Liuzhou is located in the north-central part of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, along the middle reaches of the Liujiang River. It has a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and abundant rainfall, with an annual average temperature of about 20°C.
Liuzhou has a long history, with ancient human activities dating back to the late Paleolithic period. Tan Zhong County was established during the Han Dynasty, and it became a regional political and economic center in the Tang Dynasty. Commerce flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and modern development accelerated due to its role as a railway hub.
Liuzhou is culturally diverse, inhabited by Zhuang, Han, and other ethnic groups, boasting unique folk song culture and ethnic customs. The most famous local cuisine is Luosifen (snail noodles), known for its sour, spicy, and savory flavor. Other specialties include Liuzhou pickles and Rongshui fragrant duck.
Modern Liuzhou is an important industrial city in Southwest China, with pillar industries in automobiles, steel, and machinery manufacturing. It actively promotes tourism, developing the 'Hundred-Li Liujiang' scenic belt. With high urban greening rates, it is known as the 'City of Bauhinia.'
The best time to visit 柳州 is Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).
In spring, Liuzhou's bauhinia flowers bloom, turning the city into a pink sea. The mild climate is perfect for outdoor activities and flower viewing.
Autumn offers cool weather and less rainfall, ideal for visiting the Liujiang River and surrounding scenic spots like Longtan Park and Dule Rock.
Summer is hot and rainy, while winter is damp and cold. However, summer offers water activities, and winter is great for enjoying hot snail noodles.
After Emperor Wu of Han conquered Nanyue, Tanzhong County was established in the Liuzhou area under Yulin Commandery, marking the beginning of administrative governance.
In the 8th year of Zhenguan in the Tang Dynasty, it was renamed Liuzhou after the Liujiang River, a name that has been used ever since.
The Liuzhou section of the Hunan-Guangxi Railway opened, making Liuzhou a major railway hub in southwest China and greatly boosting economic development.
Recommended places to visit
A national 4A-level scenic area featuring karst landscapes and ethnic minority culture. Attractions include Leilong Pool and Meinv Peak, with Dong drum towers and Miao stilted houses.
The Liujiang River flows through the city, forming a unique U-shaped bend. Night cruises offer views of light shows and the Panlong Mountain Waterfall, a city icon.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
As part of 'Dong Villages', Chengyang Eight Villages is on China's tentative World Heritage list. Its wind-rain bridges and drum towers are masterpieces of Dong architecture.
Explore rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts
A polyphonic folk song of the Dong ethnic group, sung without conductor or accompaniment. Inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009.
Traditional Miao festivals in Rongshui Miao Autonomous County, held in the first lunar month, featuring Lusheng dances, horse fights, and song competitions. Listed as national intangible heritage in 2006.
Must-know transportation for exploring the city
Located in Liujiang District, about 15 km from city center. Flights to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen.
Varies by route
Intersection of Hunan-Guangxi, Guizhou-Guangxi, and Jiaozuo-Liuzhou railways. High-speed trains to Nanning, Guilin, Guangzhou, Changsha, Guiyang.
Varies by distance
The bus system covers the whole city, fare 1-2 yuan. BRT lines available, convenient for reaching attractions.
1-2 yuan
Taste the most authentic and popular local specialties
Liuzhou's most famous dish. Rice noodles in snail broth with pickled bamboo shoots, tofu skin, peanuts, etc. Sour, spicy, and savory.
Pickled vegetables like radish, papaya, cucumber, etc. Sweet, sour, and crunchy, appetizing and refreshing. Common street snack.
Located downtown, the summit offers a panoramic view of Liuzhou, perfect for city skyline and sunset. An elevator goes to the top.
Built in memory of Tang dynasty writer Liu Zongyuan, featuring Liuhou Temple and his cenotaph. The park is lush with ancient trees and tranquil.
A national 4A scenic area consisting of 12 karst caves, famous for spectacular stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Located in Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County, on the tentative list of World Heritage. Famous for Dong wind-rain bridges, drum towers, and stilt houses, offering Dong ethnic experiences.
Specialty of Rongshui Miao Autonomous County. Tender duck with low fat, steamed with local spices, aromatic and delicious.
Duck feet, tofu skin, quail eggs, etc. stewed in snail broth, tender and flavorful, spicy and satisfying. Popular late-night snack.
Traditional Dong drink made by pounding tea leaves, ginger, garlic, peanuts, etc., served with puffed rice and fried dough. Rich tea flavor, warms the body.