14 April – Guilin
In the morning a trip through Flute Reed cave, one of the many caves around the city. Interesting, but I thought the guides tried to make too much out of the various rock formations – seeing all kinds of animals, vegetables and more out of them.
The group split in the p.m., some 12 of us taking a short hike – called by the guides a “mountain climb” up a local bump – I think Yo Shan Hill. It had steps all the way up it, and was crowded, as usual. Nevertheless, there was a great view from the top and was well worth the time. The remainder visited a primary school – not my cup of tea.
Night – ballet – very classical – dancing not good; music poor.
15 April – Guilin
The entire day was on the Li River. The boat was a double decker with open deck on top – which is where we spent most of the day. Quite a pleasant trip, largely through the unusual terrain of Guilin. Limestone thrust up through the sea and erosion wore part of it down; the result being many tall hills with very steep sides, mostly covered with vegetation. Almost like a wildly bubbling hot rock all of a sudden cooling! It is very strange, but pleasant. The trip goes downstream about 60 miles in 5 or so hours, and passes through much agricultural land, many peasants on bamboo rafts, river traffic, etc. I got too much sun and now have a headache.
16 April – Guilin – Guangzhou
Back to the city. Guilin will be remembered as beautiful scenery and terrible food – the bone capital of China we call it. It seemed that each course was prepared so that it made the maximum use of bony parts. The exception was the breakfasts – they were quite superior.
Mrs. Lu tells that the hotels are having some difficulty with getting and keeping help. After being educated the young apparently are no longer content with menial jobs. I can’t say I blame them.
After breakfast, to the airport for a 1 hour 10 minute flight to Guangzhou (Canton). Same type airplane as before, same smooth trip. It was pleasant to fly at an altitude where the ground activities make sense.