The Yulong River (遇龙河, Yùlóng Hé), often called the “Little Li River,” is a serene tributary of the Li River in Yangshuo County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Stretching 43.5 kilometers through a picturesque valley, it’s renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic karst peaks, lush bamboo groves, and tranquil rural life. Known as the “Meet Dragon River” in Chinese, local legend says a dragon from the East Sea was so enchanted by the landscape that it stayed forever. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful bamboo raft ride, a scenic bike tour, or a glimpse into traditional Chinese villages, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Yulong River.
A Travel Guide to Yulong River
Why Visit Yulong River?
The Yulong River offers a quieter, more intimate alternative to the bustling Li River, with unspoiled natural beauty and a slower pace. Its scenic stretch between Yulong Bridge and Gongnong Bridge (about 13 km) is dotted with karst hills, rice paddies, and ancient stone bridges, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Unlike the Li River, the Yulong has no motorized boats, relying solely on bamboo rafts, which enhances its tranquil charm. The river is also clean enough for swimming in designated areas, and its surrounding valley is ideal for cycling and hiking. Historical sites like the 900-year-old Xiangui Bridge and cultural villages like Jiuxian add depth to the experience, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers.
How to Get There
The Yulong River is located in Yangshuo County, about 70 km south of Guilin city. Yangshuo is the main hub for visitors, with West Street as its lively center. Here’s how to reach the river:
From Guilin to Yangshuo: By Flight: Fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (28 km from Guilin, ~90 km from Yangshuo). From the airport, take a taxi or shuttle to Yangshuo (1–1.5 hours, ~¥300, faster if using the expressway with a ¥30 toll). By Train: Take a high-speed train from major cities (e.g., Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or Hong Kong) to Yangshuo Station or Guilin Station, then transfer to Yangshuo by bus or taxi (1–1.5 hours, ¥20–50 for bus, ¥200–300 for taxi). By Bus: Direct buses from Guilin’s main bus station to Yangshuo run frequently (1.5 hours, ¥20–30).
From Yangshuo to Yulong River: The river is 6–12 km from Yangshuo’s West Street, depending on the access point (e.g., Yulong Bridge or Jinlong Bridge). By Bike: Rent a bike (¥30–80/day) and cycle to Yulong Bridge (20–30 minutes) or Jiuxian Village (45 minutes). This is a popular and scenic option. By Scooter/E-Bike: Electric scooters (¥50–100/day) are faster and widely available on West Street. By Bus: Take bus 801 or 602 from Yangshuo to Fengming Passenger Center, then transfer to a Ten-Mile Gallery sightseeing bus to Gongnong Bridge (1 hour, ~¥10). Note: Sightseeing buses may not operate in 2025. By Taxi or Didi: A ride to Yulong Bridge or Jinlong Bridge takes 20–25 minutes and costs ¥30–50. By Foot: For the adventurous, walking to closer docks like Jima takes about 35 minutes from West Street.
Tip: Skip Guilin and head straight to Yangshuo from the airport for a more scenic and relaxed base.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh greenery, blooming flowers, and mild weather (15–25°C) make this ideal for rafting and cycling. However, May can bring heavy rain, which may affect rafting safety. Summer (June–August): Warm (25–35°C) and lush, with clear waters perfect for swimming. Expect occasional showers, but they often clear quickly. Avoid peak Chinese holidays (e.g., Labor Day, May 1–3) for fewer crowds.
Autumn (September–November): Cool (15–25°C), clear skies, and vibrant scenery make this the best time for photography and outdoor activities. Winter (December–February): Cooler (5–15°C) and less crowded, but the landscape is less vibrant, and rafting may be chilly. The dry season allows crossing some river weirs on foot.
Note: Avoid rafting during heavy rain (common in May–June), as high water levels can make it less safe or enjoyable. Early morning (7–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: The Yulong River Scenic Area is accessible 24/7, but bamboo rafting and other activities typically operate from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ticket Prices: Bamboo Rafting: ¥33–260 per raft (for 2 people), depending on the route and duration (30 minutes to 3 hours). Popular routes like Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian cost ~¥255 for 1.5 hours. Bike/E-Bike Rental: ¥30–80/day for standard bikes, ¥100–150/3 hours for sidecars or e-bikes. No General Admission: The river and surrounding areas are free to explore, but specific activities or attractions (e.g., caves) may have small fees.
Booking: Rafting tickets can be purchased at docks (e.g., Jinlong Bridge, Jiuxian Dock) or through hotels, travel agents, or platforms like Trip.com. Book early for morning or afternoon slots to avoid crowds. Restrictions: Rafting is not allowed for children under 7, adults over 70, pregnant women, or those under 1 meter tall. Bring ID or a passport for rafting registration.
What to See and Do
The Yulong River offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and outdoor activities. The essence of the river lies between Yulong Bridge and Gongnong Bridge, where the scenery is most spectacular.
Bamboo Rafting: The highlight of any visit, bamboo rafting involves floating on a traditional raft (with chairs and an umbrella) punted by a local boatman. Routes range from 40 minutes to 3 hours, with popular options including: Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian: 1.5 hours, showcasing karst hills, ancient bridges, and rural villages. Yulong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge: 2–3 hours, covering the scenic heart of the river. Expect to get slightly wet at the 28 small weirs (dams) along the river, which add a fun element. Local photographers at weirs offer photos for ~¥20 each. The rafts are quiet and eco-friendly, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the karst landscape, water buffaloes, and fishermen.
Cycling: Rent a bike and ride along the riverbanks, passing villages, rice paddies, and ancient bridges. The route from West Street to Yulong Bridge (20–30 minutes) or Jiuxian (45 minutes) is flat and beginner-friendly. For a longer adventure, cycle from Gongnong Bridge upstream to Yulong Bridge (3–5 hours) for stunning countryside views. E-bikes or tandem bikes are available for less effort or group fun.
Hiking: Walk along the river’s paths to explore villages like Jiuxian or Chaoyang. The trail from Gongnong Bridge to Yima Village is a scenic 1–2-hour hike. Combine hiking with visits to nearby attractions like Moon Hill or Five-Finger Hill for panoramic views.
Historical and Cultural Sites: Yulong Bridge: A 600-year-old Ming Dynasty stone arch bridge, 60 meters long and 5 meters wide, perfect for photos. Xiangui Bridge: The oldest bridge in Guangxi (built in 1123 AD, Song Dynasty), a 26-meter-long stone arch with historical charm. Fuli Bridge: A Ming Dynasty bridge with a moon-like reflection on the river. Jiuxian Village: A 1,400-year-old village with Qing Dynasty stone dwellings, Ma Tau Wall, and antique wells, offering a glimpse into rural life. Guiyi County Site: Tang Dynasty ruins near Jiuxian, covering 40,000 square meters, with an ancient well inscribed with “Xun Jiu” (Finding Old).
Swimming and Photography: The river’s clean waters are safe for swimming in designated holes, with a gentler current than the Li River. Capture the karst peaks, bamboo groves, and reflections, especially at sunrise or sunset. Local photographers at weirs can take professional shots.
Nearby Attractions: Big Banyan Tree: A 1,400-year-old tree near Gongnong Bridge, a popular photo spot. Moon Hill: A 30-minute climb for a stunning view of the karst landscape, 1.5 km from the river. Ten-Mile Gallery: A scenic area near Gongnong Bridge with karst peaks and rice fields, ideal for cycling.
Where to Eat
On-Site: Small vendors near Yulong Bridge and Gongnong Bridge sell snacks like grilled fish, rice noodles, and fruit (¥10–30). Bring your own water and snacks for longer trips, as options are limited.
Yangshuo West Street: Return to Yangshuo for diverse dining, from local Guangxi dishes (e.g., beer fish, stuffed snails) to Western fare (pizza, burgers). Popular spots include Lucy’s Restaurant or Cloud 9 (¥30–100/meal).
Village Eateries: Jiuxian and Chaoyang villages have small restaurants serving home-cooked meals like bamboo rice or stir-fried vegetables (¥20–50).
Tip: Try local pomelos or tangerines sold by farmers along the river for a fresh treat.
Where to Stay
Yangshuo offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget hostels, most within 6–12 km of the river:
Luxury: Banyan Tree Yangshuo (~10 km from Yulong Bridge): A 5-star resort with river views, starting at ¥1,500/night. Alila Yangshuo (~8 km): A boutique hotel with a tranquil countryside setting, ~¥1,200/night.
Mid-Range: Green Lotus International Hotel (~6 km): A 5-star hotel near West Street, ~¥400–600/night. Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (~10 km): Eco-friendly with river views, ~¥300–500/night.
Budget: Yangshuo Sudder Street Guesthouse (~6 km): Clean hostels near West Street, ~¥80–150/night. Jiuxian Village Homestays: Authentic stays in traditional houses, ~¥100–200/night.
Tip: Book through Booking.com, Ctrip, or directly with hotels for deals. Stay near West Street for convenience or along the river for serenity.
Tips for a Great Visit
Book Rafting Early: Reserve through hotels, travel agents, or docks to secure morning or afternoon slots. Ask about route length and transportation options (e.g., bike to dock, car return). Dress Appropriately: Wear quick-dry clothes, water shoes, and a hat, as you may get wet at weirs. Bring sunscreen and bug spray.
Stay Eco-Friendly: Avoid littering and respect the river’s ecosystem. Use eco-friendly products to protect the clean waters. Combine Activities: Pair rafting with cycling or a visit to Moon Hill for a full day. A 2–3-day Yangshuo itinerary can include the Yulong River, Li River cruise, and Ten-Mile Gallery.
Avoid Peak Crowds: Skip Chinese holidays (e.g., National Day, October 1–7) and visit early or late in the day. Cash and ID: Bring cash (yuan) for small vendors and your ID/passport for rafting registration.
Visa-Free Travel: As of December 2024, travelers from 54 countries (e.g., France, Germany, Italy) can stay visa-free for 30 days, while US, UK, and Canadian passport holders get 6 days.
Final Thoughts
The Yulong River is a slice of paradise in Yangshuo, offering a serene escape amidst karst peaks, ancient bridges, and rural charm. Whether you’re drifting on a bamboo raft, cycling through rice paddies, or exploring historic villages, the river’s beauty and tranquility will leave a lasting impression. Plan your visit for spring or autumn, start early to beat the crowds, and immerse yourself in this dreamlike landscape that feels straight out of a Chinese painting. For a deeper adventure, combine your trip with Yangshuo’s other gems like the Li River or Longji Rice Terraces.
Happy travels!
