The Longji Rice Terrace, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, are a breathtaking marvel of agricultural engineering and natural beauty in Longsheng County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Located about 100 km (62 miles) north of Guilin, these terraces, built over 700 years ago, cascade down mountainsides like giant steps, creating a mesmerizing landscape. Home to the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, the area offers stunning scenery, rich cultural experiences, and excellent hiking opportunities. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this iconic destination.
A Travel Guide to Longji Rice Terraces
Why Visit Longji Rice Terraces?
The Longji Rice Terraces are celebrated for their dramatic, layered fields that resemble the scales of a dragon, earning the name “Dragon’s Backbone.” Spanning altitudes from 300 to 1,100 meters, the terraces offer postcard-perfect views that change with the seasons—mirror-like water-filled fields in spring, lush green paddies in summer, golden harvests in autumn, and occasional snow in winter. Beyond the scenery, the area is a cultural hub where you can immerse yourself in the traditions of the Zhuang and Yao people, enjoy local cuisine, and explore ancient villages. Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, or culture enthusiast, Longji is a must-visit destination.
How to Get There
The Longji Rice Terraces are accessible from Guilin or Yangshuo, with Guilin being the primary gateway. Here are the main transportation options:
By Bus from Guilin: Direct Buses: Buses depart from Guilin Qintan Bus Station (Cuizhu Road) to the Longji Ticket Office every 15 minutes from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The journey takes about 2.5–3 hours and costs ¥50–60. From the ticket office, local buses or shuttles (¥10–35) take you to Ping’an (18 km) or Dazhai/Tiantouzhai (24 km). Alternative Route: Take a bus from Guilin to Longsheng County (2 hours, ¥25–30), then transfer to a shuttle bus to the ticket office (1 hour, ¥10–15). Departures from Longsheng to Longji are at 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. Note: Public buses from the ticket office to villages are not always reliable for individual travelers, so confirm schedules with your hotel.
By Bus from Yangshuo: Direct buses to Dazhai Village run from Yangshuo Coach Station at 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 1:30 PM during peak season (April–October). The trip takes 4–4.5 hours and costs ¥90. In off-season, you’ll need to transfer in Guilin.
By Private Car or Tour: Hiring a private car from Guilin costs ¥300–500 round-trip and takes 1.5–2 hours, offering flexibility. Many hotels can arrange drivers. Organized tours (day trips or multi-day) from Guilin or Yangshuo are convenient, costing ¥200–500 per person, including transport and a guide. Recommended for non-Mandarin speakers.
By Car (Self-Drive): Drive from Guilin via the G65 Baomao Expressway to the Longji Ticket Office (1.5 hours). Parking is available, but cars cannot enter villages; you’ll park at the ticket office or village entrances (Ping’an or Dazhai).
Tip: No direct buses connect Ping’an and Dazhai; a private car (¥80, 50 minutes) or a 4–4.5-hour hike is required. Book transport in advance during peak seasons.
Best Time to Visit
The Longji Rice Terraces are stunning year-round, but the scenery varies by season:
Spring (Late April–Mid-June): Terraces are filled with water, reflecting the sky like mirrors. Ideal for photography, especially during the Cole Flower Festival (March–April). Summer (June–August): Lush green paddies dominate, offering vibrant landscapes. Expect warm weather (25–30°C) and occasional rain.
Autumn (Late September–October): Golden fields signal harvest season, creating a sea of yellow. The Golden Autumn Cultural Festival adds vibrancy. This is the most popular time. Winter (December–February): Terraces are bare but can be magical after rare snowfall. Fog is common, so check weather forecasts. Less crowded but less vibrant.
Weather Tip: Avoid rainy days, as trails can be muddy and slippery. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of clear skies and stunning views.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: The scenic area is open 24/7, but ticket offices operate from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Daytime visits (8:00 AM–6:00 PM) are recommended for safety and visibility.
Ticket Prices: Entrance ticket: ¥95 per person (valid for 48 hours, covers Ping’an, Dazhai, and Longji Ancient Zhuang Village). Cable car (Jinkeng/Dazhai): ¥70 one-way, ¥120 round-trip. Local shuttle buses: ¥10–35 per ride (e.g., ticket office to Ping’an or Dazhai). Discounts: Free for children under 1.2 meters; 50% off for students and seniors (60+) with ID.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the Longji Ticket Office. Keep your ticket, as it’s checked at village entrances. Online booking via Ctrip or WeChat is available for convenience.
What to See and Do
The Longji Rice Terraces are divided into three main areas: Ping’an Zhuang Village, Jinkeng (Dazhai) Red Yao Village, and Longji Ancient Zhuang Village. Each offers unique views and experiences.
Ping’an Zhuang Village
Highlights: Nine Dragons and Five Tigers (九龙五虎): A 30-minute hike from the village to this viewpoint reveals ridges resembling dragons and tiger-shaped rocks. Perfect for sunset photography. Seven Stars Accompany the Moon (七星伴月): A 20-minute walk east of Ping’an, this viewpoint features a moon-shaped field encircled by seven rock piles, resembling stars. Great for sunrise.
Why Visit: Ping’an is the most developed area, with modern hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those seeking shorter hikes (2–3 hours).
Activities: Explore Zhuang culture through home visits, taste bamboo rice, or join a tea-making workshop.
Jinkeng (Dazhai) Red Yao Village
Highlights: West Hill Music (西山韶乐): The highest viewpoint (1,180 m), reachable by a 90-minute hike from Dazhai or cable car. Offers panoramic sunrise and sunset views. Golden Buddha Peak (金佛顶): A 1-hour hike from Tiantouzhai or cable car ride from Dazhai, known for expansive terrace vistas. Thousand Layers to Heaven (大界千层天梯): A 30-minute walk from Tiantouzhai, famous for ethereal sunrise shots.
Why Visit: Jinkeng is less commercialized, with larger terraces and more dramatic scenery. It’s a favorite for photographers and hikers. The Yao women’s long hair and colorful embroidery are cultural highlights.
Activities: Take the cable car for accessibility, hike between villages (e.g., Dazhai to Tiantouzhai), or photograph Yao women (¥10 per photo).
Longji Ancient Zhuang Village
Highlights: Centenary Houses: Over 250-year-old stilt-style wooden houses (Diaojiaolou) showcase Zhuang architecture. Zhuang Ecological Museum: Free entry to view farming tools, coir rain capes, and bamboo baskets, offering insight into Zhuang culture. Stone Carving Culture: Explore stone mills, bridges, and ancient steles along flagstone paths.
Why Visit: This is the oldest village, offering a glimpse into the historical roots of the terraces. It’s less crowded and ideal for cultural exploration.
Activities: Walk to the village (30 minutes from the parking lot) or take a sightseeing bus (¥20, 8 minutes).
Hiking
Popular Route: The 4–4.5-hour hike from Ping’an to Dazhai via Zhongliu Village is a favorite for its wild scenery. Start in Ping’an for an easier descent in Jinkeng. Trails can be steep and muddy, so wear sturdy shoes and consider a guide to avoid getting lost.
Shorter Hikes: Ping’an’s viewpoints (1–2 hours) or Dazhai to Tiantouzhai (1–2 hours) are less demanding.
Note: Baby strollers are not recommended due to uneven paths. Sedan chairs or porters (¥50 per suitcase) are available for mobility assistance.
Cultural Experiences
Zhuang and Yao Culture: Visit local homes to learn about embroidery, oil tea, or bamboo rice-making. Yao women in Jinkeng are known for their long hair, often displayed for photos.
Festivals: The Spring Plowing Festival (May–June) and Dying Clothes Festival (6th day of the 6th lunar month) showcase ethnic traditions.
Local Food: Try bamboo rice (竹筒饭), smoked pork (腊肉), Longji tea, and sticky rice wine (糯米酒). Restaurants in Ping’an and Dazhai serve fresh, local dishes.
Where to Eat
Ping’an Village: Offers more dining options, with restaurants serving Zhuang specialties like bamboo rice, spicy noodles, and wild mushroom dishes (¥20–50 per meal). Longji Tea House is popular for its views and local flavors.
Dazhai/Tiantouzhai: Fewer restaurants but authentic home-cooked meals at guesthouses. Try Dazhai Local Restaurant for bamboo rice and rice wine (¥15–40).
Tip: Bring snacks for hikes, as food options are limited outside villages. Many guesthouses include meals in their rates.
Where to Stay
Staying overnight in Ping’an or Dazhai enhances your experience, allowing time for sunrise/sunset views and leisurely exploration.
Ping’an Village: Longji Ping’an Hotel (3-star): Modern amenities, central location, ¥200–400/night. Baike Boutique Hotel: Cozy with terrace views, ¥150–300/night. Ideal for convenience and shorter stays.
Dazhai/Tiantouzhai: Yao House Guesthouse (Dazhai): Rustic, family-run, with stunning views, ¥100–250/night. Tiantouzhai Panorama Inn: Higher up, quieter, ¥150–350/night. Best for immersive, less touristy vibes.
Longji Ancient Zhuang Village: Limited options, mostly basic guesthouses (¥80–200/night). Better for day visits.
Booking: Reserve via Ctrip, Booking.com, or directly with guesthouses, especially in peak seasons. Many offer pickup from parking lots.
Tips for a Great Visit
Pack Light: Narrow, steep paths make large luggage cumbersome. Porters at village entrances can carry bags for ¥50. Wear Proper Gear: Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential for uneven trails. Bring rain gear in summer and layers in winter.
Photography: Bring a good camera, as phone cameras may struggle with low light at sunrise/sunset. Drones are allowed but check local regulations. Respect Local Culture: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially Yao women. Avoid littering to preserve the environment.
Connectivity: Get a VPN before arriving, as China’s internet restrictions block many sites. An eSIM (e.g., Airalo) is useful for data. Combine Your Trip: Pair Longji with a Li River Cruise or Yangshuo’s karst landscapes for a 4–6-day Guangxi adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Longji Rice Terraces are a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s beauty, offering a perfect blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re hiking to panoramic viewpoints, savoring bamboo rice, or learning about Zhuang and Yao traditions, Longji promises an unforgettable escape from urban life. Plan your visit for spring or autumn, stay overnight for the full experience, and let the Dragon’s Backbone captivate your senses.
Happy travels!
