Biking in Yangshuo
Numbers of people head to Yangshuo to explore the beautiful countryside scenery by bike. Jumping on a bicycle and pedalling through the gorgeous landscape in Yangshuo has been fashionable since the 1980s. To cycle through the fantastic scenery in Yangshuo comes into millions of people’s must-visit lists. Need advice about cycling in Yangshuo? Feel free to contact us.
Recommended Biking Routes in Yangshuo
The Classic Route - Suitable for Kids
- Route: Yangshuo - Big Banyan Tree - the Moon Hill - The Moon Hill Village - Jianshan Temple - Yan Village - Tianjia River - Yangshuo
- Distance: 20 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours
This classic cycling route offers some of the best scenery in Yangshuo, featuring peaceful countryside landscapes, pastoral views, and the iconic sight of farmers with water buffaloes. The journey is relaxed and suitable for most fitness levels, making it ideal for casual travelers.
After cycling along the main road toward Lipu County for about 20 minutes, you’ll reach Gongnong Bridge, where the surrounding scenery is particularly striking. Continuing on, you’ll pass Moon Hill, one of the area’s most famous landmarks. A small village nearby offers excellent viewpoints of Moon Hill, along with numerous family-run guesthouses and restaurants—perfect for a relaxing lunch stop.
Further along the route, Yan Village provides a convenient place to rest, with small shops selling drinks and snacks. As you approach the Tianjia River, the scenery becomes even more captivating—especially at sunset, when the soft light reflects beautifully on the water, creating a memorable end to your ride.
Yulong River Grand Loop - In-Depth Panoramic Route
- Route: Yangshuo - Fengming Parking Lot - Butterfly Spring - Gongnong Bridge - Big Banyan Tree - Moon Hill
- Distance: 40 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours
Starting from West Street, ride via Gongnong Bridge, Shuiedi Pier, and Jima Pier. After reaching Shuangliu Yiduting Pavilion, cross the bridge and continue north along the west bank to Yulong Bridge, Jinlong Bridge, and Fuli Bridge, before returning to Yangshuo town. The total distance is about 40 km.
This route covers the entire Yulong River—from upper to lower reaches—including ancient bridges, rice fields, and traditional villages. It’s ideal for those with good stamina who want a deeper, more immersive experience. Allow about 4–5 hours at a relaxed pace, with stops along the way, to enjoy the most complete views of the Yulong River.
Ten-Mile Gallery Route - High Concentration of Attractions
- Route: Yangshuo - Fengming Parking Lot - Butterfly Spring - Gongnong Bridge - Big Banyan Tree - Moon Hill
- Distance: 10 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Starting from Yangshuo town, follow Kangzhan Road toward Fengming Parking Lot. Along the way, you’ll pass Totem Ancient Trail and Butterfly Spring. After reaching Gongnong Bridge, continue cycling to the Big Banyan Tree, Julong Cave, and Moon Hill. The total distance is about 10 km.
This is the most classic cycling route in Yangshuo, featuring flat roads and clear signage. The entire route is lined with iconic karst landscapes, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to check off multiple highlights. A round trip typically takes 2–3 hours.
Fuli Bridge to Jinlong Bridge Short Route - Ancient Bridge Scenery
- Route: Fuli Bridge to Jinlong Bridge
- Distance: 6 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Starting from Fuli Bridge, cycle along the path by the Yulong River to Jinlong Bridge. The total distance is only about 6 km. Although the route is short, the scenery is highly concentrated—two centuries-old stone arch bridges span clear waters, framed by rice fields and distant karst hills, making it especially photogenic.
This route is ideal for those with limited time, families with elderly or children, or anyone looking for a relaxed ride. It can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips for Renting a Bike in Yangshuo
- Give priority to mountain bikes with suspension - Along the Yulong River and Ten-Mile Gallery routes, there are quite a few gravel sections and short steep slopes, so a mountain bike will be more stable and require less effort to ride.
- Check key safety components, including brakes, handlebars, chain slips, and tires.
- Choose the right time - In summer, avoid the intense midday sun between 11:00 and 15:00. Opt for early morning (7:30–10:00) or late afternoon to evening (16:30–19:00), when it’s cooler, the light is better, and there are fewer people. In winter, avoid cold night cycling.