If you’re planning to visit Yangshuo and experience the serene beauty of the Yulong River, bamboo rafting is an absolute must. On my recent trip, I had the chance to ride a bamboo raft, and it was truly a memorable experience. Below is a detailed guide based on my personal adventure, with all the tips you need to ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey.
Ticket Booking Tips for Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
During peak seasons, tickets for bamboo rafting can be quite tricky to secure. I recommend booking the night before via a WeChat mini-program, where tickets are released at exactly 8:00 PM. Be sure to have your identity information ready in advance to speed up the process. I entered the system at 7:59 PM, but the site still froze due to high traffic, so keep that in mind! Once you submit the order, you can’t cancel it, so make sure you’re sure before proceeding. If you do miss the online booking, it’s still possible to purchase tickets on-site, though during peak times, there may be long lines.
The raft ride I booked was from Xiatang Dock (夏棠码头) to Jima Dock (骥马码头), a popular route. The two-person raft cost 200 yuan, and it includes four rapids, making for an exciting and scenic journey. The area’s clear, emerald-green water and towering karst mountains create a perfect setting for relaxation and photography.
How to Get to Xiatang Dock (夏棠码头)
I rented an electric bike from West Street (西街), and it took about 30 minutes to reach Xiatang Dock (夏棠码头). Along the way, you’ll encounter locals offering to help you take the bike to Jima Dock (骥马码头), which is great because you won’t have to cycle back to your starting point after the raft ride. However, be cautious—this service comes at a charge (around 20 yuan, but I managed to bargain down to 15 yuan). For safety, take a photo of the person and the bike in case any issues arise.
What to Bring and What to Know
Rain Gear: A disposable raincoat is essential, as the raft will splash you with water during the rapids. It’s best to buy one online before your trip, as the ones sold at the scenic area are overpriced.
Tipping: As rumored, the raft guides may subtly suggest a tip by asking if you’d like to go slower for a better view. If you prefer not to tip, simply respond politely and let them know you’re fine with the standard pace. In my case, I pretended not to understand, and they were very kind, ensuring I enjoyed the ride without rushing. The entire rafting experience took about 40-50 minutes, which was plenty of time to appreciate the surroundings.
How to Return
After the rafting trip, locals will help bring your electric bike to Jima Dock (骥马码头). Simply find your bike after disembarking, and pay them for their service. Once you’re back on your bike, you can continue exploring the area. If you’re interested in taking photos at the popular Yichidao Café (一尺稻田咖啡) or the Instagram-worthy swing, just ride your bike over to those spots and enjoy the rest of your day.