Cycling Through Yangshuo Country
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the beautiful countryside of the Yangshuo region, framed by a rugged karst landscape of misty waterfalls, verdant paddy fields, meandering rivers and quaint little villages. After an early breakfast in your hotel, meet your local English speaking guide and pick up your biking gear before setting off. You can either take the laidback village trail along the Yulong River before looping back to town, or you could make a couple of stops at local villages along the Li River. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, on your way back to Yangshuo from either of these river routes you can embark on an uphill trail that comes with a spectacular view at the end. Riding on the Yulong River trail, pedal down to Baisha Village and stop at the historic Yulong Bridge to take selfies, if you wish. Ride past fragrant mandarin orchards, framed by a limestone karst backdrop of the ‘sugarloaf’ mountains in the distance. Along the Li River trail, ride down to Mushan Village and study its traditional architecture born of Taoism and Feng Shui. Visit the Liugong Village next, stopping to admire the pretty picture painted by paddy fields against a ruggedly handsome karst landscape of the ‘sugarloaf’ mountains. The nearly century-old Liugong is a charming sight with its traditional homesteads and ‘three colored pools’. Ride back to Yangshuo via Yongcun Village. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Lunch, snacks & refreshments included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please be comfortably dressed and note that a bicycle, helmet and water provided on the trip).
Afternoon Cruise on a Bamboo Raft
Experience the timeless beauty of Chinese countryside from a new perspective – the river. Drive to the pretty village of Yangdi where you will board a traditional bamboo raft and set off on a leisurely afternoon cruise down the River Li. Watch lush paddy fields pass by, their emerald green enhancing the sugar white of the limestone mountains. Find out from your friendly boat “pilot” about the quaint names given to these carsts like ‘Elephant Trunk Hill’, ‘Nine Horses Wall’ and ‘Folded Brocade Hill’. Arrive at the picturesque village of Xingping and explore its mesmerizing landscape, dotted with heritage houses going as far back as the Ming and Qing periods. Marvel at the spectacular beauty of Sugarloaf Mountains, or limestone outcroppings in striking shapes because of which they bear fantastic names like ‘Five-Finger Hill’ and ‘Camel Hill’. If you have time, check out the local poultry market bustling with chickens and geese on sale. Finally it is time to drive back to your hotel, with memories of an amazing day spent in the scenic Chinese countryside. (Haf Day; Time: 1300 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Please pack light and wear sunscreen).
Watch the Liu Sanjie Performance
Witness the magical Impression Liu Sanjie performance in Yangshuo, at the world’s largest natural theater, dotted with tea trees and fern hedge bamboo forests. Watch the dramatic local folk entertainment unfold on the Li river, set against a stunning backdrop of twelve mist-covered limestone karsts. Marvel artists sing and dance in unison, supported by a magnificent light and sound show, and an array of grand props. Learn about the legend of ethnic Zhuang girl Liu Sanjie and her romantic adventures. See seven distinct episodes with different colors, based on a namesake Chinese musical directed by filmmaker Zhang Yimou. Before dispersing, you can drop by the museum that shares the history of the show. (Time of day: Evening; Duration: 70 mins; Shared Activity & Private Transfer; Pick-up & Drop-off at hotel in Yangshuo; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear layered clothing based on weather, and carry mosquito repellent. Please note the show is dependent on water levels).
