How long is the Moon Hill hike?

Allow 90 minutes round trip. The stone steps climb steadily for 20–30 minutes to the arch, with a railed walkway passing right through the opening.

Can I reach Moon Hill by bike from Yangshuo?

Yes. Rent an e-bike in Yangshuo and ride south past the rice fields in 20–30 minutes. It is a scenic, flat approach and a popular half-day loop.

Is the arch view worth it?

For most visitors, yes. You walk through a natural limestone window and look out over the countryside. Go in the morning for cool, clear light.

Moon Hill 2026: Tickets, the Moon Arch Hike & How to Get There

Moon Hill is a karst peak south of Yangshuo pierced by a round 'moon' arch. Learn the ticket, the hike through the arch and how foreign visitors reach it.

A karst peak near Yangshuo, in the landscape around Moon Hill — Photo: Guillaume Kremer · Pexels License · source page · author

Moon Hill (月亮山) is a karst peak south of Yangshuo, named for the round arch that pierces its summit like a full moon — a short, fun hike that rewards you with a view straight through the hole.

Intro: why go

The “moon” is a natural limestone window worn through the ridge, and the path climbs to a railed walkway that passes right under and through it. From the top you look out over a patchwork of rice fields and scattered peaks. It is the most playful of the Yangshuo hills and an easy half-day from town.

Tickets & booking

Entry costs roughly $7–10 per person; verify the gate price on arrival. There is no advance booking, and the ticket covers the path and the arch walkway only. The site is a simple village-run park, so expect a basic counter and quick entry.

How to get there & in-site route

Moon Hill sits about 8 km south of Yangshuo, near the village of Gaotian. A taxi, DiDi or rented e-bike gets you there in 20–30 minutes. From the base, stone steps climb steadily for about 20–30 minutes to the arch. Budget 90 minutes round trip with photos.

Facilities

There is parking, a small stall area and toilets at the base. The upper walkway is railed but exposed, so bring water and a hat. No food is sold at the top, so carry a snack.

Best season & seasonal pros and cons

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable for the open climb. Summer is hot and the steps offer little shade. Winter is cold but clear. Mornings avoid both heat and the afternoon haze.

Tips & scams

Rent an e-bike in Yangshuo and ride here past the fields for a scenic approach. Wear grippy shoes for the steps. Ignore “photo fee” requests at the arch; the view is included in your ticket.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Moon Hill hike?: Allow 90 minutes round trip. The stone steps climb steadily for 20–30 minutes to the arch, with a railed walkway passing right through the opening.
Can I reach Moon Hill by bike from Yangshuo?: Yes. Rent an e-bike in Yangshuo and ride south past the rice fields in 20–30 minutes. It is a scenic, flat approach and a popular half-day loop.
Is the arch view worth it?: For most visitors, yes. You walk through a natural limestone window and look out over the countryside. Go in the morning for cool, clear light.

Page last reviewed: 2026-10-18. Ticket seasons and crowd seasons are different things — this page states both where they differ.