 Daxu Ancient Town is situated at the east bank of the Li River, 23km (14.3 miles) southeast of Guilin City. Having a history of more than 2000 years, the town originally formed in 200 A.D. and began to flourish during the Ming Dynasty when it became the commercial premier in the area. It was a busy trading center, one of the most important towns in South Silk Road and one of Li River's four most important harbors in the old times. Most of its inhabitants were traders and Daxu's market was well-known all over southern China centuries ago.
Unfortunately, the town's trading slowed considerately after the railroads and highways were built. But many local residents still keep their traditional way of life doing the handcraft businesses on the main street. The main street was made in Ming Dynasty, paved with dark green lime stones made smooth over time from the wear and tear of use. The majority houses on the both sides of the main street are wooden structure buildings were built in Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasty and the original builder's descendents are still living in them, which is wonderful, because the stories they can tell you are just amazing. The part of the buildings facing the road was the store fronts, and behind the shops are the houses, with a small courtyard dividing the two. The workshops, includes ones for bamboo-weaving, and the production of grass shoes and traditional funeral articles. A Chinese folk medicine consulting office and an old hair dressing shop can also be found.
The Longevity Arch Bridge cannot be missed once you visit the town. The bridge was built in Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It is a stone arch both natural and simplistic in its beauty. The surface of the bridge has been rubbed down to a very smooth and glossy state. With the Li River at its west side, it is an excellent place to appreciate the charming scenery of the river, and the Snail Hill on the other bank of Li River to the west.
The Seven Stars Tombs discovered in 1990s add mystery to the ancient town. The seven tombs were arranged in the form of the Big Dipper constellation and the size of the tombs was designed according to the brightness of the stars. It has been the first case of its kind in China. And the relationship between the tomb and the Big Dipper constellation remains a mystery. The funeral objects excavated from the tombs are of great value.
 Ask your travel consultant to include Daxu Ancient Town to your itinerary
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