The Yulong River, sometimes called the Little Li, is a calm tributary that winds through the farmland south of Yangshuo town, and the best way to see it is on a bamboo raft. Rafts hold a handful of people on low seats, and a boatman poles or steers you gently downstream beneath old stone bridges, between banks of bamboo and farm fields with limestone peaks rising on every side. The ride is slow and quiet, which is the whole appeal, and there are usually shorter stretches with a few small drops and gentle rapids to make it fun. It is much more peaceful than the main Li River cruise and suits all ages. This private day tour pairs the raft with the Xianggong Mountain viewpoint, which gives you a classic view of the river from above and then the experience of drifting through it at water level.
What the ride is like
You sit on a cushioned seat on a raft with a boatman at the back. The route is mostly flat water, and the drifting pace gives you time to look at the banks, the old stone bridges and the farmers working the fields. The boatmen will often pause at photogenic spots. Expect it to last around an hour or two depending on the section.
Where it fits
The Yulong River runs through the countryside near Yangshuo, and the old stone bridge at Yulong is one of the best-known landmarks on the route. The countryside nearby is also popular for cycling and walking, so many travellers combine a raft ride with a morning on a bike. If you want to see the river from above first, the Xianggong Mountain sunrise viewpoint is the obvious pairing, though it needs an early start.
Practical tips
Wear shoes that can get wet and bring sun protection for summer, or a light waterproof layer in the cooler months. Most tours provide life jackets, so ask if you are not sure. The rafts are generally calmer than a typical whitewater trip, but children should still be supervised. In peak holidays, the river can feel busy with convoys of rafts, so booking an earlier start, or choosing a weekday, gives the quietest ride. After the raft, many people stop for a country lunch in one of the riverside villages.
What to expect
The experience
A private day tour that combines the Xianggong Mountain viewpoint with a bamboo raft ride down the Yulong River.
Best time
Morning for softer light and fewer rafts, and any dry day in spring or autumn for clear views of the peaks.
How long
The raft ride is about an hour or two, and the tour with the viewpoint and transfers fills a half to a full day.
Tips
Wear shoes that can get wet, bring sun protection or a light waterproof layer, and choose a weekday or an early start to avoid convoys of rafts.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a gentle, scenic and uncrowded river experience around Yangshuo.
- Families
- Calm water and life jackets make it a good family outing, with children seated and supervised.
- Couples
- A quiet, romantic drift past stone bridges and farmland, best followed by a country lunch.
- Pair with
- Xianggong Hill for the view from above, cycling the Yulong countryside and an evening on West Street.
- Time needed
- Half a day for the raft and a nearby stop, or a full day with the viewpoint.
Good questions
How long does a Yulong River bamboo raft ride take?+
Most rides last about an hour or two depending on the stretch of river you choose. A tour that adds a viewpoint or lunch will fill half a day or more.
Is bamboo rafting safe for children?+
The Yulong River is mostly calm with a few small drops, and life jackets are provided on most trips. Children should stay seated and be supervised at all times.
What is the difference between the Yulong and the Li River?+
The Li River is the wide main river used by the large cruise boats, while the Yulong is a smaller, quieter tributary. The Yulong is better for a close, peaceful raft ride.
Will I get wet?+
You should stay mostly dry, but splashes are possible at the small drops. Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and bring a light layer in cooler months.
When is the best time to go?+
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable and clear. Summer is hot and can be busy, and winter is cooler, so dress warmly if you go then.
