Fuli Town is a charming and historic riverside town located about 8 kilometers east of Yangshuo in Guangxi Province, China. Nestled along the banks of the Li River, Fuli is renowned for its deep cultural heritage, traditional handcrafts, and picturesque natural beauty. Unlike the more tourist-heavy parts of Yangshuo, Fuli offers a tranquil experience that blends ancient architecture with scenic countryside views.
This ancient town has a history that stretches back more than a thousand years. Today, it remains a place where visitors can experience authentic Chinese culture, watch artisans create traditional fan paintings, stroll through old stone-paved streets, and admire the surrounding karst mountain landscape. Fuli is especially known for preserving traditional arts and crafts, particularly the famous hand-painted paper fans that have become a cultural symbol of the area.
Reaching Fuli Town from Yangshuo is simple and enjoyable, with several options:
Fuli Town shares the same subtropical monsoon climate as the rest of Yangshuo. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are pleasant (around 18°C to 26°C / 64°F to 79°F) and the landscape is vibrant and green.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with highs above 30°C (86°F) and occasional rain showers. Winter (December to February) is mild but cooler, with average temperatures between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The town remains beautiful year-round, but spring and fall provide the best overall experience for sightseeing and exploring.
Fuli Town is not a gated attraction, so it is open all day for visitors. However, shops, workshops, and local businesses usually open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for enjoying the town in peace and seeing local life unfold naturally.
If you’re interested in watching the fan-making process or visiting art studios, it's best to come between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when most artisans are actively working.
Fuli Town is especially famous for its traditional hand-painted paper fans, which are a major part of the town’s cultural heritage. These fans are crafted and painted by local artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. They often feature scenes of Chinese landscapes, calligraphy, flowers, birds, and mythological stories.
In addition to the fan art, Fuli is well known for its peaceful atmosphere, well-preserved ancient streets, and traditional architecture. It provides a glimpse into old-world Chinese life, far removed from the bustle of modern cities. It’s a perfect spot for those interested in Chinese folk culture, art, and rural beauty.
Entry to Fuli Town is completely free of charge. There is no entrance fee, and visitors are welcome to walk through the town, explore local shops, and visit artisan studios at their leisure.
If you're interested in purchasing a hand-painted fan or local souvenirs, prices vary based on size and design, starting from around 30 RMB and going up for more detailed or custom pieces.
Some art workshops may charge a small fee (around 10-20 RMB) if you want to try painting a fan yourself or participate in a cultural activity.
Fuli Town has a recorded history of over 1,000 years and was once a vital trading port along the Li River. It served as a key market town where locals traded rice, vegetables, silk, and handicrafts. Its riverside location helped it flourish, and the architecture still reflects its past prosperity.
The town features traditional Chinese architecture, including narrow stone alleyways, old wooden homes with tiled roofs, and small courtyards. Some buildings date back to the Qing Dynasty and have been preserved with their original stone and woodwork intact. The blend of nature, art, and architecture gives Fuli a timeless and poetic charm.
- Watch Fan-Making Demonstrations: Visit local workshops to see how paper fans are made and painted.
- Buy Souvenirs: Purchase beautiful hand-painted fans, calligraphy scrolls, and handmade crafts.
- Stroll Ancient Streets: Walk through the cobbled lanes and enjoy the town’s slow-paced atmosphere.
- River Walk: Take a peaceful stroll along the Li River and enjoy the karst mountain views.
- Photography: Capture traditional homes, local life, and scenic backdrops.
- Explore Local Food: Try local snacks, homemade tofu, and traditional rice wine.
- Art Workshops: Participate in a fan painting or calligraphy session with local artists.
- Visit Temples: Discover small local temples that hold cultural and spiritual value for residents.
- Fuli is often referred to as the “Home of Painted Fans” due to its long-standing fan-making tradition.
- The fan-making tradition here is over 500 years old and is recognized as a part of intangible cultural heritage in China.
- Many scenes on the fans are inspired by the Li River and the surrounding mountains.
- It's a great spot to escape the tourist crowds and experience local culture more authentically.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are cobbled and may be uneven.
- Try to visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
- Bring cash, as some local shops may not accept credit cards or mobile payments.
- Respect the artists' work—always ask permission before taking photos in their studios.
- Don’t miss out on the chance to chat with locals—many are happy to share stories about the town's history.
- Combine a visit to Fuli with a bike ride along the Li River for a full-day countryside experience.