Cycling in Yangshuo: Discover a Poetic Slow Life Amidst Mountains and Rivers

Cycling in Yangshuo is absolutely amazing! Picture yourself surrounded by picturesque landscapes, and tantalizing cuisine. This experience is simply unbeatable. Without further ado, here's your guide 👇 🗺 Cycling Route Planning There are two main cycling routes. I highly recommend starting from Yangshuo County, and cycling along the Yulong River. The scenery along this route is breathtaking, and the terrain is relatively flat, making it perfect for beginners. About 5 km from the county seat, you'll reach Yulong Bridge. This ancient stone bridge, with its rich history, spans the Yulong River, creating a picturesque scene with the surrounding mountains and rivers. Every photo you take here will be a masterpiece 📸 The other route is the Ten Mile Gallery. This route resembles a natural ink painting, showcasing idyllic countryside scenery. Vast rice paddies sway gently in the breeze, as if time itself has slowed down. 🌅 Must-See Scenic Spots Along the Way Yulong River This is the heart and soul of cycling in Yangshuo. The crystal-clear river water reveals small fish and shrimp swimming below. Cycling along the riverbank, with a gentle breeze and a hint of mist, is incredibly relaxing. Find a spot to stop, and hop on a boat to experience the poetic charm of "drifting on azure waves, immersed in a painted landscape." Ten Mile Gallery This place is like a giant natural park, with a series of unique peaks. Notable attractions include Camel Crossing the River and Moon Hill. From different angles, Moon Hill appears to change shape, creating a magical experience. There are also many pavilions along the way, perfect for resting and enjoying the surrounding scenery. Old County Village (Jiu Xian Cun) This is a well-preserved ancient village, with Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. The black tiles and white walls exude an antique charm. Stepping into the village feels like traveling back in time. Here, you can experience traditional rural life, and embrace the tranquility and peace. Beyond these famous attractions, the true joy lies in the leisurely cycling experience itself. 🍱 A Culinary Feast Along the Way Yangshuo Beer Fish This is Yangshuo's signature dish, a must-try when you're here! Made with fresh fish from the Li River, simmered in beer, the fish is tender and without any fishy smell. The beer's aroma permeates the fish, creating a rich and unforgettable flavor. You can find authentic beer fish at any riverside restaurant. Guilin Rice Noodles Guilin rice noodles are also readily available in Yangshuo. The smooth and chewy noodles, topped with marinade, barbecued pork, crispy skin, and other ingredients, plus a spoonful of chili oil, create a truly delicious dish. Start your day with a steaming bowl of Guilin rice noodles for a burst of energy. Lipu Taro with Braised Pork This dish is another Yangshuo specialty. The soft and glutinous Lipu taro, steamed with streaky pork, absorbs the meat's richness, becoming even more flavorful. The pork, in turn, loses some of its greasiness. The combination of the two creates a rich and satisfying dish. Various Local Snacks Along the cycling route, you'll find many stalls selling local snacks, such as mugwort cakes and water chestnut cakes. Mugwort cakes have a subtle herbal aroma and a soft, sweet taste, while water chestnut cakes offer a refreshing sweetness and a distinct water chestnut flavor. Both are definitely worth trying. Bike Rental Options Bike Types Electric bikes and regular bicycles are available. Electric bikes are less strenuous, suitable for long-distance cycling. Regular bicycles offer more exercise. Choose based on your fitness level and preference. Rental Locations Inquire about bike rentals at your hotel or guesthouse. You can also find rental shops near West Street and Fengming Parking Lot. During the off-season, electric bikes typically cost CNY 20–30 per day, and regular bicycles cost CNY 15–20 per day. Prices may increase during peak season. Check the Bike Before renting, carefully check the brakes, tires, and battery level (for electric bikes). If you find any issues, ask for a replacement.