Nine-Horse Mural Hill: A Natural Enigmatic Painting on the Li River's Sheer Cliffs

The Name of the Divine Steeds—Chang'e’s Brush and the Sanctuary of Celestial Horses

The name "Nine-Horse Mural Hill" stems from a legend that has been passed down for millennia. According to the tale, the celestial maiden Chang'e, observing the Li River boatmen toiling ceaselessly day after day, resolved to create a painting by the riverside to soothe their weary spirits. Coincidentally, the Great Sage Sun Wukong had just released the celestial horses from their stables; the magnificent spectacle of thousands of horses galloping across the heavens ignited Chang'e’s inspiration. After downing nine cups of Osmanthus wine, she wielded her brush in mid-air and splashed ink upon the stone cliff, bringing to life a vivid "Nine-Horse Mural" that seemed to leap right off the rock face. According to another legend, nine celestial steeds secretly fled to the mortal realm. Captivated by the verdant hills and crystalline waters of the Li River, they became so entranced that they forgot to return to the heavens. Enraged, the Jade Emperor imprisoned them within the stone cliffs, where they have remained—forever bound to the human world.

A Legendary Journey—From Xu Xiake to the Gaze of Presidents

The cultural narrative surrounding the Nine-Horse Mural Hill is a delightful tale of dialogue between renowned figures—both Eastern and Western—and the majestic landscape itself.

- Footprints of Antiquity: The Ming Dynasty geographer Xu Xiake once described the scene, noting how "green trees cast their reflections, their mingled hues weaving a tapestry of vibrant patterns." Ruan Yuan, the Qing Dynasty Governor-General of Guangdong and Guangxi, held a particular fondness for the Mural Hill; he visited it five times over the span of six years and even inscribed the characters "Picture of the Stone Cliffs of the Pure Li River" upon the rock face.

- Tales of Leaders: In 1960, Premier Zhou Enlai and Marshal Chen Yi toured the Li River together and, upon encountering the Mural Hill, engaged in a friendly "horse-counting" contest. A folk ballad of the time proclaimed: "He who spots seven horses earns the rank of Bangyan (Second-Place Scholar); he who sees all nine is the Zhuangyuan (Top Scholar)." Legend has it that Premier Zhou instantly discerned all nine horses, while Marshal Chen Yi counted seven—a charming anecdote that continues to be recounted to this day.

- International Dignitaries: Former U.S. Presidents Nixon and Clinton also visited this site during their respective trips to China, each expressing deep admiration for this natural masterpiece. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon went even further, lauding it as "the perfect fusion of nature and art."

> Dive Deeper: Explore more scenic wonders along the Li River >>Gulong Gorge

Nature's Handiwork—The "Mural of Divine Steeds" on the Sheer Cliff

The landscape of the Nine-Horse Mural Hill represents an eternal dialogue between rock, color, and imagination.

The Rugged Cliff Face: The Earth's Own Script

Standing sentinel beside the river, the stone cliff rises like a sheer, chiseled wall. Yet, it is no mere flat canvas; rather, it is a living chronicle—a historical record documenting billions of years of geological transformation. The vibrant, multicolored hues adorning the rock face are the result of minerals—such as manganese and iron—contained within the stone. Through oxidation, these minerals have precipitated and diffused across the cliff face, forming natural patches of color that vary in intensity and create a beautifully mottled effect. Amidst the shifting interplay of light and shadow, these color patches seem to spring to life, tracing the outlines of nine magnificent steeds. This constitutes the very soul of the "Nine-Horse Mural Mountain." The finest way to experience this spectacle is to gaze up from the water while traveling by boat; as your viewing angle changes, the forms of the horses transform endlessly—at times rearing their heads to neigh, at others lowering them to drink deeply, and occasionally appearing to gallop amidst the clouds.

The Green Sanctuary: A Scenic Corridor for Hikers

With a forest coverage rate of 81% within the canyon, a complete subtropical ecosystem has taken shape. Hiking through this landscape, one encounters not only ancient and renowned trees—such as the Southern Yew and the Camphor tree—but also, during the transition from spring to summer, a trail adorned with wild azaleas and orchids. This is a hidden paradise for birdwatchers, where one frequently encounters rare avian species such as the Silver Pheasant and the Hwamei. A morning stroll through the woods—where the mist of dawn intertwines with light and shadow—offers the perfect opportunity for "forest bathing" meditation, a chance to cleanse both mind and body.

The natural landscape of Wangxian Valley offers an experience that extends far beyond mere "sightseeing"; it is equally about "listening" and "feeling." The canyon itself acts as a colossal natural amplifier and a vibrant palette of colors.

Human Ingenuity: Traces of Civilization on the Cliff Face

The cultural landscapes found here are not merely historical relics; they stand as enduring testaments to the centuries-old interplay between humanity and the natural world.

- Lengshui Ferry Crossing: The optimal vantage point for viewing the Nine-Horse Mural Mountain often requires crossing the river. The Lengshui Ferry serves as a pivotal link connecting the two banks; it is not only a vital transportation hub but also an exceptional location for capturing photographs of the mountain's reflection shimmering upon the water. Traveling by bamboo raft from Yangdi to Xingping—specifically as you navigate the "Langshi" section of the river—places you in the prime waters for an up-close and intimate view of the Mural Mountain.

- Xingping Ancient Town: An historic settlement boasting a history of over 1,700 years, Xingping stands along the banks of the Li River as a veritable "museum of history" imbued with an atmosphere of tranquil leisure. Smooth bluestone paths, Tang and Song Dynasty-era opera stages, and Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time and the vicissitudes of history. In 1998, then-U.S. President Bill Clinton visited a nearby fishing village, a visit that catapulted the area to international fame.

- Laozhai Mountain: Featuring a hiking trail constructed by a Japanese friend named Yasuo Oyama, this peak serves as the ultimate vantage point for capturing panoramic views of the entire Xingping Grand Bend and the distant Nine-Horse Mural Mountain. Although the ascent requires a bit of physical exertion, the sunset and sweeping vistas from the summit are guaranteed to leave every visitor awestruck.

- The "Huashan" Cliff Inscription on the Banks of the Qingshui River: In 2008, an inscription of the characters "Huashan" (Painted Mountain) was discovered on a cliff face at the foot of the Nine-Horse Mural Mountain. The inscription was penned by Chen Shanzhi—a Ming Dynasty Imperial Censor—in the 32nd year of the Jiajing reign (1553). Each character stands 1.6 meters tall and 1.2 meters wide; carved in reverse, they serve as a poetic metaphor for the concept of "viewing the mountain as a painting." This historical relic dates back over four hundred years.

> Photography Tips:

> The best vantage point for panoramic shots is at the summit of Laozhai Mountain, offering sweeping views of the Li River's Grand Bend and the distant Nine-Horse Mural Mountain.

> The ideal spot for photographing the reflection of the Painted Mountain and the bamboo rafts is at the Lengshui Ferry Crossing; lighting is best during the early morning and at dusk.

> When passing directly in front of the Painted Mountain while riding a bamboo raft, be sure to switch your camera to continuous shooting mode to capture the fleeting moments when the "horses" seem to emerge amidst the shifting interplay of light and shadow.

> It is recommended to bring a telephoto lens to clearly capture the intricate details on the cliff face.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Complete Painted Mountain Experience

1.  Host a "Horse-Counting" Contest

- How to Play: The quintessential experience at the Nine-Horse Mural Mountain is—you guessed it—"finding the horses"! Join your companions—whether aboard a boat or standing on the riverbank—and let your imagination run wild as you attempt to identify the majestic steeds hidden within the patterns of the cliff face. Local folklore suggests that "spotting seven horses earns you the rank of Bangyan (Second-Place Scholar), while spotting all nine earns you the title of Zhuangyuan (Top Scholar)." Even the renowned master of horse painting, Xu Beihong, is said to have counted eight horses during his visit to this very spot. This is not merely a contest of visual acuity, but rather a delightful dialogue—with the ancients and with nature itself.

- The Secret: Do not view the rock face as a single whole; instead, mentally divide it into several smaller sections. Look for the shapes of horses amidst the mottled textures and rugged contours of the rock. The morning light offers the clearest visibility, making it the optimal time to go "horse-hunting."

2.  Take a Bamboo Raft Ride: Drift into a Living Ink-and-Wash Painting

- The Experience: Only by taking a bamboo raft ride can you truly understand the essence of the Li River. We recommend the "highlight section" drift from Yangdi to Xingping, a journey lasting approximately one hour. As you sit on the raft with the river flowing beneath your feet, the bizarrely shaped peaks on both banks slowly recede into the distance. When the raft approaches the "Nine-Horse Mural Hill," the boatman will slow down, giving you ample time to gaze up at this colossal natural masterpiece. The interwoven sounds of flowing water, wind, and oars create an atmosphere that makes you feel as though you have truly drifted into the scroll of a traditional Chinese ink-and-wash painting.

3.  Go for a Hike: Measure the Essence of the Li River on Foot

- The Route: Start from Xingping Ancient Town, pass through the Lengshui Ferry Crossing (where you will need to take a ferry across the river), and follow the Li River Trail northward until you reach the Nine-Horse Mural Hill viewpoint. The one-way distance is approximately 7–10 kilometers. This is a gentle, level trail suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you can not only admire the Mural Hill from various angles but also traverse pastoral landscapes and villages, allowing you to experience the authentic rhythm of life along the Li River.

4.  Climb a Mountain: Overlook the Grandeur of the Landscape

- The Challenge: For outdoor enthusiasts, Laozhai Mountain—located right next to the Xingping Pier—is an unmissable destination. The ascent takes about one hour; while the climb can be strenuous, the moment you reach the summit, all fatigue will vanish into thin air. From the top, you can gaze down at the Li River as it traces a perfect arc below you, with the charmingly scattered buildings of the ancient town at your feet and a horizon filled with peaks rising like bamboo shoots. This is a premier vantage point for capturing stunning photos of both sunrises and sunsets.

5.  Seek Out History: Stroll Through Millennia-Old Xingping

- The Experience: After you have finished your visit to the Nine-Horse Mural Hill, why not set aside some time to explore Xingping Ancient Town? Stroll along the bluestone-paved paths to visit the "Wannian Stage"—built in the fourth year of the Qianlong reign (Qing Dynasty)—and immerse yourself in the architectural charm of this ancient Qing-era theater, a true gem of Northern Guangxi. On the old streets of the ancient town, find a cozy little eatery to savor a bowl of authentic Guilin rice noodles or the famous Beer Fish, bringing your scenic journey to a perfect close with a feast for the senses.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day "Horse-Spotting Highlights" Tour (Ideal for those on a tight schedule):

8:00 AM: Arrive at Xingping Ancient Town → Walk to Xingping Pier → Board a bamboo raft (Yangdi–Xingping section) or a sightseeing boat, focusing on viewing the "Nine-Horse Mural Mountain" (approx. 1.5 hours) → Under the guidance of your boatman, embark on a fun "Horse-Spotting Challenge" → Disembark and walk to the designated viewing platform to snap a photo with the iconic "20-Yuan Banknote" backdrop → Have lunch in Xingping Ancient Town before departing in the early afternoon.

IntoTravelChina Tip: This itinerary is fast-paced; we recommend booking your bamboo raft tickets in advance to avoid long queues during peak season.

Full-Day "Scenery & Culture" In-Depth Tour (Highly Recommended):

Morning: Arrive at Xingping Ancient Town and check your luggage into storage. Begin by exploring the ancient town itself, visiting the historic theater stage and old streets to soak up the atmosphere of the past.

Noon: Enjoy a delicious lunch in the ancient town, sampling authentic Beer Fish or Guilin rice noodles.

Afternoon: Choose Option A (For Hiking Enthusiasts): Depart from the ancient town and hike to the Lengshui Ferry Crossing; take a ferry across the river, then follow the riverside trail to view the "Nine-Horse Mural Mountain" up close. Afterward, you may return via the same route or continue hiking forward to explore further. Choose Option B (For Photography Enthusiasts): Begin the ascent of Laozhai Mountain; wait at the summit to capture the sunset and enjoy panoramic views of the Li River's Great Bend.

Evening: After descending the mountain, admire the lingering glow of the sunset by the riverbank, then head back with a heart full of cherished memories.

IntoTravelChina Advantage: We can arrange the perfect accommodation for you (should you wish to stay overnight in Yangshuo), seamlessly coordinate all transportation and ticket connections, and provide detailed hiking route maps along with safety guidelines. > Expert Guidance: IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries—complete with a dedicated private guide, transportation, and activity arrangements—ensuring a deeply immersive and entirely worry-free travel experience. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide

The Nine-Horse Mural Hill (Jiuma Huashan) is not a standalone, enclosed scenic area; rather, it is an open-air landscape situated along the banks of the Li River. The best way to visit is to first make your way to Xingping Town.

- Traveling from across the country: We recommend taking a High-Speed Train (G-train) to "Yangshuo Station" (please note: not Guilin Station). Travel Tip: Yangshuo Station is just a 10-minute drive from Xingping Town—closer, in fact, than Yangshuo County Town itself.

- From Yangshuo Station: We recommend taking a public bus or taxi to Xingping Ancient Town. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Travel Tip: You can purchase bus tickets at the counter located to the left as you exit the station; tickets cost 5 RMB per person, and buses run frequently.

- From Yangshuo County Town: We recommend taking a public bus, taxi, or driving yourself. The journey takes approximately 40–50 minutes. Travel Tip: Use your GPS to navigate to "Xingping Ancient Town"; there are multiple parking lots available.

- From Guilin City Center: We recommend taking a public bus, or a combination of a High-Speed Train (D-train) and a bus. The total journey takes approximately 1.5–2 hours. Travel Tip: You can first take a D-train to Yangshuo Station, and then transfer to a bus.

Important Return Travel Reminder: While the Nine-Horse Mural Hill itself has no specific closing hours, the bamboo raft drifting tours do have set operating hours (typically from 08:00 to 15:30, or sometimes until 18:00, depending on the season and weather conditions). Please check the local station announcements for the schedule of the last direct return bus service. If you happen to miss the last bus, you can book a ride-hailing service (via app) to return to Yangshuo or Guilin.

Best Time to Visit

The Nine-Horse Mural Hill offers beautiful scenery in every season, though the atmosphere varies distinctly throughout the year. The optimal time to visit is during the spring and autumn months—specifically between March and November.

- Spring & Autumn "Golden Seasons" (March–May; September–November): The climate is pleasant and comfortable. Whether shrouded in the misty rain characteristic of the Li River or bathed in the sunshine of a clear day, the landscape offers a unique and captivating charm in every condition. In spring, a thin mist often hangs over the river, causing the picturesque mountains to appear and vanish like a scene from a fairyland; in autumn, the skies are high and clear, offering crystal-clear reflections on the water's surface.

- Summer Cooling Season (June–August): The water levels are high, making it an ideal time for water activities and bamboo rafting. However, visitors should take precautions against sunburn and rain; additionally, bamboo rafting services may be suspended if water levels become excessively high.

- Winter Tranquility Season (December–February): Crowds are sparse during this period. If you are fortunate enough to encounter a sunny day, visibility is excellent—making it the perfect time to capture the iconic "Painting of the Clear Li River and Rocky Cliffs." Visitors should dress warmly for any outdoor activities.

Accommodation Options

- Within the Scenic Area (Recommended Choice):

1. Charming Inns in Xingping Ancient Town:

Experience: Stay right inside the ancient town, where opening your window reveals stunning mountain views and stepping outside places you directly amidst the scenery. The ancient town is even more tranquil at night than during the day, offering the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Li River.

Best For: Most travelers seeking convenient access to attractions and a chance to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.

2. Boutique Guesthouses Along the Li River:

Experience: Some guesthouses are built right on the riverbank, offering exclusive, breathtaking river views. You can even admire the ever-changing scenery of the Li River—from dawn to dusk—without ever having to leave your room.

Best For: Travelers seeking romance, privacy, and unparalleled scenic vistas.

- Accommodation Outside the Scenic Area (Flexible & Budget-Friendly Options):

1. Hotels in Yangshuo County Town: An extremely wide range of choices is available, spanning everything from international hotel chains to budget-friendly options. The nightlife is vibrant—featuring the famous West Street—though it requires a 40–50 minute drive each way to travel between the town and Xingping daily.

2. Local Farmstays in Xingping Town: These offer affordable rates and an authentic rural living experience, though the facilities and services may be relatively simple compared to other options.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:

We strongly recommend planning your itinerary and booking your accommodation in advance—especially during peak travel periods such as the National Day and Spring Festival "Golden Weeks." By booking through us, you gain access to real-time room availability and the ability to bundle your accommodation, bamboo rafting tickets, and transportation into a single package. This often results in combined savings and ensures a seamless, hassle-free travel experience. Simply let us know your budget and specific requirements, and we will help you find the perfect "Home on the Li River" to suit your needs. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

The Nine-Horse Mural Hill is by no means the end of your travels, but rather the perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of Guilin and Northern Guangxi.

- Classic 3-Day Loop: Yangshuo (Xingping Ancient Town / Nine-Horse Mural Hill) → Yulong River (Bamboo Rafting / Cycling) → Yangshuo West Street (Leisure / Nightlife) → Guilin (Elephant Trunk Hill / Two Rivers and Four Lakes). This is the perfect introductory journey, blending natural landscapes, leisure, and urban scenery. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

- Northern Guangxi Panorama Tour: Connect Guilin and Yangshuo with destinations such as the Longji Rice Terraces and Mao'er Mountain to experience a diverse range of landscapes—from karst peaks to high-altitude terraces and pristine forests—alongside rich ethnic customs. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

The story of the Nine-Horse Mural Hill is one of natural marvels, romantic mythology, and deep cultural heritage. IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth, personalized, and hassle-free travel experiences across China.

Our travel experts can assist you by:

- Tailoring Your Itinerary: Designing the perfect route—including the Nine-Horse Mural Hill and surrounding attractions—based on your specific interests and available time.

- Providing One-Stop Service: Handling all arrangements, including bamboo raft tickets, unique accommodations, transportation transfers, local guides, and activity bookings.

- Exclusive Experiences: We arrange expert guidance on the best photography timings, detailed hiking route planning, and interpretive tours led by veteran local boatmen to help you "spot the horses" on the painted cliff face.

Transform your visit to the Nine-Horse Mural Hill from a mere sightseeing trip into a truly immersive cultural journey amidst the stunning landscapes.

> Start Planning Your Journey Now

> We invite you to contact our professional travel consultants; we will provide you with a personalized itinerary proposal and price quote within 24 hours. >> [Consult for Customization Now]