Yucun is a small fishing village perched on the banks of the Li River, near Xingping in Yangshuo district. Framed by limestone karsts that plunge directly into the water, this rural hamlet figures on the 20 yuan Chinese banknote—a landscape photographed for decades and remarkably well-preserved. Grey brick houses, bamboo boats, and nets drying in the sun compose a portrait of rural southern Chine.

Quick Practical Guide

• Access: from Xingping by boat or on foot along the riverbank; Xingping is reachable by bus from Yangshuo (approximately 30 km).
• Recommended duration: 1 to 2 hours to stroll through the village and walk along the bank.
• Dress code: no particular clothing restrictions.

What to See

The village stretches along the Li River, facing a succession of karst peaks. Locals still practice traditional fishing, sometimes with trained cormorants. Stone lanes lead to old grey brick dwellings typical of vernacular architecture in Guangxi. The view from the riverbank, with mountains reflected in the water, is the same one reproduced on the 20 yuan banknote.

History and Context

Xingping and its riverside villages served as trading posts on the Li for centuries. The region attracted painters and poets as early as the Tang dynasty. Yucun's modern fame stems largely from its selection as the design for the 20 yuan banknote issued in the late 1990s, making it a visual landmark for millions of Chinese.

Highlights of Your Visit

The "20 Yuan Banknote" Viewpoint

A viewpoint on the riverbank allows you to find the exact framing of the banknote. Comparing the real scene with the banknote in hand has become a ritual for visitors. Morning light, before the mist rises, offers the clearest reflections on the river.

Cormorant Fishing

Some local fishermen maintain the ancient technique of trained cormorant fishing to catch fish. The scene typically unfolds early in the morning or late in the afternoon on the Li River.

Village Lanes

The heart of the village retains sober architecture: interior courtyards, grey brick walls, dark tile roofs. The atmosphere remains peaceful outside peak tourist hours.

Photography Tips

Golden morning light (early, before 8 a.m.) is ideal for photographing karsts reflected in the Li. Frequent morning mist in winter and spring adds atmospheric depth. Position yourself on the riverbank facing the peaks to capture the 20 yuan banknote framing. No known photography restrictions in public village areas.

Location and Access

Yucun is located immediately near Xingping, a town accessible from Yangshuo by bus or boat on the Li. The classic Guilin–Yangshuo cruise on the Li River passes this area. The village is accessible on foot from Xingping's dock by following the riverbank.

Nearby Attractions

• Xingping — historic town with old lanes and bustling market, the natural starting point for visiting Yucun.
• Yangshuo — the district's tourism hub, offering accommodation, restaurants, and activities (cycling, rock climbing, kayaking).
• Li River — a major scenic waterway connecting Guilin to Yangshuo, best explored by boat or bamboo raft.
• Moon and Sun Hill — an iconic karst formation in Yangshuo district.