Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Guilin hotel

The Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Guilin offers a full day of exploring some of China’s most iconic landscape marvels. For about $135 per person, you’ll be picked up from your Guilin hotel and driven approximately two hours into the heart of Longsheng County. Along the way, you’ll visit the famous Dragon Backbones, a stunning network of terraces carved into the hillsides that resemble the scales of a dragon. The tour also includes stops at Ping’an Village and Huangluo Yao Village, where you’ll meet local minority communities and learn about their centuries-old traditions.

What makes this experience stand out are two key features: Firstly, the personalized service with a private guide and vehicle ensures a relaxed, flexible visit without the hassle of crowded group tours. Secondly, the chance to witness the spectacular landscape of terraced fields—best enjoyed with a knowledgeable guide who can tell their story.

A slight consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of driving, around two hours each way, which might be tiring for some travelers eager to spend more time walking or exploring on their own. Also, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning for lunch is advisable.

This tour suits those who appreciate scenic vistas, cultural encounters, and a comfortable, well-organized trip. If you’re interested in learning the story behind China’s famous rice terraces while enjoying authentic villages, this tour will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The terraces are a visual feast, especially for landscape lovers.
• Private Experience: A personal guide and vehicle make for a smooth, flexible day.
• Cultural Encounters: Visit traditional villages and meet local minorities.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the drive.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Huangluo Yao Village and Ping’an Village offer cultural insight and photo opportunities.
• Affordable Value: Ticket prices include main entrance fees, making it a straightforward cost for a packed day.

An In-Depth Look at the Longji Rice Terraces Tour

A Scenic Start on the Road to Longsheng

From your Guilin hotel, the journey to Longji is about 1.5 to 2.5 hours — depending on whether you’re coming from Guilin, Yangshuo, or Xingping. The drive is comfortable in an air-conditioned private car, a big plus after a humid morning, and allows you to admire the countryside along the way.

The driver and guide (if you’re lucky enough to have a knowledgeable guide like Andy, who reviews praise for his punctuality and storytelling skills) will handle all the navigation, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery. It’s a rare opportunity to relax during a sightseeing day and focus on the changing landscape outside the window.

Arrival at Longji Ticket Office

Once you arrive, the first stop is the ticket office for Longji Rice Terraces. Here, you’ll purchase your entrance tickets—an easy 15-minute stop that keeps the whole morning streamlined. Afterward, the vehicle takes you up into the mountains to either Ping’an or Dazhai village, the starting points for your exploration.

The Dragon’s Backbones: An Awe-Inspiring Landscape

The Longji rice terraces span several thousand hectares, carved into the hills over hundreds of years. These terraces are often compared to a dragon’s back, winding over the mountains and shimmering with water during the rainy season. The views are truly breathtaking, especially as the sun hits the contours of the rice paddies.

Travelers who enjoy landscape photography will love capturing the intricate patterns of the terraces, which seem to stretch endlessly. It’s the kind of scenery that stays with you long after you leave.

Visiting Ping’an Village

Your first stop is Ping’an Village, known as the “Long Hair Village” for the women of the Yao minority who grow their hair to incredible lengths—some as long as 6.6 feet (2 meters). Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about their unique customs, see traditional wooden houses, and perhaps even pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.

Most travelers find the village charming, with a peaceful atmosphere and authentic feel. The tour includes a traditional lunch (not included in the price but recommended), giving you a taste of local flavors against a backdrop of terraced fields.

Exploring the Terraces

After lunch, your guide will lead you through the terraces, explaining how local farmers have built and maintained these fields over generations. You’ll get a sense of the hard work required to sustain rice farming in such challenging terrain and appreciate how this landscape has shaped local life.

Photographers and nature lovers will find endless opportunities here. The lush greenery, the reflective water in the paddies, and the distant mountain peaks combine for postcard-worthy shots.

Huangluo Yao Village: A Cultural Highlight

Before concluding the day, many tours include a visit to Huangluo Yao Village, famous for its Yao women with their extraordinary long hair. Meeting local residents and hearing about their stories adds depth to the scenic experience, transforming it from a simple sightseeing day into an enriching cultural journey.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the tour’s excellent organization and the quality of the guide. One reviewer remarked, “Andy is incredibly knowledgeable, punctual, and helpful. All aspects of our 1-day trip were smooth,” emphasizing how important a good guide is for making the most of your day. Others appreciated the “magnificent landscapes” and said that it’s “something everyone should do at least once in their life,” underlining how memorable the scenery is.

Many travelers also note the value of having a private guide and vehicle, which avoids the frustrations of crowded group tours and allows for a more personalized experience. The fact that tickets are included simplifies planning and budgeting.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour starts with pickup from your Guilin or Yangshuo hotel, with flexible options depending on your location. Since the drive takes around two hours, packing a snack or water is wise, especially if you have a big appetite or limited options for food during the day. While the tour does not include meals, you’ll find restaurants in Ping’an Village offering local dishes—perfect for a break after exploring the terraces.

The private vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drive comfortable, and the entire experience lasts about 8 hours, providing ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The tickets for the terraces and villages are included, making the price straightforward and transparent.

Considerations

The main caveat is the length of the drive, which might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer more walking or less transit. If you’re after a more leisurely pace or more time in each village, you might want to consider other tours or extend your stay.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value comfort, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the rice terraces from a convenient, well-organized private tour, without the hassle of navigating local transport. If you enjoy authentic village visits and stunning mountain landscapes, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for an active, outdoor adventure with lots of hiking or if you prefer extensive time in a single location. The focus here is on the landscape and cultural highlights, delivered comfortably.

The Sum Up

The Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Guilin offers a well-rounded, immersive experience into one of China’s most iconic landscapes. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to picturesque villages, it balances scenic vistas with cultural discovery. The included tickets and smooth organization make it a good value for a full day’s outing.

This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, informative day that combines breathtaking views with meaningful cultural encounters. Whether you’re a landscape photographer, a culture enthusiast, or simply want to see the beauty of the rice terraces without the hassle, this experience delivers.

While it might not satisfy those craving intense physical activity or a more in-depth village stay, it provides a solid, memorable glimpse into Longji’s remarkable landscape and traditions.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Guilin to Longji?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours from Guilin, about 2 hours from Yangshuo, and around 2.5 hours from Xingping, depending on your pickup location.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience and flexible schedule.

What is included in the price?
The main entrance tickets for the rice terraces and villages, private car and driver, and air-conditioned vehicle are included. Food and drinks are not.

How much time will we spend at each stop?
You’ll spend about 3 hours visiting the terraces and villages, including time for photo-taking, exploring, and a traditional lunch in Ping’an Village.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, villages like Ping’an and Huangluo offer handcrafted souvenirs, textiles, and local products, which you can purchase at your discretion.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
While not specified, generally the terraces are most stunning during planting or harvest season, and water in the paddies reflects the landscape during rainy months.

Is there any physical activity involved?
The tour involves walking through villages and terraces, which can include some steep or uneven paths. It’s suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. Since food isn’t included, pack snacks if you’re hungry between stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this tour matches your expectations for exploring Longji’s breathtaking rice terraces and authentic mountain villages. If you value comfort, cultural insight, and scenic beauty, this private day trip from Guilin might just be one of your highlights in China.