is Water Moon Cave?+
It is the arch between the elephant's trunk and body, where the moon is said to reflect in the river. Inside, you can see more than fifty carved calligraphy inscriptions.
Is it close to the city centre?+
Yes, it is within walking distance of the waterfront hotels around the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area. City buses also stop at Xiangshan Park.
