If I had been plucked from London and dropped in Guilin, I would have instantly known I was in China.

The short connecting flight from Shanghai felt like a journey into a magical land. Sunset and mist floated around Guilin’s numerous limestone karsts — the straight-up-and-down cartoon-like hills familiar from Chinese brush paintings — with the Li River meandering through them, encased by rice paddy fields.

Guilin is in the southern Guangxi province. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful parts of China and has inspired innumerable paintings and literary works. That said, it has become a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors in their thousands. But don’t let that put you off, it is well worth putting up with the crowds.

The best way to experience the awe-inspiring scenery is on the water. A boat ride on the River Li from Guilin to Yangshuo is touristy, but to be on board a modern motorboat weaving its way through the ancient karsts, each with their unique shapes and their different legends, is a must.

As you glide along the still water you pass fishing villages where fishermen still use cormorants to catch their harvest. Bamboo trees line the water and black butterflies, the size of your hand, flutter by.

If you want to see another side of China, enjoy authentic cuisine and discover the stunning natural beauty that has inspired centuries of Chinese artists, this trip is the one for you.

  • Jennifer Fairhurst travelled to China with Far East specialist’s Cox & Kings (0845 1548941/www. coxandkings.co.uk) who organise group tours and tailor-made private travel throughout the region. An 11 day/nine night private tour of China, is from £3,495 pp.