China

How to get from Guilin to Yangshuo

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
0h 30min
💶
From
4€
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Distance
59 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Guilin to Yangshuo

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Guilin
📍For trains, you'll likely depart from Guilin Railway Station (桂林站) or Guilin North Railway Station (桂林北站). Guilin Railway Station is more central. For buses, most departures are from Guilin Bus Terminal (桂林汽车客运站), located close to the main train station.
🚇From downtown Guilin, both the main train station and bus terminal are easily accessible by local bus (¥2-3) or taxi (¥10-20). A taxi ride generally takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses are frequent and cost-effective.
Trains to Yangshuo run frequently throughout the day, with departures every 30-60 minutes from early morning until late evening. Buses typically depart every 15-30 minutes, offering high flexibility for travellers.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
Fastest: 0h 30min
Recommended: Train (China Railway) — 8€
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book Train Tickets Early

For popular routes, trains can sell out days in advance. Always aim to book your high-speed train tickets at least 2-3 days ahead, especially during peak travel seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred time and class.

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Verify Your Station

Mega-cities often have multiple train stations. Double-check your ticket for the exact station name (e.g., Guilin North, Guilin West) to avoid arriving at the wrong one, which can be a stressful and time-consuming mistake.

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Passport for Booking

Your passport is mandatory for booking and boarding trains in China. Always have it with you, as it serves as your identification for purchasing tickets online and for passing through security checks at the station.

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Online Booking Platforms

Use trusted platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn for booking train and bus tickets from abroad. They offer English interfaces, accept international payments, and streamline the process of getting your tickets.

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Consider Bus for Flexibility

For short routes like Guilin to Yangshuo, buses offer more frequent departures and can often drop you closer to your final destination within Yangshuo, making it a convenient alternative if train times don't suit.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating China's vast transport network can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be. For the Guilin to Yangshuo route, you're in luck: it's a straightforward journey with excellent options. Knowing whether to hop on a train or a bus comes down to a few key factors: your budget, how much luggage you have, and your preferred level of comfort and directness. We've got the lowdown to make your decision easy.

Your main choices for getting from Guilin to Yangshuo are the high-speed train or a local bus. The train is incredibly efficient, typically taking about an hour and costing around 8€. Buses are slightly cheaper at approximately 4€ and also take about an hour, but can be subject to traffic. Both are reliable, so it's a matter of minor preference for this particular short hop.

Booking trains in China can seem tricky from abroad, especially with popular routes selling out. For this short leg, booking a day or two in advance is usually fine, but securing your ticket online through a reputable platform like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn ahead of time is always the most reassuring option. Remember to have your passport details handy, as it's required for all train bookings. You'll find the process smooth once you know the ropes, ensuring you arrive in Yangshuo stress-free.

Frequently asked questions — Guilin → Yangshuo

✨ Why visit Yangshuo?

  • Cruise the Li River's karst landscapes from Guilin to Yangshuo.
  • Explore the stunning Reed Flute Cave with its illuminated stalagmites and stalactites.
  • Cycle through picturesque rice paddies and along the Yulong River.
  • Hike to the top of Xianggong Mountain for panoramic views of the Li River bend.
  • Attend an Impression Liu Sanjie show, a spectacular outdoor performance on the river.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — Allows for comprehensive exploration of the natural beauty and local culture.

☀️ When to visit Yangshuo?

SUBTROPICAL MOUSSON HUMIDE

April to October — Pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities and cruising.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😐
Jul 😐
Aug 😐
Sep 😊
Oct 😊
Nov 😐
Dec 😐
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In Yangshuo — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Yangshuo
Compare the best rates available
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What to do in Yangshuo?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
⛰️
Li River Cruise Scenic Journey
Drift along the iconic Li River, famed for its karst landscapes. This serene journey from Guilin to Yangshuo offers breathtaking views of unique rock formations and tranquil village life. Opt for a smaller bamboo raft for a more intimate experience, especially in the early morning to avoid crowds and catch the best light.
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Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Yulong River on a traditional bamboo raft, often dubbed the 'Little Li River'. This scenic float, propelled by a local guide, allows for a closer appreciation of the limestone peaks and rural charm. Go in the afternoon for softer light and fewer motorized boats.
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Cycling Through Countryside Roads
Rent a bicycle and explore the extensive network of paths weaving through rice paddies, orchards, and small villages around Yangshuo. It’s an excellent way to discover local life and hidden viewpoints. A full day allows for a leisurely pace; expect bike rentals from around 5€.
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Impression Liu Sanjie Show
Witness the spectacular 'Impression Liu Sanjie' night show, directed by Zhang Yimou. Performed on the Li River with natural karst mountains as its backdrop, this grand outdoor spectacle features hundreds of performers and dazzling lights. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, for better seating options.
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Rock Climbing Adventures
Yangshuo is a renowned destination for rock climbing, with numerous limestone karsts offering routes for all skill levels. From beginner-friendly walls to challenging multi-pitch climbs, guided tours and equipment rentals are readily available. Consider a half-day session to get a feel for the local rock. Expect guides from 30€.
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Yangshuo Cooking Class Experience
Dive into local gastronomy with a cooking class. Learn to prepare authentic Guangxi dishes, often including famous Yangshuo beer fish and local specialties. Many classes include a market visit to select fresh ingredients, offering insight into daily life. Book a class that includes a market tour for a complete cultural immersion.
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West Street Evening Stroll
Explore West Street (Xijie) in the evening when it truly comes alive. This pedestrian street, blending traditional Chinese architecture with international influences, is bustling with shops, bars, and street food vendors. It's a great spot for people-watching and souvenir hunting. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
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Exploring Silver Cave (Yinziyan)
Venture into the magnificent Silver Cave, one of the largest karst caves in Guilin, known for its dazzling stalactites and stalagmites. Illuminated with colorful lights, the formations create a surreal underground landscape. Allow 1-2 hours for the visit, and wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking involved.

⏱️ How long to visit Yangshuo?

2 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3-4 days is ideal to fully experience Yangshuo. This allows for a boat trip on the Li River, exploring the karst landscapes by bike, and visiting a local market. If you only have 2 days, prioritize the Li River cruise and a short bike ride; with 5 days or more, add rock climbing, a cooking class, or explore less-visited villages.

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