Yangshuoa breathtaking county located on the west bank of the Li River in the northeast of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Established in 590 AD, this ancient county boasts over 1,400 years of history. While Guilin is the gateway, Yangshuo is the destination where the dramatic karst peaks and emerald waters create a living painting. Whether you are arriving from the north or west of China, your journey to this paradise typically begins through the city of Guilin.
Here is your ultimate guide to navigating and experiencing the magic of Yangshuo.
Getting There: The Journey is Part of the Beauty
Most travelers arrive via Guilin. Here are your best options to reach Yangshuo:
- 1. The Scenic Route: Li River Cruise This is the most popular way to arrive. Cruises depart from Guilin’s piers between 9:00 and 10:00 AM.
- Mopanshan Pier: 3-star boat with air conditioning (~215 RMB/person + 30 RMB lunch bundle).
- Zhujiang Pier: 4-star luxury cruise (~360 RMB/person).
- The Experience: The cruise takes about 4 hours. You can enjoy the view from the open deck on the third floor (free access, though usually requires a 1st-floor ticket purchase; upgrades available onboard). Arrive in Yangshuo around 2:00 PM, just a short walk from West Street.
- Note: This is a one-way trip. You must take a bus or car to return to Guilin.
- 2. The Fast Route: High-Speed Rail Yangshuo has a high-speed train station located in Xingping Town.
- Logistics: It is about 25km from Yangshuo county center. After getting off the train, you will need to transfer to a bus to reach the main town area.
- 3. The Budget Route: Bus Direct buses run from Guilin South Bus Station to Yangshuo.
- Schedule: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (every 15 minutes).
- Cost: ~23 RMB/person.
- Duration: Approx. 70 minutes.
- Arrival: Yangshuo Provisional Bus Station (shuttle buses 602 or 801 connect you to the town center).
- 4. From the Airport If flying into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport:
- Airport Bus: 5 departures daily (10:00–19:00), costing 60 RMB.
- Private Car (Recommended): A direct charter takes about 70 minutes via the highway, bypassing Guilin city traffic and offering scenic karst views along the way.
Must-Do Experiences: What to Play?
The Li River (The Soul of the Landscape)
Listed as one of the world's 15 most beautiful rivers, the Li River is a paradise for photographers and painters.
- Bamboo Rafting: For a closer connection to the water, take a motorized bamboo raft from Yangdi or Xingping.
- Highlight: The scenery at Xingping is the exact image printed on the back of the Chinese 20 RMB banknote (Yellow Cloth Shoal reflection).
- Rules: Rafts seat 4 people. Children under 1.2m (7 years) and seniors over 70 are not permitted for safety.
- Tip: Since 2015, rafts are government-managed. However, tipping the raft master is common if you want them to slow down for better photos.
The Yulong River (The Rural Romance)
Unlike the wide Li River, the Yulong River offers a quieter, manual bamboo raft experience (no motors).
- The Experience: Two-person rafts with reclining chairs. It takes 40 minutes to 2 hours depending on the route.
- Routes:
- Jinlong Bridge to Old County: The upper section, featuring ancient bridges and rustic villages—perfect for photography.
- Shuiedi to Gongnong Bridge: Where the mountains feel closest to the water.
World-Class Performances
- Impression Sanjie Liu: Directed by the creators of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, this show uses the Li River itself as the stage and 12 mist-shrouded peaks as the backdrop. With 600 local actors (mostly fishermen), it is hailed as a "Masterpiece performed with God."
- Guilin Romance (Qian Gu Qing): An indoor spectacular using holograms and advanced stage machinery. It tells the history of Guilin, from ancient legends and the construction of the Lingqu Canal to the folk songs of Third Sister Liu.
Cycling the Ten-Mile Gallery
Rent a bicycle or electric scooter to explore this 5km scenic road.
- Sights: The route is lined with attractions like the Totem Ancient Trail, the Big Banyan Tree, and Butterfly Spring.
- Why do it: Dedicated bike lanes make it safe and easy to stop for photos whenever you please. You can also detour onto the Yulong River walking path.
Above the Clouds: Xianggong Hill & Aerial Views
- Xianggong Hill: The premier spot for sunrise photography, offering a panoramic view of the Li River bend and a sea of clouds.
- Hot Air Balloon & Paragliding: See the karst peaks from "God’s perspective." While the flight time is short (a few minutes), the 360-degree aerial selfies over the Yulong River are unforgettable.
Yangshuo is not just a destination; it is a living ink-wash painting. Whether you are cruising down the river, watching a legendary show under the stars, or cycling through the countryside, Yangshuo welcomes you to step into the picture.