China is a fascinating destination that I believe anyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. With its rich history and culture, the futuristic, technology-advanced cities and charming, traditional villages, as well as its breathtaking scenery, there is truly no other place like China.
And talking about breathtaking scenery, one place that you definitely shouldn’t miss visiting on your trip to China is Yansghuo.
Visiting Yangshuo and the region is like a dream come true.
This magical destination in the southeast of China attracts travelers with its dramatic karst mountains, picturesque town, peaceful rivers, and vibrant local culture.
In this travel guide, I will take you through everything you need to know about visiting Yangshuo, including the best things to do, travel tips, and how to make the most of your trip.
Table of Contents
Where Is Yangshuo Located in China?
Yangshuo is located in the southern part of China, about 65 kilometers (40 miles) south of Guilin, in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The town is situated along the banks of the Li River and is surrounded by breathtaking karst mountain formations that have inspired poets and artists for centuries.
How Many Days to Spend in Yangshuo?
To experience all the best that Yangshuo has to offer, plan to spend at least 3-4 days in the town and its surroundings.
How to Get to Yangshuo?
Yangshuo now has its own high-speed rail station about 30 minutes from the town center, connecting it to cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. From the station, you can take a taxi into town.
Getting directly to Yangshuo railway station is by far the best way to reach town. Depending on where are you coming from, you might find yourself in Gulin. In Guilin, you can either change trains or get a minivan going to Yangshuo. The latter departs from outside the train station are easy to find.
To book tickets for train travel in China, use either the Railways 12306 website or app, or Trip.com.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Yangshuo?
The best time to visit Yangshuo is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and bamboo rafting.
Avoid visiting during the summer (June to August) as it can be hot and humid, and during major Chinese holidays (e.g., Golden Week in October), as crowds can be overwhelming.
How to Travel Around Yangshuo
The best way to travel around Yangshuo and its surroundings is by renting a scooter. It’s one of my favorite ways to explore new destinations and doing it in Yangshuo was super convenient, affordable, and fun.
Taxis are also widely available and affordable and a great option for visiting different places near Yangshuo if you don’t have your own car and don’t want to rent a scooter.
Cycling is quite popular in the area, too.
And, of course, one of the most popular ways to visit Yangshuo and explore the region is on a cruise on the Li River.
Things to do in Yangshuo, China
Explore Yangshuo Town
Yangshuo town is a great place to start your trip. Even if you make it there unsure of where to head next or what to do, many local tour operators in town can arrange day trips to surrounding attractions.
But before heading outside of Yangshuo, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the town. Yangshuo town is the beating heart of the region and one of the best places to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. The town is small and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot while taking in the charming blend of traditional Chinese architecture and the town’s connection to nature, with beautiful views of karst mountains visible from nearly every corner.
The best thing to do in Yangshuo town is just wander around its narrow streets. The town’s streets are filled with vendors selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to local snacks, and many hidden gems.
Visit Xingping Ancient Town
Located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Yangshuo, Xingping Ancient Town is one of the best places to visit in the region. With cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and breathtaking views of the Li River, Xingping is a charming destination steeped in history.
Wonder around the picturesque streets, get some delicious Chinese food, and shop for souvenirs. From here, you can also go on a cruise, bamboo rafting, hikes, and more. Continue reading for two of the best things to do in Xingping near Yangshuo.
Hike to Laozhai Mountain for the Best View in Yangshuo
The highlight of our trip to Yangshuo, and my personal favorite, was hiking to the Laozhai Mountain. The trail begins just outside the Xingping Ancient Town area and it takes you to the most stunning panoramic views in the Yangshuo region. Once at the top, you’ll have a view of endless karst mountains, green fields, and the Li River.
The hike only takes about 40 minutes but it’s quite steep so proper shoes are essential.
See the Cormorant Fishermen of Yangshuo
Cormorant fishing is an ancient tradition in Yangshuo, where trained cormorant birds help fishermen catch fish in the Li River. While nowadays the ancient practice is mostly performed for tourists, it remains a fascinating cultural experience. You can book a boat tour in the evening to watch the fishermen in action, accompanied by the glow of their lanterns.
Bamboo Rafting on Yulong River
Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River is one of the most iconic Yangshuo things to do. The Yulong River, often called the “Little Li River,” is less crowded and offers a serene environment where you can enjoy nature at its finest. A typical bamboo rafting experience will take you past idyllic countryside, ancient bridges, and rice paddies, all framed by the towering karst peaks that Yangshuo is famous for.
Check Out Yangshuo’s West Street
A highlight of any trip to Yangshuo is the vibrant West Street, known as the oldest street in Yangshuo. West Street is the hub of the town’s social life and it gets veeery busy, especially in the evenings. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area and is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Here, you can grab a bite, go dancing, people-watch, shop for souvenirs, and much more.
Take a Photo with the 20 RMB Background
Next on the list of things to do in Yangshuo is taking a photo of the stunning landscape featured on the back of the 20 RMB note. This iconic Yangshuo attraction is located in Xingping just next to the starting point for the Laozhai Mountain hike.
Most people take a photo of the 20 RMB note against the background. However, since we didn’t use any cash while traveling around China, we bought a souvenir coin from the nearby boat services office featuring the same landscape on one side and a cormorant bird on the other.
Relax at Yangshuo Park
Located right in the center of Yangshuo Town, Yangshuo Park is an ”urban jungle” that offers a glimpse into local life. Walking around the park, you’ll often see residents practicing tai chi, playing chess, playing musical instruments, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.
You can also enjoy the shady walking paths and the beautiful lake within the park.
Shop for Souvenirs at Momicafe
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs during your Yangshuo trip, Momicafe is a must-visit. This cute cafe/ souvenir shop is a favorite among travelers for its artistic and handmade items, including jewelry, postcards, paintings, magnets, tea, and more.
I recommend it because the souvenirs you can find here are much different from the mass-produced items found elsewhere in town.
Visit Shiwai Taoyuan
Shiwai Taoyuan, also known as the Secret Garden, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is located along Guiyang Road and is best reached via car or a scooter.
Once there, the entry ticket includes a boat ride along the river with a guide that shares interesting facts about the place (I would only assume as we were the only foreigners and the guide was speaking in Mandarin), as well as some folk performances. Furthermore, you get to see traditional architecture and lush gardens.
These are just the highlights of visiting Yangshuo. However, if your itinerary allows it, there are many more things to do in and around Yansghuo, including:
- Hiking
- Going on a Li River cruise
- Cycling the countryside
- Kayaking and sup
- Taking a calligraphy class
- Go to s taichi class
- Learn how to cook traditional Chinese dishes
- Enjoy Impression Liu Sanjie show
- Rock climbing & Via Ferrata
- Paragliding
- Take in the views from a helicopter ride
… as you can see the list of things to do in Yangshuo is endless, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Where to Eat in Yangshuo?
When it comes to where to eat in Yangshuo, I don’t have any particular restaurant recommendations—and I’m sorry as I know that’s probably not what you were expecting. The truth is, 95% of the time we spent in and around Yangshuo, we chose to eat at small, local eateries instead of restaurants that you’d typically find on maps or by name.
With that being said, if you’re wondering where to eat in Yangshuo, my advice is simple: try everywhere that’s not a formal restaurant. These small eateries offer traditional food that is often much more flavorful, authentic, and affordable than anything you’ll find in larger establishments.
You’ll find these hidden gems all over Yangshuo, and I’d particularly recommend checking out the local food market. Be sure to sample some of Yangshuo’s signature dishes like Guilin noodles, Yangshuo beer fish, and even stir-fried snails.
Where to Stay in Yangshuo?
Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range comfort, or budget-friendly options, Yangshuo has accommodations to suit every traveler. Here are some suggestions for every budget:
Budget Accommodation in Yangshuo:
- Ds West Street Hotel: This is the hotel where we stayed during our visit to Yangshuo. At first, I was skeptical because it is located literally on the famous and busy West Street, which gets very noisy at night. Luckily, however, the rooms have excellent noise isolation, and we didn’t get bothered with the noises from the street. You could also book fantastic massages at a great price. The best thing about this hotel thoug,h is that it is right in the center of Yangshuo Town, close to everything.
Affordable Accommodation in Yangshuo:
- Xitang River View Holiday Hotel: A stunning hotel near the center of Yangshuo town. Some rooms feature a bathtub overlooking the river and the karst mountains.
- Miaoqihuan Hotel: Another beautiful and family-friendly hotel near the center of Yangshuo town. This one features a pool deck with an incredible view of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Luxury Accommodation in Yangshuo:
- Yangshuo Sugar House: Guests report that the service and hospitality are exceptional and love the location and the architecture of the hotel.
- Banyan Tree Hotel: A little bit further away, but if you have your car or scooter to get around and can afford it, it’s worth it.
Is Yangshuo Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, Yangshuo is one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in China. The stunning karst landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of activities make it worth a visit.
More About China:
- Traveling to China: Don’t visit China before you have up and running those China travel apps and without going through my list of everything you need to know before visiting China.
- Beijing: Read my blog on the best things to do in Beijing, including a visit to the Great Wall of China.
- Shanghai: From the iconic Bund to the historic Yuyuan Old Street, these are the best things to see and do in Shanghai.
- Guangzhou: Here are my top recommendations for places to visit and things to do in Guangzhou, from ancient temples to stunning skyline views.
I hope that this article has given you a good overview of what to see, what to do, and basically how to travel around Yangshuo. If you have any additional questions or comments, please let me know in the comment section below, and don’t hesitate to contact me.
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Thank you for reading,
Bilyana