Yangshuo
Karst Peaks & Countryside Dreams
Yangshuo is the top choice for a short getaway from Guangzhou (just 2.5 hours by high-speed train). Although it's often criticized for "tourist traps," as long as you know how to avoid them, you can find the ink-wash painting China of your dreams—whether it's shooting the dams on a bamboo raft at dawn or overlooking the Li River bend from Xianggong Mountain.
1. Attractions
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Note: Some major attractions require reservations even with tickets. Be sure to use Trip.com to purchase and reserve simultaneously
Day 1: Li River Essence & God's Eye View
Li River Bamboo Raft (Yangdi - Nine Horses Hill)
The true "Hundred Mile Gallery." Highly recommend choosing the Manual Bamboo Raft (from Yangdi) over the large cruise ships for a more authentic experience. This segment covers the most essential scenery of the Li River, passing the famous Nine Horses Fresco Hill.
Xianggong Mountain (相公山)
A photographer's paradise. Cross the river from the Nine Horses Hill wharf, then transfer to a shuttle bus to the foot of the mountain. A 15-minute climb takes you to the viewing platform for a breathtaking view of the Li River's giant bend. It's not just for sunrise; the afternoon light and shadow are also mesmerizing.
Day 2: Yulong River Splash & Countryside Cycling
Yulong River Bamboo Raft (Jinlong Bridge - Old County)
The #1 Must-Do in Yangshuo! This segment features 9 dams, and sliding down them on the raft is thrilling. You MUST arrive early (before 7:00 AM) to avoid the massive queues of tour groups and enjoy the cool, misty fairyland of the morning river.
Ten-Mile Gallery Cycling (十里画廊)
Rent a scooter from Old County wharf and ride to Gongnong Bridge, Shuiedi, and Jima Wharf (approx. 2 hours round trip). The scenery is in the paddy fields and flower seas along the road, not inside the paid ticketed attractions.
Cost:E-scooter rental ~¥50/day
Hours:Afternoon
Day 3: Sky Walk & Underground Wonder
Ruyi Peak Scenic Area (如意峰)
Yangshuo's new viral hit. Take the cable car up to walk on the glass skywalk and the Ruyi Rope Bridge. It offers a "God's eye view" of the karst peak forest and is incredibly photogenic. Go 1 hour before closing for the softest light.
Silver Cave (Yinzi Yan) (银子岩)
"Visit Silver Cave, and you'll never lack money." A classic, spectacular karst cave. The temperature inside is constant year-round, making it a great place to escape the summer heat (or winter cold).
2. Food
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Local Staples
Beer Fish (Xie Sanjie)
啤酒鱼 (谢三姐)
Yangshuo's most famous dish. Although it's sold everywhere, it's worth trying. The fish is tender with a sweet and sour tomato flavor and the aroma of beer. Xie Sanjie is recommended over some of the over-hyped "internet celebrity" shops.
Guilin Rice Noodles
桂林米粉
The standard breakfast. Remember to order it "dry" (Ganlao - mixed with brine) first, eat half, and then add soup. This is the authentic way. Look for small shops in alleys with many locals; usually under ¥10.
Specialty Spots
Grandma's Coconut Chicken
奶奶的椰子鸡
A refreshing change from the heavy flavors of Guangxi cuisine. Fresh ingredients, tender chicken, and sweet soup base. Perfect for cleansing your palate after spicy meals.
Qiongda Vinegar Hotpot
琼达醋血鸭/火锅
Sour and spicy vinegar hotpot, perfect for summer. Excellent for cooking seafood and chicken.
Guiba Shaved Ice
桂爸糖水铺
A life-saver on a hot afternoon. High aesthetic value, fine texture, and great for photos.
3. Transportation
Arrival
- Air:
Yangshuo has no airport, must use Guilin Liangjiang Airport 90km away. Direct airport bus is cheapest option at 50 RMB, takes 1.5 hours. Rideshare costs 150-220 RMB. Alternative is high-speed train from Guilin to Yangshuo Station (23 RMB, 30 mins), then switch to local transportCheck flights via
- Train:
Yangshuo Stationis far from city center (West Street). Best option is Express Bus for 20 RMB, ticket office on left of exit, goes to Fengming Centre. From there take short taxi. Direct taxi from station costs 40-50 RMB and takes 40-50 minutes, good for groups or heavy luggage.Check trains via
Getting Around
- E-Scooter: The BEST way to explore Yangshuo! Rentals are available everywhere for ~¥30-50/day. Remember to wear a helmet and check the battery level.
- Taxi/Didi: Convenient in the city center, but you might wait a while at remote wharfs.
4. Where to Stay
West Street (Lively & Convenient)
Recommendation: Four Seasons Yunqi Resort. Highlight: Infinity Pool / Great Location. Located on the edge of the busy area, offering convenience for shopping but relatively quiet. The infinity pool facing the green mountains is a stunning photo spot.
Yulong River (Scenery & Chill)
Recommendation: Huamengjian / Qixi Meidi. Highlight: Value / Garden View. Stay inside the scenery. Very convenient for early morning rafting. Perfect for travelers who love peace and pastoral views.
5. Expert Tips & Warnings (Essential)
❌ Don't (Avoid These Traps)
- Don't go to paid "fake" attractions: Places like Big Banyan Tree, Julong Tan, Butterfly Spring, Moon Hill along the Ten-Mile Gallery have very low value for money. Just take a photo from the outside or as you pass by; no need to buy a ticket to enter.
- Don't go to Yulong River in the afternoon: 11:00-15:00 is the hottest time with the strongest sun. Plus, tour groups congregate then, and queues can last up to 2 hours. Terrible experience.
- Don't listen to "Wild Guides": Ignore the aunties by the roadside trying to stop your bike to sell tickets or meals. It's almost certainly a trap.
- Don't wear high heels to Silver Cave: The cave is wet, slippery, and the walk is long. Wear non-slip, comfortable shoes.
✅ Do (Pro Tips)
- Wake up early: Especially for Yulong River rafting. Arriving at Jinlong Bridge Wharf by 7:00 AM means no queues and a misty, fairyland-like river.
- Choose the right raft segment: For Yulong River, choose Jinlong Bridge - Old County (9 dams, most exciting, best scenery); For Li River, choose Yangdi - Nine Horses Hill (electric rafts available, see the fresco hill).
- Tip the rafter (Optional but helpful): Although officially banned, if you want to stop in the middle of the river for photos or want the rafter to explain the scenery, buying them a bottle of water or giving a small tip (¥20-30) often makes them much more cooperative.
- Book in advance: For popular spots like Yulong River rafts and Ruyi Peak, you MUST book 3 days in advance on official accounts or platforms during peak season. On-site tickets are basically impossible to get.
- Gear advice: Waterproof phone bag for rafting; Non-slip shoes for caves; Sun protection jacket/sleeves for cycling (UV is very strong in Yangshuo).