Yangshuo Travel Guide: Li River Cruise & Karst Mountains

China's most EPIC landscape - Yangshuo

Destination:ChinaProvince:GuangxiCity:Yangshuo
China's most EPIC landscape - Yangshuo
Alina2025-03-1610 min

They say in Yangshuo you can find the most epic landscapes of China. Yangshuo is rich on ancient traditions such as the unique cormorant fishermen technique.

The landscapes of Yangshuo and its unique karst mountains are so famous, they ended up on the 20 Yuan bill. In this guide through Yangshuo I will take you through the county, from the center of Yangshuo, to Xingping, a stunning Mountain View and a boat ride along the Li River. Let's discover Yangshuo!

--- Alina
March 16, 2025, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Yangshuo introduction
  2. 0:28Yangshuo history
  3. 1:01Exploring Xingping
  4. 1:42Cormorant fishing
  5. 3:07Mountain hike
  6. 5:03West Street
  7. 6:03Yulong River walk
  8. 7:02Local breakfast
  9. 9:38River boat tour

Alina explores Yangshuo's stunning karst mountains and ancient fishing traditions, creating an unforgettable Chinese adventure.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Explore Xingping, famous for its iconic landscapes featured on the 20 Yuan banknote. Enjoy the local cuisine and handmade crafts, and take a walk along the river for amazing views of the karst mountains. (1:01)
  2. Tip 2Witness the unique cormorant fishing tradition in Xingping. This centuries-old technique is now primarily a tourist attraction, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into local history and culture. (1:42)
  3. Tip 3Hike to a mountain peak for spectacular views of the Yangshuo area. The climb is challenging but the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort. (3:07)
  4. Tip 4Explore West Street, Yangshuo's vibrant cultural and social heart. Discover traditional architecture, browse handicrafts, savor delicious local cuisine, and experience the lively atmosphere, especially at night. (5:03)
  5. Tip 5Take a peaceful walk along the Yulong River, enjoying the serene beauty of the rice and tea fields. Consider renting a bicycle or electric bike for a more independent exploration of the area. (6:03)
  6. Tip 6Sample a traditional local breakfast. The tea-infused soup, fried rice, and wheat balls may be an unusual experience for some, but it offers a unique insight into local culinary traditions. (7:02)
  7. Tip 7Take a motorized boat tour along the river for stunning views. An afternoon tour is recommended to enjoy the beautiful sunset views on your return journey. (9:38)

Alina's Yangshuo adventure unveils China's epic landscapes, from the iconic karst mountains featured on the 20 Yuan bill to the unique cormorant fishing tradition on the Li River. Explore ancient towns, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and experience the vibrant nightlife of West Street. A journey through cultural highlights and unexpected discoveries awaits!

More about the current video:( 9 / 9 )

China's most EPIC landscape - Yangshuo

This travelogue follows Alina's captivating journey through Yangshuo, a town renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The video begins with an introduction to Yangshuo's history, tracing its roots back to the Sui Dynasty and highlighting its significance as a cultural and trade hub along the Li River.

Alina's exploration takes her to Xingping, a village famous for its iconic landscapes featured on the 20 Yuan banknote. She describes the charming town, its restaurants serving local cuisine, and the handmade crafts available in its shops. A stroll along the river provides stunning views of the karst mountains.

The unique cormorant fishing tradition of Xingping is a central focus. Alina vividly recounts witnessing the fishermen and their birds, detailing the centuries-old technique and expressing her mixed feelings about the practice. While acknowledging its historical significance, she also highlights the apparent limitations on the birds' freedom.

Alina's adventure continues with a challenging but rewarding hike to a mountain peak offering panoramic views of the area. She notes the unusual trust-based payment system at a water stop along the trail, a surprising contrast to her experiences elsewhere in China.

The exploration of Yangshuo's West Street, the town's cultural and social heart, is another highlight. Alina describes its blend of traditional architecture and modern influences, the shops selling handicrafts, and the delicious local cuisine. She encourages viewers to experience the street's vibrant nightlife, possibly even catching a cultural festival.

The second day of Alina's trip features a walk along the Yulong River, a peaceful escape from the busy roads. She observes rice and tea fields, highlighting the importance of tea in the region and sharing details about a unique local breakfast featuring tea-infused soup, fried rice, and wheat balls. Alina also discusses her experience considering a bamboo rafting tour, ultimately deciding against it due to its perceived lack of authenticity and industrialized nature. She invites viewers to share their opinions on similar tourist activities.

The video concludes with a motorized boat tour along the river, offering stunning views and a relaxing end to Alina's Yangshuo adventure. Alina encourages viewers to take an afternoon tour to enjoy the sunset views. Overall, Alina's journey is a blend of cultural immersion, stunning visuals, and personal reflections, offering viewers a unique perspective on Yangshuo's beauty and traditions.

Yangshuo Travel Guide: Li River Cruise & Karst Mountains

They say in Yangshuo you can find the most epic landscapes of China. Yangshuo is rich on ancient traditions such as the unique cormorant fishermen technique. The landscapes of Yangshuo and its unique karst mountains are so famous, they ended up on the 20 Yuan bill. In this guide through Yangshuo I...

Yangshuo Travel Guide: Karst Mountains & Cormorant Fishing

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yangshuo, China, renowned for its iconic karst mountains featured on the 20 Yuan bill. This travel guide takes you on a captivating journey through Yangshuo County, from its vibrant center to the picturesque village of Xingping. Cruise along the Li River, surrounded by stunning mountain views, and witness the ancient tradition of cormorant fishing. A truly unforgettable experience awaits!

Attractions in this video: Karst Mountains, Li River, Yulong River, West Street, Xingping Village