Yulong River Bamboo-Rafting

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled in Yangshuo County, Guilin, Guangxi, Yulong River Bamboo-Rafting is a UNESCO-recognized 5A-level scenic experience that embodies the essence of "Guilin’s scenery is the best under heaven." Originating in 2001 when local fishermen collaborated with photographers to create a serene water journey, it has evolved into a cultural icon. The river, a 40km-long tributary of the Li River, is dubbed "Little Li River" for its crystal-clear waters, karst peaks, and timeless rural charm. Historically known as "Anle Shui" (Peaceful Water), it was renamed "Yulong" after a legendary dragon settled here. The rafting tradition reflects centuries-old farming culture and ecological harmony, earning acclaim as China’s premier slow-paced water journey.

Architectural Layout & Design
The rafting route integrates natural beauty with human craftsmanship:

• Classic Routes: The 6.5km "Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian" section features 9 weirs, offering "double joy" through calm bamboo-forest reflections and exhilarating dam drops. The 5.2km "Xima to Wanjing" segment showcases 4 weirs and intimate mountain vistas.
• Iconic Landmarks: Fuli Bridge (a 500-year-old Ming Dynasty circular stone bridge), Yulong Bridge (a 600-year-old stone arch), and Shuangliu Ancient Ferry (a Liu Sanjie film site) anchor the journey.
• Eco-Design: Handcrafted bamboo rafts and traditional pole-propulsion preserve authenticity, while solar-powered docks and permeable paths minimize environmental impact.

Major Attractions

• Dam Experiences: Navigate 28 weirs, including 4-5m drops for "safe thrills" during spring/summer floods.
• Scenic Highlights: Karst peaks like "Camel Hill," "Moon Hill," and "Nine Cows Hill" frame the journey. Terraced fields, ancient banyans, and waterwheel villages create postcard-perfect scenes.
• Cultural Touchpoints: Onboard storytelling by boatmen, folk song performances, and craft workshops (e.g., Bamboo weaving, batik dyeing).

Ticket Information

• Classic Routes: Jinlong Bridge to Jiuxian (90 mins, ¥145/adult), Xima to Wanjing (50 mins, ¥120/adult).
• VIP Packages: ¥180-220 for premium rafts, guided tours, and photo services. Free for children under 1.2m; 50% discounts for students/seniors.
• Combined Tickets: ¥300-400 with nearby attractions like Moon Hill or Impression Liu Sanjie.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transit: Buses from Guilin (¥25, 2.5h) to Yangshuo, then shuttle to Jinlong Bridge (¥8, 30 mins). "Yangshuo-Jinbao" buses stop at Jinlong Bridge.
• Self-Drive: 1.5h from Guilin via G321; parking at Jinlong/Jinma/Wanjing docks (¥10/day).
• Bike/E-Bike: Rent from West Street (¥20-30/day) for seamless dock-to-dock transfers (bikes transported free).
• Air/Rail: Direct flights/trains to Guilin, followed by bus/shuttle to Yangshuo.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: Spring (Mar-May) for peach blossoms; autumn (Sep-Nov) for clear skies. Avoid July-Aug monsoons.
• Photography: Dawn for misty river vistas; sunset for golden-hour lighting. Use polarizing filters for color saturation.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove shoes in temples; respect Zhuang/Miao traditions. Voluntarily tip boatmen (¥20) for photo assistance.
• Packing: Sturdy shoes, quick-dry clothing, polarized sunglasses, and reusable water bottles. Winter requires thermal layers; summer needs mosquito repellent.
• Safety: Acclimatize to humidity; avoid unmarked trails. Carry emergency contacts and oxygen tanks (¥30) for altitude adjustments.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Jinlong Bridge rafting + Fuli Bridge photo stops + Yulong Bridge exploration.
  • Afternoon: Xima segment rafting + Shuangliu Ancient Ferry filming site visit.
  • Evening: Impression Liu Sanjie show or West Street night markets.
• Multi-Day Routes:
  • 3-Day: Guilin → Yangshuo → Longji Terraces → Li River Cruise.
  • 5-Day: Chengdu → Chongqing → Fengdu Ghost City → Yangtze River Cruise.

Yulong River Bamboo-Rafting epitomizes the convergence of natural grandeur, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism. As a UNESCO gem, it invites global travelers to witness Earth’s raw beauty while honoring Guangxi’s minority traditions—a true sanctuary of China’s southern karst landscapes.