Yangshuo in 3 Days: A Guide to the Best Local Experiences

Yangshuo, nestled in the heart of Guangxi’s karst landscape, is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With its limestone peaks, winding rivers, and vibrant local life, this small town packs a punch. Here’s how to make the most of three unforgettable days in Yangshuo.

Day 1: Exploring the Iconic Landscapes

Sunrise at Xianggong Hill

Start your trip with an early morning hike to Xianggong Hill, one of the best vantage points for sunrise. The 20-minute climb rewards you with a panoramic view of the Li River snaking through the karst mountains. Bring your camera—this is postcard-perfect scenery.

Bamboo Rafting on the Yulong River

After breakfast, head to the Yulong River for a serene bamboo rafting experience. Unlike the busier Li River, the Yulong offers a quieter, more intimate float past rice paddies, water buffalo, and quaint villages. Opt for a manual raft piloted by a local for an authentic touch.

Cycling Through the Countryside

Rent a bike and explore Yangshuo’s rural backroads. The Ten-Mile Gallery route is a favorite, winding through fields and small farms with jaw-dropping mountain backdrops. Stop by the iconic Moon Hill for a quick photo op or a challenging hike to the arch’s summit.

West Street at Night

Cap off the day with a stroll down West Street (Xi Jie), Yangshuo’s bustling pedestrian hub. This lively strip is packed with cafes, souvenir shops, and street performers. Grab a craft beer at a rooftop bar or sample local dishes like beer fish (píjiǔ yú) and sticky rice bamboo wraps.

Day 2: Adventure and Local Culture

Rock Climbing in the Karsts

Yangshuo is a global rock-climbing mecca, with over 300 bolted routes. Beginners can take a half-day lesson with local guides, while seasoned climbers can tackle classics like "White Mountain" or "The Egg." The views from the cliffs are unbeatable.

Cooking Class with a Local Family

Dive into Guangxi’s culinary scene with a hands-on cooking class. Visit a village market to pick fresh ingredients, then learn to make regional specialties like stir-fried river snails (chǎo tiánluó) or Guilin rice noodles. It’s a delicious way to connect with local traditions.

Cormorant Fishing Show

As dusk falls, join a cormorant fishing demonstration on the Li River. Fishermen have used these trained birds for centuries, and though it’s now mostly for tourists, the spectacle of the birds diving for fish under lantern light is magical.

Impression Liu Sanjie Show

End the night with Impression Liu Sanjie, a mesmerizing outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou. Set against the river and mountains, this light-and-music spectacle brings local Zhuang minority folklore to life.

Day 3: Hidden Gems and Relaxation

Xingping Village and the 20-Yuan View

Take a short drive to Xingping, a charming old town frozen in time. Walk its cobbled streets, then head to the riverbank for the famed "20-yuan view" (featured on China’s currency). For a unique perspective, hire a local fisherman for a short raft ride.

Secret Caves and Hot Springs

Venture off the beaten path to the less-visited Silver Cave (Yínzi Yán) or Buddha Water Cave, where you can mud-slide and soak in natural pools. Alternatively, unwind at the nearby Longji Hot Springs, surrounded by lush greenery.

Farm-to-Table Dining

For your final meal, skip the tourist spots and dine at a countryside farmhouse. Many family-run spots offer organic dishes made with homegrown veggies and free-range poultry. Try the bamboo tube rice or taro pork for a true taste of rural Guangxi.

Pro Tips for Your Yangshuo Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting Around: Rent an e-bike for flexibility, or use Didi (China’s Uber) for longer trips.
• Packing Essentials: Hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle (tap water isn’t drinkable).

Yangshuo’s mix of adrenaline-pumping activities, cultural immersion, and serene landscapes ensures every traveler leaves with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re scaling cliffs or sipping tea by the river, this slice of Guangxi is pure magic.