The Bamboo Raft
竹筏 · Close to water
Shallow bamboo rafts drift just above the surface — you’re almost level with the river, not looking down from a cruise deck.
Why Yulong River Rafting is worth your time
If the Li River cruise is the headline, the Yulong is the deep cut. The water here is shallower and the peaks lower and rounder, so you float close to the surface, almost at eye level with the karst. There are no engine-roar cruise ships — just hand-poled or small-motor bamboo rafts, old arched stone bridges, and the occasional water buffalo.
The classic rafting section runs from Jima (骥马) downstream to Gongnong Bridge (工农桥), about 1–1.5 hours of pure calm. Some stretches pass working villages where you can hop off, rent a bike, and continue along the riverside path.
Quick tip: the Yulong is best in the morning, when mist hangs over the water and the light is soft. Combine a raft with a bike loop — many travelers raft down, then ride back through the fields.
Top highlights
The signature sights and experiences that make Yulong River Rafting special.
Bamboo Rafting
竹筏漂流 · Quiet stretch
A raft carrying two visitors poles along a green river lined with bamboo and karst peaks — the Yulong experience in one frame.
West Street at Night
西街 · Yangshuo base
Yangshuo’s 1,400-year-old pedestrian street is where most travelers stay, eat, and book their Yulong raft trip.
Riverside Bike Loop
骑行 · Combine
Raft down, then bike back through paddies and hamlets on flat paths. The perfect Yangshuo morning.
Xingping Ancient Town
兴坪 · Nearby
The historic Li River town is an easy stop when basing yourself in Yangshuo for the Yulong.
Which option is right for you?
Ways to experience Yulong River Rafting, from the classic route to a quicker highlight.
Classic Raft (Jima → Gongnong)
1–1.5 hours · ¥200–300
1
Reach Jima pier A 15-min drive or bike from Yangshuo West Street.
2
Board the bamboo raft 2 people per raft; life jackets provided, shallow and stable.
3
Drift to Gongnong Bridge Past bridges, buffaloes, and karst bends.
4
Bike or taxi back Rent a bike at the exit and ride the riverside path home.
Raft + Bike Combo
Half day · best of both
1
Morning raft Cool, misty, and quiet before the crowds.
2
Bike the return Flat riverside trail through villages and paddies.
3
Lunch in a hamlet Simple farm restaurants line the path.
Best time to visit
Apr – May
Green banks, full river, light mist — the most romantic season.
Sep – Nov
Clear, comfortable, golden fields lining the banks.
Mornings year-round
Go at first light for mist and soft photos; afternoons get busy.
Travel tips
Raft before 9 AM
Mist, soft light, and empty rafts. Later the river fills with other tours.
Bring sun protection
Open rafts have no shade. Hat, sunscreen, and water are essential.
Shoot the bridges
Frame the old arched bridges with peaks behind — the iconic Yulong composition.
Pack a snack
Few facilities on the water; eat before or after in a village.
Check water level
After heavy rain the river may be too high for rafts; ask locally the day before.
How to get there
1
From Yangshuo Jima pier is a 15-min drive or bike ride from West Street.
2
By bike Flat riverside paths connect Yangshuo to the raft piers — ride there, raft back.
3
Tickets Buy at the pier or via your hotel; two people share a raft.
4
Combine Easy to pair with Moon Hill and the countryside in one morning.
Tickets & practical info
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bamboo raft (Jima–Gongnong) | ¥200–300 per raft (2 people) |
| Duration | 1–1.5 hours |
| From Yangshuo | 15 min by bike/car |
| Best months | April–May · Sep–Nov |
| Best time | Morning, for mist |
| Difficulty | Easy · sit back |
Rafts seat two and run on a set section; prices are reference values and rise in peak season. Rafts pause during heavy rain or high water for safety. Bring your passport — it may be checked.
