Yangshuo Guilin China – Everything You Need to Know (2024)

Yangshuo Guilin, China is one of the most picturesque and culturally rich destinations. It is by far my favourite place I have visited in China to date. Located in the Guangxi Region of China, it’s famous for its karst mountain landscapes, serene rivers, and vibrant local culture.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for deeper insights into the area, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Yangshuo, Guilin, China.

Li River in Yangshuo Guilin, China.

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Where is Yangshuo, Guilin located in China?

Yangshuo is a county in Guilin, a city in southern China’s Guangxi province. Guilin is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, and Yangshuo lies about 65 kilometers south of Guilin’s main city. You can easily reach it by car, bus, or the popular Li River cruise. (We chose to travel from Guilin to Yangshuo by bullet train, and it was less than a 25 minute train-ride!!).

If you would like to explore all of what both Guilin and Yangshuo has to offer, or if you need inspiration to plan your trip you can check out my Guilin and Yangshuo-3 Day Itinerary. For all things Yangshuo related (the best part of Guilin) then keep reading below.

Are Yangshuo and Guilin the Same Place in China?

Although Yangshuo is a part of Guilin, they are not the same place. Guilin serves as the broader region and the main city, while Yangshuo is a smaller, scenic county within it. Travellers often start their journey in Guilin City (like we did because it’s the main transport hub of the region) and then head to Yangshuo for a more immersive experience in nature and rural life.

Yangshuo, Guilin, China

Yangshuo is one of the most beautiful places you will find in Guilin, China. In fact, I would go as far as saying one of the nicest places you will find in China. From the serene waters of the Li River to the towering karst peaks and charming ancient towns. Yangshuo, Guilin is a must-see destination in China.

Yangshuo is made up of two main areas that you must visit: Yangshuo County and Xingping ancient town. Both Yangshuo County and Xingping are within the larger Yangshuo area, each offering a unique perspective on this stunning region.

Yangshuo County, China

This is the central hub of Yangshuo, where most visitors stay the night and then explore the surrounding areas. It’s home to vibrant areas like West Street, where modern influences blend with traditional charm.

In my opinion it’s like Yangshuo County has two sides to it. You have the wild, bustling streets of West Street full of western influences (which is kind of sad to see in a beautiful ancient little town in China). Here, you can find many western chains like McDonalds and KFC (which seem to be everywhere in China now), and you can even find numerous nightclubs.

But then it also still has its old Chinese traditional charm to it, with its narrow streets, ancient bridges and picturesque landscape. This side, you really see when exploring the countryside of Yangshuo County. However, Yangshuo County is known for its accessibility, lively atmosphere, and variety of activities, making it a great base for first-time visitors.

Xingping, China

Li River Cruise, Guilin, Yangshuo China

Located about 25 kilometres from Yangshuo town, Xingping is a quieter and more traditional part of Yangshuo. While technically a town within Yangshuo, Xingping feels like stepping back in time with its ancient streets, serene riverbanks, and slower pace of life. It’s the ideal retreat for those seeking tranquillity and unparalleled views of the Li River.

Xingping ancient town was by far my favourite place within the Yangshuo, Guilin region in China. We spent a full day here and I cannot put into words how beautiful it was.

Despite their differences, both areas, Yangshuo County and Xingping, are integral parts of Yangshuo and share the same stunning landscapes and cultural richness. Whether you prefer the lively energy of Yangshuo County or the serene charm of Xingping, both offer unforgettable experiences that you cannot miss out on when visiting Yangshuo, Guilin on your China travels.

What to Do in Yangshuo, Guilin, China

Yangshuo offers a variety of activities for travellers. I highly recommend you have at least 2 days to spend in Yangshuo, Guilin, China. Ideally spend at least one day exploring Xingping ancient town and one day exploring Yangshuo County. You can check out how we spent our 2 days in Yangshuo here.

  1. Explore West Street
  2. Bamboo Rafting along the Li River
  3. Visit Yulong Bridge
  4. Cycle through Yangshuo’s Countryside
  5. Climb Moon Hill and see the Big Banyan Tree
  6. Watch the Impression Liu Sanjie Show 
  7. Take part in some unique activities
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Explore West Street

You cannot visit Yangshuo without visiting West Street. Known as the oldest street in Yangshuo, West Street is a lively pedestrian area filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars (or nightclubs). It’s a great place to enjoy a nice meal or some local snacks, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Here, you will find what was once a quiet ancient street in Yangshuo, now filled with bustling crowds and a mix of both western and Asian influences. Many say that West Street now takes away from the traditional charm of the Yangshuo area.

That being said, we really enjoyed our evening on West Street (best visited in the evening).  We spent the evening eating Chinese delicacies (you have to try beer fish!) and listening to live music while watching the crowds swarm up and down the street.

Go Bamboo Rafting along the Yulong River

Bamboo rafting along the Li River in Yangshuo, Guilin in China

The rivers in Yangshuo are known for their crystal-clear waters and bamboo rafting experiences. This is the most peaceful and scenic way to take in the breath-taking landscape.

Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River (Yangshuo County) offers an authentic, traditional bamboo rafting experience. The rafts on the Yulong River are typically non-motorized and propelled manually by local boatmen using bamboo poles. This creates a quieter, more peaceful environment than on the Li River, where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural sounds of the river and surrounding wildlife.

If bamboo rafting is not for you, you can sit on the riverbank and watch the rafts gliding past and capture stunning photos. It’s honestly a beautiful sight. We sat at Yulong Bridge for over an hour watching people pass down the river on their bamboo rafts. It was a beautiful way to take an afternoon break from exploring.

Visit Yulong bridge

Yulong Bridge is a centuries-old stone bridge, over 600 years old, that spans the serene Yulong River. Here you can opt to go bamboo rafting, or you can sit on the riverbank and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of rural China.

The stunning 600 year old Yulong Bridge situated in Yangshuo Guilin China.

Along the walk to the bridge, you will find some local markets.  Just under the bridge you can also find a lovely café situated on the river front. This is the perfect place to enjoy a nice coffee (or lunch) and capture photographs of the bamboo rafts gliding down the Yulong River. We sat here for over an hour, enjoying a hot coffee, while watching the bamboo rafts pass down the river.

Cycling Tour Through Yangshuo Countryside 

Yangshuo’s scenic countryside is best experienced on two wheels. Yangshuo’s flat terrain and scenic routes make it ideal for cycling. Rent a bike and explore local villages, rice fields, and hidden paths with stunning mountain backdrops. There are many cycling routes you can take, the 10 Mile Gallery route being one of the most popular in the area. 

We started our route on West Street and headed in the direction of Yulong Bridge, where we stopped in Baisha town along the way. Then we went through Juixian village (a hidden gem for a real local insight into area). From there we carried on to see Xiangrui Bridge, The Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill. Be prepared to spend a full day out exploring this area, there is so much to see and do in Yangshuo County!  

You can also opt to take a cycling tour, where a guide will take you to all of the best spots, help you capture the best photographs and talk you through the history of the area. This is a great way to get a deep insight into the area without having to worry about planning it yourself! 

Climb Moon Hill and Visit the Big Banyan Tree

Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree are located within 5 kilometres of each other, making it easy to visit both in one trip. You can cycle between the two attractions or hire a local tuk-tuk for convenience  

Moon Hill is one of Yangshuo’s most iconic attractions, famous for the huge moon-shaped arch near its peak. This karst formation offers not only a unique photo opportunity but also incredible panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 

The hike to the top takes about 20-30 minutes. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the karst mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque farmlands. 

Located just a few kilometres from Moon Hill, the Big Banyan Tree is another must-visit attraction. This huge, 1,400-year-old tree has sprawling roots and branches that stretch over an impressive area, creating a natural canopy. 

This area can get busy during peak hours, so visit early in the morning for a quieter experience if you can. There’s also a small entry fee to access the tree’s grounds, which is 15RMB. 

Watch the Impression Liu Sanjie Show 

Directed by Zhang Yimou, the creative mind behind the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, this night time spectacle combines light, music, and the natural surroundings of the Li River to tell a beautiful story. 

The stage is the river itself, and over 600 performers, including local villagers and fishermen, bring the story to life. Performers move across the water on bamboo rafts, creating a magical, dreamlike atmosphere. 

It is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, as it’s a popular attraction. Tickets range from ¥198 to ¥680, depending on seat location. 

Take part in some unique activities  

Yangshuo isn’t just a destination for breath-taking scenery—it’s also a hub for unique cultural and outdoor activities that let you immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. You can make your trip unforgettable by trying some hands-on experiences. Dive into Chinese culture by taking a calligraphy class or learn to prepare authentic Chinese dishes in one of Yangshuo’s cooking schools.  

If you want to combine fitness and culture, Yangshuo is an excellent place to try a kung fu lesson. For a truly immersive experience, some centres provide lessons in outdoor settings surrounded by karst mountains. 

For adventure seekers, Yangshuo is a rock-climbing paradise with over 300 climbing routes of varying difficulty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find routes to challenge and inspire you. Popular spots include Moon Hill and Twin Gates, which offer thrilling climbs with stunning views.  

How to Join These Activities 

Most activities can be booked through your hotel, local tour operators, or directly with schools in Yangshuo. Many schools cater to both individuals and groups, making it easy to fit these experiences into your itinerary. 

What to do in Xingping

  1. Explore Xingping Ancient Town
  2. Bamboo rafting along the Li River
  3. 20RMB Viewpoint
  4. Hike Laozhai Mountain
  5. Capture a glimpse of the Cormorant Fishermen
  6. Professional Photographs on the Li River
  7. Eat Beer Fish

Explore Xingping Ancient Town 

The breath taking karst landscape found in Yangshuo Guilin, China.

Xingping ancient town cannot be missed on your Yangshuo, Guilin trip in China. It is a stunning riverside town, with cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. The town is filled with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, offering a glimpse into centuries-old Chinese culture. It’s less commercialized than Yangshuo County, which adds to its beauty.  

It is an ideal place for a peaceful stroll. You will find many shops, cafés and beautiful riverside restaurants to visit along the way.  While strolling through the narrow streets, you can see the karst landscape peeking out from behind the ancient style buildings, which is honestly breath-taking. The scenery here is like something from a movie, I could not get over it.  

Bamboo rafting along the Li River  

The stunning karst landscape found on the 20RMB note, surrounded by bamboo rafts in Yangshuo, Guilin in China.

Bamboo rafting is an experience you honestly cannot miss out on when visiting Yangshuo. I mentioned earlier you can go bamboo rafting along the Yulong River in Yangshuo County. Alternatively, you can go bamboo rafting along the Li River in Xingping. Here you can take in the beautiful karst landscape surrounding the Li River, while gliding past popular attractions like the 20RMB viewpoint and Nine Horses Fresco Hill.  

Bamboo rafting along the Liver was one of the highlights of my trip (along with hiking Laozhai mountain). However, it is important to note that bamboo rafting along the Li River is not as peaceful or authentic as the bamboo rafting experience on the Yulong River. This is because the boats are motorised and not propelled manually by local boatmen using bamboo poles (as seen along the Yulong River). That being said, I am still so glad I went bamboo rafting along the Li River, because the landscape surrounding the river is unmatched anywhere else.  

See the 20RMB Viewpoint 

The stunning view of the karst landscape found on China’s 20RMB note is located in Xingping. If you walk along the waterfront, you will have plenty of opportunities to stop and capture a picture of this view. Or like I mentioned above, you can take a bamboo raft along the Li River to really immerse yourself in this iconic scenery. Along the Li River you will have the best view of the iconic karst mountains.  

If you don’t have a 20RMB note with you, don’t worry you can buy an ice-cream shaped just like the mountains and hold it up to get your picture-perfect photo. I couldn’t resist!  

Hike Laozhai Mountain

The breath taking view from the top of Laozhai Mountain in Yangshuo, Guilin, China.

For the best panoramic view of Yangshuo, you have to climb Laozhai Mountain. In my opinion, it is a must-do. The top of the mountain offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the Li River winding through the karst mountains.    

The climb took us approximately 45 minutes to get to the top and I must admit it can be challenging and steep at times, but it is so worth it when you see the panoramic view at the top. It is breathtaking! It was definitely the highlight of my Yangshuo, Guilin trip in China! You cannot miss it! 

I’m not going to lie, we kind of struggled to find the beginning of the trail to climb Laozhai Mountain. We walked around in circles looking at Apple Maps (best way to navigate in China).  

Where do you find Laozhai Mountain? 

So how do you find it? The best thing to do is walk towards the waterfront and look for the ferry dock. If you walk through the town and come out the bottom end (the opposite end of where you get off the bus) you are just at the waterfront. Go to your left and you will find the ferry dock.  

The trail entrance is located just behind the ferry dock. You should see a small path leading upward with stone steps at the base. Sometimes, there’s a wooden sign or other markers indicating the way. If you’re unsure, ask locals for “Laozhai Shan” (老寨山), and they’ll point you in the right direction. There was a lovely lady selling Chinese traditional clothes near the entrance who was happy to point us in the right direction. She even convinced us to buy some clothes from her, we couldn’t say no! 

Capture a glimpse of the Cormorant Fishermen 

One of the most iconic and traditional experiences in Xingping is watching the cormorant fishermen at work. Cormorant fishing is an age-old practice believed to have originated over a thousand years ago in China. As Xingping is a historic town situated along the Li River, it is one of the best places to witness cormorant fishing. The fishermen on the Li River are renowned for their unique and ancient fishing method involving trained cormorant birds, a practice that has been passed down through generations and is now a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage. 

You will find the fishermen along the Li River near Xingping Town. If you walk up along the waterfront towards the 20RMB viewpoint you have the best opportunity to find them. Some fishermen also stage demonstrations for tourists, offering a glimpse into this fascinating tradition. 

The best time to catch the fishermen at work is in the evening, when the sun starts to set. Make sure you bring a camera to capture the fishermen, their bamboo rafts, and the iconic Li River surrounded by karst peaks.

Get professional photographs on the Li River  

One of the most unique and memorable experiences in Xingping is having professional photographs taken while dressed in traditional Chinese clothing, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Li River. This experience combines the timeless charm of the region with the artistry of photography, creating images that feel like scenes from ancient China. 

You choose a traditional Chinese outfit (which are stunning- you will see plenty of stands showcasing these outfits as you explore the town) and then you get your hair and makeup professionally done. They take you out on one of the bamboo rafts, floating gently along the Li River. To add a cultural touch, the cormorant birds are included in the shoot. Posing alongside them gives your photos an authentic feel, highlighting the region’s unique traditions. 

If you prefer not to get your photos taken, you can sit along the riverbank, near the 20RMB viewpoint and watch others take part in this unique experience. We were blown away by the photos that were being taken! 

Eat beer fish 

A visit to Xingping wouldn’t be complete without trying beer fish, the signature dish of the Guilin region. This flavourful meal includes freshly caught fish from the Li River, stir-fried with beer, tomatoes, peppers, ginger, and garlic to create a rich, savory sauce. To be honest, I don’t usually like anything with ginger in it. But this was amazing! 

It’s a must-try when in Yangshuo. It offers a taste of local Yangshuo cuisine that perfectly complements the area’s natural beauty. Many restaurants in Xingping serve their own take on this iconic dish, so be sure to savour it while enjoying the stunning river views. 

Beer fish, the signature dish of the Guilin region.

Note: If you travel from Guilin city to Yangshuo by train, you will arrive just 15 minutes from Xingping. Therefore, it’s best to start your day exploring in Xingping before making your way to Yangshuo County (which is 45 minutes away from Xingping).

Where to Stay in Yangshuo

When visiting Yangshuo, I recommend staying near West Street in Yangshuo County.  

Staying near West Street gives you easy access to all that Yangshuo has to offer. Especially if you are someone who likes to get out and explore in the evening, you will never be left wondering what to do. As I mentioned earlier, there is so much to see and do along West Street. You have endless amounts of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops to explore.  

If you’re looking for a quieter retreat, you can consider staying in Xingping. This town has fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere. However, we did notice that once the sun sets, it becomes a ghost town here. Shops begin to close and everyone makes their way to Yangshuo county, to explore West Street.  

The Weather in Yangshuo China

Yangshuo enjoys a subtropical climate, with distinct seasons that make it a year-round destination. You can expect warm springs, hot and humid summers, cool and crisp autumns, and mild winters. Here’s what to expect:

Spring (March to May): Spring is mild and pleasant, but it can also be rainy. Bring a light jacket and an umbrella. The average temperature in spring is 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). These temperatures are ideal for Yangshuo’s outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August): Summers are hot and humid, with occasional showers. The average temperature in summer is 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F). The heat and humidity in summer can make outdoor activities a little unbearable. But if you do plan to go in the summer, I would recommend you plan your activities for the early morning, especially cycling and hiking.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is cool and dry, making it one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities. The average temperature in autumn is 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F).

Winter (December to February): Winters are chilly but not severe. If you plan to go to Yangshuo during the winter, I recommend you bring warm layers, especially for early mornings and evenings. The average temperature in winter is 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F).

So, when is the best time to go to Yangshuo China then?

The best time of the year to visit Yangshuo China.

As Yangshuo is the place to go for outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring and autumn temperatures are comfortable and bearable, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the Li River.

Autumn, in particular, offers clear skies and fewer chances of rain. We travelled at the end of October, and I have to say the weather was perfect. Both days were dry and ideal for spending the day outside. The temperature varied. On the first day the sun was splitting the trees, hitting high 20’s with clear blue skies. Whereas the second day the temperature dropped to the low 20’s with skies full of clouds. So just be prepared for both the heat and some cooler weather if travelling in autumn.  

How to get to Yangshuo China

Yangshuo, Guilin, is located in the Guangxi Province of China, approximately 65 kilometres south of Guilin. Guilin is the centre for transport in the area, you generally will make your way to Guilin and from there to Yangshuo.

Bamboo rafting along the Li River in Yangshuo

How to get to Guilin

Fly to Guilin: The nearest airport is Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL), with flights from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as some international destinations. You can book flights to Guilin here.

High Speed Train to Guilin: You can also get the high-speed train from many cities in China to Yangshuo Railway Station or Guilin Railway Stations. You can take the high speed train from:

  • Guangzhou (about 2.5 hours)
  • Shenzhen (About 3 hours)
  • Hong Kong (3.5 hours)
  • Shanghai (7-8 hours).

How to get from Guilin to Yangshuo

You have a few options to choose from when travelling from Guilin to Yangshuo, you can take the iconic Li River Cruise, the high-speed train, a bus or a Taxi (Didi).

Li River Cruise

One of the most scenic ways to reach Yangshuo is by taking a Li River cruise. This journey offers spectacular views of the iconic karst mountains and riverside villages. Cruises typically take 4 hours, departing from Guilin in the morning and arriving in Yangshuo in the afternoon. The cruises provide hotel pick-up and a buffet lunch on board. You can book the Li River Cruise here.

Li River Cruise, Guilin to Yangshuo China.

High-Speed Train

High-speed trains run from Guilin to Yangshuo Railway Station and takes just under 25 minutes. We use Trip.com to book all of our train tickets within China. Yangshuo Railway Station is located 15 minutes from Xingping ancient town and 40 minutes from Yangshuo County. To get to either location you can take a bus or a taxi.

Bus from Yangshuo Railway Station to Xingping or Yangshuo County

When you exit the railway station, go to your left and you will find an office selling tickets for these bus routes. It was very easy to buy a ticket, we just scanned a QR code and got our tickets. There is staff there to help you purchase your tickets also. The bus ticket to Xingping Ancient Town cost 5RMB.

Note- if you arrive by train, and plan to visit both Xingping Ancient Town and Yangshuo County, then I recommend you start your day in Xingping. This will save you travelling all the way out to Yangshuo County to come back again.

We got the high speed train from Guilin to Yangshuo Railway Station (90RMB on Trip.com). We then took the bus from the railway station to Xingping Ancient Town (5RMB) and later that evening once we explored all of Xingping we took a Didi (chinese uber) to Yangshuo County (60RMB).

Bus from Guilin to Yangshuo

Regular buses depart from Guilin’s Qintan Bus Station to Yangshuo. These are inexpensive and frequent, making them a convenient option. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get to from Guilin to Yangshuo by bus, depending on traffic.

Taxi from Guilin to Yangshuo

A taxi or private car is a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Guilin to Yangshuo. This is a great option if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group, or if you just want to avoid public transport. The car journey takes about 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

We got a taxi from Yangshuo back to Guilin North Railway Station on the last day of our trip and it cost 160RMB using the Didi app.

Planning a trip to Yangshuo, China

I assume if you are reading this you are planning a trip to Yangshuo China. Our Guilin and Yangshuo 3 Day Itinerary, has two full days in Yangshuo planned for you, you can follow our itinerary or use it for inspiration to plan your own. We spent one full day exploring the stunning karst landscape and the Li river in Xingping Ancient Town. Then we spent the following day immersing ourselves in Yangshuo County’s beautiful countryside. Check it out here.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Yangshuo, Guilin, China just as much as I did. It is amazing. I am so grateful that teaching English in China has gave me the opportunity to see such beautiful places.

Booking Flights or Train Tickets? You can easily book your tickets within China here. We use Trip.com to purchase all of our flights and trains while travelling within China.

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