Guilin Day Tour: Explore the Breathtaking Rice Terraces & Vibrant Minority Village

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, your guide will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby at the agreed-upon time, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign for easy recognition. After a warm greeting, you will set off on a scenic drive toward Longsheng’s Ping’an Village. The journey will take approximately two hours, during which your guide will introduce you to the stunning landscape of Guangxi Province. As you leave the bustling city of Guilin behind, rolling hills and winding roads will bring you into the heart of the Longji Rice Terraces. Your guide will share insights into the history of this remarkable area, explaining how the terraces were carved into the mountains by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities over 650 years ago. The intricate layers of rice paddies will stretch before you like a giant green staircase, offering a breathtaking introduction to the natural beauty of Longsheng.

Upon arrival at Ping’an Zhuang Village, your guide will lead you on a light hiking tour through the magnificent Longji Rice Terraces. The path will take you through narrow stone-paved trails, passing traditional wooden houses perched on the hillside. You will first visit the Seven Stars with Moon viewpoint, a famous spot where seven small hilltops appear to surround a lower, moon-shaped field. Your guide will explain the local folklore behind the name and help you capture the perfect photos of the vast, layered terraces below. As you continue your trek, you will reach the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers viewpoint, one of the most stunning vantage points in the area. Here, the terraces will resemble mighty dragons and tigers winding through the mountains, creating a truly awe-inspiring landscape. Throughout the hike, your guide will share insights into local farming traditions, pointing out seasonal activities such as rice planting or harvesting, depending on the time of year. You will also have opportunities to interact with villagers, many of whom still wear traditional Zhuang clothing and maintain age-old agricultural practices.

After completing the scenic hike, you will stop at a traditional restaurant nestled within the village. Your guide will introduce you to a selection of authentic Zhuang ethnic cuisine, ensuring you get a taste of the region’s signature dishes. One highlight will be bamboo tube rice, a fragrant dish where rice and other ingredients are cooked inside a bamboo tube, giving it a unique smoky aroma. You will also have the opportunity to try local farm-raised chicken, fresh mountain vegetables, and other specialties prepared with traditional methods. As you enjoy your meal, your guide will share stories about the Zhuang people's culinary customs and how food plays a central role in their culture. This relaxing lunch will provide a chance to unwind, soak in the rustic ambiance, and reflect on the morning's explorations before continuing your journey.

In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Huangluo Yao Village, home to the famous Red Yao ethnic group. Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to the unique traditions of the Yao people, particularly their famous long hair culture. The women in this village are known for their incredibly long hair, which they cut only once in their lives, and they have a unique way of wrapping it into intricate styles. You will have the opportunity to witness a cultural performance showcasing traditional songs and dances, as well as a demonstration of how the women style their long hair. Your guide will explain the cultural significance behind this practice, detailing how hair length and styling indicate a woman’s marital status. As you stroll through the village, you will also observe traditional stilted wooden houses and the villagers' handicrafts, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life.

As the day comes to a close, you will begin your return journey to Guilin. Your guide will ensure a comfortable ride back to your hotel, allowing you time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Along the way, you will have one last chance to take in the breathtaking views of the terraced fields as they fade into the distance. Once you arrive at your hotel, your guide will bid you farewell, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Longsheng’s picturesque landscapes, rich ethnic culture, and warm hospitality. This journey through the rice terraces and minority villages will surely be a highlight of your visit to China, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and cultural immersion.

Price Per Person in US Dollars