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Bottom line: E-scooters win for efficiency and distance. Bicycles win for immersion and exercise. Walking is only practical for West Street and the immediate riverfront.
At-a-glance comparison
| Factor | E-Scooter | Bicycle | Walking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | ~25 km/h | 10–15 km/h | ~4 km/h |
| Range | 50–70 km | 20–30 km | 5–10 km |
| Effort | Low | High | Very high |
| Cost | ¥30–60/day (US$4–8) | ¥10–20/day (US$1.50–3) | Free |
| Best for | Covering lots of ground | Exercise + scenery | West Street area |
| License needed | No | No | No |
Detailed breakdown
E-scooter
- Pros: Covers the Epic Xingping loop in one day; handles hills and heat; no sweat.
- Cons: Battery anxiety; higher cost; can feel fast on narrow village roads.
- Best route: Yulong River Loop or the full Xingping Loop.
Bicycle
- Pros: Cheaper, quieter, and you feel the landscape at 12 km/h.
- Cons: Limited range; tiring in summer; hills around Moon Hill can be tough.
- Best route: Ten-Mile Gallery and flat Yulong River paths.
Walking
- Pros: Free and flexible for short distances.
- Cons: Impractical for reaching Xingping, Moon Hill, or Jiuxian Village.
- Best for: West Street, the riverside promenade, and nearby cafes.
Real traveler test
Three days, three ways to get around Yangshuo
- 'We tested all three options over three days in Yangshuo. The e-scooter won for efficiency — we covered the Epic Loop in 6 hours with energy left for dinner. The bicycle was more enjoyable for the Ten-Mile Gallery (you feel the landscape more at 12 km/h). Walking is only practical for West Street and the immediate river area.'