Timeline
16:56
Arrive at the Yangdi-Xingping scenic area. The area is a boom industry with hundreds of small plastic pipe rafts. Grab a seat on a raft or simply find a spot along the bank as the afternoon light begins to soften.
17:26
Enjoy the golden light starting at 17:36. The sun is setting toward the west, casting a warm hue over the karst peaks and the river. This is the peak visual moment before the sun dips below the horizon.
18:11
Watch the sunset at 18:11. The sky will shift colors as the last sliver of sun disappears. Stay for the fading light to see the landscape settle into twilight.
Local tip
Check the route to get to Yangdi or Xingping by minibus from Yangshuo bus terminal if you are not already there. The rafts are safe, but ensure the operator provides life jackets.
Check before you go
- Sunset is at 18:11 on 15 October. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Golden light begins at 17:36. Use this time for photography.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Yangshuo (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).