Yangshuo Rock Climbing Guide for Beginners 2026
Nestled between the Yulong and Li Rivers, Yangshuo has transformed from a sleepy riverside village into Asia’s premier rock climbing destination.
With over 1,000 bolted routes scattered across 70,000+ dramatic limestone karst towers, this climbing paradise offers everything from gentle beginner routes to world-class challenges that have attracted legends like Todd Skinner and Chris Sharma.Whether you’re clipping into a harness for the first time or seeking new limestone crags, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about rock climbing in Yangshuo—from the best crags for beginners to practical tips on gear, guides, and getting there.
Why Yangshuo is Perfect for Beginner Climbers
Yangshuo’s karst landscape creates ideal conditions for sport climbing. The limestone cliffs feature natural pockets, tufas, and crimp holds sculpted by thousands of years of erosion. Unlike many climbing destinations that cater exclusively to advanced climbers, Yangshuo offers an exceptionally welcoming environment for first-timers.
The climbing community here is tight-knit and supportive. You’ll find experienced climbers eager to share beta, local guides who specialize in teaching beginners, and multiple climbing schools offering instruction in English. Most crags are within a 20-30 minute bike or scooter ride from town, making them easily accessible even if you’re staying in central Yangshuo.
What makes Yangshuo special is the diversity of routes, especially the options for shaded and sheltered routes on rainy or hot sunny days. You can progress from top-rope climbs on beginner-friendly walls to more challenging lead climbs—all while surrounded by scenery straight out of a traditional Chinese painting.
For more detail on Yangshuo climbing we highly recommend the online climbing guide, The Crag.
Best Climbing Spots for Beginners
Swiss Cheese
Swiss Cheese crag gets its name from the hundreds of natural pockets dotting the cliff face, creating perfect handholds for newcomers. This crag offers excellent shade thanks to bamboo growth at the base, making it ideal for climbing during Yangshuo’s hot summer months.
Best for: Absolute beginners and families
Difficulty range: 5.6 – 5.9
Number of routes: 6-8 beginner-friendly lines
Getting there: 15-minute bike ride from Yangshuo town, past Omeida School on Xiangshui Lu heading West, left onto the trail, about 400m.
Routes 1 and 2 are perfect top-rope climbs for your first time on rock. Route 3 (18 meters, 5.8 difficulty) offers a gentle introduction to slightly steeper terrain. The natural pockets provide secure holds, building confidence as you learn proper footwork and body positioning.
Named for its distinctive bottle-shaped peak, Wine Bottle Crag is the classic training ground for beginner climbers in Yangshuo. The crag’s yellow limestone stands out beautifully against the surrounding green rice paddies.
Best for: Beginners ready to progress
Difficulty range: 5.6 – 5.11
Number of routes: 20+ established lines
Getting there: Opposite Butterfly Spring Park on the Ten Mile Gallery route about 5km outside of town.
The first two routes are easy warm-ups, while routes 3 and 4 (5.9 difficulty) and routes 5 and 6 (5.10a) provide excellent progression opportunities. Most climbing schools bring beginner groups here because the routes are clearly marked, and offer a variety of climbing styles within a manageable difficulty range.
Pro tip: Routes 9 and 10 require more experience—route 9 has a tricky overhang where falls are common, while route 10 features crack climbing that demands different techniques.
Bamboo Cave offers a mix of beginner and intermediate routes in a stunning setting. The overhanging sections provide natural protection from rain, meaning you can often climb here even during Yangshuo’s wet season.
Best for: Beginners with a few climbs under their belt
Difficulty range: 5.8 – 5.12
Number of routes: 18 routes across varied terrain
Getting there: Near the #2 kindergarten off Shima Lu.
The cave’s protected environment makes it popular during summer afternoons when other crags become too hot. Several routes here introduce beginners to slight overhangs and varied hold types, essential skills for progression.
Understanding Yangshuo’s Climbing Grades
Yangshuo uses the American Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) for grading routes. Here’s what the numbers mean for beginners:
5.0 – 5.9: Perfect for first-timers. These routes involve basic climbing with plentiful holds and minimal technical challenge. You’ll use hands for balance but won’t need advanced techniques.
5.10a 5.10d: Requires learning proper technique. Routes demand attention to footwork, body positioning, and route reading. Still accessible to beginners who’ve climbed a few times.
5.11: Amateur climber territory. You’ll need to master various techniques and build considerable strength. Achievable for dedicated beginners after several climbing sessions.
5.12+: Expert level requiring extensive training and experience.
Most beginners start with top-rope climbs in the 5.8-5.10 range, progressing to 5.10-5.11 routes after building confidence and technique. Remember that Yangshuo’s limestone features can make routes feel harder than the same grade elsewhere—the rock demands different skills than granite or sandstone.
Climbing Schools and Guide Services
Established: 1999
Specialty: Professional instruction for all levels
Languages: English and Chinese
Typical cost: ¥400-600 for half-day guided climbing
One of Yangshuo’s pioneering climbing organizations, Karst Climber (also formerly operating as Karst Café) has introduced over 300 groups to the area’s climbing opportunities. Their guides are known for personalized attention and patient instruction, making them excellent for nervous first-timers.
Established: 2011
Specialty: Schools groups, English and Chinese speaking clients.
Languages: English and Chinese
Typical cost: ¥500-700 for half-day guided climbing
Zen Quest offers many summer time activities for Yangshuo visitors and runs programs for International Schools all over China during the rest of the year. Professional western style service, with qualified guides and the ability to provide advanced courses in rope work and multi pitch climbing.
Established: 2021
Specialty: Climbing performance coaching, social media, events. Led by a lengendary Yangshuo climber.
Languages: English and Chinese
Typical cost: ¥ Unknown
Although this company is quite new, they have an indoor climbing gym in Yangshuo and a base camp on the Jinbao River. They can offer full packages and or guided climbing. The owners have lived in Yangshuo for around 20 years and support the community. They also coach some of China’s strongest youth team members in their gym. They also own Rock Abond Inn.
Jerry Climbing guides
Established: 2021
Specialty: The king of climbing social media in Yangshuo
Languages: English and Chinese
Typical cost: ¥ Unknown
Jerry is a climbing guide in Yangshuo who takes his own clients. He has a big following on Xiaohongshu and is great at arranging your climbing photos. No insurance or risk assessments, but lots and lots of fun, both on and off the rock!
What’s Included in Guided Climbing
Most half-day guided climbing adventures include:
- Transport to and from the crag
- All necessary equipment (harness, helmet, shoes, ropes, carabiners)
- English-speaking guide/instructor
- Instruction on belaying, climbing technique, and safety
- Typically 3-4 hours at the crag
- Small group sizes (usually 2-6 climbers per guide)
Equipment: Rent or Bring Your Own?
Rental Options
All climbing schools and shops in Yangshuo offer equipment rental for their clients. Typical costs:
- Climbing shoes: ¥20-40 per day
- Harness: ¥20-30 per day
- Helmet: ¥10-20 per day
- Full equipment package: ¥60-100 per day
Important note: Rental climbing shoes may feel unfamiliar or not fit perfectly. If you own climbing shoes that fit well, bring them. Proper-fitting shoes make an enormous difference in your climbing performance and comfort.
What to Bring from Home
If you’re planning multiple climbing days, consider bringing:
- Your own climbing shoes (if you have them)
- Chalk bag and chalk
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Personal belay device (if experienced)
- Sun cream, light long sleeves or mosquito spray.
Leave at home:
- Ropes and quickdraws (rental quality is excellent)
- Crash pads (not needed for sport climbing)
- Heavy gear (all necessities available locally)
Best Time to Climb in Yangshuo
Autumn (September – November) ★★★★★
Peak season for climbing. Cool, dry weather creates ideal conditions with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). October and November are particularly spectacular, with clear skies, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures perfect for all-day climbing sessions.
Pros: Perfect weather, great visibility, dry rock
Cons: More crowded in October, higher accommodation prices, book guides in advance
Spring (March – May) ★★★
Pleasantly mild with frequent rain. Temperatures climb from 15°C in March to 25°C by May. The countryside bursts with blooming flowers and fresh green growth, creating stunning backdrops for your climbs.
Pros: Beautiful scenery, moderate crowds, comfortable temperatures
Cons: Higher humidity, frequent rainy days (though many crags have overhangs for wet-weather climbing)
Winter (December – February) ★★★★
Yangshuo’s “winter” is mild by most standards, with daytime temperatures around 10-18C° (50-64°F). Shorter daylight hours and occasional cold snaps can challenge climbing plans, but many days remain perfectly climbable.
Pros: Quiet crags, low prices, crisp air
Cons: Chilly mornings, shorter days, need warm layers
Summer (June – August) ★★★★
Hot and very humid with frequent rain. Temperatures hover around 30-35°C (86-95°F). However, many crags feature overhanging sections that provide shelter from both sun and rain.
Pros: Extended daylight hours, overhanging routes stay dry.
Cons: Very hot afternoons, daily rain likelihood, slippery holds when humid. Peak season accommodation prices.
Pro tip: If climbing in summer, start early (before 8 AM) or climb shaded crags like Swiss Cheese. The overhung routes at crags like Bamboo Cave remain climbable even during afternoon downpours.
Getting to the Crags
Most climbing areas sit within a 30-minute journey from central Yangshuo. Here’s how to reach them:
By Electric Scooter (Best Option)
Electric scooters cost ¥80-120 per day and zip you to crags in 10-15 minutes. No special license required for electric models. Most rental shops provide simple instructions and a map.
Pros: Fast, effortless, explore multiple crags in one day
Cons: More expensive than bikes, need to manage battery charge
By Bicycle (if time isn’t a factor)
Rent a bike for ¥10-20 per day from virtually any accommodation or shop on West Street. The mostly flat countryside roads make cycling easy and enjoyable. Routes to popular crags like Swiss Cheese and Wine Bottle follow scenic paths through rice paddies and villages.
Pros: Affordable, enjoy scenery, easy navigation
Cons: Tiring in summer heat, 20-30 minute rides
With a Guide (Hassle-Free)
Guided climbing trips include transportation, eliminating navigation concerns. Guides typically use small vans or minibuses that accommodate groups.
Pros: Zero logistics, direct to crag, combined with instruction
Cons: Less flexibility, set departure times
Essential Safety Tips for Beginners
1. Always Climb with a Guide or Experienced Partner
Never climb alone in Yangshuo. The area has limited cell service at many crags, and emergency response can be slow in rural areas.
2. Check Your Gear
Before every climb:
- Inspect your harness for proper fit and secure buckles
- Check for rope wear or fraying
- Ensure carabiners lock properly
- Verify helmet fit
3. Learn Proper Commands
Master these essential climbing communications:
- “On belay?” (Climber to belayer: Are you ready?)
- “Belay on” (Belayer to climber: I’m ready)
- “Climbing” (Climber to belayer: I’m starting)
- “Climb on” (Belayer to climber: Go ahead)
- “Take” (Climber to belayer: Pull the rope tight)
- “Slack” (Climber to belayer: Give me more rope)
- “Lower” (Climber to belayer: Lower me down)
4. Wear a Helmet Always
Yangshuo’s karst limestone can be fragile, with loose rock common at some crags (especially Moon Hill). Helmets protect against falling rocks from climbers above and impacts if you swing into the wall.
5. Bring Essentials
Pack these items:
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen (sun reflects strongly off limestone)
- Water: At least 2 liters per person for a half-day of climbing
- Snacks: Energy bars or fruit for sustained energy
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes thrive in the humid climate
- Small first aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic, tape
6. Know Your Limits
Don’t let ego override safety. If a route feels too difficult, there’s no shame in asking to be lowered. Yangshuo’s climbing community celebrates safe climbing over bravado.
What to Expect on Your First Climbing Day
Morning: Most climbing trips depart between 8:30-9:30 AM. You’ll meet your guide at their shop or at a designated meeting point. The group (typically 2-6 people) travels together to the crag.
At the Crag: Your guide will:
- Demonstrate proper harness fitting and safety checks
- Teach basic climbing technique (balance, footwork, handholds)
- Show you how to belay (if you’re in a pair or small group)
- Set up top-rope anchors on beginner routes
Your Climbs: Expect to complete 4-8 routes during a half-day session, depending on the group’s speed and stamina. Most beginners find their arms “pumped” (exhausted) after 3-4 climbs—this is completely normal.
Afternoon: Return to Yangshuo typically around 1:00-2:00 PM. You’ll feel exhausted but exhilarated. Arms will be sore (this improves with repeated climbing).
Beyond Climbing: Complete Your Yangshuo Adventure
After a morning on the rock, Yangshuo offers countless ways to spend your afternoon:
- Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River: Gentle 1-2 hour float through pristine countryside
- Countryside cycling: Explore rice paddies, ancient bridges, and quiet villages
- River swimming: The Li River near Yangshuo offers refreshing dips (Secret Beach is popular)
- West Street exploration: Browse shops, sample local food, people-watch on the ancient street
- Cooking classes: Learn to make local specialties like beer fish
- Sunset at viewpoints: Climb Moon Hill’s hiking trail (separate from climbing routes) for spectacular views
Where to Stay: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat
For climbers seeking the perfect base, Yangshuo Mountain Retreat offers an ideal combination of riverside tranquility and convenient access to climbing areas. Located just 15 minutes by bike from crags like Swiss Cheese and Wine Bottle, the retreat provides:
- Direct crag access: Close proximity to major climbing areas
- Local expertise: Staff can arrange climbing guides and provide detailed route information
- Comfortable recovery: Riverside rooms perfect for post-climbing relaxation
- Bike rentals: Free bicycles for guests to reach climbing areas independently
- Community atmosphere: Meet fellow climbers and outdoor enthusiasts
The retreat’s location on the Yulong River places you away from the tourist crowds of West Street while keeping you within easy reach of both climbing and town amenities. Another lower-cost option is Yangshuo Viage Inn located across from Moon Hill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yangshuo good for beginner rock climbers?
Yes, Yangshuo is excellent for beginners. Multiple crags feature routes in the 5.6-5.9 range specifically suited for first-time climbers. The area has numerous climbing schools with English-speaking instructors, well-maintained equipment rental, and a supportive climbing community. Most beginner routes are well-bolted sport climbs with clear protection, making them safer and more confidence-building than traditional climbing areas.
How much does rock climbing cost in Yangshuo?
A half-day guided climbing experience with equipment included typically costs ¥400-150 (approximately $55-180 USD) . This includes transportation, all necessary gear, instruction, and usually 3-4 hours at the crag. If climbing independently, daily equipment rental runs ¥60-100. Multi-day packages and group bookings often receive discounts.
Do I need climbing experience to try rock climbing in Yangshuo?
No prior experience is necessary. All climbing schools offer introductory sessions designed for absolute beginners. Guides teach everything from putting on a harness to basic climbing technique. Most first-timers successfully complete several routes on their first day. However, reasonable fitness helps—climbing uses muscles you might not regularly engage.
What’s the difference between top-rope and lead climbing?
Top-rope climbing (recommended for beginners) has the rope already anchored at the top of the route. As you climb, your belayer takes in slack, so if you fall, you only drop a few inches. Lead climbing (for experienced climbers) involves clipping the rope into protection points as you ascend. Falls are longer and more dynamic. All beginners start with top-rope climbing in Yangshuo.
Can I rent climbing shoes in Yangshuo?
Yes, all climbing schools and shops rent climbing shoes for ¥20-40 per day for their clients. Don’t expect equipment rental unless you’re climbing eith that guide. However, rental shoes may not fit perfectly or feel comfortable. If you own well-fitting climbing shoes, bring them—proper footwear significantly improves your climbing experience and performance.
When is the best time of year to go rock climbing in Yangshuo?
October through January is optimal, offering cool temperatures (15-32°C), dry conditions, and clear skies. Spring (March-May) is the worst time because of frequent rain, but still possible. Summer (June-August) can be very hot and humid with afternoon showers, but manageable with early starts or shaded crags. Winter (December-February) is quieter with mild temperatures, though some days can be chilly or rainy, this is the best time for climbing in Yangshuo.
How physically demanding is rock climbing for beginners?
Expect your forearms, fingers, and core to feel worked after climbing. Most beginners find their arms “pumped” (exhausted and shaky) after 3-4 routes. This is normal and improves quickly with repeated climbing. General fitness helps, but climbing uses specific muscle groups that develop only through practice. Start with shorter, easier routes and rest between climbs.
Is rock climbing in Yangshuo safe?
Yes, when following proper safety procedures with qualified guides. All sport climbing routes are bolted, and reputable schools maintain equipment to high standards. Climbing schools prioritize safety through proper instruction, equipment checks, and appropriate route selection. However, climbing always carries inherent risks—helmets are mandatory, and following guide instructions is essential.
What should I wear for rock climbing in Yangshuo?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows full range of motion: stretchy pants or shorts, a t-shirt or tank top, and closed-toe shoes (climbing shoes will be provided). Avoid loose jewelry, watches, or anything that might catch. Bring layers as mornings can be cool. Long pants protect your knees when scrambling to routes.
Can children try rock climbing in Yangshuo?
Yes, many climbing schools welcome families with children aged 6 and up. Swiss Cheese Rock is particularly family-friendly with its abundant holds and moderate difficulty. Guides adjust instruction for younger climbers, focusing on fun and building confidence. Children often excel at climbing due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio.