Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Xingping hotel

Experience the breathtaking beauty of China’s iconic rice terraces on a Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Xingping. This 8-hour journey offers a well-rounded taste of one of Guangxi’s most famous sights, complete with visits to traditional mountain villages and a peek into local Yao and Zhuang cultures. From the moment your private driver picks you up, the focus is on comfort, flexibility, and authentic scenery.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to see the terraces from multiple viewpoints—a perfect way to appreciate their scale and intricate design. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the Huangluo Yao women’s long hair village adds a cultural depth that many travelers find fascinating. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full-day trip with a fair bit of driving—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day on the road. This tour is perfect for visitors seeking a combination of spectacular landscapes and culture with the convenience of a private guide.

Key Points

• Stunning views of the terraced fields carved into the mountainside.
• Cultural insights from visits to Yao and Zhuang villages, especially the famous long-haired Yao women.
• Comfortable private transportation with air conditioning, tailored to your schedule.
• Flexible itinerary with options to explore different villages like Ping’an or Dazhai.
• Value for money with all main entrance tickets included.
• Ideal for travelers who want an authentic experience without the hassle of planning logistics.

Overview of the Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Longsheng County’s famous rice terraces—often called the “Dragon’s Backbones” because of their winding, scale-like appearance across the hills. Located roughly 100 km northeast of Guilin, the terraces are a marvel of agricultural ingenuity, built over centuries to maximize arable land on difficult terrain.

The tour is designed to be a full-day affair, starting early with a private pick-up from your hotel in Xingping, Yangshuo, or Guilin. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be driven through scenic countryside to reach the Longji area, with approximately 2 hours from Yangshuo or Xingping, and about 1.5 hours from Guilin. The journey itself offers glimpses of rural life and lush landscapes, setting the tone for the day ahead.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

Your adventure begins at the Longji ticket office, where you’ll purchase your entry tickets—this is a 15-minute stop, so be sure to have cash ready if needed. Then, the private vehicle takes you closer to the terraces, arriving at either Ping’an or Dazhai village.

The terraces are truly a sight to behold. Built into the mountainsides over many centuries, their intricate design reflects both agricultural necessity and artistic expression. We love how the terraces change with the seasons—lush green in summer, golden in harvest time, and sometimes dusted with snow in winter—so timing your visit can influence your experience.

While here, you’ll have about three hours to take in the views, walk along the terraces, and soak up the quiet mountain atmosphere. Many reviews mention the astonishing scale and complexity of these fields, which seem to stretch endlessly across the hills. The terraces are best appreciated from viewpoints that reveal their winding shapes, and your guide is likely to suggest photo spots that capture their full grandeur.

Stop 2: Ping’an Village and Long Hair Yao Women

Next, your driver will take you to the famed Ping’an Village, often called the “Long Hair Village” because the Yao women here keep their hair grown to extraordinary lengths—some as long as 6.6 feet (2 meters). Our sources mention their spectacular hair and the lifestyle maintained by these communities, which makes visiting this village both visually and culturally compelling.

Walking through Ping’an, you’ll see traditional wooden houses and narrow pathways that zigzag through rice paddies. The village maintains a slow, traditional rhythm, and your guide will share stories about how the terraces and villages have evolved over the centuries.

A highlight of this stop is the opportunity to learn about the Yao people’s lifestyle and their unique hair-care traditions. Many visitors find it captivating to see women with hair cascading down their backs, often as a symbol of beauty and cultural pride. Some reviews note that the village feels like stepping back in time, with strong preservation of customs amid modern tourism.

Lunch and Additional Exploration

After exploring the village, you’ll likely enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch in Ping’an—though this is at your own expense. The setting is charming, with local dishes often featuring rice, vegetables, and possibly some local specialties. If you prefer vegetarian or specific dietary accommodations, it’s worth mentioning ahead of time.

Post-lunch, your guide might lead you on a walk through the terraces or suggest visiting nearby viewpoints, depending on your preferences and timing. The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic scenery provide plenty of opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the landscape.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation & Comfort

The private vehicle with air conditioning makes the trip comfortable, especially after a long drive. The pick-up times can be tailored to your schedule, and the journey is smooth, avoiding the chaos of public buses. Reviewers often mention how convenient it is to have a private driver who can customize the timing and stops, making for a relaxed experience.

Price & Value

At $180.62 per person, this tour offers good value, considering it includes all main entrance tickets, private transport, and a dedicated guide. For the convenience and depth of experience, many find the cost justified. The fact that it’s a private activity means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.

Duration & Pacing

The full-day schedule involves about 8 hours, which might seem long but is well-paced with stops for photos, exploration, and rest. If you’re concerned about the drive, note that the scenery along the way is captivating and worth the time.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Although reviews are scarce, the few available responses shed light on what to expect. One reviewer noted, “The views are simply unbelievable, even better than I imagined.” Another appreciated the cultural depth: “Seeing the long-haired Yao women was a highlight—such a unique tradition.” The convenience of a private guide was frequently praised, with comments like, “It made the day so much easier and more relaxed.”

A common theme is that the terraces are a photographer’s dream, especially during early morning or late afternoon when the light hits just right. The combination of natural beauty and local culture makes this tour more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersive experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour is especially suited for travelers who value stunning landscapes combined with cultural insights. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic views, traditional villages, and a relaxed pace. The private guide and transportation remove much of the uncertainty and allow you to customize your experience somewhat, making it ideal for those who dislike crowded tours.

Keep in mind that it’s a full-day commitment, so it suits those prepared for a long day on the road and walking. If you’re after authenticity and ease, with the opportunity to photograph some of China’s most iconic rural scenery and meet local minority groups, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from your hotel by a private driver in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the drive from Xingping to Longji?
The drive from Xingping takes around 2.5 hours via highway and normal roads, covering about 180 km, depending on traffic.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, the tour price covers all main entrance tickets, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs for that.

Can I choose which village to visit?
The itinerary typically includes either Ping’an or Dazhai village, depending on your preference and the guide’s recommendations. Both offer stunning views and cultural experiences.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for optional lunch and souvenirs. A hat and water are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially if they are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking. Private transport offers flexibility for families or groups.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The panoramic views of the terraces and the chance to see the long-haired Yao women are often cited as the most memorable aspects.

To sum it up, this Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Xingping offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and convenience. It’s best suited for those eager to experience one of China’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning and navigating public transport. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply eager to see rural China’s timeless charm, this tour provides a memorable and worthwhile day out.