I completely regret coming to Yangshuo, Guilin

Yangshuo is truly a place that can make you feel like you're in a dream in an instant. Guilin's scenery is renowned worldwide, and Yangshuo's landscapes surpass even Guilin's! Upon arriving here, I realized that whether it's the Li River or the Yulong River, every spot is like a moving painting. The entire trip revolves around immersing oneself in the picturesque scenery between the mountains and rivers, quietly experiencing the small-town life and Zhuang ethnic culture. It's so easy to be "captivated" by the stunning views. I completely regret coming to Yangshuo because it's so beautiful that I can't take my heart back—I’ve completely fallen in love with it.

Recommended Itinerary:

First Stop: Li River Bamboo Rafting (Yangshuo Li River Scenic Area, Xingping East Tourist Center, 08:20-16:30)
Highly recommend starting early in the morning when the Li River is tranquil, and all you can hear is the sound of the bamboo raft gliding through the water. The bamboo rafting experience on the Li River takes about an hour, offering breathtaking views of Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the scenery depicted on the 20 RMB note. It feels like floating on a giant ink painting. The bamboo raft ride is very comfortable and not bumpy. It's advisable to book tickets in advance (ticket price: 90 RMB). During peak seasons, arrive early to avoid crowds, so your photos can feature the pure backdrop of green mountains, clear waters, and distant fishing boats.

Second Stop: Xingping Wharf and Fishing Village Tour (Xingping Ancient Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin City)
After the bamboo rafting on the Li River, you can walk to the nearby Xingping Ancient Town and Wharf. This area retains the rustic charm of a small town, with many old fishing village houses and scenes of elderly locals drying fishing nets by the shore. The wharf area is perfect for photography. Strolling through the alleys of the ancient town, you'll find artisans selling small souvenirs and landscape paintings, which are full of character. If you enjoy capturing cultural and small-town life, this is a must-visit.

Third Stop: Yulong River Scenic Area + Yulong River Bamboo Rafting (Yulong River Scenic Area & near Chaoyang Wharf, 08:00-17:00)
Next, head to the Yulong River, which is best visited in the afternoon when the sunlight is warm and beautiful. Compared to the Li River, the Yulong River is more pristine and tranquil, surrounded by countryside and small villages. The river flows gently, making it perfect for a leisurely bamboo rafting experience. The Yulong River bamboo rafting trip takes about 1.5 hours (ticket price: 210 RMB), offering views of idyllic fields and mountain reflections in the clear water. You'll pass famous old stone bridges like Fuli Bridge and Xiangui Bridge. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, this is an ideal activity. Along the way, you'll encounter a few shallow rapids where you can enjoy a simple "water crossing" experience. It's highly recommended to bring waterproof bags and hats for convenience and photography.

Must-Visit Spots:
- The 20 RMB note background photo spot on the Li River
- Xingping Ancient Town's old wharf and fishing village stone paths
- Fuli Bridge & Xiangui Bridge on the Yulong River
- 360-degree panoramic selfies on the bamboo raft—no filters needed for a dreamy effect

Practical Tips:
1. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for the trip, as you may get wet when getting on and off the bamboo raft.
2. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water. The summer sun is strong, and there’s little shade on the bamboo raft.
3. Bamboo rafts need to be booked in advance. It's best to choose early morning or late afternoon slots for better scenery and fewer crowds.
4. For photography, a wide-angle lens on your phone or a camera is recommended. The scenery here is so magnificent that a phone is more convenient.
5. There are many local snacks in Xingping Ancient Town, such as shrimp cakes and beer fish, which are authentic delicacies.

Travel Notes:
- Avoid bringing too much luggage on the bamboo raft; traveling light is more convenient.
- On rainy days, some bamboo rafts may be suspended. Check with the scenic area in advance for operation updates.
- Follow the safety instructions of the scenic area and rafting workers. Although the rafting is stable, it's not advisable to enter the water casually.