Yangshuo

Yangshuo sits among thousands of limestone karst mountains in southern China's Guangxi province. The Li River flows past local markets and cafes, while bamboo rafts drift by scenes printed on China's 20-yuan note. You can climb limestone cliffs, watch cormorant fishermen at dawn, or cycle to the 600-year-old Dragon Bridge. In the surrounding valleys, farmers work in rice fields between the karst peaks, and tea plantations process fresh leaves using centuries-old methods.

Getting to Yangshuo

The nearest airport is in Guilin, 90 minutes away by shuttle bus. High-speed trains connect Guilin to major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. From Guilin, regular buses run to Yangshuo's main station. Within the town, you can walk to most destinations, while bicycle rental shops line many streets for countryside exploration.

Li River Activities

The Li River winds between karst peaks and traditional villages. Morning river cruises from Guilin to Yangshuo take 4-5 hours, passing fishing villages and limestone formations. You can take a bamboo raft from the Yangdi or Xingping docks for a closer look at river life. At dawn, local fishermen work with their cormorants on the water, using birds to catch fish.

Cycling Routes

Rent a bike and follow concrete paths between rice paddies and through small villages. The Yulong River valley has well-maintained routes that pass water buffalo working in fields. The 10-kilometer loop from Yangshuo to Dragon Bridge takes you past local markets and farming communities. The stone arch bridge, built during the Ming Dynasty, crosses the clear waters of the Yulong River.

Rock Climbing Areas

More than 300 climbing routes cover the limestone peaks around Yangshuo. Moon Hill, 8 kilometers south of town, has routes ranging from beginner (5.6) to expert (5.13). Local climbing shops on West Street rent equipment and arrange guided climbs. Wine Bottle cliff and Baby Frog wall get morning shade, while Twin Gates remains cool for afternoon climbing.

Tea Production

Local tea plantations grow and process green, white, oolong, and black teas from the Camellia sinensis plant. At Seven Stars tea plantation, 5 kilometers east of town, workers demonstrate how to pick and process fresh leaves. You can join tea processing workshops and learn correct brewing temperatures for different tea types.

West Street After Dark

As evening approaches, food vendors set up stalls along West Street's cobblestones, cooking Guilin rice noodles and beer fish. Bars and cafes along the street turn on their lights, with many hosting musicians. The street's location next to the Li River makes it a common meeting point after day trips.

Weather and Timing

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) have temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F), ideal for climbing and cycling. Summer brings temperatures above 30°C (86°F) with frequent rain showers. Winter stays mild but wet, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C (41°F). The town gets crowded during Chinese national holidays, especially during the October Golden Week.