Longsheng Rice Terraces 1-night Accommodation with 2-way Transfer from Guilin

Experience the Longsheng Rice Terraces on a 2-Day Tour from Guilin

Imagine wandering through ancient terraced rice fields carved into lush mountains, witnessing the traditional lifestyles of the Yao minority, and staying overnight at one of the highest points in the area—all for about $141 per person. This Longsheng Rice Terraces tour offers a compact glimpse into rural China, with round-trip transportation, hotel accommodation, and a guided walk with local villagers.

What we love about this experience is its accessibility—being able to escape the busy city and learn about natural beauty and local culture within a short timeframe. The overnight stay at a hotel perched high above the terraces means you wake up to jaw-dropping views, and the guided walk provides authentic insight into the landscape and ethnic minorities.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour seems best suited for those who are comfortable with basic group arrangements and don’t mind a straightforward, no-frills experience. Some reviews highlight issues like disorganized transfers or lack of guide involvement—so manage expectations accordingly.

If you’re after a taste of China’s iconic rice terraces, enjoy scenic vistas, and want a no-hassle, well-organized package, this tour could be just right. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate cultural sights but prefer a more relaxed, all-in-one experience without the complexities of self-planning.

Key Points

• Comfortable and convenient all-in-one package with hotel, transfers, and scenic walking.
• Authentic cultural experience through a guided walk with a local villager.
• Stunning panoramic views from the hotel, especially at dawn.
• Limited guide involvement during sightseeing, so some travelers may find it less immersive.
• Value for money considering transportation, accommodation, and activities included.
• Potential logistical hiccups with transfers or timing, based on reviews.

In-Depth Review of the Longsheng Rice Terraces Tour

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This 2-day experience provides a straightforward way to see the famed Longsheng Rice Terraces without the hassle of arranging transport or accommodation yourself. The package covers round-trip transport from Guilin, a night at a hotel located in Jinkeng, and a scenic walk with a local villager. The cost, approximately $141 per person, is competitive considering the inclusions: hotel stay, breakfast, and transfer.

Pickup options are flexible—whether you’re staying in downtown Guilin, near the airport, or at one of Guilin’s railway stations. If you’re coming from Yangshuo, you’ll need to organize your own bus to Guilin’s bus station, adding a small extra step but still manageable.

Day 1: Arrival and Scenic Transfer

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or airport in Guilin, or from the railway stations. The transfer takes around 3-4 hours, depending on your starting point, heading to Longsheng County. The journey itself is part of the adventure—soak in the changing scenery from bustling city streets to tranquil rural landscapes.

Once at Longsheng, you’ll transfer to a shuttle bus that takes you to Jinkeng, where your hotel awaits. The hotel sits at a high elevation, offering sweeping views of rice terraces that stretch as far as the eye can see. The hotel stay is a highlight—waking up to fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas is worth every penny.

Day 2: Walking and Scenic Views

After breakfast, you’ll join a 3-hour guided walk led by a local villager. This is where the experience feels most authentic. We loved the way your guide explained the significance of the terraces and shared stories of the Yao and Zhuang minorities, making the landscape come alive beyond just pretty scenery.

The walk takes you through the terraces and the nearby villages, with plenty of photo opportunities. The highlight for many is the view from Quanjinlou Hotel on the mountain summit—an ideal spot for capturing those iconic sweeping rice field panoramas.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a shuttle bus back to Guilin or Yangshuo, depending on your plan. The departure times are flexible, with buses leaving at multiple intervals, so you can customize your schedule.

What Travelers Say: Authenticity, Views, and Challenges

One reviewer described their experience as “more than I expected,” appreciating the traditional dances, songs, and the unique way the Long Hair Women of the Yao village express their culture. This highlights the tour’s potential for genuine cultural insights, especially if you’re keen on local traditions.

On the flip side, a less favorable review called the tour “a huge disaster” and pointed out issues with guidance and organization, suggesting that if you’re not prepared for possible logistical hiccups, it might be frustrating. It’s worth noting that the guide-led walk is the only truly guided part**—other elements, like transfers, are more self-directed.

What to Expect from the Accommodation

The hotel at Jinkeng is described as the best available in that area, offering breakfast and a prime location. The hotel’s high elevation means you’ll experience cooler temperatures and possibly misty mornings—perfect for atmospheric photos but worth packing layers.

Luggage handling is straightforward, with porter charges included for moving your bags from the bus to the hotel and back. No extra fee is required if you’re sharing a room with a partner or family, and the hotel generally allows up to four persons per room.

The Logistics and Practicalities

Timing is important. The return bus to Guilin or Yangshuo leaves at multiple times during the day, so you can plan your departure based on your travel schedule. Just remember to double-check with hotel staff on the specific time, as it varies depending on your stay.

The package does not include optional extras like cable cars or additional guided tours. If you’re tempted to visit Qianfoding summit via cable car, be prepared for an extra two hours and additional cost.

Transportation is generally smooth, but some reviews mention disorganization, so it pays to confirm your pickup and return times in advance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

Travelers who want an easy, all-in-one experience to see the rice terraces without the hassle of planning every detail will find this package appealing. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate authentic cultural encounters and stunning scenery from a high vantage point.

Those looking for a fully guided, immersive experience, including guided sightseeing and detailed narration, might find this tour somewhat limited, given the minimal guide involvement during the actual sightseeing. It’s ideal for independent-minded travelers comfortable with some logistical flexibility.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a practical, scenic escape into China’s iconic rice terraces, this 2-day package offers value and convenience. The hotel stay at a mountain-top location makes the experience memorable, and the guided walk with a local villager adds authentic flavor. The transportation arrangements are efficient, though some reviews hint at minor organizational hiccups—so patience and flexibility help.

If you’re after a low-stress way to see the terraces, enjoy panoramic views, and get a taste of local Yao culture, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a cost-effective introduction to Longsheng, without the complexity of self-drive or multiple bookings.

However, if your priority is a deeply guided experience or a more personalized interaction, you might prefer other options that include guided commentary or smaller group sizes. Still, for a straightforward, scenic overnight in one of China’s most breathtaking landscapes, this tour represents solid value.

FAQ Section

Is transportation included from Guilin to Longsheng?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation, including pickup from downtown Guilin, the airport, or railway stations.

Can I join this tour if I’m staying in Yangshuo?
Yes, you can take a shuttle bus from Yangshuo to Longsheng’s bus station, but you need to organize that yourself, as the tour package starts from Guilin.

What is the hotel like in Jinkeng?
The hotel is the best available in the area, located at a high elevation with stunning views. It includes breakfast and luggage porter services.

Is there a guide during the walking tour?
Yes, the 3-hour walk through the terraces is escorted by a local villager, providing authentic insights. No guide is involved in other parts of the trip.

What should I bring for the walk?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing (for high elevation and changing weather), and a camera for capturing the scenery.

How flexible are the bus return times?
Buses leave at multiple times on the afternoon of Day 2, but it’s best to confirm your preferred time with hotel staff.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. You might find local eateries in the area if you want to try regional cuisine.

What about cable cars at the terraces?
Cable car tickets are not included and cost extra if you want to visit Qianfoding summit, which is separate from the hotel’s mountain location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, as long as they are comfortable with walking and basic group arrangements. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What is the main value of this tour?
The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and a comfortable overnight stay makes it a well-rounded introduction to Longsheng’s rice terraces.

In summary, this tour offers a practical way to experience one of China’s most iconic landscapes with minimal fuss. While it may not satisfy those seeking an in-depth guided experience, it provides stunning vistas, cultural glimpses, and the chance to relax amidst nature. Perfect for travelers who value convenience and scenic beauty and are happy to manage some logistical details themselves.