Longji Rice Terraces & Chengyang & Drop off at Zhaoxing village Private Day Tour

Discover the Longji Rice Terraces & Chengyang with a Private Day Tour

This Guilin-based private tour offers an engaging mix of panoramic scenery, vibrant ethnic culture, and architectural marvels. Spanning approximately 9 hours, it takes you from the iconic Longji Rice Terraces to the charming Dong minority villages, ending in the picturesque Zhaoxing village. The tour’s flexibility, including hotel pickup and drop-off at Zhaoxing village or the Congjiang train station, makes it particularly appealing for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

What stands out most about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. We love how it takes you off the beaten path to less touristy villages, with guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge. That said, be prepared for some long drives—about 2 to 3 hours one way—so it’s ideal for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore ethnic minority traditions, stunning rice terraces, and scenic bridges without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.

One thing to keep in mind is the entrance fee of CN¥190, which is not included in the tour price. Also, if you prefer to explore at a leisurely pace or have specific interests in the villages, keep in mind that some stops require additional time and optional rentals. This experience appeals most to those wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich day out with professional guidance and comfortable transportation.

Key Points

• Balanced Cultural & Natural Highlights: Combines breathtaking rice terraces with authentic Dong minority villages.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private vehicle and guide ensure a smooth, tailored experience.
• Flexible Drop-off Options: Can end the tour at Zhaoxing village or Congjiang train station.
• Long Drives: Expect about 2-3 hours of transportation each way, so pack some snacks.
• Entrance Fees: Not included, so budget around CN¥190 per person.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guides provide detailed stories, especially about the architecture and local customs.

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces

As the first stop, the Longji Rice Terraces are a highlight that truly live up to their reputation. These terraces, built into the hillsides, stretch over 66 square kilometers and resemble enormous ribbons winding around the mountains. The views are especially captivating when the sunlight reflects on the water-filled paddies or when the fields are ripe with harvest.

The name “Dragon’s Backbone” hints at the striking appearance of these terraces, which resemble the scales of a giant dragon. According to reviews, many travelers appreciate the chance to get close to the terraces and take photos from different vantage points. This is an area that’s especially photogenic in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape.

While admission isn’t included, the value here is in the scenery and experience. Expect around two hours of exploring, with ample opportunities to walk along the terraces or simply soak in the views. Be aware that some visitors mention that the drive from Guilin can take around two hours if you’re staying in Guilin’s city center, or three if you’re in Yangshuo—so plan your morning accordingly.

Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge and Dong Villages

After leaving the terraces, the journey continues to the scenic Sanjiang area, home to the Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge—a structure that is as functional as it is beautiful. Built in 1912, this 64-meter-long bridge is a marvel of traditional engineering, combining aesthetics with practicality. It’s free to visit, and you’ll likely spend about ten minutes here admiring its intricate woodwork and impressive span.

Following this, the tour explores eight natural villages within the Chengyang Dong Scenic Resort. Each village has its own unique architectural style, especially the distinctive wind and rain bridges, drum towers, and stages. The guide may share stories about local customs and differences among villages, adding a layer of depth to your visit. Many visitors find it fascinating to see how the Dong people incorporate their cultural symbols into everyday structures.

The entire scenic area covers around 12.55 square kilometers and is home to roughly 2,200 Dong families. While you might not have time to visit every village in-depth, walking through these areas offers a glimpse into traditional Dong life. Travelers have appreciated the chance to rent local villagers’ insights, which enriches the understanding of the architecture and customs.

Drop-off at Zhaoxing Village & Cultural Immersion

The day concludes with a drop-off at Zhaoxing Dong Village, usually around 6:30 to 7:00 pm. Zhaoxing is one of the most well-preserved Dong villages, famous for its traditional buildings and lively community atmosphere. The guide will coordinate a meeting point at the village gate, and from there, you can explore on your own or relax at your hotel.

If you choose the drop-off at the Congjiang train station, it provides a convenient way to continue your journey elsewhere in Guizhou Province or beyond. The flexibility of drop-off locations makes this tour practical for various travel plans.

Transportation & Guide Experience

The private vehicle is a key part of the appeal, offering comfort and the freedom to customize your pace. The driver and guide are typically very knowledgeable, providing insights into each stop’s significance. Reviewers mention that guides often tell engaging stories about the architecture, local customs, and history, which enhances the visit beyond just sightseeing.

With a total of about 9 hours, including travel, this is a full but manageable day. The timing allows for a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, with enough flexibility to linger at favorite spots or skip through less interesting areas.

Cost & Value Considerations

At $209.43 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package that covers transportation, guiding, and access to some of the region’s most scenic and cultural sites. Considering the private nature of the tour, personalized attention, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, many travelers find it to be a good deal.

However, remember that entrance fees (CN¥190) are not included, so budget for that additional expense. Also, the long drives mean that this isn’t an ideal choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced day; rather, it’s suited for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground comfortably.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those interested in ethnic minorities and authentic cultural experiences, as well as travelers who love stunning landscapes and traditional architecture. It suits those comfortable with a full day of travel and some walking, as well as people who prefer a private, guided tour to maximize learning and comfort.

It’s particularly good for travelers who want to get a well-rounded view of Guilin’s surrounding areas without the hassle of organizing transportation and logistics themselves. If you’re eager to explore multiple sites in a single day with a knowledgeable guide, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

For anyone keen on combining spectacular scenery with cultural discovery, this private tour offers a compelling day out. The stunning rice terraces, the intricate Dong minority architecture, and the scenic bridges provide a vivid picture of local life and natural beauty.

The tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach—you’re not just a face in the crowd, but a guest with a guide who can share meaningful stories and insights. While the long drives may not suit everyone, the carefully curated stops make the journey worthwhile.

If you’re eager to experience Guilin’s ethnic diversity and breathtaking landscapes in one day, this tour provides excellent value—especially if you appreciate comfort, flexibility, and authentic local encounters. It’s perfect for curious travelers ready to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and truly connect with the region’s vibrant cultures.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 9 hours long, from pickup in the morning to drop-off in the evening, depending on traffic and timing at each site.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers private transportation, a private guide, and hotel pickup. Entrance fees (CN¥190) are not included, nor are meals and drinks.

Can I be dropped off at the train station?
Yes, you can choose to be dropped off at the Congjiang train station or at Zhaoxing village gate, depending on your travel plans.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and some snacks or water. A camera is a must for the stunning views and architecture.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour involves walking around villages and scenic areas, so it’s best suited for children who are comfortable with those activities.

Will I have free time at each stop?
Yes, you’ll have time to explore each site, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Additional time may be available if you wish to rent a local guide for deeper insights.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a day ahead is recommended to secure your spot and coordinate pickup details.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to eat at local eateries after the tour.

This tour strikes a great balance between scenic beauty and culture, making it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to see the authentic Guilin surrounds.