Nestled in the heart of Guangxi Province in China, Yangshuo is that kind of place where time seems to slow down. Less than 2 hours from the city of Guilin, this town offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation with the iconic karst landscapes to the quaint riverside. I have lived in China for over 3 years and this is probably one of my favourite places I’ve visited – here are all of the best things to do in Yangshuo.
If you’re looking to continue exploring the beauty of Guangxi, Guilin is less than a 2-hour drive from Yangshuo – making it a perfect next stop. Click here to read about the best things to do in Guilin.
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Table of contents
- Xingping Ancient Town
- 20 Yuan Viewpoint
- Laozhai Mountain
- Bamboo Rafting
- West Street
- Moon Hill
- Ruyi Peak
- Fuli Bridge
Xingping Ancient Town
Assuming you’re taking the train to Yangshuo, you will first arrive in the small town of Xingping. This ancient town has a rich history spanning over 1,700 years. It feels like stepping back in time as you walk along the cobbled streets, lined with old buildings and traditional architecture. Check out the tea houses and little shops selling unique souvenirs!
20 Yuan Viewpoint
Xingping is home to the iconic view printed on the back of the 20 RMB note. Cross the bridge leaving the village and turn left, then you will find the exact view! Don’t worry if you don’t have a 20 yuan note, as there are many stalls where you can get one to take an iconic photo. This is one of the best things to see in Yangshuo and you cannot miss it!
Laozhai Mountain
Also located in Xingping, Laozhai Mountain is a bit of a hidden gem. The trail starts near Xingping Pier, and while it’s only about a 30-40 minute climb, it can get pretty steep with lots of uneven steps. I do not enjoy hiking, but this is absolutely the best thing to do here. The summit offers panoramic views of the Li River winding through the surrounding mountains. I highly recommend timing your hike for sunrise or sunset to make it even more magical.
Bamboo Rafting
One of the most iconic things to do in Yangshuo is a bamboo raft ride along the Yulong River. I suggest starting at Jima Wharf – this section of the river is a bit quieter, but still be prepared for long wait times. Starting at Jima Wharf also means you can enjoy a longer, more peaceful stretch of the river before reaching the busier tourist spots. The journey takes you on a relaxing drift down the river, with picturesque karst mountains on both sides. The scenery is absolutely stunning and amongst some of the best views I’ve seen in all of China.
West Street
After all that peaceful nature, it’s time to dive into the hustle and bustle of West Street, the liveliest part of Yangshuo. This pedestrian street is a mix of traditional architecture and vibrant nightlife. During the day, you’ll find cute little shops selling everything from handmade crafts to quirky souvenirs. At night, West Street comes alive with neon lights, live music and street performances, so grab some street food and go explore!
Moon Hill
Moon Hill is one of Yangshuo’s most famous natural landmarks, and is one of the best things to do here! The hike up takes about 20-30 minutes, with a fairly straightforward trail. As you walk up, you’ll catch glimpses of the moon-shaped arch that gives the hill its name. Once at the top, you can actually walk under the arch and get incredible views of the surrounding countryside. The path is shaded by bamboo groves, making it a pleasant hike even on a hot day.
Ruyi Peak
If you’re not into hiking but still want to see some amazing views, then Ruyi Peak is the option for you. Take the scenic cable car ride up to some of Yangshuo’s highest peaks, and then at the top there are different routes you can choose. Walk across bridges between peaks, see the iconic viewpoints and even follow the glass walkways around the side of a cliff. This was definitely one of the best things I did in Yangshuo and it was so much fun.
Fuli Bridge
Fuli Bridge is a charming, 500 year old stone arch bridge tucked away in a peaceful corner of Yangshuo. Unlike the more crowded tourist spots, this area feels more tranquil with only local villagers passing by. To get here, I recommend renting a bicycle or scooter – drive around the peaceful countryside and have fun exploring.
Yangshuo is one of those rare places where you can fully disconnect and just enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether you’re cruising down the Li River, exploring bustling West Street, or hiking up a mountain for sunrise, Yangshuo has something for everyone. Take your time, wander, and let this charming town work its magic on you. I can’t wait to return and discover even more hidden gems!
If you’re curious about other destinations in China, click here to check out my other guides! 🌏
