YANGSHUO
Few places in China are as instantly recognisable as Yangshuo, where limestone peaks rise above winding rivers, rice fields and traditional villages. Beyond the familiar panoramas, country lanes lead through hidden valleys and reveal the rhythms of rural life. We venture beyond the usual sightseeing routes to explore at a more personal pace: drifting along the Yulong River, following paths beside the Li River, discovering the countryside by sidecar or stopping at a village coffee shop beneath the karst peaks.
Despite its popularity, Yangshuo remains an excellent destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Knowing where to go and when to visit makes all the difference, opening up opportunities to enjoy its landscapes and activities away from the busiest spots.
PLACES TO EXPLORE
YANGSHUO
Set among the iconic karst peaks of Guangxi, Yangshuo is a world of winding rivers, emerald hills and patchwork fields, where water buffalo graze beside ancient stone bridges. Beyond the lively town, country lanes lead to riverside villages, traditional farming communities and striking rock formations, revealing a rural character that endures alongside its international appeal.
One of China’s finest destinations for outdoor exploration, Yangshuo invites discovery by bicycle, on foot, by scooter or sidecar, and from the water.
Suggested stay: 2–4 days
LONGJI RICE TERRACES
Carved into steep mountain slopes over centuries, the Longji Rice Terraces sweep from flooded fields in spring to vivid green in summer and golden hues at harvest. The area centres on two villages, each offering a different perspective.
Ping’an, a traditional Zhuang village, nestles among the terraces, with stone paths leading to scenic viewpoints. Further into the mountains, Dazhai, a Red Yao village, offers wider views across the terraced slopes and trails connecting scattered settlements. A cable car provides an alternative to the climb, with panoramic views from above.
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
RURAL HIDEAWAYS
Beyond Yangshuo’s main highlights, characterful rural stays offer another perspective on the region. Along the Li River, a renovated family residence sits amid dramatic karst scenery, with riverside paths, local ferries and opportunities to connect with village life close at hand. Further north, near the Longji Rice Terraces, a traditional mountain home provides a base for walking between rice fields, meeting residents and discovering communities shaped by their mountain surroundings.
Suggested stay: 1–2 days in each destination
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation ranges from striking contemporary architecture to intimate countryside properties set among limestone peaks and farmland. We select each for its character, setting and atmosphere, whether you prefer design-led comfort close to town or a secluded base immersed in the landscape.
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
From riverside hideaways framed by karst peaks to mountain lodges overlooking rice fields, our handpicked boutique hotels reflect the distinct character of their surroundings.
HOMESTAYS
Stay closer to local life in traditional renovated homes. While comforts may be simpler, the opportunity to connect with the place and its people is part of the appeal.
EXCEPTIONAL HOTELS
Whilefew in number, these standout properties are selected for their setting, design and attentive service, combining distinctive architecture with a memorable sense of place.
BY FOOT & ON THE WATER
Follow riverside paths or climb narrow trails to sweeping viewpoints above Yangshuo’s dramatic karst peaks. At the Longji Rice Terraces, walks range from stone-paved village paths to mountain trails winding between settlements and rice paddies. On the Yulong or Li River, bamboo rafting offers another perspective, from celebrated stretches beneath towering peaks to less-travelled bends where the scenery unfolds at a more personal pace. For those wishing to explore further on foot, we can design multi-day walking journeys linking villages, mountain trails and rural landscapes.
ON TWO OR THREE WHEELS
Discover Yangshuo along winding country lanes, past rural outposts and through patchwork fields, stopping wherever something catches your eye. Set off independently by bicycle or scooter with a personalised route handbook, or venture further on a GPS-equipped electric pedal-assist bike. For a more characterful outing, take the backroads by vintage motorcycle sidecar and experience the countryside at a more leisurely pace.
LOCAL & CULTURAL IMMERSION
Beyond the limestone peaks and rice terraces, discover Guangxi through its regional cuisine, traditional crafts and encounters with local communities. Visit a market, take part in a private cooking session or learn the art of bamboo paper-making. You might also join local hosts to harvest fresh bamboo shoots and prepare a home-cooked lunch.
As evening falls, experience Impression Sanjie Liu, an extraordinary open-air performance where music, movement and light transform the Li River and its dramatic limestone peaks into a natural stage.
SELF-GUIDED ESCAPES
Well-established as a destination, Yangshuo is ideal for independent exploration, with many of its best experiences easily enjoyed without a guide. A personalised handbook helps you navigate the region and make the most of each day, while our 24/7 WeChat concierge provides practical advice and assistance whenever needed.
Explore at your own pace, with the essential logistics arranged and support always within reach.
.jpg/:/)
GUIDE TO PRICING
Every Yangshuo programme is tailored to your interests, travel style and budget, with a Personal Explorer, private transport, meals and your choice of accommodation. As each journey is individually designed, pricing varies according to your preferences and arrangements.
Indicative pricing: RMB 1,200–2,400+ per person per day, depending on group size and programme specifications. Rates are generally lower for groups of six or more and higher for two travellers. Prices assume two people sharing a room. Our Self-Guided Escapes offer a more affordable alternative, with essential arrangements, a personalised handbook and 24/7 WeChat support.
Travelling with children? Children under 6 travel free of charge, while children aged 6–12 receive a 10% discount on the per-person programme price.