Yangshuo is a small town on the Li River, south of Guilin, an hour or so by road, among steep limestone hills that rise straight out of rice fields and bamboo groves. A Chinese saying holds that Yangshuo’s scenery is better than Guilin’s, and many travelers agree. It’s the best base for a few days of slow travel in southern China.
| County created | 590 |
|---|---|
| Michelin guide | three stars |
| Highest peak | 1,701 m |
| Rivers | Li River (north to south), Yulong River tributary |
| Rail | high-speed station at Xingping |
The hills and the river
Yangshuo County is mostly karst: hills and basins in limestone, with the Li River flowing through it from north to south. The county was established in 590 and named after a local hill. The Michelin travel guide rates the area three stars, its highest rating. In 2020 the county recorded a daily rainfall of 327.7 millimeters in one day, its highest ever, which is a reminder that the rainy season is serious.
The Li River
The Li River is the reason for the postcards. Boat trips run between Guilin and Yangshuo, and shorter sections near Yangshuo, around Xingping, are the most scenic. The river is shallow in the dry season, and boat routes change with water levels, so confirm the day’s routes with your guide.
The Yulong River
The Yulong River, a tributary of the Li, flows through farmland and villages west of the town. It’s quieter than the Li, and it’s best seen by bicycle, on foot or on a small bamboo raft. Go early to avoid the crowds.
Cycling, climbing and villages
Yangshuo has long been a place for cycling between villages, and the cliffs around it are well known with rock climbers. Visit a farm village such as those along the Yulong, and ask your guide to arrange a cooking class or a walk with a local family.
When to go and getting there
Spring and autumn are the best seasons, when there’s less rain and the air is clearer. Summer is hot and humid. A high-speed rail station at Xingping serves the county, and many visitors arrive from Guilin by road or boat. Allow two or three days. See our guides to Guangxi, the Longji rice terraces and Guilin, and our China tours.
Planning Yangshuo with Absolute Asia Tours
Absolute Asia Tours has planned private trips in Asia since 1989. In Yangshuo that means a boat section chosen for the water level, a guide for the villages and the rivers, and a quiet guesthouse rather than a hotel in the busiest street. We’re rated 4.8 out of 5 across about 900 traveler reviews. Tell us your dates and we’ll plan from there.
Sources (read in Chinese, Chinese Wikipedia): 阳朔县, 漓江, 遇龙河. Last checked November 2026.
Yangshuo: FAQ
Is Yangshuo better than Guilin?
A traditional saying ranks Yangshuo’s scenery above Guilin’s. Most travelers see both.
How far is Yangshuo from Guilin?
About an hour by road, or a few hours by boat on the Li River.
How many days do you need in Yangshuo?
Two or three days.
What is the Yulong River?
A tributary of the Li River, flowing through farmland and villages, best seen by bicycle or small raft.
When is the best time to visit Yangshuo?
Spring and autumn.
Does Yangshuo have a train station?
Yes. The high-speed line serves the county through Xingping station.
Photo: chensiyuan, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
