Climbing the Karsts
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Yangshuo's karst rock formations. Photo: David Sparkes |
Picturesque playground
I came to Yangshuo in search of relaxation, sunny weather, good food and long bike rides through the mesmerizing karst landscape. I have to tell you, all boxes were ticked emphatically.
Sure, this town in idyllic Guangxi has become something of a tourism cliché. The central streets swarm with tourists and European cafés abound.
During my week in Yangshuo I became an unashamed fan of the place. The more irritating elements of commercial tourism are actually confined to the town center, which is beautifully laid out around paved streets and alleys and there is much to do.
Bicycles can be rented for 20 yuan ($3) a day and there are plenty of tracks to explore along the postcard-like Li and Yulong rivers, with gentle options, boat cruises and old villages.
Yangshuo has long been famous for these attributes, but in recent years, the town has also gained fame as a base for some of China's best rock climbing. There are climbing options for the beginner through to the advanced climber and credible, certified companies have stores all over town.
Shopping around
Half-day rock-climbing excursions cost 180 yuan ($27) a person, while a full day is 300 yuan ($54).
Companies will send you out with an instructor who will show you the ropes (no pun intended) and make sure you're safe and sound.
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