Moon Hill - 月亮山 - Yue Liang Shan

One of Yangshuo's most visited sights, this karst peak obtains its name from a large, semi-circular hole in the top of the mountain which is visible from far away. It is worth getting some photos from afar, as you'll find that you can't get good views of the mountain from up close. You do get great shots the top though. Being up this high puts a whole new perspective on the countryside.

Moon Hill can be climbed in 25-40 minutes, depending on your fitness. Don't rush it especially if you are not yet adapted to the heat and humidity. It's steps all the way (unless you do decide to go for the summit) so just keep plodding. You will get there.

The route takes you right up through the hole and out onto a platform on the other side. Look inside the arch for a sign erected to record Todd Skinner's climbing achievements here. Those with good eyesight may be able to make out rock climbing gear in the apex of the arch.

The viewing platform has great views down over the Yulong Valley, and is in just the right place to frame a photo of you or your companions with the arch as a backdrop. There are always plenty of people around to take a shot for you. Be careful others are not in your shots unintentionally.

Just before that platform you will see a path leading off to the left. This path goes up to the summit, though signs indicate that this is no longer allowed.

If you arrived by bicycle then it is generally safe to leave your bike (locked) inside the entrance gate below. In theory, 1 Yuan of the entrance fee is for the security provided for bikes. Toilets are off to the left of this area. There's a small cafe behind this area, run by a friendly local called Swallow.

Unfortunately, the experience can be ruined by local ladies trying to persuade you to buy drinks or postcards. Hawkers are not unusual - but their persistence (nay, insistence) at Moon Hill is a serious detraction for many. Do not feel obliged to reward their efforts. They do nothing to enhance the site, and are a nuisance we could all do without.

The stone steps at the top of the path are now looking very unstable. Take care, especially on descent.

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Ian Ford

How to get here

Come on a bike ride

There are several routes along the countryside to Moon Hill

1. The original route was via the village of Aishan. This was a short route with very beautiful scenery and going past the old village of Aishan. There is a beautiful aqueduct/pump that supplies the water for the rice paddies

2. The new and now very popular route heads west out of Yangshuo towards the town of Yima and then joining the smaller village road along the Yulong River. This area is very scenic and it is along here that you can also take a ride on a bamboo raft. The ride reaches the main road where you turn right and go past other sights such as the Big Banyan Tree and Assembling Dragon Cave

Come on a hike

If you have the energy, then replace your bike with your feet and walk it to Moon Hill. Walking gives you even more opportunities to sample life in the countryside. any of the above bike routes can be walked. If you get tired, then just jump on one of the local buses coming from Gaotian and heading to Yangshuo