Yangshuo is Guilin’s cooler, more laid-back cousin. While Guilin is all about the Li River cruise, Yangshuo is about slow travel-bicycling through rice fields, floating on bamboo rafts, and wandering the ancient streets. It’s the kind of place where you’ll plan to stay for 2 days and end up staying for a week.

Getting There & Around

From Guilin:

  • Bus: 1 hour, ~30 RMB
  • Li River Cruise: 4 hours (the scenic route)
  • Taxi: ~1 hour, ~150 RMB

Within Yangshuo:

  • Bicycle: The best way to explore. Rent one for ~20 RMB/day and cycle along the Yulong River or through rice paddies.
  • Electric Bike: For longer distances or if you’re not up for pedaling. ~40 RMB/day.
  • Boat: Bamboo rafts on the Yulong River are a must-do.

Must-See Sights

Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

Forget the crowded Li River-this is the real gem. Float down the Yulong River on a traditional bamboo raft, gliding past karst peaks and green fields. The views are stunning, and it’s much more peaceful than the Li River cruise.

Pro tip: Hire a local raft guide. They’ll point out hidden caves and tell you stories about the area.

West Street (Xijie)

Yangshuo’s main tourist street, but it’s worth a wander. Lined with cafes, shops, and street performers, it comes alive at night. Try the “foreigners’ street” section with international restaurants and bars.

Moon Hill (Yueliang Shan)

A famous karst peak with a natural arch that looks like a moon. Climb the 800+ steps to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

A 10-mile scenic road between Yangshuo and Guilin. Rent a bike and cycle through this “gallery” of karst mountains, stopping at viewpoints like the “Lotus Peak” and “Nine Horses Painting Hill.”

Impression Liu Sanjie

A spectacular outdoor light show directed by Zhang Yimou. The performance takes place on the Li River with karst mountains as the backdrop. It’s breathtaking.

Book tickets in advance: This is a popular show, especially during peak season.

Bicycle Routes

Yangshuo is the bicycle capital of China. Here are the best routes:

Route 1: Yulong River Loop (2-3 hours)

Cycle along the Yulong River from Yangshuo to Fuli Ancient Town. Stop at villages, rice fields, and hidden viewpoints.

Cycle from Yangshuo to Guilin along the scenic road. Stop at Moon Hill and other viewpoints.

Route 3: Countryside Loop (half day)

Explore the back roads around Yangshuo, passing through local villages and seeing how rural China lives.

Where to Eat

Yangshuo has a mix of local and international cuisine.

  • Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu): Yangshuo’s most famous dish. Fresh fish from the Yulong River cooked with local beer and chili. Try the restaurants along West Street.
  • Guilin Rice Noodles: Same great noodles as Guilin, but with Yangshuo’s own twist.
  • Local Snacks: Try “oil tea” (you cha) and “fried dough sticks” (youtiao) for breakfast.
  • International Food: Yangshuo has great Western options too-pizza, burgers, and coffee shops.

Where to Stay

  • West Street Area: Convenient, but noisy at night. Good for first-time visitors.
  • Yulong River Area: Quiet, scenic. Great for couples or those who want to relax.
  • Fuli Ancient Town: Authentic, less touristy. Good for those who want to experience local life.

When to Visit

  • Spring (March-May): Perfect weather, blooming flowers.
  • Summer (June-August): Hot, but the green rice fields are beautiful.
  • Autumn (September-November): Best time-cool weather, clear skies.
  • Winter (December-February): Cold but quiet, misty mountains.

Travel Tips

  • Rent a bike: It’s the best way to see Yangshuo.
  • Book bamboo rafts in advance: Especially during weekends and holidays.
  • Learn some Chinese: While many people speak English in West Street, it helps in the countryside.
  • Stay at least 3 days: Yangshuo is not a place to rush. Take your time and explore.
  • Bring sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially in summer.

Yangshuo is the kind of place that gets under your skin. The combination of stunning scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and friendly locals makes it one of China’s most beloved destinations. Once you’ve cycled through the rice fields at sunset, you’ll understand why so many travelers return year after year.