South East China
Yangshuo in south east China is rapidly becoming the new hotspot for climbing overtaking the now extremely polished routes in Krabi, Thailand. Whilst trickier to get to from Europe and it lacks the beach, it more than makes up for with stunning scenery and amazing climbs.In Krabi you are restricted to an island and novice climbers have to fiercely compete with the local guides for the easier routes. Yangshuo is a quaint little tourist town taking advantage of the stunning winding Lijiang river, long ago the entire area was underneath the ocean which has given the area some truly unique rock formations such as the local landmark of Moon Hill (see picture).
There is already a strong climbing community forming with several bars and cafes naming themselves after famous climbs or formations and are proving to be a popular place to hangout for climbers. Many of these places offer lessons, guides and gear rentals so anyone can learn to climb even if you have never tried before. Its well worth doing if only to see one of the most beautiful places in the world from a new angle.
