Ten-Mile Gallery

The Ten-Mile Gallery (also called "Shili Hualang") in Yangshuo is one of the most beautiful scenic routes in China. This 10-mile (approximately 5 km) stretch of countryside road is lined with stunning karst mountains, lush green fields, traditional villages, winding rivers, and bamboo groves, creating a picture-perfect landscape that looks like a Chinese ink painting. Located in Gaotian Town, southwest of Yangshuo, the Ten-Mile Gallery offers visitors a serene and immersive experience into natural beauty and local culture.

The route is not just a road—it's an open-air "gallery" filled with natural and cultural attractions such as Moon Hill, Butterfly Spring, Big Banyan Tree, and ancient stone villages. It’s perfect for a slow bicycle ride or electric scooter tour. Many travelers consider the Ten-Mile Gallery a highlight of their trip to Yangshuo because of its peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and cultural richness.

How to Reach Ten-Mile Gallery, Yangshuo

The Ten-Mile Gallery is located around 5–6 kilometers from Yangshuo town center. It's very easy to reach using various means:

• By Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is one of the most popular and eco-friendly ways to explore the Ten-Mile Gallery. The route is mostly flat and safe, offering scenic views all along the way.
• By Electric Scooter: E-scooters are available for rent in Yangshuo and are perfect for covering longer distances with ease.
• By Shuttle Bus: Some local buses or sightseeing shuttle services operate from Yangshuo town and stop at major scenic spots along the Ten-Mile Gallery.
• By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi or private driver to drop you off at the starting point, though exploring on foot or by bike is highly recommended.

Weather

The area has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons:

• Spring (March to May): Mild and ideal for outdoor sightseeing, with blooming flowers and vibrant green fields.
• Summer (June to August): Warm and humid, with occasional rain. Morning visits are recommended to avoid the heat.
• Autumn (September to November): Cool, dry, and pleasant, offering excellent visibility and photography opportunities.
• Winter (December to February): Cooler and quieter. While not as lush, it still has a serene charm.

The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is most comfortable and the landscape is at its most beautiful.

Timing

The Ten-Mile Gallery is an open scenic road, so it is accessible all day. However, individual attractions along the route have specific opening hours, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for photography due to the soft natural lighting. It’s also less crowded during these times.

Why Famous for Ten-Mile Gallery, Yangshuo?

The Ten-Mile Gallery is famous for offering a concentrated showcase of Yangshuo’s most iconic landscapes and cultural experiences. It's one of the best places to enjoy the karst mountain scenery without having to hike or travel long distances.

This area is also popular for its photo-worthy spots, relaxing countryside vibe, and accessibility. The "gallery" contains a variety of attractions along its path—each with its own charm—making it an excellent one-day adventure for all types of travelers.

Entry and Visit Details about Ten-Mile Gallery, Yangshuo

The road itself is free to access, but many individual attractions along the route charge an entrance fee. Here are some popular spots and their approximate ticket prices:

• Moon Hill: 15–20 RMB
• Butterfly Spring Park: 55 RMB
• Big Banyan Tree: 20 RMB
• Totem Ancient Trail: 40 RMB
• Gold Water Cave: 60–80 RMB

You can also buy a combo ticket that includes several attractions, often at a discounted rate. Bicycle rental costs range from 30–80 RMB/day, and electric scooters cost around 100–150 RMB/day.

History and Architecture

While the road itself is modern, the villages and attractions along the Ten-Mile Gallery reflect ancient Chinese culture and architecture. Villages like Jiuxian are home to traditional gray-brick houses with curved roofs, narrow alleyways, and old stone walls. These villages date back hundreds of years and have retained much of their original character.

Moon Hill features a naturally formed arch that resembles a rising moon, while the Big Banyan Tree is said to be over 1,400 years old. Many of the scenic spots have cultural legends and historical significance that locals are happy to share.

Things to Do

- Cycle the Scenic Road: Rent a bike and ride the full length of the Ten-Mile Gallery at your own pace.
- Hike Moon Hill: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Yangshuo’s landscape.
- Visit Butterfly Spring Park: Explore butterfly exhibits and a scenic limestone cave.
- See the Big Banyan Tree: Take a peaceful walk under this ancient tree.
- Explore Villages: Wander through traditional villages like Jiuxian to see local life.
- Photography: Capture the surreal beauty of the karst peaks, rice fields, and quiet rivers.
- Stop at Tea Houses: Enjoy local tea and snacks while soaking in the views.
- Try Local Food: Sample Yangshuo specialties like beer fish, rice noodles, and bamboo chicken at roadside eateries.

Facts and Tips about Ten-Mile Gallery, Yangshuo

- The name “Ten-Mile Gallery” is a poetic way to describe its picturesque 5 km stretch—it doesn’t refer to an actual gallery or art museum.
- Most visitors spend half a day to a full day exploring the area, depending on how many stops they make.
- You can combine the Ten-Mile Gallery route with visits to Yulong River, Dragon Bridge, or Silver Cave.
- Best visited early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially in summer.
- Be careful when biking—some areas can be narrow and shared with small vehicles.
- Download an offline map, as phone signal may be weak in some areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb Moon Hill or walk through villages.
- Don’t forget your camera—this route offers some of the best photo ops in Yangshuo.
- Respect local villagers and avoid trespassing into private homes or farms.