Kiss me deeply in Guangxi: Exploring the romantic side of China

"Bésame, bésame mucho, que tengo miedo a perderte, perderte después."

When the Spanish tourists signed up for their trip to China, they probably never expected to be welcomed by a live performance of the classic song "Bésame Mucho" in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southwest China.

I chose this song for a reason.

Beyond my limited knowledge of Spanish music, a romantic ballad like this feels like the perfect love song to Guangxi's breathtaking landscapes — scenery so stunning that it's often described as "the best under heaven."

When we think of romantic destinations, our minds often drift to Europe's Gothic cathedrals or Latin America's passionate dances. But China, with its rich history and folklore, holds countless untold romantic tales. Guangxi, with its surreal karst mountains, winding rivers, and terraced fields, is no exception. Here, love stories are woven into the very fabric of the land, and none is more iconic than the legend of Liu Sanjie.

Liu Sanjie, or Third Sister Liu, is a beloved figure in Zhuang culture. Her voice was said to be so enchanting that it could move mountains and rivers. She sang of her love for A Niu, a brave and kind-hearted fisherman, their duets echoing through the valleys of Guangxi. Their love blossomed amidst the region’s stunning landscapes. However, all didn't go smoothly.

A wealthy and oppressive landlord sought to make Liu Sanjie his concubine. Yet, the lovers' devotion never wavered.

When the landlord tried to force her into submission, she used her wit and her gift of song to outsmart him. In a series of singing contests, she defeated the landlord and his hired singers, her sharp lyrics exposing their greed and cruelty. Her songs became a form of protest, inspiring the villagers to stand up against injustice. Ultimately, when the threats grew too dangerous, Liu Sanjie transformed into a lark and flew away, leaving behind a legacy of courage and defiance.

While Liu Sanjie's tale is deeply cherished in Guangxi, it remains lesser-known to visitors, especially overseas travelers who come primarily for the region's surreal landscapes. And that's understandable — Guangxi's natural beauty is world-renowned. The region is part of the South China Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its towering limestone peaks, mystical caves, and serene rivers. Then there’s the Longsheng Rice Terraces, often called the Dragon's Backbone, the Detian Waterfall, and countless other natural wonders that make Guangxi a must-visit destination.

These enchanting landscapes have also left their mark on cinema, serving as both backdrop and muse for several iconic films.

The 1960 musical "Liu Sanjie" brought the legend of the singing heroine to life against the breathtaking backdrop of the Li River, and more recently, the animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" drew inspiration from Guangxi's karst formations to create the mythical Chentang Pass, blending the region's mystical atmosphere with fantastical elements of Chinese mythology.

These cinematic portrayals have only added to Guangxi's allure, drawing visitors eager to experience the landscapes that have inspired such artistry. In 2024, inbound tourism surged by 211 percent, with 1.4 million visitors generating $500 million for the local economy. With the recent extension of China's visa-free policy at the end of 2024 — which allows stays of up to 240 hours — Guangxi is poised to welcome even more overseas travelers in the coming years.

But as you plan your visit, don't overlook the romantic tales hidden within Guangxi's cultural and natural treasures.

The region's beauty lies not only in its natural wonders but also in its vibrant cultural heritage. Guangxi is home to 12 diverse ethnic groups, including the Zhuang, Yao, and Dong, each with their own unique traditions and love stories. As you uncover these hidden gems, you'll soon come to realize that romance can be expressed in countless ways — far beyond "Bésame Mucho" and deep into the heart of Guangxi's enchanting landscapes.

About the author: Li Yunqi is a journalist with CGTN Radio.