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  • Best Yangshuo Restaurants

    Best Yangshuo Restaurants

    Find trusted Yangshuo restaurant recommendations here.

    From Indian, Italian, American bistro and local streetfood, Yangshuo restaurants offer a surprising range of cuisine. Avoid the overpriced tourist spots and come with me to the best of insider Yangshuo restaurants.

    Luna

    , Yangshuo Village Inn

    The first Italian-themed restaurant in Yangshuo since 2008, Luna offeres local Yangshuo dishes as well as simple Italian lunch and dinner. Overlooking iconic Moon Hill, Luna has an outdoor terrace on the 4th floor rooftop as well as air conditioned space in side. There is a full bar and space for around 40 diners. Luna features a full bar with beer, European wines and cocktails. One of the best value experiences in Yangshuo. #26 Li Cun Moon Hill Village, Gaotian Town, Yangshuo.

    Chongqing Sisters

    A fixture in Yangshuo for over 15 years, this Sichuan style restaurant offers some of the best quality food at a great price. It isn’t limited to Sichuan Style cooking, but features many Southwestern China specialties. The location is great, just off the busy pedestrian West Street on Guihua Lu, next to an old stone bridge that crosses the canal. There is outside seating, excellent for groups. Guihua Lu, between Xijie and Diecui Lu.

    Ganga Impression

    Indian food may seem an odd choice in a Chinese town but you will not be disappointed. This is some of the best authentic Indian cuisine in South China and affordably priced. Sit indoors or on the terrace and watch people go by. The kitchen also features some Western favorites by a German chef. Featuring craft beer from Guilin, as well as local and imported beer and a fulll bar. Foreign residents of Yangshuo love this place. Off Chengzhong Rd on Chengbei Lu.

    Yangshuo Mountain Retreat

    Since 2001, the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat has been an insider’s escape to the natural beauty of the Yulong River Valley. The restaurant here offers outdoor dining in the riverside garden, as well as a main indoor dining room and a secret dining room for private groups. The retreat features local cuisine with fish and chicken raised on site, as well as dishes from central and Northern China. There is also an outstanding western menu, by local chefs trained by our Austrian friend Andy. The Mountain Retreat offers an diverse imported wine selection as well as cocktails and craft beer. See our Menu here. Yuong River Road, Gaotian Town, Fenglou Village.

    DEMO

    DEMO is a mainstay for music jams, craft beer and excellent homemade pizza. It offers an unbeatable location overlooking the Li River from an outdoor terrace. There is a wide selection of Chinese craft beer in bottles and cans. Super friendly service and late opening hours. Head upriver on Binjiang Lu, in the covered market before Longtou Wharf.

    Rock and Grill

    Rock and Grill is one of the oldest continuous Yangshuo cafes, now in its third location off a busy side street in Yangshuo town center. Rock and grill specializes in Southeast Asian food, like Thai, Malay and Singapore. It’s not perfectly authentic, but very tasty, generous portions and well presented. They also have decent western food and wine. The main draw here is the jungle-like outdoor seating away from the crowd. They also have indoor with A/C and upstairs for more privacy. It’s central location makes it a great lunch spot. Excellent coffee and some imported bottled beers. Chengzong Lu across from Xinxijie Plaza (Starbucks)

    FAQ

    What are the best riverside restaurants in Yangshuo?

    The best riverside restaurants include Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (organic menu with Yulong River views from the riverside garden, Western gastropub dishes from $8), Riverside Kitchen (fresh seafood terraces), and Li River Cafe (riverside barbecues). Yangshuo Mountain Retreat offers scenic sunset dining with traditional Guangxi flavors and riverfront serenity.

    Where can I find authentic Yangshuo food?

    Yangshuo Village Inn serves rooftop specialties like beer fish and stuffed snails from $8, and Village Kitchen offers budget-friendly local dishes. Yangshuo Village Inn provides scenic rooftop versions of traditional farm-to-table flavors with family-style portions and views of Moon Hill.

    What are the best Western restaurants in Yangshuo?

    Yangshuo Mountain Retreat features an organic menu with Italian-inspired homemade pastas, German sausage, pizza, burgers, imported wines, and fresh salads from $10. DEMO offers nice pizzas with local twists, and The Groove is a popular local hangout with burgers, mexican and nice snacks. Mountain Retreat blends Western comfort with scenic Yulong River dining.

    What is Yangshuo beer fish and where can I try it?

    Beer fish is Yangshuo’s signature dish featuring fresh Li River fish cooked with beer, tomatoes, and peppers. Try it at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat’s restaurant, local West Street spots, or Yangshuo Village Inn’s rooftop. Expect to pay ¥80-150 per dish depending on fish size and restaurant location.

    Are there vegetarian restaurants in Yangshuo?

    Yes, West Street has several vegetarian options, and Yangshuo Mountain Retreat offers fresh salads, vegetable pastas, and can accommodate vegan and vegetarian dietary restrictions. Let the staff know your preferences when ordering and they’ll prepare customized dishes.

    See more about Yangshuo Restaurants here.

  • Getting Around Yangshuo: Transportation Guide to Scenic Spots 2026

    Getting Around Yangshuo: Transportation Guide to Scenic Spots 2026

    Your complete transportation guide to insider routes, rates and tips from locals

    Getting around Yangshuo is easier than ever in 2026 with the abundance of ebikes, scooters, and ride hailing apps. Here are our top recommendations based on Yangshuo Mountain Retreat’s most common guest queries.

    How to get to Moon Hill

    Moon Hill is located opposite Yangshuo VIllage Inn in Li Cun (Li Village or Moon Hill Village). There is a ticket price of 13 yuan for locals, but the foreigner price is 20. If you have a student card or resident visa you can show them and try for the local price, especially if you are friendly, polite and speak a little Chinese. As of December 2025, the park has been closed due to an unresolved conflict between the County Government and a private tourism company that ran the park for a few years. Check with Yangshuo Mountain Retreat reception to see if it’s resolved when you visit.

    Getting There: Follow Kangzhang Lu out of town if you are on a scooter or bike for 7.5km, past the Gonnong Bridge and Fenglou Village anout 500m. The Moon Hill park entrance is just opposite and down the road 200m from Li Cun and Yangshuo Village Inn.

    Getting to Xingping from Yangshuo

    You can take a taxi or Didi from town for 45 minutes or 29km. The price varies but should be between 70-100 RMB depending on point of departure. Yangshuo Mountain Retreat offers a private car half-day round trip for 250 RMB, including a photo opportunity of the famour 20 yuan note mountain and a motorized boat trip on the Li River. Departure times are flexible. The Xingping old town is worth an hour or two wandering around and having a coffee. Note that the route to Xingping is mostly busy motorway and not recommended by bike. Travel by scooter is possible but a car is by far the best option.

    How to get to Liusanjie

    By car from town or Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, the Liu Sanjie show (opposite Mushan Village on Tianyuan Lu) is about the same distance of 4km and 15 minutes drive. Mountain Retreat offers private round-trip cars for 110 for a sedan, 150 for a van. A didi will cost 30 yuan each way. The crowds at this show are enormous (over 1,000 people) and it may be difficult for cars to get in and out for pickup and dropoff, so it’s recommended to have our hotel car and driver drop you and wait for you.

    How to get to the Li River in Yangshuo?

    Yangshuo is a rural county but the town of Yangshuo sits along the Li River, with access to riverboats from Guilin. There are some hotels set back above the Li River across from the town or upriver a few kilometers, but to get to the Li River from Yangshuo, just walk up West Street (the main pedestrian street in Yangshuo) until you come to Binjiang Lu. Binjiang Lu, which runs along the Yangshuo Town side of the Li River, is also accessible from Die Cui Lu, a busy commercial street with banks, personal care shops and small food outlets. Not far fro here you’ll find our favorite places such as The Groove See our Yangshuo Bars post or Yangshuo bars website page) and Ganga Impression Indian Cuisine. See our Yangshuo Restaurants post or Yangshuo Restaurants website page.

    Also upriver 500m from the junction of Diecui Lu and Binjiang Lu is our favorite pizza and craft beer spot DEMO, with views of the river from their deck. Keep going another 2km up river and you will reach the Li River Resort, perched high on an embankment.

    Can I bike to Moon Hill from Yangshuo?

    Moon Hill Yangshuo is easily accessible by bike, just 8km from Yangshuo Town or or 3.5km from Yangshuo Mountain Retreat. From town it’s 40 minutes by bike, but from Yangshuo Mountain Retreat there are back roads through scenic Fenglou Village that make the trip just 20 minutes by bike or 45 minutes pleasant walking. The park is on the old 321 National Road, which is busy but has bike lanes. A scooter or ebike is faster and can rented at Mountain Retreat.

    Where can I rent a bike in Yangshuo?

    Bikes are available at most hotels and at Bike Asia as part of their tours. Bike rental is complementary at Yangshuo Mountain Reteat and we have the newest ebikes available as well as electric scooters for guests. Check out bike and scooter rentals along Pantao Lu, just down Die Cui Lu from Yangshuo Park. Guests of Yangshuo Village Inn also have access to complimentary bike rental.

    How do I get to 10-Mile Gallery in Yangshuo?

    Yangshuo 10-Mile Gallery lies along the Yulong River from Gongnong Bridge also called “Lansheng Qiao”to the Yulong Bridge, almost 14km in total distance. Entering from Yangshuo Town along Kangzhang Lu (old 321 National Road), turn right just before the Gongnong Bridge toward Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, which is 1.5km up the road. From the Mountain Retreat you have the option to follow a footpath along the Yulnog River (recommended for scenery) or continue on the main road. Follow either up river with stops in Chaolong Village, the park near Xiatang Village, Jiuxian Village where you will also find the Secret Garden guesthouse, listed on our Yangshuo Hotels post. From here, carry on upriver to Xianggu Qiao, an ancient bridge, and another 4km to the Yulong Bridge Scenic area, which has a nice riverside restaurant on the opposite side of the river. In the evenings there is a dragon boat lantern show.

    FAQ

    How do I get to Moon Hill from Yangshuo?

    Moon Hill is 8km from Yangshuo Town, accessible by bike (40 minutes) or scooter. Follow Kangzhang Lu past Gongnong Bridge and Fenglou Village for 7.5km. The park entrance is opposite Yangshuo Village Inn. Note: As of December 2025, the park is closed due to a lawsuit – check with local hotels for updates.

    How do I get to Xingping from Yangshuo?

    Xingping is 29km from Yangshuo, best reached by taxi or Didi (70-100 RMB, 45 minutes). The route is busy motorway, not recommended for bikes. Private car services offer half-day round trips including the famous 20 yuan note photo spot and Li River boat trip.

    How do I get to Impression Liu Sanjie from Yangshuo?

    The Liu Sanjie show is 4km from Yangshuo town (15 minutes by car). A Didi costs about 30 yuan each way. Due to large crowds (1,000+ people), having a private car wait for you is recommended as pickups can be difficult.

    How do I get to the Li River from Yangshuo?

    The Li River runs through Yangshuo town. From West Street, walk north until you reach Binjiang Lu, which runs along the river. You can also access the river via Die Cui Lu. Popular riverside spots include The Groove bar, DEMO craft beer restaurant (2km upriver), and Li River Resort.

    Can I bike to Moon Hill from Yangshuo?

    Sure! Moon Hill is easily accessible by bike – 8km from Yangshuo Town (40 minutes) with bike lanes on the old 321 National Road. From nearby guesthouses like Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, scenic back roads through Fenglou Village make it just a 20-minute ride.

    Where can I rent a bike in Yangshuo?

    Bikes are available at most hotels in Yangshuo, including complimentary rentals at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat and Yangshuo Village Inn. You’ll also find bike and scooter rentals along Pantao Lu (off Die Cui Lu near Yangshuo Park), and through Bike Asia tours.

    How do I get to the Yulong River from Yangshuo?

    The Yulong River is 4.7km southwest of Yangshuo Town on back roads – an easy 20-minute bike ride to Jima Village. By car, take Pantao Lu to Kangzhang Lu (5.7km, 15 minutes) to Gongnong Bridge, then turn right and follow the river road. The scenic 13km riverwalk path begins at various access points along the route.

    How do I get to Ten Mile Gallery from Yangshuo?

    The Ten Mile Gallery runs 14km along the Yulong River from Gongnong Bridge to Yulong Bridge. From Yangshuo Town, take Kangzhang Lu and turn right before Gongnong Bridge. The route passes through scenic villages like Chaolong, Xiatang, and Jiuxian, ending at Yulong Bridge Scenic Area with its riverside restaurant and evening dragon boat lantern show.

    See more about Things to Do in Yangshuo here.

  • Best Yangshuo Bars

    Best Yangshuo Bars

    Favorite places for music, craft beer, cocktails and sports

    Yangshuo’s nightlife isn’t the thumping club fest you might expect from Guilin—it’s more like a mellow jam session with the mountains as backup singers. With craft beer imports up 25% this year (thanks to eco-tourists shying away from mass brews), Yangshuo bars are leaning into sustainable local beverages. But the best? They’re tucked away from West Street’s neon chaos, where loud music and bright lights can be overwhelming. Ready to explore? Here are my top five.

    The Groove

    Yangshuo-bars-the-groove-yangshuo-china

    Located just off West Street, the Groove is the newest and coolest Yangshuo bar run by old friends and their Chinese partners. Originally The Brew, which moved to Yangshuo Mountain Retreat riverside location, these two longtime Yangshuo expat friends created a winning formula for Yangshuo bars that has become a favorite of foreign residents.

    You can find the Groove behind Guihua Lu on Chengbei Lu, a quiet pedestrian street that’s perfect for people watching. The bar is tucked away between a music bar and Impression Gangga, formerly Black Pepper, the best Indian food in Yangshuo. Outside on the deck is a foosball table and ample seating, while inside there’s a dart board, DJ station, booth and bar seating. Often there are Hollywood movies playing on a big screen or European football. The Groove has a couple of Guilin-brewed craft beers, the Bobcat IPA and a nice pale lager which are both excellent. In the cooler are a few German imports, Cronona, Budweiser and some local craft beers in cans.

    Be sure to try the spicy peanuts if you come for a drink. There are also numerous good food choices, from nachos to burgers or outstanding Indian dishes from next door. The Groove is a must-visit Yangshuo bar, even if you’re only in town for one night.

    Mojo Rooftop Bar

    Yangshuo-bars-mojo-rooftop-bar-yangshuo

    Located down at the Li River end of West Street on the 6th floor of the Alshan Hotel, you take an elevator to the top and can enjoy the best city views among Yangshuo bars. Mojo isn’t your average rooftop—it’s Yangshuo’s elevated heartbeat, with 360-degree panoramas of the Li River and karst spires. In 2025, their “Karst Cooler” (lychee gin fizz, ¥45) stole the show.

    What sets it apart? The vibe: a mix of chill house beats and live acoustic sets that draw climbers fresh off the crags. Affordable Western pours (beers from ¥25) make it welcoming, but it’s the crowd—expats, artists, and river rafters swapping tales—that feels like family. One evening, I watched a group of Dutch hikers turn a quiet corner into an impromptu sing-along.

    Sabrina’s pro tip: Arrive by 6 PM for the golden hour—start off with their truffle fries (¥30). If you’re basing at Mountain Retreat, it’s a 20-minute scooter ride. Skip if crowds aren’t your jam. Weekends can be busy especially after 9pm, but it’s a fun crowd, sometimes enjoying a game of beer pong. Good music and nice atmosphere, a great choice among Yangshuo bars since 2015.

    DEMO Bar

    Yangshuo-bars-ldemo-bar-yangshuo

    If riverside recovery is your love language, Demo’s your spot. Hugging the Li River’s edge, this open-air bistro-bar serves up thin-crust pizzas (beef and burrata, ¥65), baked on a wood-fired oven with views of fishing cormorants gliding by. Originally located on West Street, this jam bar has moved to Binjiang Lu, heading North along the river toward Longtou Shan. There is a quiz night on Thursdays, a jam band on Fridays or Saturdays and some of the best pizza among Yangshuo bars, as well as tacos or pasta (all under ¥50). Out on the patio, there are stunning views above the bamboo looking across the Li River to the karst mountains beyond.

    The bar no longer has taps, but they have a good assortment of craft beer from TripSmith brewing in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, as well as some great canned beers from Guilin and the region. 2025 highlight: Their seasonal “River Rat IPA” collab with local brewers, clocking in at a very drinkable 5.5% ABV. Friendly owners, good music and reasonably priced, DEMO Yangshuo bar is a perfect choice for those seeking a hidden away spot with great views and craft beer. A favorite among local musicians and expat residents.

    It’s foreign-friendly, with English menus and a playlist blending reggae and indie folk. Try their mojito as sunset turns the river into a misty dreamscape.

    Killer Value: Brunch specials (avocado toast and Bloody Mary, ¥40) draw early birds. From our retreat, it’s an easy and scenic 20-minute scooter ride to the Li River.

    TK Pub

    Yangshuo-bars-TK-taproom-yangshuo-china

    This is an amzaing find! One of the few high quality taprooms in Yangshuo, this new bar (2025)located on Pantao Lu next to the Green Lotus Hotel has several high quality local craft beers on tap. Tip: go for the hazy NEIPA! The bar is located upstairs from the main road on the 2nd floor, featuring limited seating at the bar and patio tables. There are not many Yangshuo bars offering this selection and quality of local draft beer, so if you’re a fan, TK pub is an excellent choice. It’s just a 10 minute walk from West Street entrance on Pantao Lu just past Green Lotus Hotel. Sit out on the upstairs terrace and witness the chaos and ballet that is Yangshuo traffic.

    Kaya Reggae Bar

    Yangshuo-bars-kaya-yangshuo

    Off West Street down the lantern-lined Xianqian Jie overlooking a canal next to Shuangyue Qiao (Double Moon Bridge), Kaya’s your bohemian bolt-hole that feels like it’s been here forever because it has. Bob Marley murals, rattan swings, and rum punches (pineapple-infused, ¥40) that sway like the river current. 2025 upgrade: Vegan bar bites (jackfruit tacos, ¥35) to match the chill island vibes.

    Why it hooks? The soundtrack—live reggae Fridays draws a diverse crew for sunset jams. Feels like a secret society. Go midweek for quieter chats. It’s our grunge favorite.

    BONUS LISTING: Lucy’s

    Yangshuo-bars-lucy's-place-yangshuo

    Tucked off West Street’s frenzy at the top of Guihua Lu, Lucy’s is the hideaway you didn’t know you needed—think fairy lights, creaky rattan chairs, mismatched cushions, and a chalkboard menu of value craft cocktails. It’s more of a cafe than a bar, but everyone loves Lucy and her enduring charm. 2025 twist: They’ve added “Zero-Waste Nights,” where bar scraps become garnishes, nodding to Yangshuo’s eco ethos. Lucy is a warm and knowledgable host, running the cafe with her family for almost 20 years.

    It’s not flashy, but that’s the charm: a neighborhood feel with homemade apple crumble (¥25) that melts like butter. The food is backpacker fare upgraded, and most travelers come here for a simple but hearty breakfast.

    FAQ

    What are the best bars in Yangshuo?

    The best bars include The Groove (Chengbei Lu for local craft beer, cocktails and DJ music), DEMO (craft beer with river views on Binjiang Lu), TK Pub Taproom (wide beer selection, next to Green Lotus Hotel), and MOJO Rooftop (sunset cocktails at the top of West Street). Prices range from ¥35-50 for craft IPAs and cocktails.

    Is West Street nightlife too crowded and touristy?

    West Street can be very crowded with loud music and tourist-focused bars. For a more relaxed atmosphere, look for rooftop bars in side alleys like MOJO, on a backstreet like the Groove, or enjoy drinks with a stunning view at quieter spots like Yangshuo Mountain Retreat’s riverside garden bar away from the crowds.

    Where can I find craft beer in Yangshuo?

    The Groove, DEMO, and TK Pub all serve quality craft beers including IPAs, stouts, and local brews. Expect to pay ¥35-50 per pint. The Groove is particularly popular as a local hangout and TK Pub dominates the local craft brew scene for its rotating tap selection and knowledgeable local staff.

    Are there bars with live music in Yangshuo?

    DEMO hosts Saturday Jam Night with local and traveling musicians. The Groove occasionally features live bands, and several West Street bars have performances on weekends. Check schedules as they vary seasonally.

    What time do bars close in Yangshuo?

    Most bars on West Street stay open until midnight or later if busy. The Groove typically closes around midnight. Quieter neighborhood bars close around 11 PM. Hours may vary during peak tourist seasons and Chinese holidays.

    See more about Yangshuo Bars here.

  • Yangshuo Coffee Shops

    Yangshuo Coffee Shops

    The best coffee in Yangshuo, trusted by locals.

    While no coffee is grown near Yangshuo, there are some expert roasters, and you can find beautiful beans from Yunnan. Yangshuo’s coffee game isn’t just about a quick espresso—it’s a slow dance with the landscape. With eco-tourism spiking 15% this year, local shops are promoting single-origin beans and bamboo decor, ditching plastic for a greener vibe. Travelers crave spots off West Street’s bustle, where the air smells of roasted arabica instead of fried snacks. Many roasters and shops are now packaging their own beans for tourists to take home with them. Having grown up in Yangshuo, I’ve seen this shift—people want a brew that stands apart from the chain shops. Here are my top five:

    Zeermu Cafe

    Yangshuo-coffee-zeermu

    Nestled in a bamboo-shaded Furong Lu off the main drag, Zeermu Coffee is simple, comfortable and contemporary, the air thick with the scent of freshly ground Yunnan arabica. In 2025, their signature pour-over (¥35) stands out, with notes of citrus and chocolate. It’s not about the flash; it’s the ritual—baristas weigh beans on old scales and brew at tableside, turning a simple cup into a mini ceremony.

    The vibe is intimate and unhurried, with a small patio where you can watch scooters zip by while plotting your next hike. It’s a favorite for solo travelers too, with solid Wi-Fi tucked away for those “work from anywhere” moments.

    Value shines at breakfast: Pair the pour-over with a fluffy banana pancake (¥25) for under ¥60—light, fresh, and guilt-free after walking through town. From Mountain Retreat, it’s a 20-minute scooter ride or 30 minutes by bike on some of the most scenic riverside roads in Yangshuo; link it with a cycling tour to earn that extra shot. If you’re chasing authenticity over Instagram polish, Zeermu’s your spot—guests often linger longer than planned, coffee cooling under an old ceiling fan as conversations heat up.

    Ming Yuan Coffee

    coffee-yangshuo-mingyuan-coffee

    At the top of West Street, Mingyuan Coffee is the ultimate escape hatch from Yangshuo’s midday sizzle. This gem’s bright windows flood the space with light, bouncing off comfy sofas and potted ferns for a vibe that’s equal parts cafe and chill lounge. Their 2025 highlight is an iced pour-over (¥32), a cool cascade of floral Yunnan beans that’s refreshing without the sugar overload.

    Why it’s great? The location and funky, eclectic vibe of the decor that feels like a bohemian living room, while soft indie tunes keep things relaxed. Hot mornings drive families in here, kids will enjoy a “puppyccino” (foamy milk treat, ¥15) while iced lattes are perfect to melt the heat away. The staff are great, English flows easy, and they’ll tweak a drink to your whims without a fuss.

    Don’t miss the bites: the desserts are worth it! Their chocolate cake slice (¥20) is dense and dreamy, a steal at half the West Street price! For families or caffeine purists, Mingyuan’s that reliable pick-me-up where it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon.

    Vanilla Forest Coffee House

    yangshuo-coffee-vanilla-forest-coffee-house

    Deep in a green pocket just down the scenic Yulong River Road from Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, Vanilla Forest Coffee House lives up to its name—a whimsical nook wrapped in vines and vanilla-scented air, like a fairy tale brewed for grown-ups. Their standout in 2025 is the vanilla-infused latte (¥38), creamy with a pod-fresh twist, sourced from local pods that nod to Guangxi’s spice heritage.

    The setting is a forested patio with hammocks swaying under canopy shade, where birdsong drowns out the distant scooter hum. It’s a dreamer’s den—artists sketch karst outlines on napkins, and the faint vanilla haze makes every sip feel indulgent.

    Pairings keep it playful: Their forest berry scone (¥18) bursts with wild flavors, making it a light lunch contender. Just a 15 minute bike ride from our retreat,(free rentals here), it’s ideal for a trail-to-treat detour. If you want coffee with a side of enchantment—minus the crowds—Vanilla Forest delivers.

    FAQ

    What are the best coffee shops in Yangshuo?

    Zeermu Coffee, Mingyuan Coffee (riverside), and Vanilla Forest are all excellent choices under ¥40. Each offers unique atmosphere and quality beans.

    Where can I find Yangshuo coffee with river views?

    Indigo on Binjiang Lu before DEMO, Mingyuan Coffee and Riverside Roasters — ¥32–¥35 pour-overs.

    Best Yangshuo coffee shop for remote work?

    Under the Tree (500m up Xian Shang Road from Die Cui Lu and left about 500m), Karst Bean Haven or Wi-Fi, outlets, ¥25 coffee.

    How much does coffee cost in Yangshuo?

    Expect to pay ¥25–¥40 for quality coffee. Full breakfast combos are typically under ¥60.

    Is there good coffee near Yangshuo Mountain Retreat?

    Yangshuo Mountain Retreat has excellent fresh brewed coffee from Yunnan beans and Vanilla Forest Coffee House is just an 8-minute bike ride from the retreat and serves excellent coffee in a peaceful setting.

  • Yangshuo Massage Services

    Yangshuo Massage Services

    Clean, legitimate and professional

    In 2025, dozens of new massage rooms have popped up all over town, but they vary wildly in price, cleanliness and professionalism. To avoid the dodgy, overpriced places, Mountain Retreat offers these trusted recommendations below. We’ve rounded up five no-fuss parlors that check all the boxes: professional (no “extras”), clean rooms, comfortable environment, and reasonable prices (under ¥200/hour). These are the ones retreat guests have reported as their favorites.

    For Yangshuo Mountain Retreat guests, we offer in-room massage, as well as outdoor foot massage by the river! (weather allowing). Please inquire with our reception.

    Yangshuo Blind Massage

    Tucked into West Street’s calmer end, this no-frills blind massage parlor is a climber’s haven—think simple white walls, firm tables, and therapists who’ve honed their touch through years of focused training. In 2025, their 60-minute tuina session (¥120) targets deep knots with acupressure that feels like karst-carved relief, often paired with a quick herbal foot soak (add ¥30). Cleanliness is top-notch: Fresh linens, sanitized tools, and essential oils.

    The comfort? Spacious rooms with dim lights and zero rush—it’s legit through and through—government-backed for blind employment—and fairly priced for the skill level.

    Insider move: Go for the ¥100 full-body option if you’re solo.

    Yangshuo Impression Spa

    Overlooking the Li River’s gentle curve, Yangshuo Impression Spa blends hotel polish with local roots—airy rooms with bamboo accents, heated tables, and essential oil diffusers that whisper citrus and eucalyptus. Their 2025 standout is the 90-minute hot stone massage (¥150), using river-smoothed stones for that deep, warming release on sore spots from raft paddling or cycling.

    Spotless and soothing: Daily deep cleans, private changing areas, and soft robes make it feel luxurious without the fuss. Comfort comes from the riverside perch—crack a window for karst breezes mid-session. It’s all above-board, with certified therapists and clear pricing—no upsell surprises.

    Value tip: The ¥80 foot reflexology add-on is a steal for post-hike bliss. Just 20 minutes from the retreat by scooter—link to a riverfront dinner. It’s the polished pick for first-timers.

    Karst Relief Massage House

    A short trail from Moon Hill’s base, Karst Relief is your earthy escape—cozy nooks with tatami mats, herbal compresses steaming on shelves, and therapists in crisp uniforms dishing out gua sha scrapes that ease everything from neck strain to foggy fatigue. For 2025, their ¥100 herbal oil body massage shines, infused with ginger and lemongrass for that anti-inflammatory kick after a day in the hills.

    Clean as a whistle: Fresh herbs daily, ventilated rooms, and those little touches like chilled towels post-session. Comfort? Plush bolsters and ambient karst murals make it feel like a hidden cave spa.

    Fairly priced and fully legit—family-run with glowing local rep. Quick hit: Add ¥20 for a head massage if you want to fix a headache. 10 minutes from our doors—ideal pre-hiking tour. It’s the holistic hero for wellness seekers.

    Yulong Wellness Parlor

    Affiliated with a boutique riverside hotel, Yulong Wellness Parlor ups the ante with sleek suites—marble counters, rainfall showers for pre/post rinse, and therapists trained in both TCM and Thai styles. Their 2025 favorite? The ¥130 Thai-Yangshuo fusion (stretching meets acupressure), easing raft-weary backs with lemongrass oils that transport you to the tropics.

    Immaculate vibes: Hotel-grade hygiene, with UV-sanitized tools and eucalyptus-scented linens. The comfort is next-level—zero-gravity chairs and optional river-view windows for that “floating” feel.

    No shady vibes—just straightforward bliss at a fair price. Value add: ¥90 express shoulder session for quick fixes. An easy 15-minute shuttle from us—tie in a yoga flow. It’s the refined choice for couples or pamper days.

    Harmony Foot & Body Spa

    In a quiet alley off Pantao Road, Harmony Foot & Body Spa is the understated star—vibrant murals of karst sunsets, ergonomic tables, and a menu of foot reflexology (¥80/45 minutes) that maps your soles to total relaxation, zeroing in on energy meridians for that post-raft revival.

    Spotless setup: Herbal foot basins refreshed per guest, airy space with fans whirring softly. Comfort shines in the zero-pressure atmosphere—dim lamps, soothing tunes, and therapists who adjust on the fly.

    Legit and local-loved, with prices that feel like a gift. Beat the rush: Mid-afternoon slots are serene. 15 minutes from our retreat—perfect after a cooking class. It’s the everyday essential for budget bliss.

    FAQ

    Where can I get the best massage in Yangshuo?

    Top massage spots include Lotus Wellness (¥120–¥180 for traditional Chinese massage), River Spa (¥200 for private river-view rooms), and Zen Touch (¥150 for Thai massage). For convenience, Yangshuo Mountain Retreat offers in-room massage bookings through reception with professional therapists.

    How much does a massage cost in Yangshuo?

    Massage prices in Yangshuo range from ¥80 for basic foot massage to ¥200 for premium Thai or oil massage. Most quality full-body massages cost ¥120-180 for 60-90 minutes. Hotel in-room massages may cost slightly more but offer privacy and convenience.

    Can I get a massage near Yangshuo Mountain Retreat?

    Yes! Book an in-room massage directly at Yangshuo Mountain Retreat’s reception. Professional therapists provide traditional Chinese massage, foot massage, and relaxation treatments in the comfort of your room. Alternatively, several massage parlors are a short bike ride away in town.

    What’s the best spa for couples in Yangshuo?

    River Spa offers private river-view rooms perfect for couples massages with scenic Yulong River views. Lotus Wellness also accommodates couples in side-by-side treatment rooms. Expect to pay ¥350-400 for couples packages including tea service.

    Are Yangshuo massage parlors clean and safe?

    Yes, reputable massage parlors in Yangshuo maintain high hygiene standards with fresh linens, trained staff, and licensed therapists. Look for established businesses with visible licenses. Yangshuo Mountain Retreat only works with vetted, professional massage therapists for guest safety and quality assurance.