2026 Yangshuo Travel Guide: Dream Destination in China - Scenic Bike Ride - Alina Mcleod

2026 Yangshuo Travel Guide: Dream Destination in China - Scenic Bike Ride - Alina Mcleod

More about the current video:(Published on 2026-05-13)

This Is A DREAM DESTINATION In China | Yangshuo Travel Guide

In this video, Alina Mcleod takes us on an immersive journey through Yangshuo, China, a region she calls one of the most beautiful she has ever visited. She begins by cycling through the Shili Gallery (10-Mile Gallery), a stunning countryside road just outside Yangshuo, on a rented bicycle for only 20 yuan. Navigating the area is made easier with the Amap app (Chinese Google Maps), and she recommends using an Airalo eSIM for internet access, as regular social media doesn't work in China.

Alina's adventure is filled with unexpected local interactions. A sweet local woman gives her directions to Longtan Village, a hidden gem where she explores traditional black-brick residences and stone foundations. Later, a kind grandma leads her to a perfect view of Moon Hill for just 10 yuan, after the main scenic area is closed. These genuine connections highlight the warmth of the locals and their willingness to help.

She then visits Xingping Ancient Town, a 1,700-year-old trading post, where she finds the famous 20-yuan note viewpoint—the exact spot featured on the Chinese currency. For lunch, she indulges in a local chicken stew in bamboo, a hearty dish that surprises her with its sweet, flavorful broth.

A spontaneous climb up Lao Shi Hill turns into a chaotic ordeal due to massive crowds, taking nearly three hours instead of the expected 40 minutes. Despite the challenge, she reaches a phenomenal view before warning other tourists to avoid the peak during weekends and holidays. Finally, she explores West Street, the bustling tourist district, advising viewers to stay within walking distance but not directly in the midst of the noise.

Alina concludes that Yangshuo is perhaps the easiest place she has traveled to in China—even more than Beijing or Shanghai—thanks to its tourist infrastructure and many English speakers. She highly recommends it for first-time visitors who love nature, calling it a dream destination.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was the best way to get around Yangshuo?: A: Biking or using an electric scooter is best to explore the countryside, especially the Shili Gallery. Walking takes too long and cars miss the experience.

Q: How did you navigate in Yangshuo without Google Maps?: A: I used Amap, which is the Chinese version of Google Maps. It now has an English version and shows all the small side streets.

Q: What happened when you tried to climb Moon Hill?: A: The main scenic area was closed, but a local grandma took me to a beautiful view of Moon Hill for just 10 yuan. I also bought a flower crown from another lady for 5 yuan.

Q: Was the hike up Lao Shi Hill difficult?: A: The hike itself is challenging with steep rocks and stairs, but the real problem was the insane crowd. It took almost three hours round trip instead of under two, and it was not safe.