Yangshuo’s iconic Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊) truly lives up to the reputation of Guilin’s breathtaking landscapes. This serene walking route offers a blend of scenic roads and pedestrian boardwalks, giving you two distinct perspectives of the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re here to snap photos, enjoy a tranquil stroll, or explore lesser-known spots, this guide ensures you make the most of your journey through this picturesque destination.
Walking Route Through the Ten-Mile Gallery
1. Start at Gongnong Bridge (工农桥): Take a taxi from West Street (西街) to Gongnong Bridge. This marks the entrance to the Ten-Mile Gallery scenic area and is an excellent spot to capture panoramic views of the Yulong River.
2. Shuttle to Shui’e Di Wharf (水厄底码头): Hop on a shuttle bus from Gongnong Bridge Comprehensive Wharf (10 RMB/person) to Shui’e Di Wharf.
3. Walk to Yun Duo Coffee (云朵coffee): From Shui’e Di Wharf, take the pedestrian boardwalk for approximately 2.6 km (40 minutes). The path is dotted with popular photo spots, so you can snap pictures along the way. When you reach Yun Duo Coffee, take a break while enjoying the peaceful rice fields and charming views. As it’s not a major tourist spot, it’s quiet and perfect for relaxation.
4. Stroll to Jima Wharf (骥马码头): Continue your journey with a short 10-minute walk to Jima Wharf.
5. Optional Bamboo Rafting: If you want to experience bamboo rafting, this is a great spot to start. You can raft from Jima Wharf to Xiatang Wharf (夏棠码头) or from Shui’e Di to Gongnong Bridge.
6. Shuttle to Xiatang Wharf (夏棠码头): For a quicker trip, take a shuttle from Jima Wharf to Xiatang Wharf (3.6 km).
7. Walk to Murakami Haruki Café (村上春树咖啡馆): From Xiatang Wharf, it’s an easy 500-meter (8-minute) walk to this charming café, known for its swings and cozy vibe.
8. Walk to Yichi Daotian Café (一尺稻田咖啡): A short 460-meter (8-minute) walk brings you to Yichi Daotian Café. Surrounded by picturesque rice fields, this spot is ideal for a final photo stop.
9. Return to West Street (西街): From Yichi Daotian Café, take a taxi back to West Street. The ride takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately 15 RMB.
Pro Tips for Your Ten-Mile Gallery Walk
Reverse Route for Sunset Views: Walk the route in reverse to end your day with a sunset at Gongnong Bridge.
Ideal Weather: Plan your walk on a clear day for the best views and photo opportunities.
Bamboo Rafting Options: If you’d like to experience bamboo rafting, you can reverse the route and choose to raft along either the “Xiatang Wharf (夏棠码头) to Jima Wharf (骥马码头)” section or the “Shui’e Di Wharf (水厄底) to Gongnong Bridge Comprehensive Wharf (工农桥综合码头)” section.