Lantern Light on the River
渔灯 · The golden glow of dusk
As the sun sets, the fisherman lights a lantern on the raft, turning the river into a stage of warm light and shadow.
Why Cormorant Fishing is worth your time
Cormorant fishing was once common across southern China. Today, it survives mainly as a cultural tradition around the Li River near Xingping. The fishermen use trained cormorants — birds that dive underwater and catch fish in their beaks, but cannot swallow them because of a ring tied around their necks.
The scene is most magical at dusk. The fisherman lights a gas lamp on his bamboo raft, the water turns silver, and the birds slip in and out of the dark river. For photographers, it is one of the most sought-after shots in Guilin. For everyone else, it is a quiet, human connection to a way of life that is slowly disappearing.
Local tip: The fishing is not staged for tourists every evening. The best chance to see it is to arrange a private boat at sunset from Xingping, or book a photography tour that works with local fishermen.
Top highlights
The signature sights and experiences that make Cormorant Fishing special.
Trained Cormorants
鸬鹚 · Working birds
These sleek black birds are trained from youth to catch fish and return them to the raft — a partnership that can last a decade.
Bamboo Raft Heritage
竹筏 · Traditional craft
The fisherman poles a narrow bamboo raft, often wearing a straw rain cape and bamboo hat — the classic image of old China.
The Xingping Riverfront
兴坪 · Best place to see it
Xingping’s quiet waterfront is the traditional home of cormorant fishing on the Li River, away from the bigger cruise boats.
Photography at Blue Hour
蓝调时刻 · Best light
The 20 minutes after sunset, when the sky is deep blue and the lantern is warm, is the most beautiful time to watch.
Which option is right for you?
Ways to experience Cormorant Fishing, from the classic route to a quicker highlight.
Private Boat from Xingping
1.5–2 hours · sunset · ¥150–400
1
Arrive in Xingping By bus from Yangshuo (40 min) or Guilin (2 hrs).
2
Walk to the riverfront Small boats and local fishermen gather near the Xingping pier.
3
Negotiate a private boat Arrange a cormorant-fishing demonstration at sunset.
4
Watch from the water The boat follows the raft as the fisherman works the birds.
5
Return after dark Xingping has restaurants for dinner before you head back.
Photography Tour
2–3 hours · sunrise or sunset · ¥300–800
1
Book with a local guide Guides who know the fishermen can arrange the best angles.
2
Meet at the riverbank Usually near Xingping or along the Li River banks.
3
Shoot during golden hour Sunset is most popular, but sunrise is quieter and mistier.
4
Respect the tradition Keep a polite distance and avoid using flash.
Best time to visit
March – November
Longer days and warmer evenings make dusk sessions comfortable.
Sunset
The classic time — the lantern glows against the darkening river.
Misty mornings
Sunrise sessions in spring can include fog and softer light.
Travel tips
Arrive 30 minutes early
Set up before sunset so you do not miss the best light.
Bring a tripod
Essential for low-light photography of the lantern and birds.
Be respectful
Do not use flash, do not ask the fisherman to pose unnaturally, and tip if you are shooting commercially.
Combine with dinner in Xingping
The town has good local restaurants — make an evening of it.
Check weather and river levels
Heavy rain can make the river too fast or murky for fishing.
How to get there
1
Get to Xingping Bus from Yangshuo (40 min, ¥15–20) or Guilin (2 hrs, ¥30–40).
2
Find the riverfront Walk downhill from the bus stop toward the Li River.
3
Arrange a boat or tour Ask at your hotel, a local cafe, or directly at the pier. Private boats are negotiable.
4
Return after dark The last bus from Xingping to Yangshuo is usually around 19:00.
Tickets & practical info
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Private boat + cormorant demo | ¥150–400 — depends on group size and negotiation |
| Photography tour | ¥300–800/person — guided session with arranged fisherman |
| Bus to Xingping | ¥15–20 from Yangshuo · ¥30–40 from Guilin |
| Best time | Sunset (around 6:30–7:30 PM in summer) |
| Duration | 1–2 hours on the water |
| Location | Xingping riverfront · Li River |
Prices are reference values and depend on negotiation. This is a cultural tradition, not a fixed show — availability varies. Always arrange through a local guide or hotel to support the community respectfully.
