Yangshuo, renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and picturesque rivers, is a favorite destination for tourists from around the world. However, like many popular tourist spots, Yangshuo also has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting visitors. From overpriced souvenirs to misleading ticket vendors, knowing how to navigate these pitfalls can ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common scams in Yangshuo and give you practical tips on how to avoid them, so you can focus on what really matters—experiencing the beauty of this stunning region.
1. Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊)
- Avoid the Private Cars to Yulong River: If you’re traveling to Yulong River (遇龙河), there will likely be people offering rides to the bamboo rafting starting point. These private vehicles often charge exorbitant fees and are not recommended. Instead, take the free sightseeing shuttle bus that runs from Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊) to the rafting area. It’s both cheaper and more reliable.
- Skip the Overpriced, Artificial Attractions: While the Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊) is known for its scenic beauty, some of the attractions along the route are quite commercialized and lack the natural charm you’re hoping for. Many of the nearby sites are artificial, and visiting them won’t give you the authentic Yangshuo experience. Stick to the main scenic areas like Xingping Ancient Town (兴坪古镇) and the Nine Horses Mountain (九马画山) for the best views.
- Bargaining is a Must: When shopping along Ten-Mile Gallery, don’t hesitate to bargain with the vendors. They often start with inflated prices, and you can usually negotiate a much better deal.
- Don’t Miss the Sunset: The Ten-Mile Gallery (十里画廊) is especially beautiful during sunset, especially if you can catch views of the Li River (漓江) and Xingping (兴坪). If possible, time your visit to capture the breathtaking landscape.
2. West Street (西街)
- West Street is Now a Commercialized Area: West Street, once a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, has transformed into a heavily commercialized street. If you’re on a tight schedule, there’s no need to visit unless you’re looking for souvenirs or a night out. Many of the shops and restaurants cater primarily to tourists, and you’ll find the prices much higher than in local areas.
- Bargain When Dining at Bars: If you plan to visit the bars on West Street, always remember to haggle. The prices for drinks can be significantly inflated, so don’t just accept the first offer.
- Don’t Overpay for Beer Fish: One of the most famous local dishes in Yangshuo is Beer Fish (啤酒鱼), but be careful when ordering. A typical serving for two people is about 0.75 – 1.5 kilograms, but some places try to sell fish over 2 kilograms, which are often pieced together to increase the price. You should expect to pay around ¥200-300 for a fish, but be cautious and ensure you don’t overpay.
- Beware of Overpriced Souvenirs: West Street is filled with shops selling local specialties, but the prices are often marked up far beyond the actual value. Be sure to compare prices at several places before making a purchase.
3. Yulong River (遇龙河)
- Beware of Fake Ticket Sellers: While traveling to Yulong River (遇龙河), you may encounter individuals trying to sell you rafting tickets at inflated prices. These people often mislead tourists by suggesting you purchase tickets for a higher price at a separate location. The reality is that you can buy tickets at the dock for a much lower price. Don’t fall for these scams, and always buy your tickets directly at the official ticket booth.
- Navigation Tips for Self-Driving Tourists: If you’re driving to Yulong River, make sure to follow your GPS to the Yulong River Dock (遇龙河码头). Keep in mind that Yulong River has both an upper and a lower section. The upper section, from Jinlong Bridge (金龙桥) to Jiu County (旧县), offers the best views and takes about 1.5 hours. The lower section, from Jiu County (旧县) to Gongnong Bridge (工农桥), is less scenic and features more houses and villages along the way.
4. Li River (漓江)
- Avoid the Overcrowded Bamboo Rafts: On the Li River (漓江), you’ll find that many bamboo raft tours require a minimum number of passengers. If your group is too small, you might be asked to pay an additional ¥25 per empty seat to make up the numbers. It’s best to book your raft in advance or ensure that you’re traveling with a larger group to avoid this extra charge.
- Choosing the Best Li River Cruise: The Li River offers several different cruise options, with various routes and lengths of time. The most popular route starts at Yangdi (杨堤) and ends at Xingping (兴坪), where you can see the famous Nine Horses Mountain (九马画山) and the iconic scene from the 20 Yuan bill. Make sure you’re clear on your itinerary and choose the right cruise for your interests and time constraints.
5. The “Impression Liu Sanjie” Show (刘三姐)
- Negotiating for Discounted Tickets: The Impression Liu Sanjie show is a spectacular cultural performance set against the backdrop of the Li River. If someone offers you a ticket at an inflated price, don’t hesitate to bargain. Standard prices for VIP seats are around ¥158, while regular seats are about ¥160-170. Always make sure you’re getting the best deal.
- Renting Electric Bikes: Don’t rent an electric bike in Yangshuo without bargaining. Prices for electric bikes are usually around ¥30 per day, but you can often negotiate for a lower rate if you ask.
- Avoid Overpriced Hotels Recommended by Taxi Drivers: Taxi drivers may try to steer you toward certain hotels or restaurants that pay them a commission. These places often charge higher prices for average quality. It’s better to choose your accommodation or dining based on reviews or recommendations from other travelers.
6. Xianggong Mountain (相公山)
- Experience Sunrise and Sunset at Xianggong Mountain: Xianggong Mountain is a must-visit for the stunning views it offers of the Li River. Whether you go for sunrise or sunset, the scenery is breathtaking, and it’s worth the hike. However, be cautious when traveling from Xingping Ancient Town to Xianggong Mountain. The boat ride across the river can cost ¥10 for foreigners, while locals only pay ¥2, so ensure you’re aware of the price differences.
- Ignore Local People Offering Rides: There are often locals on the way to Xianggong Mountain who will try to sell you unnecessary services like boat rides or transport. Stick to your planned route, and don’t let these individuals convince you to take detours that’ll cost you extra.
7. General Travel Tips for Yangshuo
- Avoid Black Market Taxis: Whether you’re arriving by train or airplane, never take unlicensed taxis or black cars outside the stations. These drivers often overcharge tourists, and the services are unreliable.
- Weather Considerations: Yangshuo’s weather can be unpredictable, so always bring an umbrella or raincoat, and check the forecast before heading out. While the weather may not always be accurate, it’s better to be prepared.
- Be Cautious with Street Vendors: While street vendors selling fruits and snacks might seem tempting, be cautious of the ones that offer underweight goods or charge you more than necessary. These vendors often take advantage of tourists by offering smaller portions for inflated prices.
- Parking Fees and Self-Driving: During peak seasons or holidays, parking fees can be quite high around the scenic areas. If you’re self-driving, consider using public transport or renting a bike instead of paying expensive parking fees.
- Avoid Overpriced Souvenirs: When shopping for souvenirs in Yangshuo, be mindful of inflated prices, especially for silver or jade jewelry. Many shops around tourist areas charge significantly more than what you’d pay at wholesale markets.