The Timeless Charm of Yangshuo: A Traveler’s Paradise

1. Things to Know before You Go

A place is hidden in Guangxi that haunts the dreams of countless travelers — Yangshuo. With its unique karst landforms, the emerald Li River water, and rich cultural heritage, it has become a paradise in the hearts of countless travelers. When it comes to Yangshuo, how can we not mention the Li River? When we take a bamboo raft and drift on the Li River, it feels as if we are in a flowing landscape painting. The Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, the reflection of Huangbu Shoal... Every spot is a perfect blend of nature and art.   

2. Why is Yangshuo so Special?

Unique karst landscapes

Yangshuo, boasts for its iconic karst landforms with limestone peaks along the Li River, therefore it creates a picturesque scene often described as "the finest under heaven in Guilin".

The beautiful scenery of the Li River and Yulong River

The crystal-clear waters of the Li River and Yulong River reflect the stunning karst peaks, with highlights like Yellow Cloth Shoal and Nine Horses Fresco Hill attracting photographers worldwide.  

A great variety of outdoor activities

Yangshuo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like rock climbing, cycling, bamboo rafting, and hiking, catering to all ages and interests.

Very distinctive cultural experience

As a cradle of Zhuang ethnic culture, Yangshuo offers very unique cultural experiences, such as the "Impression Liu Sanjie" show, reflecting the traditional Zhuang folk songs and culture.

The integration of diverse cultures in West Street

West Street, the heart of Yangshuo, blends Chinese and Western cultures, featuring traditional Chinese elements alongside Western-style bars, cafes, and international cuisine so as to create a unique vibe.

Idyllic emerald countryside scenery

There are many well-preserved ancient towns around Yangshuo, such as Xingping Ancient Town with tranquil pastoral scenery, it presents the rustic beauty of rural China.

Special food culture 

The cuisine in Yangshuo is unique, dishes such as beer fish, Guilin rice noodles, and stuffed snails offering a taste of Guangxi's local flavors, leaving people with an aftertaste that lingers on the palate. 

A travel experience suitable for all seasons

Yangshuo offers very characteristic experiences in every season. In spring, the rape flowers are in full bloom. In summer, everything is lush and green. In autumn, the rice fields turn golden. In winter, the mountains are shrouded in clouds and mist, all of these make it a year-round destination.

Yangshuo is committed to sustainable tourism, with many eco-friendly accommodations and tours that promote environmental conservation. This allows tourists to enjoy the natural beauty while minimizing their ecological footprint.

Accessibility and Convenience

Yangshuo is easily accessible from major cities like Guilin and offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, catering to all types of travelers.

The warm and hospitable locals and community engagement

The locals in Yangshuo are so warm and hospitable that visitors can interact with them and learn about their ways of life and cultural traditions easily.

What's more, people also have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals, participate in community-based tourism projects, and gain insights into rural life in China.

So, all in all, the uniqueness of Yangshuo Resort lies in its perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern tourism experiences so as to provide tourists with an unforgettable travel destination.

3. What to Do and See in Yangshuo

As a tourist destination full of natural beauty and cultural charm, tourists can experience a variety of colorful activities and visit famous tourist attractions.

Here are some key things they can do here.

Outdoor adventures: The region is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, they can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, cycling through scenic countryside, bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, and hiking along trails like the famous Moon Hill.

Cultural immersion: Yangshuo Scenic Spot offers rich cultural activities so that visitors can explore traditional Chinese culture, it is home to ancient villages, local markets, and opportunities to witness traditional crafts and performances, such as the Impression Liu Sanjie light show.

Relaxation and wellness: The tranquil environment of Yangshuo is ideal for those seeking relaxation. Many resorts and spas offer health treatments, yoga retreats, and meditation amidst the natural beauty.

Culinary delights: Food lovers can indulge in local Guangxi cuisine, which features in unique flavors and fresh ingredients. Popular dishes include beer fish, rice noodles, and various street food options.

A night tour of West Street: Taking a stroll along West Street at night and experiencing the bustling night market and the unique bar culture are very intriguing .

Overall, a trip to Yangshuo provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous activities to travel enthusiasts, making it a rewarding experience for all types of travelers.

4. How to Get to Yangshuo

4.1 Traffic Information

By Air

Fly to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (桂林两江国际机场), then take a bus or taxi to Yangshuo, usually it takes about 1.5 hours. 

By Train

Take a high-speed train or regular train to Guilin Railway Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi to Yangshuo.

By Coach

You can take a direct long-distance coach to Yangshuo from cities such as Guilin, Nanning or Guangzhou.

By Li River Cruise

Take a cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, enjoying the stunning karst landscapes.

By Bicycle or Electric Scooter

Rent a bicycle or electric scooter in Guilin or Yangshuo for a more flexible and eco-friendly travel experience.

4.2 Opening Time & Ticket Information

Address: Xianqian Street, Yangshuo Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Province

Time needed: 2-3 days 

Best Time: From May to October 

Suited to: Boating enthusiasts, mountain climbing enthusiasts, cycling enthusiasts, bamboo rafting enthusiasts, hiking lover, photographers. 

5. Highlights of Yangshuo

5.1 Bamboo Raft Drifting on the Li River 漓江竹筏漂流

Drifting on a bamboo raft, you will feel as if you are in a flowing landscape painting. The Nine-Horse Fresco Hill (九马画山), the reflection of Huangbu Shoal (黄布倒影), etc., each place is a perfect blend of nature and art.

5.2 Yangshuo West Street 阳朔西街

As night falls, Yangshuo West Street is brightly lit and bustling. It is a gathering place for tourists from home and abroad, and also a junction of cuisine and culture. Walking on the bluestone road, there are various small shops on both sides, ranging from handicrafts to authentic snacks, everything is available. However, the charm of West Street is far more than that. Here, you can hear languages from different countries and witness the collision and integration of different cultures. Every alley may hide a touching story, waiting for you to explore.

5.3 The Yulong River 遇龙河

The drifting on the Yulong River is more gentle than that on the Li River, and the pastoral scenery and simple villages along the way are much more refreshing. Taking a small boat and floating downstream, it seems that time has slowed down. The water of the Yulong River is more clearer, the mountains are more beautiful, and the drifting experience is more leisurely. When people drift on the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, there are lush bamboo forests all around, and occasionally they can hear folk songs coming from a distance, which makes people feel relaxed and happy. The beauty of the Yulong River is a delicate and gentle beauty, which requires you to calm down and savor it carefully.

5.4 Ten-mile Gallery 十里画廊

Ten-mile Gallery, also called Shili Gallery, is a road that winds between mountains and waters, so tourists can rent a bicycle and slowly ride along the road. On both sides are lush green rice paddies, well-arranged villages, and continuous mountains in the distance. This place is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and also an excellent spot to lift your mood.

Whether you are cycling or hiking, you may feel the natural beauty up close. Along the way, there are famous scenic spots such as Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree. However, the true beauty often lies on those less-known paths. Perhaps it's a corner or a bamboo forest that can bring you unexpected surprises.

5.5 Yinziyan Cave 银子岩

Entering Yinziyan Cave is like stepping into a fantastical underground palace, the stalactites in various shapes shine brightly under the illumination of the lights, it seems that every stone has its own story. The stalactites here are in different shapes and rich in colors, as if they were exquisitely carved artworks by nature. Under the light, each rock sparkles with a charming luster, making people can't help but marvel at the magic and greatness of nature. Here, you can feel the uncanny workmanship of nature up close.

5.6 Moon Hill 月亮山

Moon Hill got its name for its naturally formed circular cave at the top of the mountain that resembled a full moon. Standing at the foot of the mountain and looking up, it seems as if you can catch a glimpse of the mysterious veil of the moon. As the viewing angle changes, the shape of the cave also undergoes subtle changes. There are many stalactites in the Moon Cave, each in a different shape. Among them, two stalactites are very much like the Jade Rabbit in the Moon Palace. Due to its unique geological environment and landscape, Moon Hill has attracted tons of tourists and rock climbing enthusiasts at home and abroad, and it is also regarded as the rare "holy land".

5.7 An Idyllic World 世外桃源

This scenic area in Yangshuo is a theme park created according to the artistic conception of Tao Yuanming's "The Peach Blossom Spring". Taking a small boat and shuttling through the peach blossom forest, it seems that you have entered that isolated fairyland and have forgotten the sufferings in the real world to enjoy a moment of peace and beauty.

5.8 The Big Banyan Tree 大榕树

The Big Banyan Tree in Yangshuo is an ancient tree with a history of thousands of years. It has dense branches and leaves, shading the sky and providing a cool shelter for passers-by. Standing under the tree and looking up at the intertwined roots and branches, as if you can hear the whispers of time.

5.9 Butterfly Spring 蝴蝶泉

Butterfly Spring is famous for its clear spring water and thousands of butterflies that dance here every summer. As an ecological scenic area themed around butterflies, there are not only butterflies fluttering, but also various rare plants and animals. Entering the Butterfly Spring scenic area is like stepping into a dreamy fairy tale world to feel the astounding charm of nature. 

5.10 Xingping Ancient Town 兴坪古镇

Xingping Ancient Town is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Yangshuo. It is equipped with simple but eye-catching streets and buildings, it also houses the rich historical and cultural heritage. Walking in the alleys paved with bluestones, on both sides are antique buildings and various handicraft stores. It not only exudes a profound sense of history but is also full of modern vitality and creativity, so it is suitable for those who love handicrafts.

5.11 The Scenery of Yangdi 杨堤风光

Yangdi Scenic Area is situated in the northern part of Yangshuo County and is one of the famous scenic areas in the Li River and it features in the typical karst landform. In this area, numerous mountains stand tall, with more mountains and less arable land, and it has long been known as "Nine hills are half water and half field". The scenic spot is diverse in natural landscapes, including strange peaks, green bamboos, clear streams, etc., thus forming a unique southern landscape. 

6. Suggested Tour Routes and Attractions

Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Arrive in Yangshuo, visit Yangshuo West Street, and watch the performance of "Impression of Sanjie Liu" in the evening.

Day 2: Take a bamboo raft drifting on the Li River, ride along the Ten-mile Gallery and then visit Moon Hill.

Day 3: Explore the Yulong River, Xingping Ancient Town or Yinziyan Cave, and taste the local delicacies.

7. Best Time to Go

Yangshuo is suitable for tourism throughout the year, but the best time to visit it is from May to October. During this period, the Li River and the Yulong River are abundant in water, making them highly suitable for rafting and enjoying the scenery. Especially in May and June, the rainy season makes the scenery on the water even more enchanting.

In addition, although it is relatively hot in July and August, the water caves are cool and pleasant, which is also very suitable for tourists to go on adventures and take mud baths.

Meanwhile, from May to October, the rape flowers in Yangshuo are in full bloom, and the terraced fields present a picturesque view after irrigation, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

In June and July, it is the peak season. The Li River and the Yulong River are gurgling with flowing water, which makes them very suitable for participating in water activities. From August to October, there is ample sunshine and less rainfall, which is the golden period for outdoor activities, attractions such as the Gudong Waterfall(古东瀑布) and the rafting on the Longjing River(龙颈河漂流) would add much fun to the trip.

8. Nearby Attractions

Longji Terraced Fields 龙脊梯田

Located in Longji Town, Guilin City, Longji Terraced Fields stand in the Yuechengling Mountains (越城岭山脉) with an altitude ranging from 380 meters to 1,180 meters and a vertical drop up to 800 meters, it is a natural landscape that should not be missed around Yangshuo. The total area of the terraced fields is approximately 66 square kilometers with layered terraced fields, winding from the foot of the mountain to the top, which really present a magnificent scene. Standing at a high place and looking down, it is as if the rolling golden wheat fields are undulating with the wind.

As a national 4A-level tourist scenic area, the Longji Terraced Fields were included in the list of national wetland parks in 2020. In 2022, Dazhai Village in Longji was rated as the "Best Tourism Village" by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. There are several viewing platforms in the scenic area, such as "Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon" and "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers", which are also excellent shooting locations for photography enthusiasts. 

9. Useful Travel Tips

Transportation methods: You can take a coach or a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. By taking a cruise ship, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Li River, while taking a coach is faster, while taxi will be much more expensive.

Stay near West Street for easy access to nightlife and dining, or choose a riverside guesthouse near the Yulong River for a quieter experience.

Must-do activities: Bamboo rafting on the Li River, cycling through the Ten-Mile Gallery, rock climbing, and watching the "Impression Liu Sanjie" show.

Try local specialties: Beer fish, Guilin rice noodles, and stuffed snails, there are a lot of similar restaurants served this sort of food in West Street.

Shop for handicrafts or souvenirs: Zhuang embroidery, or local specialties like osmanthus cakes and chili sauce can be found in West Street.

Sun protection and mosquito prevention: Since there are many outdoor activities in Yangshuo, remember to bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Safety: When rock climbing or cycling, travelers need to choose regular tour guides or rental services to avoid potential pitfalls.

10. The Possible Benefits of Visiting with Yes! CN Tour

Assisting you to enjoy a time-saving and convenient visit in Yangshuo, we highly recommend you travel with us Yes! CN Tour.

Guided tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and significance of the places you visit. Therefore, joining a guided tour offers a hassle-free, enriching, and socially engaging way to explore the world. It’s an excellent choice for those who value convenience, expert insights, and the camaraderie of group travel. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, a guided tour can provide a memorable and rewarding experience.

What's more, our local experienced drivers will serve you wholeheartedly from the beginning you arrive in the airport of tourism destinations to the last moment you want to leave, we focus on each detail and make tailor-made itineraries based on your group size, physical conditions and budgets. What you need to do is to concentrate on the highlights in the scenic spots.

Most importantly, traveling with a group and a professional guide can provide an added sense of security, especially in unfamiliar or remote locations, our tour guides are well-prepared to handle emergencies, and being part of a group reduces the risks associated with solo travel.

Please don't hesitate to contact with us to create a more unforgettable journey.