A flat riverside route past ancient arched bridges, rice fields and water buffalo, the easiest way to walk among the karst peaks.
The Yulong River riverside walk follows the Yulong River from Yulong Bridge to Jima Village in Baisha Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi, China. It is the easiest and flattest way to walk among the Yangshuo karst peaks, with negligible climb along about 6-8 km of river bank, farm lanes and village paths. Visitors reach Yulong Bridge by bus or Didi from Yangshuo in about 20-30 minutes. Many walkers rent a bike or e-bike for ¥20-50, which lets them ride back and shorten the return leg. The walk takes 2-3 hours one way at a relaxed pace. The surface is a mix of concrete lanes, packed earth and short grassy sections, mostly shaded only by occasional trees and bamboo clumps, so sun protection matters. The route passes ancient arched stone bridges, rice paddies, water buffalo and small farming hamlets, with limestone peaks rising on both sides of the river. Bamboo rafts drift along the water, and walkers often pause at bridges to watch them. Key landmarks include Yulong Bridge at the start, a Ming-era stone arch, and the village of Jima toward the end, where cafes and small restaurants sell food and drinks. Water and snacks are available at stalls and guesthouses throughout the route, so no refuge huts are needed. The route can be shortened by turning back at any bridge, and there are usually transport options such as taxis or bike rentals at villages along the way. March to May brings green fields and flowers, while September to November offers clear air and golden rice. Summer is hot and humid, and rain can make the earth lanes muddy, so light walking shoes and a sun hat are the main gear.
| Distance | About 6-8 km one way along the river and farm lanes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Bus or Didi from Yangshuo to Yulong Bridge (about 20-30 minutes); a rented bike or e-bike (¥20-50) lets walkers shorten the return |
| Best season | March-May and September-November |
| Address | Yulong Bridge (遇龙桥) to Jima Village, Baisha Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi 541900 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Yulong River, Yangshuo County
What to bring
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Water
- Light walking shoes
Location
Yulong Bridge (遇龙桥) to Jima Village, Baisha Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi 541900
24.7725, 110.5070 View on map
Highlights
- Ancient arched stone bridges across the river
- Rice fields and water buffalo among karst peaks
- Bamboo rafts drifting along the Yulong River
- Village cafes and stalls at Jima
Tips for visiting
- Wear a sun hat and sunscreen, as shade is limited along the lanes.
- Rent a bike or e-bike for ¥20-50 to shorten the return.
- Visit in March-May or September-November for comfortable weather.
- Carry water and some cash for stalls along the route.
- Avoid muddy lanes after heavy rain.
When to visit
March to May and September to November. Morning or late afternoon avoids midday heat.
Accessibility
The route is flat, and some concrete lane sections suit strollers and sturdy wheelchairs, though earth and grass stretches and narrow bridges can be difficult.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Yulong River walk?
The route is about 6-8 km one way and takes 2-3 hours at an easy pace.
Is the walk flat?
Yes, the climb is negligible, which makes it the easiest karst walk near Yangshuo.
How do visitors reach Yulong Bridge?
Buses and Didi from Yangshuo take about 20-30 minutes.
Can visitors cycle instead?
Bikes and e-bikes rent for about ¥20-50, and many visitors ride one way and walk part of the route.