Private Day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village

A Beautiful Day in the Fields and Villages of Guilin

When we think of Guilin, lush landscapes and dramatic rice terraces often come to mind. This private tour takes you to the Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village, offering an authentic glimpse into China’s minority cultures alongside breathtaking scenery. For $100 per person, you’ll enjoy about nine hours of personalized attention, comfortable transportation, and the chance to explore two unique villages with optional upgrades for a more adventurous day.

What we love most about this experience is the personal guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which makes navigating the terrain and learning about local customs both easy and enjoyable. The second highlight is the visual impact of the terraces, especially when they catch the light just right—whether lush green or shimmering with water. The only potential drawback? If you’re expecting a fully guided hiking adventure, you might want to consider additional options for hikes or cable cars, which are available at extra cost.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize authentic cultural encounters, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate local stories and traditional ways of life—like the Yao women with their extraordinary long hair—and prefer private, tailored experiences over group buses.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Enjoy the undivided attention of a private guide for a deeper understanding of each location.
• Spectacular Scenery: The rice terraces are among China’s most iconic landscapes, especially with water-filled fields reflecting the sky.
• Cultural Insights: Visit Huangluo village to learn about the Yao women and their extraordinary long hair, and explore traditional wooden houses in Ping’an Village.
• Convenience & Comfort: Reliable hotel pickup and round-trip transportation make this a hassle-free day trip.
• Flexible Options: Optional upgrades such as cable cars and hikes allow you to tailor the experience to your interests.
• Value for Money: At $100, the tour offers a comprehensive and intimate look at Guilin’s countryside, especially with tickets included in guided options.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Guilin or Yangshuo

The tour begins at 8:30 am with pickup from your Guilin or Yangshuo accommodation. The drive to Ping’an Village takes about two hours from Guilin and just over an hour from Yangshuo. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey pleasant, giving you a chance to start relaxing as you leave behind the city buzz.

First Stop: Huangluo Village and Yao Culture

Your first glimpse into Yao culture is at Huangluo Village, famous for the Yao women whose long hair is legendary—some as long as 6.6 feet (2 meters)! Here, you’ll learn about their lifestyles and see how they maintain this impressive tradition. It’s an excellent chance to ask questions or just marvel at the sight of such dedication to a cultural hallmark.

Second Stop: Ping’an Village and the Longji Rice Terraces

From Huangluo, you’ll ascend to Ping’an Village, perched among the spectacular rice terraces that softly carve into the mountainside. This village offers a window into traditional wooden houses and minority life that has persisted for centuries. You’ll likely see Zhuang and Yao minorities tending their fields, working in harmony with the landscape.

A traditional lunch (on your own expense) provides a chance to sample local flavors, often featuring rice, vegetables, and sometimes homemade specialties. Afterward, your guide will lead you through the terraces, explaining how these landscapes were created over generations through meticulous farming and community effort.

The Rice Terraces: Nature and History

The terraces are a testament to human ingenuity, carved into the mountain slopes over many centuries. The way they catch the light—whether shimmering with water or golden in the harvest season—makes them an ideal spot for photos. Many reviews mention the peaceful atmosphere and the “timeless” quality of the scenery, perfect for unwinding and soaking in nature.

Departure and Return

Depending on your location, you’ll leave Ping’an around 3:30 pm (if returning to Guilin) or 4:30 pm (if heading back to Yangshuo), arriving back at your hotel by about 5:30 pm. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights, from cultural insights to stunning vistas.

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice

This private tour offers excellent value and flexibility. The inclusion of tickets (if you opt for the guided version) ensures no surprises, and the private guide adds a layer of personalized storytelling that larger groups often miss. The trip’s pacing is designed for relaxed exploration, letting you photograph the terraces, chat with locals, or just enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The option to upgrade with cable cars or additional hikes is appealing if you want to add some adventure or avoid steep climbs. Many travelers raved about the knowledgeable guides, especially in quotes like, “Peter was incredibly helpful, friendly, and professional,” which underscores how the guide’s expertise enhances the experience.

Practical Considerations

While this tour is generally praised for its smooth organization, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to purchase local fare in Ping’an Village. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the main requirement being the ability to enjoy a full day of gentle walking and sightseeing.

The cancellation policy offers peace of mind—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, culturally rich experience with breathtaking scenery, this trip fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local culture like the Yao women’s long hair tradition and want to avoid large tour groups. It’s also perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture the terraces at their most dramatic.

However, those seeking more strenuous hikes or a fully guided hiking experience should consider options with additional activities. This tour is best suited for visitors who prefer a relaxed pace and meaningful cultural conversations.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Guilin, Yangshuo, or central Guilin, making the start of your day convenient.

How long is the drive from Guilin to Ping’an Village?
The drive takes around two hours from Guilin and about an hour from Yangshuo, providing a comfortable journey through scenic countryside.

Are entrance tickets included?
Tickets are included if you select the guided option, which adds value and simplifies planning.

Can I upgrade the tour?
Yes, options like cable car rides or additional hikes are available for an extra fee, allowing you to customize your experience.

What is the best time of year to visit?
While the reviews mention the rice fields at harvest time, the terraces are beautiful year-round—particularly when flooded in spring or golden during harvest.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by adults. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for family outings.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and camera gear. Food and drinks are not included, so pack snacks if desired.

To sum it up, this private Longji Rice Terraces tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and personalized service. It’s especially perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of China’s minority cultures, captured alongside some of the most stunning terraced landscapes in the country. Whether you’re a photographer, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking serenity in nature, this trip provides a memorable and authentic experience in Guilin’s countryside.