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Nestled in the mountains of southern China, the LongJi Rice Terraces are an inspiring example of human ingenuity and natural beauty. Built over 650 years ago by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, these terraced fields are a marvel of agricultural engineering, allowing rice to be grown in one of the most mountainous regions of China. Today, LongJi is a top travel destination for those seeking breathtaking views, cultural immersion, and some of the best hiking experiences in China.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to the LongJi Rice Terraces, including the best time to visit, how to get there, top hiking trails, and where to stay.
In this article:
What Are the LongJi Rice Terraces?
The LongJi Rice Terraces, often called the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, are an intricate system of terraced rice paddies carved into the steep slopes of the Longsheng region. The terraces stretch across several villages and were originally designed to maximize farming space in the mountainous terrain. Their name, "LongJi" (meaning "Dragon's Backbone"), comes from the terraces' resemblance to the scales of a dragon stretching over the landscape when viewed from above.
The terraces are located about 100 kilometers north of Guilin, Guangxi province, and cover more than 66 square kilometers. This ancient irrigation system, still in use today, supports rice cultivation while also preserving the unique cultural heritage of the Zhuang and Yao people.
Best Time to Visit the LongJi Rice Terraces
The LongJi Rice Terraces offer spectacular views year-round, but each season presents a different, equally captivating scene:
Spring (April-May): The terraces are filled with water for planting, creating stunning reflections of the sky and mountains. This is often referred to as the "Mirror Season."
Summer (June-August): The rice terraces are lush and green, with the rice fields at their most vibrant.
Autumn (September-October): During harvest season, the fields turn golden, creating one of the most picturesque scenes. Late September to early October is the best time to visit for the golden effect. I would not recommend visiting during the first week of October when the whole country is on holiday at the same time because it gets crazily crowded and it will take away from your experience.
Winter (December-February): Snow occasionally blankets the terraces, offering a serene, quiet beauty. It’s less popular with tourists, making it a peaceful time to visit.
For photographers, the best times are spring and autumn, but you’ll find incredible views no matter when you visit.
How to Get to the LongJi Rice Terraces
The LongJi Rice Terraces are located about 100 kilometers from Guilin, the nearest major city. Here’s how you can get there:
From Guilin by Bus: The most common way to get to LongJi is by taking a direct bus from Guilin. Buses depart from Guilin’s Qintan Bus Station and take around 2-3 hours to reach the Longsheng Rice Terraces scenic area. Once you arrive at the entrance, local buses or minibuses will transport you to the villages within the terrace region.
From Guilin by Private Car or Taxi: For a more convenient (and faster) option, hiring a private car or taxi is ideal. The journey takes around 2 hours and offers more flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the way. Private drivers can also be arranged through hotels or travel agencies in Guilin.
From Yangshuo: If you’re staying in Yangshuo, you can take a bus to Guilin first, then transfer to a bus to LongJi. The total travel time is about 3-4 hours. Additionally, if you are visiting in peak times, you can take a seasonal bus that goes directly from Yangshuo to Dazhai village. The duration of the trip is roughly the same. If you are a group and not a solo traveller, you might want to look into hiring a driver you might get a cheaper price total and a more comfortable experience.
Some hotels and hostels also offer semi-private transfers from Guilin or Yanghsuo, which is what we chose, it is faster and more comfortable but will very likely cost you between 25% and 40% more than the public bus. We opted for this version, organized by our hostel, and paid 210 Yuan per person, Yangshuo to Dazhai.
Top Villages and Viewing Points at the LongJi Rice Terraces
The LongJi Rice Terraces are spread across several villages, each offering its own unique perspectives and experiences. Here are the most popular villages and the best viewing points:
1. Ping’an Village
Ping’an Village is the most developed and accessible area of the terraces, making it the most popular choice for visitors. The village is home to the Zhuang minority people and offers a range of guesthouses, restaurants, and hiking trails. From Ping’an, there are two famous viewing points:
Nine Dragons and Five Tigers Viewpoint: Offers a panoramic view of the terraces that resemble nine dragons winding through the mountains.
Seven Stars with the Moon Viewpoint: Another breathtaking viewpoint where seven small hilltops rise above the terraces, resembling stars surrounding a moon.
2. Dazhai Village (Jinkeng Terraces)
Dazhai Village is quieter and less developed (although it was still quite busy when we were there during the golden week) than Ping’an but offers equally stunning views. We chose this village for our stay and had a good time, you can still find plenty of food options and guesthouses here. Many are run by local families and you can try out the fresh local produce, it is a great location for nature lovers. It is home to the Yao minority people, known for their traditional dress and long hair. Dazhai is great for those seeking a more tranquil and authentic experience. There are three key viewing points:
Music from Paradise Viewpoint: One of the highest points in Dazhai, offering sweeping views of the valley below.
Golden Buddha Peak: The highest viewpoint in the entire LongJi area, it offers unbeatable views at sunrise and sunset. You can take a cable car to the top or do the 45-minute walk (one way). The walk is steep but totally doable even for less experienced hikers and families.
Thousand Layers to the Heaven: A picturesque view of the terraced fields cascading down the mountainside.
3. Tiantou Village
Tiantou is a small village located between Ping’an and Dazhai, offering more secluded accommodations and a great base for hiking. It’s ideal for those who want to explore both Ping’an and Dazhai without the tourist crowds. It is more remote so you'll have to plan accordingly and communicate with your chosen accommodation to have a better understanding of the food availability in the village.
Hiking Trails in the LongJi Rice Terraces
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the LongJi Rice Terraces. Here are some of the top trails you can explore:
1. Ping’an to Dazhai Hike
This is one of the most popular hikes, connecting the two main villages of Ping’an and Dazhai. The hike takes about 4-5 hours and winds through scenic terraces, traditional villages, and quiet mountain paths. It’s a moderately challenging hike with some steep sections but offers incredible views throughout.
2. Ping’an Village Circular Hike
For a shorter, easier hike, the circular trail around Ping’an Village offers a great introduction to the terraces. The loop takes around 1-2 hours and takes you to both major viewpoints (Nine Dragons and Five Tigers and Seven Stars with the Moon).
3. Dazhai to Tiantou Hike
This shorter hike (about 2-3 hours) connects Dazhai Village with Tiantou Village. It’s less crowded and offers more peaceful views of the terraces.
Local Culture and Festivals
The LongJi Rice Terraces are not only famous for their stunning views but also for the rich culture of the Zhuang and Yao minority people who have lived in the region for centuries. Their traditional customs, dress, and festivals add a unique cultural aspect to your visit.
LongJi Red Yao Long Hair Festival: One of the most unique cultural experiences in the area, this festival celebrates the Red Yao women, known for their incredibly long hair. Visitors can watch traditional hair care rituals and learn about the local customs. Usually happening at the end of April.
Rice Harvest Festival: Held in autumn, this festival celebrates the rice harvest season. Visitors can participate in traditional activities such as rice cutting, folk dances, and local feasts.
Tips for Visiting the LongJi Rice Terraces
Wear comfortable shoes: The terraces are steep, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Pack layers: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it’s best to pack layers, especially in the cooler months.
Bring cash and have internet on your phone: Many of the small villages do not accept credit cards, so it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for meals, transportation, and local goods. We highly recommend getting an e-sim for traveling to China as most things happen through WeChat and Alipay and you will need a translating app daily as the use of English is very limited, especially in this remote region.
The LongJi Rice Terraces are a true gem of China, offering stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and some of the best hiking in the country. Whether you visit in spring when the terraces are filled with water or in autumn when they turn golden, the beauty of LongJi is unforgettable. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the terraces and enjoy the tranquility and splendor of this remarkable destination.
