Yangshuo’s 15 Top Tours & Experiences (With Prices)

Yangshuo is a place that offers more than just pretty pictures; it’s a hub for immersive experiences rooted in remarkable landscapes, lively culture, and unique activities. Whether it’s watching a mesmerizing performance like the Impression Sanjie Liu Show, cruising along the Li River, or biking through the countryside, the options are both diverse and engaging. We love the Impression Sanjie Liu Show for its stunning natural backdrop and spectacular performance, and the Yulong River bamboo raft ride for a peaceful way to soak in the scenery. For those wanting hands-on experiences, the Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip offers a tasty dive into local flavors. Whatever your style, Yangshuo’s tours promise memorable moments that go beyond the usual sightseeing.

Quick Overview

This list covers a variety of tours—from cultural shows, such as the Impression Sanjie Liu Show, to scenic hikes like the Xianggong Hill Sunrise, and adventure activities like biking and bamboo rafting. Whether you’re seeking an entertainment-packed evening, a peaceful nature excursion, or a culture, you’ll find something that fits your schedule and interests below.

1. Yangshuo: Impression Sanjie Liu Show Tickets

This spectacular outdoor performance at Li River is a must-see when you’re in Yangshuo. The show, directed by the acclaimed Zhang Yimou, features 600 performers using the surreal karst landscape as the stage. Book your tickets in advance to skip the lines and guarantee your spot; options include hotel transfers for added convenience. The show lasts approximately 1 hour and provides a visually stunning display of light, sound, and folk culture. It’s enjoyable for both adults and kids, making it a perfect family outing.
Highlights include the illuminated water scenes, traditional dance, and the dramatic backdrop of the Li River and limestone peaks. Reviewers consistently praise how seamless the experience is, especially with pre-booked tickets and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable, one-hour display that blends natural beauty with cultural storytelling—best for travelers who want a dramatic night show with minimal fuss.

2. Impression Sanjie Liu Show Ticket

For around $45, this Impression Sanjie Liu Show Ticket offers a slightly longer experience, about 70 minutes, with multiple seating options from standard to VIP. Pre-booking guarantees your seat and includes an English-speaking guide who will escort you to the performance. Many reviews highlight the excellent organization and the breathtaking natural setting, which makes the show more than just a puppet theatre—it’s a feast for the senses.
You can opt for round-trip hotel transfers, making the evening hassle-free. The show takes place at the Impression Sanjie Liu Theatre, located at No.39 Tianyuanlu in Yangshuo.
Best suited for those wanting a high-quality cultural experience with added convenience, especially families or first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: An iconic Yangshuo experience combining natural scenery and folk art, with flexible seating and optional transfers, making it a reliable choice.

3. Yangshuo Ruyi Peak & Round Way Cable Car Ticket

If panoramic mountain views are your thing, the Ruyi Peak & Cable Car is a superb choice. This 2-hour tour includes the spectacular ride on the advanced French POMA cable car, which offers sweeping vistas of the karst landscape. The ride covers a 242-meter elevation difference and includes access to scenic spots like the glass skywalk and cliff dwellings.
You’ll also visit Moon Hill, just 3 km away, which is famous for its natural arch and great hiking opportunities. Guests love the seamless pre-booking and transportation, often mentioning how easy it is to avoid waits and sold-out tickets.
Ideal for travelers eager for breathtaking views and a bit of adventure without strenuous hikes.
Bottom Line: A scenic, scenic ride that combines stunning vistas, walking, and optional attractions, perfect for those short on time but craving big views.

4. Yangshuo/Guilin: Full- or Half-Day Xianggong Hill Sunrise

If you’re an early riser or a photographer seeking the perfect shot, this Sunrise Tour of Xianggong Hill is unbeatable. This private tour is designed around catching the mesmerizing glow over the sea of clouds and karst mountains at dawn. The guide will take you up the hill, where the light hits the peaks just right.
The tour includes hotel pickup and flexible options for a full or half day, with the chance to explore the landscape and take stunning photos. Past travelers love their guides’ attentiveness and the opportunity to see the best light of the day.
Best for photography enthusiasts, early risers, and nature lovers wanting a peaceful, personal experience.
Bottom Line: A must-do for sunrise chasers, offering intimate access to one of Yangshuo’s most photogenic spots.

5. Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip

For a flavorful dive into local culture, consider the Yangshuo Cooking Class. Led by an expert guide, you’ll visit a bustling market to select fresh ingredients—think live fish and vibrant vegetables—then learn to prepare Yangshuo specialties like beer fish. The class lasts about four hours and includes a hands-on experience, family-style tea, and a chance to taste your own dishes.
Reviewers consistently praise Hans, the host, for his knowledge and friendly style, as well as the authenticity of the dishes. The experience is perfect for foodies keen to understand regional flavors and cooking techniques.
Best for culinary enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone wanting a tasty souvenir from their trip.
Bottom Line: An engaging, delicious activity that combines market exploration with hands-on cooking—high value for those who love good food.

6. Half-day Tour: Largest Tea Plantation & Amazing Xianggong Hill

Combine culture, nature, and sightseeing in this 6-hour Tea Plantation & Xianggong Hill Tour. The tour starts with a visit to the Seven Fairies Peak Tea Plantation, where you can pick fresh tea leaves, sample local teas, and learn about tea production. Then, you’ll head to Xianggong Mountain for sweeping views of the river and mountains without the hike—just the exterior view.
Guests appreciate the small group size and the flexibility to choose morning or afternoon. It’s ideal for first-timers or travelers pressed for time who want a taste of both agriculture and scenery.
Bottom line: A compact, well-rounded tour perfect for cultural curiosity and scenic views, especially for those seeking an easygoing half-day outing.

7. Yangshuo: Impression Liusanjie Show Ticket

This Impression Liusanjie performance offers a stunning display of folk culture, performed outdoors on the shores of the Li River. The show lasts between 1 to 3 hours, with flexible start times. Ticket options include private transfers, which ensures a smooth experience. The performance features traditional dance, colorful costumes, and the natural backdrop of limestone peaks.
Reviewers mention the ease of booking and high-quality production. The show is cozy enough to enjoy a family night or a romantic evening, especially if you opt for the private transfer.
Best for those wanting a cultural performance with excellent scenery and easy logistics.
Bottom line: A versatile, visually impressive show that combines folk art with stunning natural scenery, ideal for a relaxed yet engaging evening.

8. Full-Day Private Biking Activity in Yangshuo

This full-day biking tour is a fantastic way to see Yangshuo’s rural landscapes up close. Led by a private guide, you’ll avoid the hassle of planning routes and enjoy stops at local villages to observe daily life. The ride takes you past striking karst peaks and along peaceful country roads, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Guests mention the convenience of pre-arranged transportation and the guide’s local expertise. The tour lasts around 6 hours, making it suitable for active travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a tailored, scenic cycling adventure with insider insights into village life and countryside scenery.

9. Guilin: 1-Day Yangshuo Bird’s Eye View Mountains Private Tour

This bird’s eye view tour provides an aerial perspective of Yangshuo’s famous karst landscape. It includes exterior views of Ruyi Peak and stops at Moon Hill for photos. The private guide makes it personal, relaxing, and flexible. Past travelers highlight how the experience is supported by supportive guides like Colin and Peter, who show you the best vantage points without strenuous climbs.
Perfect for those who want a quick, scenic overview without heavy hiking, and like to include some photography.
Bottom line: An efficient, scenic tour for travelers wanting a broad view of Yangshuo’s landscape with minimal effort.

10. Full-day Tour: Spectacular Sunrise, Tea Plantation & Sunset

This full-day experience combines early morning sunrise at Xianggong Mountain, visits to a tea plantation, and sunset views at Mt. Putao Scenic Resort. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive day of nature and cultural sights. You’ll witness the most stunning sunrise, pick fresh tea leaves, and photograph the world heritage site of the peaks forest.
Travelers rave about the beautiful scenery and the well-organized schedule. It’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and looking for a full sensory experience.
Bottom line: An immersive, photo-friendly day that combines natural beauty, local culture, and scenic vistas.

11. Guilin: Li River Cruise with Transfer to Yangshuo

For a classic Yangshuo experience, the Li River Cruise from Guilin is hard to beat. This trip features scenic views of limestone peaks from a comfortable boat, with options for 3-star or 4-star cruise including a boxed or buffet lunch. After the cruise, you’ll be transferred to Yangshuo.
Many travelers enjoy the relaxing atmosphere on the boat and the stunning views of the river’s natural sculptures. It’s suitable for anyone wanting a laid-back day with excellent scenery.
Bottom line: An easy, scenic cruise offering a taste of Yangshuo’s famous landscape, perfect for a leisurely day.

12. 4-Day Yangshuo and Guilin Private Tour from Yangshuo

This comprehensive 4-day private tour covers major highlights in both Guilin and Yangshuo, including Xianggong Hill, Yulong bamboo boat, Silver Cave, and Xingping Old Town. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. Past travelers mention the personalized attention and the variety of activities, like bamboo rafting and visiting minority villages.
While it comes at a higher price, the value is in the tailored experience and access to hidden spots many travelers miss. It’s best suited for those who want a deep dive into the region’s culture, scenery, and history over several days.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers who prefer a fully customized, in-depth exploration with all logistics handled for you.

13. Full-day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces & Minority Villages

Explore the Longji Rice Terraces and minority villages on this 11.5-hour tour. You’ll visit the Ping’an Zhuang Terraced Fields—with views of the “Nine Dragons and Five Tigers”—and learn about the Yao and Zhuang ethnic groups. The tour includes walking around the terraced fields, exploring local homes, and experiencing rural life firsthand.
Travelers appreciate the detailed explanation of rice terrace construction and the opportunity to walk through villages that retain traditional customs. The price reflects the full-day nature and cultural richness.
Best for culture and landscape lovers looking for a full immersion.
Bottom line: An in-depth, scenic, and cultural experience worth the investment for those interested in rural life and ancient agriculture.

14. Guilin: Cave, Yulong Rafting, Glass-bottomed Skywalk & Show

This all-in-one 10-hour tour showcases Guilin’s natural and cultural highlights. It features exploring the Reed Flute Cave, Yulong River bamboo rafting, and the impressive glass skywalk at Ruyi Peak. The day concludes with the Impression Liu Sanjie Show—a full package for those wanting variety.
Guests praise the personalized service and the mix of adventure, scenery, and entertainment. It’s ideal for travelers who want an all-inclusive day with diverse activities.
Bottom line: An action-packed day that balances nature, adventure, and culture—great for those who want it all in one trip.

15. Full-day Tour: Cycling, Rafting & SanjieLiu Outdoor Water Theatre

This active 8 to 10-hour tour combines cycling along scenic routes, bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, and enjoying the outdoor water theatre. You’ll stop at Moon Hill for a rewarding hike, then relax on the river, and end with an energetic performance.
Past reviews highlight the diverse itinerary and the chance to see Yangshuo’s countryside from different perspectives. It’s suited for energetic travelers who want a full day of outdoor fun and cultural entertainment.
Bottom line: A lively combination of outdoor activities and performances, ideal for active, curious travelers.

How to Choose Your Perfect Yangshuo Tour

When selecting your experience, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after a spectacular show and don’t want to fuss with logistics, the Impression Sanjie Liu Show is a top pick. For scenic photos and peaceful mornings, the Sunrise Xianggong Hill Tour is unbeatable. Want to learn to cook local dishes? The Cooking Class offers a delicious, culture.

Balance your time and energy—if you only have a day, a river cruise or show might be best. Longer stays allow for multi-day private tours that cover the region in depth. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the full-day private tours or the shows.

Final Thoughts

Yangshuo offers a rich palette of experiences for every type of traveler. For a spectacular visual feast, the Impression Sanjie Liu Show remains a favorite. For those seeking peaceful scenery and outdoor adventure, the Yulong River bamboo raft or Sunrise Tour deliver unforgettable moments. Foodies and culture lovers will appreciate the cooking class, bringing local flavors directly to your plate.

Whether you want the convenience of private transfers, the thrill of mountain views, or an authentic cultural experience, there’s a tour tailored for you. Be sure to book in advance—these popular activities fill up quickly. With so many options, you’re bound to find an experience that makes your trip to Yangshuo truly special.