Imagine standing on a mountaintop, surrounded by endless green ribbons swirling around the hills—that's the magical sight that welcomes us to Longji Rice Terraces, just outside Guilin, China.
Also known as the Dragon’s Backbone, these terraces have been carefully sculpted by local farmers for more than 650 years.
It’s not just a place to see—Longji is a place to feel. Every step we take across these winding ridges connects us with a slower, simpler rhythm of life.
How to Reach Longji Terraces
Longji Terraces are located in Longsheng County, about 80 km (50 miles) from Guilin. Here’s how we can get there:
- By Private Car or Tour Shuttle: Easiest and fastest way, taking about 2.5 hours. Many hotels in Guilin offer door-to-door transfers (from $30–$50 USD round-trip).
- By Public Bus: Take a bus from Guilin Qintan Bus Station to Longsheng, then a connecting shuttle to the terrace area. It’s cheaper but takes longer (around 3.5–4 hours).
We’ll also need to pay an entrance fee of CNY 80 (about $11 USD) to access the scenic area.
Choosing the Right Village to Explore
The terrace area includes several different villages, each with its own character:
- Ping’an Village: The most popular and easiest to reach, offering stunning views and well-marked hiking paths.
- Dazhai Village (Jinkeng): Larger and more dramatic, with fewer tourists and a cable car to reach higher viewpoints.
- Ancient Zhuang Village: Less developed and more peaceful, great for travelers seeking quiet and local life.
Each village offers traditional wooden guesthouses, delicious local food, and a chance to meet the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups who call this region home.
When Should We Visit?
Timing can completely change the scenery at Longji:
- April to June: Rice fields are filled with water, reflecting the sky like mirrors.
- July to August: The terraces are bright green and full of life.
- Late September to early October: Golden harvest season—fields turn a glowing yellow. This is the most popular time.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): The terraces rest under mist or snow, and the area becomes quiet and mystical.
No matter the season, sunrise and sunset are always magical times to be at the top.
Top Activities to Enjoy
Hike Between Viewpoints
Walking is the best way to explore. In Ping’an, trails like “Seven Stars with Moon” and “Nine Dragons and Five Tigers” give us panoramic views of the terraces. In Dazhai, we can hike up to Golden Buddha Summit for unforgettable sunrise moments.
Stay Overnight in a Mountain Guesthouse
Spending at least one night allows us to enjoy peaceful mornings and starlit nights. Prices range from $20–$50 USD per night, often with meals included.
Try Traditional Bamboo Rice
Local dishes like rice cooked in fresh bamboo tubes, wild vegetables, and home-style mountain chicken are simple but full of flavor. Meals usually cost $4–$8 USD.
Experience Local Culture
The people here are just as fascinating as the landscape. In Dazhai, we might see the Yao women, famous for their long hair that reaches the ground. Some villages host hair-combing performances and traditional dance shows.
Tips for a Smoother Visit
1. Bring cash or mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay)
2. Wear good walking shoes—the paths are stone-paved and steep in places
3. Travel light—you may need to carry your bag uphill to your guesthouse
4. Check the weather—fog can roll in quickly, so bring a rain jacket
5. Stay overnight—day trips miss the best light and peaceful moments
Why Longji Will Stay in Our Hearts
Longji Rice Terraces aren’t just for our eyes—they’re for the soul. Here, the air is fresh, the pace is slow, and the views are timeless. It’s a place where nature and human tradition blend beautifully, inviting us to pause, breathe, and look around.
So if we’re ready for a walk among clouds, golden fields, and ancient culture, Longji is waiting. Let's take the path less traveled and write our own story in the mountains of Guilin.
Guilin Longji Rice Terraces
Video by gansu tour
