Listen to this articleYangshuo, a picturesque town in Guilin, China, is a popular destination for adventure seekers and language learners. With its breathtaking landscape, rich culture, and diverse activities, Yangshuo has something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do in Yangshuo that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.
Rock Climbing
Yangshuo is known as the rock climbing capital of China, with thousands of limestone karsts offering perfect climbing routes. Climbers from all over the world come to Yangshuo to scale its near-perfect climbing routes. There are plenty of English-speaking rock climbing guides and groups in Yangshuo, making it easy for visitors to give it a try.
Bamboo Rafting
Follow the roads leading south out of town, and you’ll enter the Yu Long River Scenic Area. Here, you’ll find bamboo rafts floating by, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Board a bamboo raft, sit back, and relax as you float down the river.
Li River Cruise
Board a yacht and take a leisurely cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo. This is one of the most popular ways to arrive in Yangshuo, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and scenery.
Tai Chi Class
Tucked away in an old village near the Yu Long river is Yangshuo’s Traditional Tai Chi School. Kung Fu and Tai Chi masters live here, providing lessons in English. You can enroll in their school long-term or join a one-hour class to learn this ancient martial art.
Cooking Class
Chinese cooking instructors with the Yangshuo Cooking School will teach you how to cook delicious Chinese recipes. They’ll guide you to a local market to buy fresh ingredients, then take you to their school in a quiet countryside location near the Yu Long River. Enjoy a meal together afterward.
Learn Chinese
Omeida Chinese Academy in Yangshuo offers language courses for foreigners interested in studying Chinese. They provide courses for all language levels and durations, from one week to one year. Staying in their dorms can be cheaper than staying in a hotel, and they offer volunteer positions for students or non-students who want to receive free food and accommodation during their time in Yangshuo.
Explore West Street
West Street is the heart of Yangshuo’s entertainment, shopping, and dining scene. It’s not just a street but an entire area filled with bars, clubs, local restaurants, international restaurants, hotels, hostels, and shops. Spend time exploring this bustling area and experience the local culture.
Visit Xing Ping
Xing Ping is an ancient village located along the Li River, known for its picturesque views of Yangshuo and Guilin. The village has been renovated with small shops and restaurants for travelers to browse before visiting the scenic area along the river. Take a 45-minute bus ride from Yangshuo Bus Station to get there.
Hike a Mountain
Yangshuo is surrounded by karst mountains, offering breathtaking views from the top. The most popular mountain to hike is the TV Tower mountain near West Street, which gives a great view of the West Street area along the Li River. Another popular mountain is Husband Mountain, or Xianggong Shan, which requires a fee for entry but offers incredible views of the Li River.
Explore Caves
Yangshuo is home to many incredible caves, including the famous Silver Cave, Gold Water Cave, and Assembling Dragon Cave. Some caves require a ticket, but local favorites like Treasure Cave can be found without one. Ask around and explore to find this hidden gem.
