Yangshuo is one of China’s most picturesque spots, famous for its limestone karsts and peaceful rural scenes. But beyond the stunning landscapes, it’s also a place where you can get hands-on with local culture through workshops and classes. From learning to cook the region’s famous dishes to trying traditional calligraphy, these experiences give you a genuine taste of Yangshuo’s vibrant culture. Our favorites include a lively cooking class that starts at the bustling market and a full-day tour that combines cooking, mountain climbing, and a river cruise—perfect for travelers wanting a full day of immersion.
What makes Yangshuo particularly good for workshops is its combination of authenticity and scenic beauty. Participating in a local cooking class or arts lesson allows you to connect with residents in a meaningful way, while enjoying the stunning backdrop of the Li River and surrounding mountains. Whether you’re interested in a quick calligraphy lesson or a comprehensive full-day tour, these activities make your visit memorable and give you skills or souvenirs you can keep long after you leave.
Quick Overview
Below, we list three top workshops and classes in Yangshuo that stand out for their unique offerings, quality, and value. You’ll find options for a hands-on cooking experience with market visits, an all-in-one full-day adventure featuring mountain climbs and river trips, and a short but enriching calligraphy or painting lesson at your hotel. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a curious traveler, there’s something here to enhance your Yangshuo stay.
1. Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip
For around $35, the Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip offers a delightful peek into local culinary traditions. During this 4-hour experience, you meet an expert guide in the heart of Yangshuo and explore a lively local market. Here, you’ll learn how to select the freshest ingredients, like live catfish for beer fish—a regional specialty. The class itself is hands-on, and you’ll enjoy preparing and tasting iconic Yangshuo dishes, complemented by a cup of traditional family tea.
What sets this experience apart is the personal touch and flexibility. With multiple time slots available, it’s easy to fit into your schedule. The reviews are glowing, with travelers praising Hans, the guide, for his punctuality and knowledge. One visitor remarked, “Hans was punctual, arriving exactly on time, and we began with a journey through a local Yangshuo market.” The class is ideal for food lovers eager to learn authentic recipes and gain insight into local food customs.
Bottom Line: It’s excellent value for money, offering a genuine, hands-on cooking experience with helpful local insights, perfect for those who want to bring home a taste of Yangshuo.
2. Yangshuo Full Day Tour: Cooking class, River boat, Light Show
For $259 per person, this full-day Yangshuo tour provides a comprehensive package that combines culture, scenery, and entertainment. Starting at 9 am, you’ll join a cooking class where you pick two Chinese dishes from a menu and visit a local market—similar to the shorter class but with added sightseeing. Afterward, you’ll travel to Xingping, a small town famous for being on the 20-Yuan banknote, to enjoy a boat cruise on the Li River, known for its clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.
The tour continues with a visit to Xianggong Mountain, where a gentle climb rewards you with panoramic views of the river and surrounding peaks that seem to come out of a painting. In the evening, you’ll be transported to the outdoor Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show, a spectacular show staged right on the riverbank. The guide Huan is praised for his friendly manner, and travelers often mention how comfortably they see all the key sights in one day.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a full day of diverse experiences—culinary, scenic, and cultural—offering excellent value for its all-inclusive price, especially if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction to Yangshuo.
$259.00 per person
3. One Hour Chinese Calligraphy or Painting Lessons in Your Yangshuo Hotel
If you’re curious about traditional Chinese arts but prefer a short, relaxed experience, this one-hour calligraphy or painting lesson is a wonderful choice. Held at your Yangshuo hotel, the session costs about $29.75 per person and is led by an experienced Chinese master. It’s a beginners’ class that introduces you to Chinese characters or basic painting techniques—great for those with limited time or who want a low-key cultural activity.
What makes this class stand out is the opportunity to learn directly from a master in the comfort of your hotel, making it convenient and personalized. Many visitors appreciate that the lesson is designed to develop a skill and deepen appreciation for Chinese art, with the option to compare different styles and techniques. The review highlights the quality of instruction, mentioning that it’s a friendly way to experience traditional art without needing prior experience.
Bottom Line: This short, intimate lesson is ideal if you want a taste of Chinese calligraphy or painting without committing a whole day, especially suited for art enthusiasts or those seeking a relaxing cultural activity.
$29.75 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these workshops and classes, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. The Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip is perfect for food lovers who want an authentic, hands-on experience and take home new recipes. If you’re pressed for time but want a full immersion, the Yangshuo Full Day Tour offers a mix of cooking, scenic views, and entertainment, making it excellent value for a day packed with activities. For a quick but meaningful cultural taste, the Calligraphy or Painting Lesson provides a relaxed, artistic experience that can be conveniently arranged at your hotel.
Think about whether you prefer a focused culinary activity, a comprehensive sightseeing day, or a short arts lesson. Booking early is recommended, especially for the full-day tour, which is popular among visitors. Each experience offers a different way to connect with Yangshuo, so choose what matches your travel style and interests.
Final Thoughts
Yangshuo’s workshops and classes give you a wonderful way to deepen your understanding of local culture. Whether you’re a foodie eager to master regional dishes, an art lover interested in traditional Chinese calligraphy, or someone who wants a full-day adventure, there’s a perfect option for you. The Yangshuo Cooking Class with Market Trip stands out for its authenticity and value, while the full-day tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing and cultural experiences. For a shorter, more personal activity, the calligraphy or painting lessons deliver a memorable cultural taste.
Whatever you pick, these workshops enrich your trip and create lasting memories. Be sure to book ahead, especially during peak season, and prepare to enjoy some of the most authentic and enjoyable experiences Yangshuo has to offer.