With three days in Yangshuo, it’s possible to enjoy the highlights in town and the surrounding countryside. You also have time to enjoy outdoor activities and learn about local culture. Here are some ways to see and experience the best of Yangshuo in three days.
Day 1: Scenic Highlights
Rent a bike or a scooter, and head out to explore the countryside surrounding Yangshuo. Check out Ten-Mile Gallery and stop at highlights such as Moon Hill, Big Banyan Tree, Butterfly Spring Park, and Totem Ancient Trail. Afterwards, explore one of the many caves in the area, including Silver Cave or Longmen Water Cave.
In the afternoon, explore Xingping ancient town, and then take a motorized boat down a stretch of the Li River. Stay for sunset and watch the ancient practice of cormorant fishing, or climb up Laozhai Mountain. Spend the evening back in Yangshuo, exploring West Street, the oldest and most famous street in town. Shop for souvenirs, and eat a dinner of local favorites such as Guilin rice noodles or Yangshuo beer fish. Enjoy after-dinner drinks at one of the many bars on and around West Street.
Day 2: Active Explorations
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out for an active morning or day. Try your hand at rock climbing—the limestone walls around Yangshuo are world-class. Alternatively, go hiking or biking around the vast countryside. Guided options are available to help with route finding. For a quieter day, stay in town and try a cooking class, calligraphy class, fan painting class, or Chinese class. Afterwards, head to the Yulong River and enjoy a leisurely cruise on a bamboo raft. See famous bridges such as Yulong Bridge and Fuli Bridge.
Head back to Yangshuo and spend some time exploring the attractions in town, such as Yangshuo Park and Green Lotus Peak. End the evening watching Impressions Sanjie Liu, a show directed by Zhang Yimou. The theater performance uses the Li River as a stage and the mountains as a backdrop.
Day 3: Mountains and Tea Plantations
Get an early start and head out to Xianggong Mountain for views of the karst-dominated countryside. Afterwards, head over to Seven Faeries Peak Tea Plantation, where you can pick tea leaves and kumquats (in season). Then enjoy tea and learn all about Chinese tea culture. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to Shitoucheng ancient stone village, a mysterious centuries-old village made out of stone that's perched on top of a hill. Finally, head to Cuiping Hill for a magical sunset. Join a guided tour for a hassle-free experience and to maximize your last day.
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