Longji Rice Terraces with the Dazhai Cable Car Private Day Tour

Traveling to Guilin offers the chance to see some of China’s most iconic landscapes, and the Longji Rice Terraces are truly a sight to behold. This private tour, priced at $165 per person, promises a day filled with awe-inspiring scenery, cultural insights, and comfortable transportation. With an average booking window of 74 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers are eager to explore this UNESCO-recognized marvel.

What we love about this experience is the blend of natural beauty and culture. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t waste time navigating local transportation, and the inclusion of a cable car ride offers spectacular views without the physical strain of hiking. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is fairly structured, so if you’re looking for a super-flexible or spontaneous day, you might find the schedule a little tight.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, insightful guides, and the chance to see a world-famous landscape with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see the best of Longji’s terraces and learn about the local Zhuang and Yao cultures.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off take the stress out of logistics.
• Stunning Views: Experience breathtaking vistas from the cable car and hilltop viewpoints.
• Cultural Insights: Opportunities to learn about Zhuang and Yao minority lifestyles.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with rich commentary.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit traditional villages and try on local costumes.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: A full day of exploration with clear stops and timings.

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the “Dragon’s Backbone,” are a marvel of ancient engineering. It’s easy to see why they’ve become a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. Developed nearly a thousand years ago during the Yuan Dynasty, these terraces cut into the hillside in a series of intricate, narrow steps that follow the terrain’s natural contours. As a result, they produce a surreal, layered landscape that changes with the light and seasons.

This tour’s highlight is the cable car ride to the No.3 viewpoint, which allows you to avoid a long and sometimes tiring climb. From the cable car, you’ll be treated to a panoramic vista of the terraces, stretching across the mountains in a shimmering patchwork of green and gold. The views are as good as nature gets, and many reviewers mention how awe-inspiring it is—especially during the rice planting and harvest seasons.

The Villages and Cultural Encounters

You’ll also visit Ping’an Village, one of the earliest terrace settlements, where traditional Zhuang culture is still very much alive. Here, you can wander through winding flagstone trails, explore stilted houses, and even try on colorful ethnic costumes—an opportunity to get a tangible connection to local traditions.

Another stop is Jinzhu Zhuang Village, famed for its distinctive architecture and UNESCO recognition as a model Zhuang Village. This makes it a fantastic spot for those interested in minority cultures and rustic village life. The tour offers the chance to help local farmers in the fields and observe their traditional ways of life, adding depth beyond just the scenic views.

The Hidden Gems

A real bonus, according to reviewers, is the chance to pass through small local villages like Huangluo Long Hair Village en route. These lesser-known spots provide a glimpse of authentic rural life that many travelers overlook, making the journey feel more genuine.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9 am, where your private guide and driver will meet you in your hotel lobby. After a brief 1.5-hour drive, you arrive at the Longji ticket office—here, you purchase your tickets, which include access to the terraces and cable car. This setup ensures smooth entry and avoids long lines.

From the ticket office, it’s about a two-hour drive to the entrance of the terraces, with a quick 15-minute stop along the way for photos and orientation. Once at the terraces, you’ll see the Ping’an Village Rice Terraces—a marvel of agricultural engineering. It’s a good opportunity to learn about the 650-year-old farming techniques that have kept these terraces thriving for generations.

The highlight here is the cable car ride from Dazhai Village to the Golden Buddha Peak, which skips the hours-long climb that many travelers dread. The cable car ride is a major plus, especially in peak tourist seasons when the area can get crowded. Many guests mentioned that this part of the tour allows you to relax and enjoy the views comfortably.

After some time exploring Dazhai and the surrounding villages, the tour transitions to lunch around 12:30 pm—typically at a scenic restaurant, as recommended by guides. This is a chance to sample local dishes, often including farm-fresh ingredients and regional specialties.

In the afternoon, you’ll head back via the cable car and make your way to Longji Mountain, where you can soak in the panoramic views from the hilltop viewpoints. The entire experience is designed to balance sightseeing, culture, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate a well-structured day.

Finally, your guide will escort you back to your hotel in Guilin, concluding the approximately 7-hour tour.

Authentic Experiences and Local Life

What sets this tour apart, as some reviews point out, is the opportunity to really connect with local culture. Visitors have enjoyed helping Zhuang farmers in their fields and trying on traditional costumes, which adds a personal touch to the experience. The villages, especially Ping’an and Jinzhu, give a glimpse into a lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Reviewers also appreciated the guide’s attentiveness. Jerry, mentioned in one review, was praised for his careful driving and attentive service, especially navigating the winding mountain roads. His local knowledge also enhanced the experience, with helpful tips about the best photo spots and cultural insights.

The Value of This Tour

At $165, this tour offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to see Longji’s terraces in a single day. The inclusion of private transportation, guide, tickets, and cable car means no hidden costs or stressful logistics. Compared to self-guided options, this package provides peace of mind and expert narration that enriches the scenery.

Many reviewers found that the guide’s knowledge and flexibility made the day enjoyable, especially since they could customize the experience slightly—like helping with local farm work or taking plenty of photos. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off also maximizes your sightseeing time and minimizes travel stress, especially in a mountainous area where public transport can be tricky.

While food and drinks are not included, the recommended scenic restaurants often serve delicious regional dishes, and you’ll have ample opportunity to try local flavors. If you’re a foodie, consider bringing some snacks or planning to eat at these stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts, landscape lovers, and travelers seeking a hassle-free day. If you enjoy rich scenery, immersive village visits, and guided commentary, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time in Guilin but eager to see one of China’s most iconic sights.

However, if you prefer spontaneous, unstructured adventures or wish to explore at your own pace, this organized tour might feel a bit rigid. Also, those who are sensitive to long drives should consider their comfort with mountain roads, although the modern vehicle and experienced guide help make the journey smooth.

The Sum Up

The Longji Rice Terraces with the Dazhai Cable Car private tour offers a well-rounded experience: stunning vistas, cultural engagement, and convenience rolled into one package. The inclusion of the cable car saves energy and provides unbeatable views, making it easier to appreciate the terraces’ vast scale and beauty. The visits to traditional villages add a valuable cultural dimension, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a dependable, guided day of exploration without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s particularly good for those who value comfort, insightful guides, and authentic cultural encounters. With positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories of Guilin’s stunning landscape and vibrant local life.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

What is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Are tickets included?
Yes, your ticket for the terraces and cable car is included in the price.

Can I hike the terraces?
While a quick optional hike is possible, the cable car ride allows you to skip the longer climb if preferred.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but scenic restaurants are available for lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult.

What is the best time to visit?
While not specified explicitly, visitors typically enjoy the terraces during planting or harvest seasons for optimal scenery.

How many people are in the group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and variable mountain weather are recommended.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers mention guides like Jerry who are attentive, informative, and flexible.

In summary, if you’re after a beautifully organized, culturally enriching day in Guilin with amazing views and expert guidance, this Longji Rice Terraces tour is a stellar choice. It balances scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, all while keeping things comfortable and straightforward.