Guilin Tea plantation and Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Yangshuo hotel

If you’re looking to experience some of China’s most iconic landscapes and cultural highlights in one day, this Guilin Tea Plantation and Longji Rice Terraces Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and traditional lifestyle. Hosted by happychinatours, this private day trip from Yangshuo combines scenic drives, engaging cultural stops, and plenty of opportunities for photography and relaxation. Priced at $180.62 per person, it’s a decent value considering the inclusion of private transportation, entry tickets, and multiple culturally rich stops.

What we really like about this tour is how smoothly it combines the serene tea fields with the breathtaking Longji rice terraces — a landscape that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The chance to see Yao women with their famously long hair, plus visit traditional villages, adds a cultural depth that makes the experience more memorable.

On the flip side, one potential drawback is the overall travel time—about 2 hours from Yangshuo to Ping’an Village—so it’s a full day with some long drives. If you’re not a fan of bus rides or long car trips, this might feel a bit tiring. Still, if you’re eager to see a variety of sights in one day, this tour is a strong pick. It’s best suited for travelers who want an authentic, all-in-one cultural and scenic experience without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

Scenic diversity: Combines lush tea plantations with dramatic rice terraces and traditional villages.
Cultural insights: Opportunities to learn about Yao and Zhuang minorities, especially the Yao women’s long hair.
Comfort & convenience: Private air-conditioned vehicle, included tickets, and pick-up service make for a hassle-free day.
Value for money: Entry fees, transportation, and guided commentary included, plus the chance to explore several sites in one day.
Timing & pacing: About 8 hours of sightseeing, so it suits those comfortable with a busy schedule and long drives.
Authentic experience: Visits to real villages rather than touristy spots, with local stories and traditions shared by guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Guilin Yaoshan Mountain Scenic Resort & Tea Experience

Your day begins early, with a pick-up from your Yangshuo hotel around 8:30 am. The first stop takes you to the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute, a key institution for Guangxi’s tea industry. Expect about 1 to 1.5 hours here, where you’ll witness a tea performance and learn about the intricacies of Chinese tea-making. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, often demonstrating the art of picking, processing, and tasting tea.

From reviews, travelers highlight that the staff’s professionalism makes the experience both educational and fun. One visitor noted, “The staff was very friendly and explained the process clearly, making me appreciate tea even more.” It’s a relaxing start that introduces you to Chinese culture in a way that’s both visual and flavorful.

The scenic setting of Yao Mountain enhances the experience. The views from the plantation are calming, with rows of tea bushes stretching into the distance. Though the entrance here is free, the experience provides a good primer for understanding local agricultural practices and the importance of tea in Chinese society.

Journey to Longji: From Tea to Rice Terraces

After the tea experience, the group heads toward Longji (Dragon’s Backbone) rice terraces. The drive from Guilin takes roughly 1.5 hours, covering about 100 km. As you leave the city behind, expect to see the landscape transform into lush greenery and rugged hills. The journey itself offers glimpses of rural life, with villagers tending fields and winding mountain roads.

You’ll stop at the Longji ticket office for about 15 minutes to purchase your entry tickets before continuing to Ping’an or Dazhai villages. This is an efficient part of the plan, avoiding long queues or last-minute ticket worries. Travelers mention that the ticketing process is straightforward, and the staff are helpful if you need assistance.

The Iconic Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces are the star of the show, and they do not disappoint. These terraces, carved into the hillsides over centuries, are often called the “Dragon’s Backbones” due to their undulating pattern. Expect to spend about 3 hours exploring these terraces, which are at their most photogenic at sunrise and sunset but stunning any time of day.

Guides often share stories about how local farmers have cultivated these terraces for generations, creating a terraced landscape that seems to defy gravity. The terraces shimmer with water during planting season and turn a vibrant green as rice grows—each season offering a different visual treat.

Visiting Ping’an Village and the Long Hair Yao Women

The next highlight is Ping’an Village, where you get to walk among traditional wooden houses, meet local villagers, and take in the panoramic views of the rice terraces. It’s a peaceful spot, where time seems to slow down.

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is visiting Huangluo Yao Village, famous for its women’s long hair—some as long as 6.6 feet (2 meters). Travelers often comment on how impressive and beautiful the women’s long hair is, and how it’s a symbol of their culture and pride. You’ll learn about their traditions and lifestyle, which adds a layer of depth to your visit.

The guide usually shares stories about the Yao women’s hair, which is meticulously cared for and rarely cut. The village setting is rustic and authentic, allowing you to see how these communities continue to live much as they have for centuries.

Lunch and Relaxation

Most tours include a traditional local lunch in Ping’an—though the cost is not included in the package. Expect simple, hearty dishes typical of the region, with fresh ingredients. If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy the chance to taste local flavors and perhaps try some homemade specialties.

Return Journey & Final Impressions

After exploring the terraces and villages, the journey back to Yangshuo usually takes about 2 hours. Past travelers note that the long drive is worth it for the scenery and cultural richness, but it’s good to be prepared for some travel fatigue.

Throughout the day, the group size remains small and intimate, thanks to the private vehicle, which keeps the experience comfortable and personalized. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, often sharing insider tips about the sights and local customs.

Is This Tour Good Value?

Considering the $180.62 price point, the tour offers a lot: private transportation, all entrance fees, and guided insights. The inclusion of the tea experience and visits to both Ping’an and Dazhai villages means you get a comprehensive look at Guilin’s most iconic features in one day, without the hassle of logistics or local planning.

Some reviews mentioned that the tour is well-organized, allowing for enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Others appreciated the chance to explore authentic villages rather than tourist traps, and the stunning vistas of terraced rice paddies are often praised as unforgettable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. If you’re interested in Chinese agriculture, minority cultures, or just want to see some of the most famous landscapes in Guilin, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also suitable for those who prefer private, guided excursions that include transportation and entry tickets, removing all the planning stress.

However, if you’re sensitive to long travel times or prefer more leisurely, less structured days, it’s worth considering your personal pace. But for most, a day spent wandering rice terraces, learning about tea, and meeting local minorities makes for a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

This Guilin Tea Plantation and Longji Rice Terraces Tour offers a thoughtful introduction to one of China’s most picturesque regions. The combination of natural landscapes, authentic villages, and cultural stories creates a rich, memorable day. The scenic views of terraced fields are genuinely breathtaking and worth the early start and long drives.

It’s an excellent choice for those eager to see Guilin’s iconic landscapes while gaining insight into local traditions and rural life. The tour’s well-organized structure ensures you’ll enjoy each part of the journey without feeling overwhelmed, making it a practical option for most travelers.

If your goal is to experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region in one day, this tour provides a balanced, rewarding experience that’s both manageable and inspiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a pick-up service included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pick-up from your Yangshuo accommodation, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
Yes, all main entrance tickets for the tea plantation, rice terraces, and villages are included in the ticket price.

How long is the drive from Yangshuo to Ping’an Village?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours via highway from Yangshuo, making for a full but scenic day.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Lunch is not included in the tour fee, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the local restaurant in Ping’an.

Is this a group or private tour?
The experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized and flexible experience.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but the long drives and walking around the terraces may need consideration for very young children or those with mobility issues.