Rock climbing in YangShuo 阳朔

GuangXi province in south China. A very picturesque place, with thousands of tall karst limestone hills.

Yangshuo, situated in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes, serene rivers, and vibrant local culture. Here's a guide for visitors to Yangshuo:

Natural Beauty:
Karst Mountains: Yangshuo is famous for its iconic karst mountains, which rise sharply from the surrounding plains, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. Visitors can explore these unique limestone formations by hiking, biking, or taking boat cruises along the Li River.

Li River: The Li River, one of China's most scenic waterways, meanders through the karst mountains of Yangshuo, offering stunning vistas at every turn. A leisurely boat cruise along the Li River is a must-do activity for visitors, providing opportunities to admire the breathtaking scenery and capture iconic views of the karst peaks reflected in the water.

Yulong River: The Yulong River, a tributary of the Li River, is another picturesque waterway that flows through Yangshuo's countryside. Visitors can enjoy bamboo rafting or kayaking on the Yulong River, passing through idyllic villages, rice paddies, and bamboo groves along the way.

Outdoor Activities:
Cycling: Yangshuo is a cyclist's paradise, with scenic countryside roads and trails that wind through rice fields, orchards, and traditional villages. Renting a bicycle and exploring the surrounding countryside at a leisurely pace is a popular activity for visitors.

Rock Climbing: With its towering karst cliffs and limestone peaks, Yangshuo is a premier rock climbing destination in China. Experienced climbers and beginners alike can find suitable routes and climbing spots in the area, with options for guided tours and equipment rental available.

Cultural Experiences:
West Street: West Street (Xi Jie) is the main thoroughfare in Yangshuo's town center and a hub of activity for tourists and locals alike. Lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, West Street offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and soak in the town's unique charm.

Impression Sanjie Liu: Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, Impression Sanjie Liu is a spectacular outdoor performance staged on the Li River. Featuring a cast of hundreds of performers, including local fishermen and farmers, the show combines music, dance, and light effects to showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.

Practical Tips:
Weather: Yangshuo has a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is most pleasant and the landscapes are lush and green.

Accommodation: Yangshuo offers a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and hostels catering to various budgets and preferences. Staying in the town center allows visitors to easily access attractions, restaurants, and transportation options.

Local Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to sample Yangshuo's delicious local cuisine, which includes specialties such as beer fish and Guilin rice noodles. Many restaurants in Yangshuo offer outdoor seating with panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape.

Yangshuo's stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene make it a popular destination for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of southern China. Whether cruising along the Li River, cycling through the countryside, or immersing oneself in the town's bustling street life, Yangshuo offers unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.

GuangXi map

Featured Videos

MuTianYu 慕田峪 Great Wall 长城 trip

Near Beijing. Filmed in 2012 ...

Hiking trip to the ‘Big Peak’ (5025m), Mount SiGuNiang 四姑娘山

Mount SiGuNiang, in SiChuan province, is famous for its beautiful scenery. The surrounding area is reputed to be the "Oriental Alps". Mount SiGuNiang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park comprises Mount SiGuNiang and the surrounding three valleys, namely ChangPing Valley (长坪沟), HaiZi Valley (海子沟) and ShuangQiao Valley (双桥沟), covering an area of 2,000 square kilometers. Mount Siguniang

Hong Kong riots – foreign hands

What started supposedly as a protest over a mundane and non-controversial bill (now long abandoned) that would only truly concern serious criminals, HK is now gripped by violence. But would real protesters seek to destroy their own city and its international reputation, even targeting tourists, and raise foreign flags ? It is very clear that there is much more to it, and the non-violent 'protestors' are being used. All the cancelled flights will have lost millions of dollars. But the long-term losses are far greater - it might take 10 years for the city to recover, or, put another way, it might well never really regain what it could have been. These riots are not in the interests of HK; they are in the interests of external powers.

LuoYang ancient town, HeNan province

With VisitHenan ... With Wandering The World ... Visitor guide to LuoYang, HeNan province Getting There By Air: LuoYang Beijiao Airport (LYA) offers flights to major cities in China. The airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to your destination. By Train: LuoYang is well-connected by rail, with services to major cities such as Beijing, Xi'an, and Zhengzhou. The high-speed rail network makes travel convenient and efficient. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect LuoYang with other cities in HeNan and neighboring provinces. The LuoYang Long-Distance Bus Station is the main hub for these services. Accommodation LuoYang offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some recommended options include: Luxury: Hyatt Place LuoYang, Peony Plaza Hotel Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express LuoYang City Center, Jinjiang Inn LuoYang Train Station Budget: LuoYang Youth Hostel, various local guesthouses Attractions and Activities Historical and Cultural Sites Longmen Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Longmen Grottoes feature thousands of Buddha statues and inscriptions carved into limestone cliffs. This site is a must-visit for its historical and artistic significance. White Horse Temple: Known as the first Buddhist temple in China, White Horse Temple offers a serene environment with beautiful architecture and gardens. LuoYang Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of LuoYang, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Natural Attractions Peony Festival: LuoYang is famous for its peonies. The annual Peony Festival, held in April, showcases the city’s beautiful peony gardens in full bloom. Baiyun Mountain: Located about 70 kilometers from LuoYang, Baiyun Mountain offers stunning natural scenery and hiking trails. Modern Attractions LuoYang Old Town: Wander through the ancient streets of LuoYang Old Town, where you can find traditional shops, local snacks, and historical buildings. WangCheng Park: A popular urban park, Wangcheng Park features beautiful gardens, lakes, and recreational facilities. Dining and Local Specialties LuoYang boasts a diverse culinary scene with traditional HeNan cuisine and local specialties. Some must-try dishes include: Water Banquet: A traditional banquet featuring various dishes, often served in a liquid or semi-liquid form. It is a unique culinary experience. LuoYang Noodles: Known for their rich flavor and variety, these noodles are a local staple. Peony Cake: A local delicacy made with peony petals, offering a unique and fragrant taste. Shopping Night Markets: Explore the bustling night markets in LuoYang for a variety of street food, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. Shopping Malls: Modern shopping centers like Wanda Plaza and LuoYang Mall offer a wide range of international and local brands. Local Handicrafts: Look for traditional HeNan crafts such as paper-cutting, embroidery, and ceramics. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LuoYang are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. Summers can be hot, and winters can be quite cold, so pack accordingly. Language: While Mandarin is the official language, some locals may speak the HeNan dialect. It's helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook if you don't speak Mandarin. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Conclusion LuoYang, the capital of HeNan Province, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient grottoes, visiting historic temples, or savoring local cuisine, LuoYang promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.