What Attractions Are in Yangshuo’s Ten-Mile Gallery?

What Are the Main Attractions?

The main attractions in and around the Ten-Mile Gallery include:

1. Totem Ancient Trail
2. Butterfly Spring
3. Gongnong Bridge
4. Jianshan Temple
5. Big Banyan Tree
6. Julong Cave
7. Moon Hill
8. Moon Viewing Road
9. Jinshui Cave and other cave attractions
10. Natural formations such as Camel Crossing the River and Flame Mountain

For first-time visitors, Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill, Gongnong Bridge, and the surrounding landscape are the best priorities.

What Is the Ten-Mile Gallery?

It is a scenic road and countryside area south of Yangshuo, extending toward Gaotian Town. The area includes karst peaks, fields, villages, rivers, and several independent tourist attractions.

The name “Ten-Mile Gallery” is traditional. Different maps and tour operators define the start and end points differently, so the actual route length may vary.

The road itself is generally open and scenic. Individual attractions may charge separate admission.

Main Attractions

Totem Ancient Trail

This attraction focuses on early regional culture, ancient tools, tribal scenes, totem poles, and cultural performances.

It is a better choice for travellers interested in history and ethnic culture than for visitors who only want natural scenery.

Butterfly Spring

Butterfly Spring combines a cave, spring, ecological paths, suspension bridges, and cultural performances.

It is suitable for visitors who enjoy photography, caves, light adventure, and scenic viewpoints.

Gongnong Bridge

Gongnong Bridge is an important landmark that connects the Ten-Mile Gallery to the Yulong River area.

It is a good place to:

• Look over the river;
• Photograph the surrounding mountains;
• Connect with bamboo rafting;
• Rest during a cycling route;
• Watch the evening landscape.

Jianshan Temple

Jianshan Temple is a traditional Buddhist temple near Moon Hill.

Visitors should dress respectfully, keep quiet, and avoid touching religious objects.

Big Banyan Tree

The Big Banyan Tree is one of the best-known attractions in the area. The tree is commonly described as more than 1,000 years old and is associated with local legends and the story of Liu Sanjie.

The surrounding area includes:

• The ancient banyan;
• The Jinbao River
• Fields and village scenery;
• Mountain reflections;
• Local legends.

Allow around 30 to 60 minutes.

Julong Cave

Julong Cave is an underground karst attraction with stalactites, underground water, and cave chambers.

It is useful for:

• Hot summer afternoons;
• Rainy days;
• Visitors interested in geology;
• Travellers who prefer a shorter sightseeing activity.

Moon Hill

Moon Hill is the route's signature natural landmark. A natural opening passes through the mountain, resembling a crescent moon or stone arch.

You can view it from the road or choose a hiking route if it is open and suitable for your fitness level.

Moon Viewing Road

Moon Viewing Road offers a wider view of Moon Hill and the surrounding fields. It is a popular place for a quick stop and photos while cycling.

Other Caves

Jinshui Cave, Pusa Water Cave, and similar attractions may be found around the same sightseeing area. They usually require separate tickets.

If you visit one representative cave, there is no need to visit every cave on the same day.

Natural Formations Along the Road

You may also see named natural formations such as:

• Camel Crossing the River;
• Flame Mountain;
• Dolphin Emerging from the Water;
• Dragon Horn Mountain;
• Goat Horn Mountain;
• Penholder Mountain;
• Beauty Combing Her Hair.

These names are based on the shapes of the peaks. They may not have a separate entrance, ticket office, or formal viewing platform.

Suggested Routes

Classic half-day cycling route

Yangshuo Town → Totem Ancient Trail → Butterfly Spring → Gongnong Bridge → Big Banyan Tree → Julong Cave → Moon Hill

Choose only two or three paid attractions so you still have time for cycling and photographs.

Easy sightseeing route

Use a private car, taxi, sightseeing vehicle, or electric scooter and focus on:

• Gongnong Bridge;
• Big Banyan Tree;
• Moon Hill;
• Countryside views.

Ten-Mile Gallery and Yulong River

A balanced day could be:

• Morning: Bamboo rafting on the Yulong River;
• Lunch near the river or scenic road;
• Afternoon: Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill;
• Evening: Return to West Street.

Do not combine a long rafting route, extensive cycling, and several cave attractions if you prefer a relaxed day.

Tips for Foreign Visitors

• The scenic road is not the same as a ticket covering every attraction.
• Check the actual travel time, not only the distance on a map.
• Mountain roads may have steep slopes, sharp bends, heavy traffic, and wet surfaces.
• Check current traffic-management rules before driving.
• You do not need to visit every paid attraction.
• Save the Chinese names of each attraction on your phone.

FAQ

Which attractions are the most important?

Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill, and Gongnong Bridge are the best starting points. Add Totem Ancient Trail for culture or Julong Cave for an indoor cave experience.

Is cycling a good way to explore?

Yes. Cycling allows you to enjoy the landscape at a slower pace. Be careful with traffic, hills, wet roads, and electric scooters.

Do I need a combination ticket?

Usually not. The Ten-Mile Gallery is an open scenic area, while many individual attractions sell separate tickets.

Are Big Banyan Tree and Moon Hill close to each other?

They are both in the southern part of the scenic area and can usually be visited on the same half-day route.

Is the Yulong River part of the Ten-Mile Gallery?

They are closely connected, especially around Gongnong Bridge, but they are generally treated as separate sightseeing areas.

Can I see everything in one day?

You can see the highlights in one day, but visiting every attraction would make the schedule tiring. Choose two to four key stops.

Final Advice

The best part of the Ten-Mile Gallery is not one individual ticket. It is the changing view of karst peaks, villages, fields, rivers, and rural roads.

For a first visit, focus on Big Banyan Tree, Moon Hill, and Gongnong Bridge. Add one cultural attraction or cave based on your interests. Leave enough free time to slow down and enjoy the landscape.