Fully-Guided Private Day Tour of Longji Terraces From Guilin

Experience the Longji Terraces on a Private Day Tour from Guilin

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing China’s most elaborate rice terraces up close, this fully-guided private day tour from Guilin is a smart choice. For just $72 per person, you get a full day of carefully curated sightseeing, including visits to the famed Longji Rice Terraces, also known as Dragons Backbone, along with an exploration of traditional minority villages. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the focus on authentic culture combined with stunning landscape views—plus, the fact that it’s private means no rushing or waiting for other travelers. The tour’s flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace, whether that means lingering in villages or taking plenty of photos at the terraces.

One potential drawback is that it’s a full-day outing, so if you’re not used to walking or have mobility issues, some parts of the terrain might be a bit challenging. Also, while lunch isn’t included, the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine in the villages makes up for it.

This tour suits travelers who love scenery combined with cultural visits, especially those who prefer a personalized experience over large group tours. If you’re eager to see iconic landscapes and learn about minority cultures, this day trip is a great fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The terraces are some of China’s most elaborate, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
• Authentic Villages: Explore traditional Ping An and Long hair Yao villages, gaining insight into local lifestyles.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is customizable with private transportation and an English-speaking guide.
• Convenient Planning: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth, with tickets included.
• Additional Sites: Option to visit Reed Flute Cave and enjoy a night cruise around Guilin—although these are not included in the main price.
• Cultural & Scenic Balance: Perfect for travelers seeking both breathtaking scenery and cultural authenticity.

A Deep Dive into the Longji Terraces Private Day Tour

Starting Point: Guilin and the Convenience of Private Transport

The tour kicks off early morning, around 9:00 am, when your private guide and driver pick you up from your hotel. From there, it’s about 2.5 hours of comfortable driving through Guilin’s lush landscape, giving you a chance to relax and get oriented before reaching the terraces. The roads are generally in good condition, and the drive is scenic, with glimpses of rice paddies and mountain scenery.

The Longji Rice Terraces: Panoramic Marvels

Your first major stop is the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces. These terraces are famous for their intricate design—resembling a dragon’s backbone winding along the mountainside. Once you arrive at the ticket office of the Scenic Area, you’ll take a trolley ride to the top viewing platform, which offers sweeping views of the terraces, famously called Nine Dragons and Five Tigers.

The panoramic vistas from this high point are truly awe-inspiring. The terraces stretch out in every direction, shimmering with water during planting season or golden hues in the harvest. The guide will point out features like the Seven Stars Accompany Moon, a section of terraces that resemble a moon and stars—an ideal spot for photos.

Walking Through the Terraces and Villages

After soaking in the views, it’s time to stroll along the terraces, which allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in their construction and the sheer effort it takes to maintain such farmland on steep slopes. You’ll walk down into the Ping An Zhuang Village, where traditional architecture and minority culture come alive. The tour is flexible here—your guide can tailor the pace, whether you want to linger over a local snack or explore every alley.

The walk into the village offers a glimpse into local lifestyles. Many visitors praise the authenticity of these villages, which are still inhabited by minority groups who have cultivated these terraces for generations. You might notice traditional dress, hear local dialects, and see artisans at work.

Lunch and Cultural Exploration

Midday, you’ll stop for a lunch break—the tour doesn’t include meals, but the villages feature a variety of local eateries serving simple yet delicious traditional dishes, often with rice, vegetables, and meats cooked in local styles. This is a good chance to sample authentic flavors away from touristy restaurants.

Visiting the Yao Village and Other Highlights

After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Long Hair Yao Village, renowned for its women’s long braided hair and traditional customs. This village offers a different cultural experience, giving you insight into the Yao minority’s way of life.

Returning to Guilin and Optional Cave Visit

The drive back includes a stop at the Reed Flute Cave, a popular nearby attraction. Inside, you’ll see stalactites and stalagmites lit up in vibrant colors, creating a surreal underground landscape. Although the cave ticket isn’t included, many find it worth the extra hour.

Ending the Day: Guilin’s Famous Landmarks

For those interested, the tour can also include a visit to the Sun and Moon Pagodas or a night cruise around Four Lakes, which showcases Guilin’s cityscape illuminated at night. These optional activities, while not included in the main cost, add a delightful evening touch.

The Value of a Private Guided Tour

The true strength of this experience is the personalized guidance. Your guide, who is fluent in English, will tailor the visit to your interests, answer questions, and help you navigate logistics efficiently. Plus, the private vehicle ensures you’re not constrained by group scheduling and can spend more time at each site.

Authenticity and Reviews

Based on reviews, travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views as key highlights. One reviewer raves about how Tracy, their guide, paid attention to dietary needs and provided a seamless experience. Another mentions the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see Guilin’s vibrant city life after the countryside.

Practical Considerations

The tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness because walking on terraces and uneven village pathways can be physically demanding. It’s a full day that requires a bit of energy but rewards with culture, scenery, and memorable experiences. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to bring some snacks or be prepared to enjoy local cuisine.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re craving a personalized, accessible experience that combines stunning landscapes with culture, this tour is ideal. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples who value flexibility and authentic local interactions. Families with children should also be mindful of terrain, but overall, it offers a well-balanced day for those wanting more than just a quick peek at the famous rice terraces.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Price?

At $72, this tour offers excellent value for a full-day private experience. The inclusion of trolley rides, guided insights, and entrance tickets makes for a hassle-free day. You get to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery at your own pace, which is a big plus in popular destinations like Guilin.

For anyone eager to see the iconic landscape of China’s terraces, explore local villages, and enjoy the comfort of private transportation, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s a thoughtful way to experience the beauty and culture of Longji without the stress or rush of larger group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the tour, but be aware that walking on terraces and village pathways involves some physical activity. Children should be accompanied by an adult, and a moderate level of fitness will make the day more comfortable.

How long does the entire trip take?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, with pickup around 9:00 am and return to Guilin around 6:00 pm, including travel time, sightseeing, and optional stops.

Are the tickets to the Longji Rice Terraces included?
Yes, the entrance fee for the Longji Rice Terraces is included in the tour cost. However, tickets for Reed Flute Cave and the Guilin night cruise are not included and can be purchased separately.

Can I customize my visit?
Absolutely. Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the stops or pace based on your interests and physical comfort.

What about food?
Lunch is not included, but there are plentiful local eateries in the villages offering authentic dishes. The guide can recommend options or help you find vegetarian choices if needed.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour for just your group, providing a more personalized and flexible experience compared to larger group outings.

To sum it up, this fully-guided private tour of the Longji Rice Terraces from Guilin offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and personalized service. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a culture seeker, or someone who appreciates a well-organized day with thoughtful touches, it’s an experience worth considering. Be prepared for a full day of walking, exploring, and soaking in one of China’s most iconic sights—an authentic adventure wrapped in comfort and convenience.