Yangshuo Ultimate Guide: From the 20 Yuan Scenic Spot to the Yulong River, Unlocking the "Traveling in a Painting" Experience

"Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven, and Yangshuo surpasses Guilin"—karst peaks stand like natural screens, encircling this small town that embodies the soul of the Li River and idyllic poetry. Only by coming here can you truly understand the meaning of "traveling in a painting." 🚄 Instant Escape: High-Speed Rail Straight to the Scenery The Guiyang-Guangzhou high-speed rail runs right through Yangshuo, with just a 2-hour ride from Yangshuo Station to Guangzhou! From the station, it's an 8-minute dash to Xingping Ancient Town, with shuttle buses seamlessly connecting to the county town—transportation so smooth you don’t even need to think. When crossing the Xingfuyuan Reservoir Bridge by high-speed rail, remember to look out the right window 2 minutes after leaving the station—the view of the "Fuxing train piercing through thousands of peaks" will blow up your social media feed. 🌟 Classic Two-Day Itinerary: Immersing in the Scenery **Day 1: Ancient Town Charm + Li River Magic** - **Xingping Ancient Town**: Stroll along bluestone-paved alleys, and in just 10 minutes, you’ll reach the 20 Yuan RMB scenic spot. Hold up a bill to match the view—the reflection of Huangbu Shoal and Nine-Horse Mural Mountain ripple like an ink painting, with even the breeze carrying ancient charm. - **Li River Bamboo Rafting**: Opt for the Xingping to Nine-Horse Mural Mountain section. Drift leisurely on the bamboo raft, watching the peaks plunge into the water until you can’t tell mountain from reflection. The boatman’s folk songs will lift your spirits. - **West Street at Night**: Head to West Street by evening, lured by the aroma of beer fish. Handicrafts glimmer, and live folk music blends with laughter in the bars—a perfect fusion of East and West. **Day 2: Countryside Adventure + Scenic Feast** - **Ten-Mile Gallery Cycling**: Rent an e-bike for 50 yuan and weave through rice fields and karst peaks. Pass by Moon Hill, where the natural moon-shaped arch shifts from crescent to full—like a celestial toy hung on the mountain. - **Yulong River Rafting**: The "Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian" section (240 yuan/raft) is a must! Navigate 28 weirs with splashing waves—the "Little Li River" is so clear you can count the stones, earning its title as a "world-class treasure." - **"Impression·Liu Sanjie"**: Zhang Yimou truly understands landscapes! With the Li River as the stage and 12 peaks as the backdrop, Zhuang folk tales unfold under lights that climb the mountains, turning even the stars into spectators. 🚴 Hidden Gems: Locals' Favorites - **Xianggong Mountain Sunrise**: A 20-minute hike rewards you with a view of the Li River’s first bend, where sea of clouds swirl around peaks, and sunrise gilds the water—photographers won’t want to leave. - **Fuli Bridge’s Ancient Charm**: The Ming Dynasty stone arch bridge casts a full-moon reflection on the water. Standing on the bridge, the Yulong River winds like a jade ribbon—a 100% photogenic spot. - **Jiuxian Village Exploration**: Discover the Tang Dynasty ruins of Guiyi County by the river, lined with old houses featuring blue-brick gables—the essence of northern Guangxi architecture, hailed by Harvard scholars as "China’s most beautiful village." 🍜 Flavor Explosion: Taste Yangshuo’s Memories 1. **Beer Fish**: Crispy-fried Li River carp simmered in beer until the sauce thickens—scales crunchy, flesh tender and juicy! Master Chef and Sister Xie’s are local favorites. 2. **Guilin Rice Noodles**: Pan’s Noodles’ braised sauce is intoxicating, and Ritianhuo offers hearty portions. Eat it dry first, then add broth—the authentic Yangshuo way. 3. **Stuffed Snails**: Minced pork and mint stuffed back into shells—a daring but unforgettable delicacy. 4. **Bamboo Tube Rice/Cauldron Rice**: Rice cooked over a wood fire in Shilong Village, infused with bamboo fragrance, paired with a Li River fish—simple yet nostalgic. 🏡 Stay Comfortably + Pro Tips - Book early in peak season! Stay near West Street for vibes (Banyan Tree for luxury) or riverside B&Bs for tranquility (150-300 yuan/person, with mountain views). - Best time: April-October, when post-rain Yangshuo wears mist like a veil, turning every shot into an ink painting. - Smart move: Rent an e-bike for easy access to nearby sights. Buy "Impression·Liu Sanjie" tickets 2 hours early—center seats offer the best views.