Location & Accessibility

Yangdi Village sits along the crystal-clear Li River in Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi. It’s the starting point of the Li River’s “golden waterway,” stretching 18 kilometers south toward Xingping. To get here, take a bus or taxi from Guilin (about 1.5 hours) or Yangshuo (30 minutes). Many tourists rent bikes to explore nearby villages, but the riverboat ride from Yangdi is the main attraction.

Natural Wonders: A Riverside Postcard

The Li River in Yangdi Village is pure magic. Imagine limestone peaks rising like giants, reflections dancing on the water, and mist swirling in the morning. The “Peach Blossom Haven” (Tao Yuan Xian Jing) feels like stepping into a fairy tale—a hidden valley surrounded by towering cliffs. Nearby, Screw Hill (Luosi Shan) looks like a giant screw emerging from the river, while Painted Mountain (Xiu Shan Cai Bi) glows with red and white stripes. Keep your camera ready for “Mandarin Ducks Playing” (Yuan Yang Xi Shui), where river rocks resemble two lovers hugging!

Cultural Gems & Local Life

Beyond the scenery, Yangdi Village offers a glimpse into rural China. The area is dotted with traditional mudíng houses (earthen homes) and farmers tending rice paddies. You’ll see elderly women in colorful clothes washing clothes by the river and hear children laughing as they play. For a cultural fix, visit the “Immortal Grinding Corn” (Xian Ren Tui Mo) rock formation, said to look like an ancient mill. At night, some villages host folk dances or light shows projected onto the karst peaks.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Tours: Most visitors take a river cruise from Yangdi to Xingping (~4 hours). Tickets cost ¥200–¥500, depending on the boat.
  • Stay: Simple homestays or riverside hotels are available. Book ahead during peak seasons.
  • Eat: Try oil-tea camellia (a local riverfish dish) or beef noodles at village stalls. Bring cash—cards aren’t always accepted.
  • Gear: Wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and carry water. The boats have covered decks, but the sun can still be fierce.

Why Yangdi Village Should Be Your First Stop

Starting your Li River journey in Yangdi Village means skipping the crowds of downtown Yangshuo while soaking in the best views. The early morning cruise is especially peaceful, with mist rising over the peaks. Whether you’re here for the “Seven Fairies Descending” rock formation or just to watch fishermen cast nets, this place feels like a timeless escape. End your day at “Half-Side Ferry” (Ban Bian Du), a tiny bamboo raft crossing—the perfect symbol of Yangdi’s simple charm.