Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour with the Ping’an and Dazhai Village

Planning a trip to Guangxi and looking to explore one of China’s most iconic landscapes? This Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic views, local village visits, and convenient transportation all in one day. It’s a mix of cultural insight and natural beauty, perfect for those wanting a taste of rural China without sacrificing comfort.

What we most appreciate about this tour is how it balances guided convenience with enough free time to soak in the scenery. Plus, the inclusion of shuttle buses, cable cars, and entry tickets simplifies what could otherwise be an overwhelming day. That said, the tour does involve some walking and a bit of climbing, so it’s worth considering your comfort with light hiking.

One possible consideration is the price point—at about $209 per person, it’s not the cheapest day trip available. However, given the private transport, guided service, and all entrance fees included, many will find the value aligns with the experience offered. This tour best suits travelers who are eager to see the terraces with minimal fuss, enjoy scenic vistas, and are okay with a full, active day.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation ensures hassle-free travel from Guilin, Yangshuo, or Xingping.
• All entrance and cable car tickets are included, saving time and money.
• The tour includes visits to Ping’an and Dazhai villages, two of the most picturesque spots around the terraces.
• The combination of guided transfers and free time offers flexibility and local insights.
• The experience is suitable for most travelers, with some walking involved, and starts early enough for a full day of exploration.
• The private nature means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience.

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces: A Detailed Breakdown

How the Day Begins: Pickup and Journey

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Guilin, Yangshuo, or Xingping hotel. This is a big plus—no need to figure out local transport or worry about missing a bus. The driver, usually private and air-conditioned, will be your guide for the day. Depending on your starting point, expect a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Travel times are reasonable, considering the distance (ranging from 100 to 180 kilometers), but be prepared for some scenic driving through Guangxi’s lush landscapes. The comfort of a private car means you can relax, chat, or even catch a quick nap before the day’s main sights.

Stop 1: Longji Rice Terraces at the Tickets Office

The first stop at the Longji ticket office is brief—about 15 minutes—to purchase your entrance ticket. This setup means you won’t have to queue or worry about last-minute tickets. The terraces themselves are about a 3-hour visit from this point, giving you ample time to admire the spectacular stepped fields that twist into the hills.

These rice terraces are a marvel—built into the hillsides over generations, they look like giant dragon scales stretching across the landscape. The views are especially stunning when the sunlight hits the fields in the morning or late afternoon. Photographers will love the play of light and shadow, while nature lovers can appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of the terraces.

Visiting Dazhai Village: Cable Car Ride and Golden Buddha Peak

After a short drive, you arrive at Dazhai Village, a lively mountain settlement amid lush greenery. Here, the highlight is the cable car ride to the No.3 viewpoint, which is both practical and scenic. Instead of a strenuous hike, this cable car offers a quick and comfortable way up, giving you sweeping vistas of the rice terraces.

From the cable car’s top station, it’s less than 20 minutes to reach Golden Buddha Peak—the high point offering panoramic views of the terraces in all directions. Many reviews mention how this view is worth the ride, with some noting it’s a highlight of their trip, especially since walking uphill in the heat or rain might be less appealing.

We loved the way the cable car made the experience accessible—“you can skip the hours’ climb and still get the views,” as one reviewer said. You’ll stay around Dazhai for roughly 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

The Descent and Ping’an Village: Cultural Charm and Terraces

Next, the tour continues with a shuttle bus to Ping’an Village, another famous spot perched atop the terraces. Here, you can ascend via shuttle to the top of the hill, avoiding an uphill hike, and then hike down through the village and rice fields. This combination allows for a relaxed pace and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Ping’an is known for its traditional Zhuang and Yao minority houses, offering a glimpse into rural life. You’ll have around 2 hours here, enough to explore the narrow lanes, visit local markets, and admire the terraced landscape from various viewpoints.

Reviews mention that “the walk down through the terraces is a real highlight,” with some travelers appreciating the chance to see the fields up close and feel connected to local farm life. The views here are slightly different from Dazhai—more intimate and winding.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Timing: The full day starts early to maximize sightseeing. The tour is around 8 hours, which means you’ll get a good amount of time at each location.
• Comfort: Expect walking, some uphill sections, and outdoor exposure—dress comfortably and bring water.
• Meals: Food isn’t included, so consider packing snacks or planning for a meal in one of the villages if time allows.
• Weather: The terraces look different depending on the season; check the weather forecast to decide the best time to visit for lushness or harvest colors.

The Value of the Tour

At around $209 per person, this tour packs in a lot—private transport, all tickets, cable car rides, and guided visits. For travelers wanting a hassle-free, immersive experience that highlights the best of Longji’s terraces and villages, the cost isn’t unreasonable. It’s especially attractive for those who prefer not to organize transport and tickets themselves or want a more personalized experience.

One reviewer noted that “the private car & driver made the day so much easier,” emphasizing how this trip reduces the usual stress of traveling independently. Plus, the flexible schedule allows you to linger at points that truly captivate you.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day trip without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or navigating public transport. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks, cultural exploration, and comfortable transport. Photographers and nature lovers will appreciate the vantage points and vistas, while those with limited time in Guilin or Yangshuo will find this a worthwhile way to see the terraces.

If you’re after a relaxed, guided day with a touch of adventure—plus convenient logistics—this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned private vehicle with a driver, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Are tickets for the rice terraces and cable cars included?
All entrance tickets, cable cars, and shuttle bus tickets are included, saving you time and hassle.

Can I start the tour from the Guilin airport or train station?
Yes, the tour can be arranged to start from the airport or train station if your arrival is before 11 am, making it flexible for different travel plans.

How long is the total drive from Guilin to Longji terraces?
From Guilin, expect around 1.5 hours. From Yangshuo, around 2 hours, and from Xingping, approximately 2.5 hours.

What kind of walking is involved?
Expect some walking through villages, hiking down terraces, and short uphill sections. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate mobility. However, the cable car offers accessible options for reaching viewpoints.

Final Thoughts

The Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that’s suitable for most travelers. The combination of convenient transport, all-inclusive tickets, and guided visits ensures a smooth day of exploration. You’ll leave with memorable views, insight into rural life, and a genuine appreciation for the skill behind these ancient terraces.

While it’s a pricier option, the value lies in the ease and quality of the experience—especially for those who want to avoid logistical headaches. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature fan, or a cultural explorer, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into one of China’s most stunning landscapes.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers craving a full, guided day of scenic beauty with minimal planning, eager to see the iconic terraces and villages of Longji in comfort and style. It’s a practical choice for those who value convenience but still want authentic sights and cultural insights.