Guilin: Day tour of Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo

Guilin: Day Tour of Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo — A Detailed Look

If you’re visiting Guilin and craving a taste of authentic rural China combined with breathtaking scenery, this private day tour offers a memorable way to do both. For around $157 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo, with the comfort of private transport and an English-speaking guide.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances stunning landscapes with cultural insights. The visit to the Longji Rice Terraces is a highlight — centuries of careful craftsmanship have created intricate, layered fields that are visually stunning and historically fascinating. Plus, the drive through Yangshuo, with its lush countryside and leisurely pace, offers a perfect escape from city life.

However, the tour does involve a fair amount of driving — roughly 2 hours each way from Guilin — which could be tiring if you’re not used to long car rides. Also, note that the admission to the Longji Rice Terraces is not included in the base price, adding about CN¥80.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic vistas, culture, and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to see some of China’s most iconic countryside without staying overnight in the area.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: The Longji Rice Terraces are a marvel of human ingenuity and natural beauty.
• Cultural Richness: You’ll encounter ethnic minorities like the Zhuang, Yao, and Miao, dressed in colorful traditional costumes.
• Comfortable Transport: Private car and guide provide a personalized experience, making logistics straightforward.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, allowing for a more tailored and relaxed day.
• Cost Considerations: Entrance fees and meals are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Timing: Starts early at 7 am, so packing a breakfast or snack is a good idea.

The Day in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Bright and Early in Guilin

The day kicks off at 7 am, with pickup from your Guilin hotel. We appreciated how this schedule allows us to make the most of daylight, especially when visiting outdoor sites. The 2-hour drive to Longji covers about 100 km, offering scenic glimpses of the countryside. The guide, who was friendly and informative, set a relaxed tone for the day.

Exploring the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

Once at Longji, you’ll have about 10 minutes to admire the view — the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces are a sight to behold. These terraces, developed in the late 13th century, represent centuries of manual labor by local Zhuang and Yao communities. The terraces ripple across the hillsides, creating an intricate pattern that’s especially photogenic in the morning light.

The experience here is more than just sightseeing; it’s a glimpse into agricultural craftsmanship passed down through generations. Expect to see farmers tending to their crops, often dressed in traditional costumes, which adds to the authenticity. Keep in mind, the admission fee (CN¥80) is paid on-site if you want to go deeper into the terraces.

Scenic Drive to Yangshuo

After exploring Longji, the tour takes you to Yangshuo. The two-hour drive offers sweeping views of lush, karst-dotted landscapes that are arguably the most iconic scenery in China. Although the admission to Yangshuo itself is free, many travelers find the scenery alone worth the trip.

Yangshuo is famed for its li River views, quirky local markets, and relaxed vibe. While the tour doesn’t include a cruise, you’ll enjoy the atmosphere of this charming town, which is renowned for its outdoor activities and rustic charm.

Lunch and Leisure in Yangshuo

Post-drive, you’ll have time for lunch, typically at a local restaurant. While the tour doesn’t specify meal options, many travelers enjoy the local Yangshuo-style dishes—think fresh river fish, stir-fried greens, and local rice noodles. This is a good chance to sample authentic flavors, often included in other similar tours.

Following lunch, there’s about two hours to explore Yangshuo’s streets, markets, or simply relax by the river. Some reviews mention that the town’s vibe is laid-back, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee break.

Returning to Guilin

After soaking up the scenery and atmosphere, the group is driven back to Guilin for a drop-off at your hotel. The entire day wraps up around late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and how much exploring you do.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

One reviewer, Corina Z, noted that “we booked this tour for four people — myself, my boyfriend, and my parents — and overall, we had a good day exploring some beautiful places.” She appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see local life up close, but also mentioned that some aspects could be improved, like the overall pacing.

Another common theme was the scenic beauty of the rice terraces, described as “beautiful,” and the delicious local food enjoyed during lunch. Travelers also mentioned that the drive was manageable and the guide was helpful, adding a layer of ease to a busy day.

However, some found the long drive somewhat tiring, especially if they prefer more time at each stop or shorter travel times. The admission fee for the terraces, not included in the base price, is worth budgeting for, but it’s straightforward to pay on-site.

Transportation and Logistics

This tour’s main advantage is the private car, which means fewer crowds and more flexibility. The pickup at 7 am is early but allows for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The driver and guide work together to ensure smooth transitions between sites, which is crucial given the distance involved.

The duration of transfers can vary depending on traffic, but generally, you can expect about 2 hours each way. This is a significant chunk of your day, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long car rides and eager to see scenic rural China.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for visual learners and culture enthusiasts, eager to see traditional rice terraces and experience local minority cultures. It’s also perfect for those who want a private, personalized experience rather than a crowded group tour. If you enjoy scenic drives and landscape photography, you’ll find plenty of moments to capture.

If you’re short on time but want to tick off two iconic Guilin sights in one day, this tour offers good value. However, if you prefer more relaxed pacing or want to spend more time at each site, you might consider options with longer stays or fewer stops.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

For travelers craving stunning vistas, cultural insights, and a hassle-free itinerary, this Guilin day tour hits the sweet spot. It’s an excellent option for those who appreciate narrative-rich landscapes and want a guided experience without the complexity of planning transportation and logistics themselves. The combination of Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo captures the essence of Guilin’s natural beauty and rural charm.

Keep in mind, this is a full day on the road, so if you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or more time at each site, you might want to look for options that include overnight stays or longer visits.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and convenience — well worth considering for your Guilin adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private car transportation with a driver and guide throughout the day, making travel between sites smooth and comfortable.

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 7 am, with hotel pickup, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission to Longji Rice Terraces costs about CN¥80 per person and is paid on-site. Entrance to Yangshuo is free, but activities like boat cruises are not included.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes at Longji Rice Terraces for a quick view, plus about 2 hours in Yangshuo for exploration and lunch. The drive each way takes about 2 hours.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking around terraced fields and possibly uneven terrain, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, you might be able to discuss adjustments with your guide, but changes would depend on the provider’s flexibility.

What should I bring along?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Budget for extra expenses like admission fees and meals.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, families with children who are comfortable with long drives and outdoor exploration will enjoy the scenic and cultural elements.

This Guilin day tour provides a thorough, well-balanced way to see some of China’s most iconic landscapes. With stunning rice terraces, scenic drives, and authentic local culture, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to experience Guilin beyond the city streets.