1. Overview & Geography
The Yulong River spans 43.5 km, flowing through 5 towns and 20+ villages in Yangshuo. As the longest Li River tributary, it’s celebrated for its gentle currents, mirror-like clarity, and dramatic karst peaks. The 15.36 km scenic stretch (Yulong Bridge to Gongnong Bridge) is a UNESCO-listed natural heritage site, free from modern development.
2. Natural & Cultural Highlights
- Karst Scenery: Towering limestone formations like Five-Finger Hill and Rhinoceros Pool reflect in the jade-green waters.
- Ancient Bridges:
- Yulong Bridge (1412): A 60m Ming Dynasty stone arch bridge, famed for its dragon legend.
- Fuli Bridge: A perfect half-moon arch, revered as Yangshuo’s most photogenic bridge.
- Xiangui Bridge (1123): Guangxi’s oldest bridge, built with rare brick-parallel techniques.
- Local Life: Witness cormorant fishing, water buffalo grazing, and farmers tending rice paddies.
3. Legend & History
The name "Yulong" (Meet the Dragon) stems from a tale where an East Sea dragon settled here, enchanted by the beauty. Historically, it served as a trade route and inspired poets like Xu Beihong.
4. Activities & Experiences
- Bamboo Rafting: Glide past water wheels and villages (¥160–320/raft; 1.5–6 hours).
- Cycling/Hiking: Explore Ten-Mile Gallery trails flanked by bamboo forests.
- Photography: Capture sunrises at Yulong Bridge and sunset at Gongnong Bridge.
5. Travel Tips
- Best Time: April–November (lush greenery; avoid summer heat).
- Access: From Yangshuo, bike (30 mins) or taxi to docks like Jinlong Bridge or Chaoyang.
- Conservation: No motorboats preserve the pristine ecosystem.
6. Recognition
- National 4A Scenic Area and Guangxi’s first national tourism resort (2019).
The Yulong River is nature’s unspoiled masterpiece—where legend, history, and tranquility converge beneath karst peaks.
