Location & Access

Yang Di Scenic Area lies along the western bank of the Li River in Yangshuo County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It’s about a 46-kilometer drive from Guilin city, making it a perfect day trip or a stop along a longer Li River journey. To get there, you can take a bus from Guilin to Yangshuo, then transfer to a local shuttle or taxi. If you’re arriving by train, Yangshuo Station is the closest, followed by a short ride to the riverside. For a more scenic approach, some cruise ships start (or end) their Li River routes at Yang Di, especially during low water seasons.

Natural Wonders: A Feast for the Eyes

Yuanyang Beach (Mandarin Ducks Beach): This spot lives up to its name! Two river sandbars stretch into the Li River, looking like playful mandarin ducks frolicking in the water. During sunny days, the shallows around the sandbars glisten like silver, especially when the river current catches the light.

Golden Rooster Hill: Just north of Yang Di Village, this hill truly resembles a rooster pecking at rice. From certain angles, the rocky peak seems frozen in mid-action, as if it’s eternally searching for something to eat. Locals say it’s been like this for centuries—a guardian of the river.

White Tiger Mountain & Its Waterfall: On the eastern side of Yang Di, White Tiger Mountain isn’t just a pretty name. A crisp waterfall tumbles down its cliffs, sending mist and tiny droplets (like scattered pearls) into the river below. On windy days, the spray even creates a light rainbow—a hidden bonus for photographers!

Riverside Bamboo Forest: Stretching for miles, dense green bamboo groves frame the Li River here. The stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating a living “green screen” between the mountains and water. Whether you’re on a boat or walking along the riverbank, this peaceful bamboo tunnel feels like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting.

Cultural Stories & Human Touch

The village of Yang Di owes its name to a clever pun. Long ago, a mountain behind the village had two peaks resembling upside-down goat hooves. The locals humorously adapted the name “Yang Di” (Sound of ‘Goat Hoof’) for their settlement. Today, the village retains a simple, farming-led lifestyle, with residents growing crops and tending buffalo by the river.

A short walk from the village brings you to Luogu Drum Stone, a curious rock formation that produces a drum-like sound when tapped. Legend says it’s where ancient Chinese musicians once tested their instruments—a fun spot to try (and fail) mimicking a drumbeat!

Practical Tips for Visitors

Facilities: Yang Di has a visitor center with maps and guides, plus clean restrooms. Parking is available near the entrance, and there are shaded resting areas along the riverbank. Small shops sell snacks, tea, and souvenirs like bamboo crafts or Li River pebbles.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather, but winter (when water levels drop) is ideal for river cruises starting at Yang Di. Summer brings lush greenery but can be hot—bring sunscreen and hats!

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for exploring, sunglasses, and a waterproof phone case if you’re taking a boat tour. For hikers, there are easy trails, but watch out for slippery stones near the waterfall.

Immersive Experience: Dynamic Yet Serene

During low water periods, Yang Di transforms into a bustling hub for river cruises. Dozens of boats line up here, their engines humming as tourists board for Li River adventures. Yet, away from the docks, the area remains blissfully quiet. You can sit on riverbank rocks, listen to the waterfall’s murmur, or watch fishermen cast nets—a stark contrast to the energy of the departure point.

At sunset, the golden hour bathes the hills in warm light, reflecting off the river like liquid gold. It’s the perfect time to capture photos of Yang Di’s iconic scenes, from the rooster-shaped hill to the mist-kissed bamboo. Whether you’re here for an hour or a full day, Yang Di Scenic Area offers a mix of nature’s drama and tranquility that stays with you long after you leave.