Li River Source Scenic Area
Experience the 'finest scenery under heaven' along the Li River, with iconic karst mountains and serene cruises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Li River Source Scenic Area
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the 'finest scenery under heaven' along the Li River, with iconic karst mountains and serene cruises.
"The absolutely amazing panoramic views enroute to Yangshuo were the highlight of our China trip."
Book cruises via local agents
Local agents often offer affordable packages for Li River cruises, saving you money and hassle . :ticket:
Capture the 20 RMB view
Head to Xingping for the famous 20 RMB backdrop; it's a quick photo op but worth it . :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Li River Cruise
Guilin to Yangshuo
Drift past breathtaking karst peaks and serene waters, a view often described as 'the finest scenery under heaven.'
20 RMB Note Viewpoint
Xingping Town
Capture the iconic landscape that graces China's 20 yuan banknote – a must-have photo opportunity.
Xingping Ancient Town
Xingping Town
Wander through a charming ancient town that preserves traditional architecture and offers a gateway to stunning river vistas.
Bamboo Rafting
Yulong River
Enjoy a peaceful float on the Yulong River, surrounded by lush green mountains and a tranquil atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Li River Cruise in Advance
Embrace the Karst Landscape Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book cruises via local agents
Local agents often offer affordable packages for Li River cruises, saving you money and hassle. :ticket:
Capture the 20 RMB view
Head to Xingping for the famous 20 RMB backdrop; it's a quick photo op but worth it. :camerawithflash:
Consider a hotel with a view
Many hotels in Yangshuo offer stunning karst mountain views from rooms.+2 :housewithgarden:
Pack comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book cruises via local agents
Local agents often offer affordable packages for Li River cruises, saving you money and hassle. :ticket:
Capture the 20 RMB view
Head to Xingping for the famous 20 RMB backdrop; it's a quick photo op but worth it. :camerawithflash:
Consider a hotel with a view
Many hotels in Yangshuo offer stunning karst mountain views from rooms.+2 :housewithgarden:
Pack comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Try bamboo rafting
A serene experience on the Yulong River, offering a different perspective of the landscape. :bamboo:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking, almost surreal beauty of the Li River's karst landscapes, often calling it a highlight of their China trip. The iconic 20 RMB viewpoint and serene bamboo rafting experiences are frequently praised. However, some find the main cruise boats can be crowded, and the focus at certain spots is solely on photo opportunities.
"Boating in Li river is a must do thing in China in my opinion. The absolutely amazing panoramic views enroute to Yangshuozhen were the highlight of our China trip. One of those views also appears in the Chinese currency notes. It is a few hours trip from Guilin but it is absolutely worth it."
Vijay Joshi
"Fantastic place of visitation....we took a 1.5 hour cruise along the Lijiang river and were captivated by the soothing views of knolls surrounding both banks of the river....it has left an indelible print in my mind. It was a superb outing, and i would recommend that foreign visitors book this outing with a local travel agent, who will arrange everything for you at an affordable cost."
DENNIS TAN
"There is many things to do in this area. Boat ride, hike shopping and F&B. One of the must do thing is to take a photo with the 20 RMB background scene. Xianggongshan Scenic Spot is only a short distance away."
Julian Wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to experience the Li River is by taking a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. You can opt for a large tourist boat or a smaller bamboo raft. High-speed trains also connect Guilin and Yangshuo, making it easy to combine destinations.
High-speed trains are a fast and efficient option, taking about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a scenic cruise down the Li River, which takes several hours but offers incredible views.
Yangshuo town is quite walkable, and you can rent bicycles or electric scooters to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions like the Ten-Mile Gallery.
Yes, Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) serves domestic and some international flights, making it a convenient starting point for your Li River adventure.
The 20 RMB viewpoint is located near Xingping town. You can reach Xingping by bus from Yangshuo or by taking a cruise that stops there. Some travelers mention it's a short distance from where you get off the car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary depending on the type of boat and duration. Large cruise ships are generally more expensive than bamboo rafts. Booking through local travel agents can often secure better rates.
It's highly recommended to book your cruise tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and potentially get better prices.
The Li River itself is a natural landscape and doesn't have a general entrance fee. However, you will need to pay for boat tours or cruises to experience it from the water.
Cruises typically operate throughout the day, with departures usually starting in the morning and the last ones in the afternoon. It's best to check specific schedules with your chosen tour operator.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or during off-peak seasons. Booking through a local travel agent might also yield package deals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The iconic Li River cruise is a must, offering stunning karst mountain views.+1 Don't miss the 20 RMB viewpoint in Xingping,
and consider bamboo rafting on the Yulong River for a more serene experience.
It's a specific vista along the Li River, near Xingping, that is depicted on China's 20 yuan banknote. It's a popular spot for photos.
Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River offers a peaceful and scenic journey through lush landscapes, often with fewer crowds than the main Li River cruise.
Yes, there are opportunities for hiking, especially around Yangshuo. Xianggongshan Scenic Spot is mentioned as a nearby hiking location with great views.
Expect dramatic karst mountains, emerald green waters, and picturesque rural landscapes. The scenery is often described as otherworldly and like a painting.+1
📸 📸 Photography
The Li River cruise itself offers endless photo opportunities.+1 The 20 RMB viewpoint in Xingping is iconic,
and viewpoints like Xianggongshan Scenic Spot provide panoramic vistas.
Early mornings often have mist that adds a magical quality to the karst mountains. Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light.
A good smartphone camera is sufficient for most travelers, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more creative control, especially in varying light conditions.
Besides the 20 RMB viewpoint, many travelers recommend capturing the reflections of the karst mountains in the water, especially during calm mornings.
Some visitors enjoy dressing in Hanfu for photos, adding a unique cultural element to their travel memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring Yangshuo town itself can be fun for families, with opportunities to rent bicycles (with child seats available) and cycle through the flatter areas like the Ten-Mile Gallery.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider using public buses for transportation between Guilin and Yangshuo, which is significantly cheaper than high-speed trains. Renting bicycles in Yangshuo is also a very affordable way to explore the surrounding countryside and attractions like the Ten-Mile Gallery. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money on daily expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider taking a bamboo raft on the Yulong River for a more intimate and less crowded photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Li River Cruise Experience
Many travelers highlight the sheer beauty and tranquility of the cruise. The karst formations, sculpted over millions of years, create a surreal, almost dreamlike panorama. The reflections of these peaks in the often-calm waters add to the visual spectacle. Some videos showcase the mist that often hangs over the mountains, particularly in the early morning, enhancing the ethereal atmosphere.
For the best experience, consider booking your cruise in advance, especially during peak seasons. Local travel agents can often arrange packages that include transportation and the cruise at a reasonable price.
Yangshuo: Beyond the River
Accommodation in Yangshuo often boasts incredible views. Several hotels and guesthouses are situated to offer direct vistas of the surrounding karst mountains, turning your room into a personal scenic lookout.
Beyond the town, the Ten-Mile Gallery (Shili Hualang) is a must-visit area. This scenic route is perfect for cycling or electric scooter rides, allowing you to discover hidden valleys, rice paddies, and smaller karst formations at your own pace.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
For the best photographic results, timing is key. Early mornings are often shrouded in mist, creating an ethereal and moody atmosphere that beautifully drapes the karst mountains.
Beyond the famous viewpoints, don't hesitate to experiment. Capture the reflections of the mountains in the water, the textures of the karst rock formations, and the daily life along the river. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the natural beauty of the Li River is sure to impress. Some travelers even enjoy incorporating traditional Chinese attire, like Hanfu, into their photos for a unique cultural touch.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit