Getting to Yangshuo & Getting Around
Your complete guide to reaching Yangshuo and exploring the area once you arrive. From international flights to renting a scooter for countryside adventures.
Content researched and verified against official local operators and regional tourism sources.
China Travel Update (2026): Visa-free travel expanded to 30+ countries. High-speed rail connections now fully restored to pre-2019 frequency.
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Getting TO Yangshuo
By Air
Fly to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL)
- Direct flights from major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou)
- International connections via Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur
- 90 minutes from airport to Yangshuo by car/bus
- Airport shuttle bus: ¥50 (2 hours)
By High-Speed Train
Arrive at Yangshuo Train Station (getting to Yangshuo Town is easy)
- 2.5 hours from Guangzhou South
- 10 hours from Shanghai Hongqiao
- Station is near Xingping, about 1 hour from Yangshuo town center (not a 30-minute ride)
- Bus from station: ¥20 (~1 hr) | Taxi: ¥100 (~50 min)
By Bus from Guilin
Regular buses from Guilin city center
- About ¥25 from Guilin South Bus Station
- About 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic
- Frequent daytime departures; ask locally when the last bus leaves
- Arrives at Yangshuo Bus Station, a short taxi ride from West Street
By Private Transfer
Convenient door-to-door service
- Pre-book through hotels or travel agencies
- ¥300-500 from Guilin airport
- ¥200-300 from Guilin city
- Most scenic route via riverside road
Guilin to Yangshuo: Train, Li River Cruise or Bus
Most travelers reach Yangshuo through Guilin. The high-speed train is quickest, about 25 minutes from Guilin North, but it stops at Yangshuo Railway Station near Xingping, well outside town. The Li River cruise takes 4 to 5 hours and docks a short walk from West Street. The bus takes longer and costs the least.
High-speed train
Time: About 25 minutes on board
Cost: Roughly ¥25-35 in second class
Board at: Guilin North, which has the most departures
Arrives: Yangshuo Railway Station near Xingping, then a shuttle bus or taxi into town
Suits: Travelers short on time, or already arriving by rail
Li River cruise
Time: 4 to 5 hours on the river, morning departures only
Cost: About ¥215 on a 3-star boat, about ¥360 on a 4-star boat with buffet lunch
Board at: Mopanshan pier (3-star) or Zhujiang pier (4-star), both outside Guilin, so plan a transfer
Arrives: A pier in Yangshuo town, usually Longtoushan, close to West Street
Suits: First-timers happy to make the river their sightseeing day
Bus
Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
Cost: About ¥25
Board at: Guilin South Bus Station
Arrives: Yangshuo Bus Station, a short taxi ride from West Street
Suits: Budget travelers who want one ticket from Guilin to Yangshuo town
Booking: Buy train tickets on the 12306 app or Trip.com; our high-speed rail guide covers stations, seats and the ride itself. Cruise tickets are sold under your real name, so have your passport ready and book ahead. More on boats and seasons in the Li River cruise guide.
Fares and times checked 10 October 2026 against China for Travelers, China Xian Tour and Wander in China. They change often, so confirm on 12306 or with your cruise operator before you travel.
Should I stay a day in Guilin first?
Only if your timing calls for it. A late flight or a long train ride is a good reason to sleep in Guilin and travel on the next morning. Otherwise go straight to Yangshuo: Guilin works well as a day trip from there, about 1.5 to 2 hours each way by bus.
Is it better to stay in Yangshuo or Guilin?
For most travelers Yangshuo is the better base. The town is small and walkable, and rafting, cycling and climbing start close to your hotel. Guilin suits you if you want a bigger city with more hotels and restaurants, or need a single night near the airport or a train station.
Getting AROUND Yangshuo
Scooter & E-Bike Rental ⭐ BEST OPTION
Renting a scooter is hands-down the most convenient and fun way to explore Yangshuo. It gives you the freedom to go off the beaten path, stop for photos whenever you want, and feel the wind in your hair. We strongly recommend this over taxis or buses for the full experience.
Pricing
* Helmet included | Multi-day discounts available
What's Included
- Helmet (required by law)
- Lock and chain
- Phone holder (most shops)
- Basic insurance
Best Routes to Explore
- Ten Mile Gallery: 20km loop through rice paddies (2-3 hours)
- Yulong River bridges: Visit Jinlong & Yulong bridges (1 hour)
- Xingping Ancient Town: 30km scenic ride (full day trip)
- Moon Hill: 8km south of town (30 min ride)
Important Tips
- License: Not strictly required but recommended to carry
- Traffic: Drive on the right, watch for cars and pedestrians
- Charging: E-bikes have ~40-60km range, plan accordingly
- Return time: Usually by 6-7 PM, confirm with shop
Pro tip: Rent from a shop on West Street for convenience. Check the bike's condition before leaving (brakes, lights, horn). Take a photo of any existing damage.
Didi Taxi (Chinese Uber)
Price: ¥10-30 for most trips within Yangshuo area
App: Download "Didi Chuxing" (滴滴出行) - English interface available
Payment: Alipay, WeChat Pay, or credit card
Best for: Airport/station transfers, rainy days, late nights
Local Buses
Price: ¥2-5 per trip
Routes: Limited routes, mainly to Guilin and nearby towns
Payment: Cash or WeChat Pay/Alipay
Best for: Budget travelers, short trips to bus station
Walking
Town center: Compact and walkable (West Street to river ~10 min)
Riverside path: Beautiful 2km walking trail along Li River
Best for: Exploring town, evening strolls, photography
Organized Tours
Price: ¥200-500 per person (full day)
Includes: Transport, guide, entrance fees, lunch
Book via: Hotels, hostels, or online platforms
Best for: First-timers, groups, language barrier concerns
Practical Transport Tips
Money-Saving Tips
- • Book train tickets 30 days in advance for best prices
- • Take bus from Guilin instead of private transfer (save ¥250+)
- • Rent scooter for multiple days (usually 10-20% discount)
- • Walk or bike instead of taxi for short distances
Common Mistakes
- • Not downloading Didi app before arrival
- • Assuming your taxi/Didi can drop you off at your hotel door (many downtown areas are pedestrian-only, contact your hotel for the nearest drop-off point to avoid dragging luggage)
- • Accepting taxi offers at airport/station (overpriced!)
- • Renting scooter without checking condition first
- • Not confirming e-bike range before long trips
Essential Apps
Didi Chuxing
For taxis
Baidu Maps
Navigation (works offline)
12306
Train ticket booking
Ready to Explore?
Now that you know how to get around, discover all the amazing things to do in Yangshuo.
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