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
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
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
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.
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