Explore Longji Rice Terraces: 2-Day Tailored Hiking Tour from Guilin

D1 Guilin-Longsheng

In the morning, you will depart from Guilin and embark on a scenic drive of approximately 77 kilometers (2 hours) towards the Longji Rice Terraces. As you approach the picturesque landscape, you will be greeted by the stunning views of the world-renowned Longji terraces, also known as Dragon’s Backbone Terraces, which have a history of over two thousand years. Upon arrival, your first stop will be the Huangluo Yao Village, the only Yao ethnic village in the Longji region. This village is famous for its long hair culture, where women wear their hair in lengths of up to 2.72 meters, even holding a Guinness World Record. You will have the opportunity to watch a vibrant folk performance, showcasing traditional Yao songs, long hair dances, and unique local customs. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the Yao people's history and the significance of long hair in their culture. You’ll also have a chance to learn about their traditional practices like spinning and weaving, and interact with the villagers to understand how they care for their long hair and make rice water shampoo.

After exploring the Huangluo Yao Village, you will head to Ping'an Village for a traditional lunch. In this charming mountain village, you will enjoy the delicious local dishes, such as rice wine, bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and preserved meat. Your guide will ensure that you fully immerse yourself in the cultural experience as you savor these authentic dishes. If you are keen to learn more about the local cuisine, there will also be an opportunity to participate in a cooking lesson, where you will learn how to prepare these popular delicacies. This lunch stop will offer you a delightful break and an introduction to the tastes of the region, setting the tone for the rest of your adventure. As you enjoy the meal, you can admire the views of the surrounding terraces, which are a perfect backdrop to your culinary experience.

Following your satisfying lunch, your guide will take you on a 2-3 hour trek through the breathtaking Ping'an Zhuang Rice Terraces. This area is known for its outstanding natural beauty and unique Zhuang ethnic culture. As you walk through the terraces, you will be surrounded by the stunning landscapes of lush, green fields and traditional wooden Zhuang houses. Your guide will provide detailed information about the history of the terraces and their cultural significance, enriching your experience as you explore this UNESCO-listed area. You will have the opportunity to hike up to scenic viewpoints like the Jiu Long Wu Hu (Nine Dragons and Five Tigers), which stands at 980 meters and offers a stunning sunset view. Another great vantage point, Qixing Ban Yue (Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon) at 880 meters, is ideal for sunrise. If you’re lucky, you may even capture an unforgettable sunset from the Jiu Long Wu Hu viewpoint, with the golden hues lighting up the rice terraces in an awe-inspiring scene.

After your hike, you can take some time to explore Ping'an Village itself. This village offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of the Zhuang people, where the men wear handwoven short robes and the women wear white tops with black pants, completing their attire with colorful headscarves. The architecture here is equally intriguing, with traditional stilted wooden houses that reflect the rich culture and history of the Zhuang ethnic group. Your guide will walk you through the village, providing explanations of the customs, architecture, and local way of life. You will also have time to engage with the locals, who are known for their warm hospitality. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant Zhuang culture and to experience their welcoming spirit. Once you've explored the village, you can begin your journey back to your accommodation in Ping'an. The roads here can be quite rugged, and there may not be car access to some of the guesthouses. You may need to walk to reach your hotel, but don’t worry, if you have heavy luggage, local villagers can help transport your belongings for a small fee. 

D2 Longsheng-Guilin

Your day begins early with a breathtaking hike to the Seven Stars with the Moon viewing platform, weather permitting. This famous scene, known as “Qixing Ban Yue,” is created by seven small hills, surrounded by terraced fields that form a crescent-shaped water field, resembling the moon. You’ll be able to witness the beauty of the Sunrise as it casts a golden glow across the fields, painting the landscape in stunning shades of orange and pink. The views are simply spectacular, and your guide will provide insightful commentary about the history and cultural significance of the area. As you walk, you’ll pass by the serene Ping'an Zhuang terraces, their lush greenery offering a sense of tranquility. Your guide will ensure that you stay on the right path and will share fascinating stories about the Zhuang people's connection to this breathtaking landscape, making the experience even more enriching. The early morning air and the beauty of the rice fields create an unforgettable atmosphere that you’ll cherish for years to come.

After the stunning sunrise, your adventure continues as you embark on a 14-kilometer trek (approximately 4 to 5 hours) to Jin Keng and Dazhai Red Yao Terraces. These terraces are the largest, highest, and most spectacular of the Longji Rice Terraces. The journey is not just about the destination but the incredible views that unfold along the way. As you walk through the terraces, you’ll encounter the hardworking Red Yao women in their traditional attire, adding a cultural richness to the natural beauty surrounding you. The path winds through the fields, offering numerous opportunities for photography. Your guide will point out various landmarks, ensuring you capture the best moments. The Jin Keng and Dazhai terraces are surrounded by mountains, resembling a giant natural bowl. This unique formation makes for extraordinary photo opportunities, and you’ll be able to appreciate why this is a top destination for photographers worldwide. Your guide will also highlight the best spots, such as the Qian Ceng Tian Ti (Thousand-Step Ladder) and Xishan Shaole, which offer unrivaled views of the terraces at both sunrise and sunset.

Around midday, you’ll pause for a delicious local lunch, providing an opportunity to relax and refuel after your hike. The meal will include a variety of traditional Yao dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients from the surrounding region. Expect hearty, flavorful meals that offer a true taste of local culture. Your guide will ensure that the dining experience reflects the essence of the area, offering recommendations on what to try, from the savory flavors of rice and vegetables to the rich, smoky taste of grilled meats. This break gives you a chance to unwind and take in the incredible views from a different perspective, with the terraces stretching out below you, offering yet another perfect scene for photographs. As you dine, your guide will share more about the Red Yao culture, adding depth to your understanding of the region’s history and traditions. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on the morning's hike and prepare for the continuation of your adventure.

As you resume your journey, you will hike through the picturesque landscape of Jin Keng. This section of the trek offers an opportunity to explore the famed “Golden Buddha Peak,” the highest point in the area, where you can gaze out over the vast terraces. The view from here is truly spectacular, providing a panoramic look at the sprawling fields that stretch out before you. Your guide will help you capture the essence of this stunning vista, guiding you to the best vantage points for photography. The Golden Buddha Peak offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Longji Rice Terraces in all their glory. After soaking in the views, your guide will take you through other highlights of the area, ensuring you experience the full beauty of the landscape and the cultural richness that surrounds it. The trek is challenging but rewarding, and as you approach the end of your journey, you’ll feel a deep sense of accomplishment from completing such a memorable adventure.

Finally, after completing your trek, you’ll return to Guilin, carrying with you memories of the stunning beauty of the Longji Rice Terraces. Your guide will ensure a smooth return, reflecting on the highlights of the day and ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the journey. As you head back to the city, you’ll have time to reflect on the amazing landscapes, the cultural experiences, and the photographs you’ve captured throughout your hike. Whether it was the dramatic sunrise, the colorful Yao women, or the unforgettable views from the peaks, this day will leave you with lasting memories of one of the most beautiful areas in China. The expertise of your guide throughout the day will have enriched your experience, and you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation for the Longji Rice Terraces and the people who have lived in harmony with this landscape for centuries.

Price Per Person in US Dollars