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Moon Hill

月亮山

Plan Moon Hill in Yangshuo with Shili Gallery cycling tips, outside viewpoints, climb considerations, timing, transport, and photo advice.

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Quick Facts
Ticket
Outside viewpoints are free; the ticketed climb is commonly around CNY 15 when open.
Hours
Outside viewpoints can be seen without a unified schedule; the ticketed climb may change with site operations, weather, or maintenance notices.
Transport
No metro. From Yangshuo town, use e-bike, bicycle, taxi, hired car, or local buses toward Gaotian and Shili Gallery.
Duration
20-60 minutes for outside viewing; longer if climbing
Best Time
Mar-Nov; morning and late afternoon are better for cycling and photos
Visitors
All ages
How to Visit
1

Put it into the Shili Gallery cycling route

Moon Hill works best as a stop on the southern part of Shili Gallery. From Yangshuo town, ride an e-bike or bicycle there, and you can also pass the Grand Banyan Tree, Gongnong Bridge, and countryside scenery along the way.

Tip:It is not a place that needs a long dedicated trip. It fits better when combined with Shili Gallery.
2

View it from outside first, then decide whether to climb

The main feature of Moon Hill is the natural round opening in the mountain. From different angles, it can look like a crescent, full moon, or waning moon. Licun, roadside viewpoints, and rest areas across from the hill all give a good overall view.

Tip:Viewing from a distance shows the "moon" shape better than climbing onto the mountain. If your time is tight, you do not need to insist on buying a ticket to climb.
3

Treat the climb as an add-on if conditions are good

If the path is open that day and the weather is not too hot, you can buy a ticket and take the stone steps up to see the moon-shaped opening and nearby countryside. There are quite a few steps, and summer midday heat can be harsh.

Tip:If the site has a closure or maintenance notice, do not detour just to climb. Photos from the village road and opposite viewpoints are more reliable.
4

Avoid the midday heat

Morning and late afternoon have softer light and are more comfortable for cycling. At noon, the road surface is hot, there is less shade, and both photos and steps feel more tiring.

Tip:Shili Gallery has many cars and e-bikes. Do not take photos while riding; stop and park safely first.
Highlights
  • The natural arch is Moon Hill's most recognizable feature, and it looks more complete from a distance.
  • As you move along the village road, the opening changes shape by angle, which gives the route a changing-view effect.
  • It combines easily with the Grand Banyan Tree, Gongnong Bridge, and Shili Gallery cycling.
  • Licun and roadside viewpoints across from the hill are good for wide photos, so entering the scenic area is not always necessary.
  • If you have enough energy and the weather is suitable, the climb adds a countryside viewpoint.
Insider Tips

Do not plan Moon Hill as a heavy climbing attraction. It is more of a viewpoint on the Shili Gallery route.

If you mainly want photos, start with the free outside viewpoints, then decide whether the climb is worth it.

Do not climb at noon in summer. The steps and road surface can be very hot.

Check your e-bike battery before going, because the return to town still takes time.

After rain, roadsides and steps can be slippery. Do not stand at the edge of the traffic lane for photos.

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