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The small town of Yangshuo, set amidst vertical limestone pinnacles, has a relaxed charm.

Resting beside the Li River, it is ideally placed to enable visitors to explore the strikingly beautiful countryside of Guangxi Province. The town itself is very laid back and the mix of small Western-style cafés — with good, inexpensive local food — offers a relaxing respite.

Exploring Yangshuo

Many visitors prefer to explore Yangshuo and its scenic beauty by bike, which can be hired cheaply on a daily basis. A walk around the town is also enjoyable.

West Street has various tourist shops with good quality items at reasonable prices. It is possible to get good quality cotton garments made up quickly at little cost. When buying souvenirs you would be advised to wait until late afternoon or early evening, after the main tourist period, when cheaper prices are on offer.

It is advisable to bargain with shopkeepers and stallholders.

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Start planning your tailor-made trip to Yangshuo by contacting one of our China specialists

Suggested itinerary featuring Yangshuo

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Yangshuo, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Yangshuo

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Yangshuo

    Our expert guides to exploring Yangshuo

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Yangshuo, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Yangshuo at its best.

    • Characterful stays in China
      Songtsam Hotel, Shangri-la

      Characterful stays in China

      Characterful stays in China

      Whether you’re staying in a converted farmhouse surrounded by countryside or a traditional Tibetan building overlooking a monastery, basing yourself in a boutique property during your vacation to China opens your eyes to new cultures and authentic local life. Country specialist Stephanie shares her recommendations.

      9 min read

      Read this guide
    • A guide to Chinese food (and where to find it)
      Dumplings, China

      A guide to Chinese food (and where to find it)

      A guide to Chinese food (and where to find it)

      There’s more to Chinese food than Western takeaways let on. Each region of China has its own distinct cuisine, from the west’s hot and spicy delicacies to the hearty dishes of the north. China specialists Anthony and Duncan discuss the best ways to experience food in China.

      8 min read

      Read this guide
    • The slow side of China: visiting the rural provinces
      Li river, Guilin

      The slow side of China: visiting the rural provinces

      The slow side of China: visiting the rural provinces

      There are still places to visit in China that remain almost untouched by the modern world. Country specialist Cheryl shares her experiences of rural China, from meeting local people and learning about their minority cultures to hiking through mountains and rice terraces.

      10 min read

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    Accommodation choices for Yangshuo

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Yangshuo. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    Ideas for experiencing Yangshuo

    Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Yangshuo, and which use the best local guides.

    • Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
      Limestone karst scenery, Guilin region

      Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

      Yulong River Bamboo Rafting

      Guests are driven to the Yulong River to board a bamboo raft. This is extremely relaxing and offers superb views and photographic opportunities.

      View details
    • Guided Countryside Bike Ride
      Yangshuo

      Guided Countryside Bike Ride

      Guided Countryside Bike Ride

      Experience the sublime local scenery on a leisurely bike ride to the Yulong River area. The villages here are still relatively untouched by tourism, and visitors are often greeted by friendly villagers working in the paddy fields.

      View details