Yangshuo is a county under the administration of Guilin, Guangxi. It lies about 65 kilometres south of downtown Guilin. As the famous saying goes, “Guilin’s scenery tops the world, yet Yangshuo outshines the rest of Guilin.” It is a world-famous tourist destination, one of China’s first National All-for-One Tourism Demonstration Zones, and the Yulong River National Tourist Resort.
Established as a county in the 10th year of the Kaihuang reign of the Sui Dynasty (590 AD), Yangshuo has a history of over 1,400 years. Covering an area of around 1,436 square kilometres, it administers six towns and three townships and is home to ethnic groups including the Han, Zhuang and Yao peoples. Boasting typical karst peak-forest landforms, it features isolated limestone peaks rising from flat ground surrounded by clear rivers. The landscape is celebrated for green hills, crystal-clear waters, magical caves and exquisite rocks. The line from Han Yu’s poem — “The river is a silk ribbon of emerald green; the hills are jade hairpins” — perfectly depicts its beauty.
Key Attractions
Essential Section of the Li River (Yangdi‑Xingping): Home to Nine-Horse Mural Hill and Yellow Cloth Reflection. The landscape printed on the back of the 20‑yuan RMB note is located in Xingping. Boat cruises are available here.
Yulong River: Known as “the Little Li River”. Man-powered bamboo rafting amid idyllic rural scenery is a signature Yangshuo experience.
West Street: An ancient street with a blend of Chinese and Western styles, packed with bars, snack stalls and boutique shops. It is especially lively at night.
Ten-Mile Gallery: A scenic road lined with spectacular karst peaks. Renting an electric scooter to explore is popular. Attractions along the way include the Big Banyan Tree, Butterfly Spring and Moon Hill.
Xingping Ancient Town: A quiet riverside old town ideal for leisurely walks.
Performances: Impression Sanjie Liu (outdoor landscape show), Romance of Guilin.
Climate & Travel Tips
It has a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of about 19°C. Yangshuo is suitable for visits all year round. Spring and autumn are pleasant; summer brings frequent rain; winters are mild. Renting an electric scooter is the most popular way to get around. Yangshuo High‑Speed Railway Station is in Xingping, roughly a 40‑minute ride from Yangshuo County town.
Local Specialties & Cuisine
Beer Fish, Stuffed River Snails, Lipu Taro Braised Pork, Guilin Rice Noodles, Wormwood Cakes. Local produce includes Yangshuo kumquats, Shatian pomelos and pine flower candy.
If you need, I can translate a 2‑3‑day travel itinerary for Yangshuo.
