Whilst the boat journeys' were a highlight, Yangshuo was my favourite stop off. It has a magic vibe and being able to cycle around the area was a lot of fun. We stayed at Lisa's cafe and Hostel, on West Street back in 1996 (see in photo below). It had originally opened late 1985 and has since grown and changed location within Yangshuo, known as Yangshuo Lisa Boutique Hotel today (compare the difference with the more recent photo below). Lisa's is recognised as one of the pioneers that transformed a sleepy fishing village into an international backpacker hub.

Over 1,400 years old, West Street is considered the heart of Yangshuo township.

Looking towards Yangshuo town over the Li river in December 1996.

To help us understand the culture, history and immersion we hired a guide for the day who was a young women who lived with her family and had grown up on the edge of the Yangshuo village. Cycling around she took us to many areas plus we had lunch with her parents in their home.

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Mum hadn't cycled in over 10 years which was funny to watch as she wobbled around until she got used to it again. Towards the final stage of the days' riding we were heading up a slight hill and there were quiet a few locals walking or cycling around us. Mum got distracted and fell off, going a very slow pace, but a nearby passing gentleman thought it was his fault! It was lovely to see his genuine concern and care to make sure Mum was okay, whilst we were reassuring him he was not at fault and thanking him for his help.

Moon Hill is 8kms south of Yangshuo and provides a sensational view over the Yulong River valley, local rural villages, and a sweeping sea of surrounding karst peaks. It is a 230-meter karst limestone hill with a massive natural arch near the top. The famous arch in the mountain gets its name because the sunlight creates varying "moon phase" effects (from crescent to full moon) depending on the angle you view it from. It is a half hour 800 steps hike to the arch where you get 360 degree panorama views.