Yulong River Scenic Area
The Yulong River, a tranquil tributary of Guilin’s famed Li River, winds through karst peaks, terraced fields, and timeless villages in Yangshuo County. Dubbed “the Little Li River,” it is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, bamboo raft rides, and unspoiled rural landscapes. Designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2007, the area offers a serene contrast to Guilin’s bustling tours, blending natural beauty with Tujia and Yao minority cultures.
Historical Overview
Ancient Waterway: For centuries, the Yulong River served as a vital trade route, linking Guilin’s silk and tea merchants to coastal ports.
Cultural Hub: Home to Tujia and Yao minorities since the Ming Dynasty, the area preserves folk traditions like cormorant fishing and the “Banquet Song” ritual.
Tourism Boom: Popularized in the 1980s as a backpacker haven, it gained global fame after featuring in the 2003 film House of Flying Daggers.
Conservation: In 2010, motorized boats were banned to protect ecology, reviving traditional bamboo rafting.
Key Events: Hosts the annual Yangshuo International Climbing Festival and traditional Dragon Boat Races.
Structural Layout
- Geographical Features:
River Course: 17 kilometers from Jinlong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge, with depths of 2–5 meters.
Karst Formations: Over 30 limestone peaks, including the iconic “Moon Hill” (a 230-meter arch).
Dams & Bridges: A 1960s-era hydroelectric dam and 12 ancient stone bridges, such as the Ming Dynasty-era Fuli Bridge.
- Key Zones:
Rafting Zone: Jinlong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge, with 9 designated rafting sections.
Cultural Zone: Jiuxian Village, known for Tujia embroidery and rice wine.
Adventure Zone: Moon Hill Hiking Trail and the Yulong River Cycling Path.
- Supporting Infrastructure:
Bamboo raft docks, bike rental shops, and riverside cafes.
Major Attractions
Bamboo Raft Ride: A 90-minute drift past karst peaks, with raftmen singing folk tunes (¥150–¥300 per raft).
Moon Hill: Hike 30 minutes to a panoramic viewpoint beneath a natural stone arch.
Jiuxian Village: Explore Tujia stilt houses, taste sanhua wine, and watch indigo dyeing.
Golden Jade River Bend: A mirror-like pool reflecting peaks, ideal for photography.
Cormorant Fishing Demo: Witness traditional night fishing with trained birds (7 PM, Fuli Town).
Yulong River Cycling Trail: A 10-kilometer path through rice paddies and lemon orchards.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (3–4 hours):
Bamboo Raft (Jinlong Bridge → Gongnong Bridge) → Jiuxian Village (lunch) → Moon Hill.
Highlights: Rafting, village culture, and Moon Hill vista.
- Cultural Route (5–6 hours):
Jiuxian Village (embroidery workshop) → Rafting → Cormorant Fishing Demo → Local Restaurant (Tujia cuisine).
Highlights: Crafts, night fishing, and rural feasts.
- Adventure Route (Full Day):
Cycling Trail → Moon Hill Hike → Rafting → Kayaking (add-on) → Riverside Camping.
Highlights: Trekking, kayaking, and stargazing.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via Trip.com, Ctrip, or the Yangshuo Tourism Bureau website (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at raft docks and village entrances; arrive early to avoid lines.
- Prices:
Bamboo Raft: ¥150–¥300 (price varies by section; group discounts available).
Moon Hill: ¥35 (adults), ¥20 (students).
Combo Deals: ¥400 for rafting + Moon Hill + cycling.
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Bus: From Guilin Bus Station, take the Yangshuo-bound shuttle (¥25, 1.5 hours) to Jinlong Bridge stop.
By Taxi: Direct from Guilin (¥120–¥150) or Yangshuo (¥40).
By Bike: Rentals in Yangshuo (¥10–¥20/day) for the cycling trail.
Departure: Buses depart hourly until 6 PM; taxis available for late returns.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM (tour groups); start rafting at 8 AM or after 4 PM.
Weather: March–June (lush greenery) and September–November (mild temperatures); avoid July–August (heatwaves).
- Essentials:
Wear waterproof shoes (rafts splash).
Bring cash for village vendors (limited card acceptance).
Learn a Tujia greeting: “Azo” (hello) or “Nyuha” (thank you).
Prohibitions: No littering, swimming without guides, or drone use in villages.
Insider Tip: Book the 6 AM “Sunrise Raft” for misty peaks and fewer crowds.
FAQ
What are the classic routes for bamboo rafting on the Yulong River?
There are several classic routes. The upper - half route from Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian is about 2.5 hours, passing through Yulong Bridge, Rhino Pond, etc., suitable for tourists who like quiet scenery. The lower - half route from Shuiedi to Gongnong Bridge is about 40 minutes, with landscapes such as "Frog Leaping into the River" and "Camel Crossing the River", suitable for tourists with limited time. The whole - journey route from Jinlong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge takes about 4 - 5 hours, suitable for in - depth experience.
Can children participate in the bamboo rafting on the Yulong River?
Children under 1 meter in height (or under 6 years old) are not allowed to participate in the bamboo rafting for safety reasons. Although the water of the Yulong River is relatively shallow and the flow is slow, the bamboo raft may still shake during the drifting process, so it is not suitable for too young children.
What are the water - related traditional folk activities around the Yulong River?
There are no particularly well - known large - scale water - related traditional folk activities. However, in some nearby villages, during the rainy season or traditional festivals, local people may hold some simple sacrifice activities to the river god to pray for good weather and a good harvest, but these activities are relatively low - key and not large - scale.
Can I camp in Yulong River Scenic Area?
Camping is generally not allowed in the core scenic area of Yulong River to protect the ecological environment and ensure the safety of tourists. However, there may be some open - air areas outside the scenic area where camping is permitted, but it is recommended to consult the local management department or the staff of the scenic area in advance.
Are there souvenir shops in Yulong River Scenic Area?
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the wharfs and in some nearby villages. You can buy some handicrafts, such as bamboo - woven products, local paintings, and some small ornaments with the elements of the Yulong River scenery, which can be used as souvenirs.
