Longji Rice Terraces All In One Dazhai and Pingan Villages Tour

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces: A Day of Scenic Wonder and Cultural Richness

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes with genuine cultural encounters, the Longji Rice Terraces All In One Dazhai and Pingan Villages Tour offers a compelling option. For $99 per person, you get roughly nine hours of exploration, including private transfers, visits to two of the most visually striking rice terrace sites near Guilin, and a chance to learn about the minority communities that thrive in this region. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip is perfect whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture buff, or someone simply wanting to see one of China’s most iconic landscapes.

What we love most about this tour is how it offers a comprehensive experience in a single day, covering the most famous terraces and villages without feeling rushed. The cable car ride to Dazhai provides a relaxed, scenic ascent, and the panoramic viewpoints at Pingan Village, such as Nine Dragons and Five Tigers, give you postcard-worthy views. Another highlight is the opportunity to sample local village foods like bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and smoked pork—an authentic taste of the region’s culinary traditions.

A potential consideration is the cost of optional extras like the cable car (100 yuan) and golf cart (50 yuan), which aren’t included in the base price. Budgeting for these if you want the full scenic experience is worth it. Also, since the tour is private and well-paced, it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, immersive day without the pressure of group crowds or rigid schedules. This tour appeals especially to travelers eager to see the full scope of the terraces in comfort and style.

This tour fits travelers who appreciate stunning scenery paired with authentic cultural visits, and who value guided insights into local village life. It’s especially recommended if you prefer a more personalized experience versus large group tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Visits to both Dazhai and Pingan villages offer a full picture of the terraced landscape.
• Scenic cable car: The ride provides a relaxed way to ascend and enjoy the views from above.
• Authentic local cuisine: Tasting bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and smoked pork adds a flavor of local life.
• Private transportation: Comfort and flexibility are prioritized with private, air-conditioned transfers.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary.
• Flexible options: Additional costs for the cable car and golf cart allow customization of your visit.

In-Depth Review of the Longji Rice Terraces Tour

How the tour starts and what to expect from the beginning

The experience begins promptly at 9:00 am at the Guilin Bravo Hotel. Your driver-guide greets you in the lobby and sets the tone for a hassle-free day. The small group (or private booking) means more personalized attention, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort on the roughly 2-hour drive to the terraces.

As you leave Guilin’s urban buzz behind, you’ll start to see the landscape transform into lush terraced fields carved into the mountainside. This journey is not just about transportation—it’s part of the experience, as your guide might share insights about the region’s geography and the minority communities that cultivate these terraces.

Dazhai Rice Terraces: Scenic cable car and village charm

Your first major stop is Dazhai, famous for its striking terraced landscape and well-developed cable car system. This aerial ride takes about half an hour and offers a bird’s-eye view of the rice terraces winding down the mountain slopes. According to reviews, the cable car provides a “scenic way to discovery this area,” and many travelers appreciate the relaxed ascent, especially after a long drive.

Dazhai is a lively tourist spot where you can walk among the terraces, take photos, and enjoy the mountain air. The cable car is a highlight, offering sweeping vistas that are hard to beat. It’s worth noting, however, that the cost of the cable car (100 yuan) isn’t included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

Pingan Village: The “Dragon’s Backbone” and panoramic viewpoints

Next, you’ll head to Pingan Village, often called the “Dragon’s Backbone” due to the winding shape of its terraces. This area is renowned for its dramatic vistas that look like a dragon’s spine snaking across the mountains. The Nine Dragons and Five Tigers viewpoints are some of the most spectacular, giving a sweeping, bird’s-eye perspective of the entire rice terrace system.

From the base, a round-trip golf cart takes you up to the viewpoints—another optional expense (50 yuan)—but well worth it for the convenience and the chance to soak in the scenery. As one reviewer put it, “The name means the nine ridges look like nine dragons,” and it’s easy to see why these views stick with visitors.

Authentic village life and local cuisine

While the scenery is the main attraction, the tour excels in offering genuine cultural insights. You’ll have the chance to walk through traditional Zhuang and Yao minority villages, observing local architecture and daily life. The tour does not include a meal, but you’ll have the opportunity to dine at local eateries—an authentic experience where you can try dishes like bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and smoked pork.

One traveler remarked, “Feast on bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, smoked pork, and more in village,” highlighting how these meals help connect travelers with regional traditions. The relaxed pace allows you to appreciate village life without feeling hurried.

Practical aspects of the tour

The tour’s 9-hour duration balances sightseeing with comfort. The private vehicle ensures a smooth, climate-controlled ride, and the guide provides context and local knowledge along the way. The small-group or private format means you can customize your experience slightly, and your guide is there to answer questions and point out hidden gems.

Some travelers noted that the tour is well-priced considering the inclusions—private transport, entrance fees, and personalized service—especially compared to joining larger, more rushed tours.

What travelers say

Both reviews emphasize the high quality of the guide and the stunning views. One traveler called it “an excellent experience,” noting that “our guide was very knowledgeable and professional.” Another appreciated the quieter, off-season time when they visited, stating, “Besides being off-season, there were not many Western travelers, so we were the only two with Li, who was an excellent guide.”

These comments underline how the personalized attention and fewer crowds enhance the overall experience, allowing you to enjoy the landscape and culture more intimately.

Considerations and tips

• The additional costs for cable cars and golf carts can add up, so budget accordingly if you want the full scenic experience.
• The lunch is not included, but there are plenty of local eateries to choose from; trying regional specialties is highly recommended.
• Reserve your spot in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the tours tend to be booked around 81 days in advance.
• If you’re interested in photography, the viewpoints at Pingan offer incredible opportunities, so bring your camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This all-in-one tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring the most famous terraces near Guilin without the hassle of coordinating multiple visits. It’s perfect for those who value authentic cultural insights and enjoy scenic views from above and below. If you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends and prefer a private, flexible experience, this tour offers excellent value and comfort.

It’s especially suited for visitors who appreciate good guides, as the reviews highlight guides like Li, who make the experience engaging and informative. If you’re after stunning vistas, local cuisine, and a personalized journey, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with private transport and optional golf cart rides. However, if you or your family members have mobility issues, it’s worth considering the walking involved at viewpoints.

How long is the drive from Guilin to the terraces?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery en route.

Are the cable car and golf cart included?
No, the cable car (100 yuan) and golf cart (50 yuan) are optional extras and are paid separately during your visit.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. If you want to buy souvenirs or snacks, bring some extra cash.

Is meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time to enjoy local food at the village eateries.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide, such as spending more time at certain viewpoints or exploring additional villages.

What’s the best time to visit?
While the tour operates year-round, the views are stunning in different seasons. Spring and autumn typically offer excellent weather and vibrant scenery.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 81 days in advance, which is advisable during peak seasons to secure your preferred date.

To sum it up, this Longji Rice Terraces tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines stunning scenery, culture, and personalized service. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from Guilin’s city buzz, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Its emphasis on authentic experiences, guided insights, and scenic vistas makes it a standout choice for those wanting to see the “real” Longji in comfort and style.