Guilin Laozhai Mountain, Guangxi, China

5Shawn_Storm 5:00 PM Jan 16, 2015

Great views and good exercise.
I have hiked to the top of a number of mountains near Yangshuo and so far Laozhai is my favorite. The views from the top are excellent and you can't beat the price (free). I started out near West Street in Yangshuo and took a local city bus (number 5 I think) to the Southern Bus Station. From there I took a bus to Xing Ping for 7rmb which took about 40 minutes. From the Xing Ping station I headed west towards the river via "Old Street". Immediately before the river on your left side is a white archway with Chinese writing on it. Go through that and you will see signs for Laozhai Mountain along with Tripadvisor logos. The hike/climb to the top is all stone stairs which are at funky angles/heights and are a hodgepodge of stones and cement. They can be very steep at times. There is also a metal ladder to climb near the top. If you are in good shape and adventurous, it shouldn't be too difficult and might take about 30 minutes up and 15-20 down. If you are in medium shape and not so adventurous, it will take longer and be fairly challenging. If you aren't in good shape and have difficulty with uneven pathways, then you may want to skip this attraction. At the top there is a small temple structure with ok views, but climb up a little higher (past the antennae tower) for the best views. Bring a super wide angle lens for the clasic shot of the river bending around the mountains. Overall I enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone looking for exercise and great views of the area.

5bransom_13 5:00 PM Sep 20, 2016

A must go, in my opinion ...
This was the best thing we did during our visit to Guilin/Yangshou areas. I opted to skip the Moon Hill and Silver Cave (as too touristy) and glad I did. The path starts adjacent to the boat docks in Xing Ping. It took close to an hour to get to the top, as it was extremely hot and took plenty of breaks. It's really not that far but it does get steep. Lots of steps and a few ladders closer to the top - you just have to take your time. I'm 60 so most of you can do it. Plus there aren't really too many people on the trail so there is a certain solitude to be had. The views at the top are worthy of all your hard work and will provide a true Kodak moment! Spent probably 30 mins at the top, soaking it all in and resting up a bit. You need to bring lots of water and any snacks (if you want). I went in August when it was jungle hot and never sweat so much in my life even though it's under cover all the way until the top. And try to pack out everything you take in. It was somewhat depressing to see lots of empty plastic water bottles on the summit, leave no trace is still a foreign concept to too many people. The walk down takes 30 mins tops, depending on how slippery it is. I would imagine if it is raining or misting heavy the trip would not be worth it, as the trail would be quasi dangerous and the view at the top stifled by the poor weather. Otherwise go for it, you won't regret it.