Guilin to Longsheng Tours: A 3-Day Journey Through Scenic Terraces, Ethnic Villages, and Cultural Heritage

D1 Guilin

Upon your arrival in Guilin, your guide will be waiting at the airport, holding a sign with "Your Way Holiday" to greet you. As you meet your guide, they will provide a warm welcome and give you a brief introduction to the beautiful city you’re about to explore. Your guide will share interesting facts about Guilin’s history, famous landscapes, and its significance in Chinese culture. You’ll be driven to your hotel, where the friendly staff will assist you with a smooth check-in process. After settling in and resting for a while, you’ll be ready to embark on your exciting exploration of Guilin. With your first adventure ahead, your guide will ensure you are comfortable and well-prepared for the day ahead, ensuring that every step of your journey is thoughtfully planned and enjoyable.

Your next stop will take you to one of the most iconic landmarks in Guilin – the Sun and Moon Twin Towers. As you arrive, your guide will explain the fascinating history and cultural significance behind these towers, which are beautifully illuminated at night, making them a breathtaking sight. You will first see the Sun Tower, representing the sun and standing at 41.5 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The Moon Tower, symbolizing the moon, mirrors its counterpart’s grace and elegance. As your guide takes you around the area, you’ll be captivated by the way the towers reflect on the tranquil waters of Shanhu Lake. Your guide will encourage you to take in the scenery, explaining the symbolism behind the architectural design and its representation of harmony in Chinese culture. This site offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, setting the tone for your continued exploration of the city.

Next, your journey will take you to the stunning Diecai Hill, known for its unique rock formations and exceptional views. The hike up the hill is an easy one, and as you ascend, your guide will point out interesting features of the landscape and share stories about the area's geological formation. From the top, you’ll have a magnificent view of Guilin’s iconic limestone peaks, the Li River winding through the valley, and the lush greenery that surrounds the city. Your guide will explain how these karst mountains, formed millions of years ago, have shaped the region’s natural beauty. Diecai Hill also offers a perfect vantage point for taking photos, so be sure to capture the picturesque surroundings. After soaking in the panoramic views and learning more about the region’s natural wonders, your guide will lead you back down the hill to continue your journey, leaving you with a sense of awe and admiration for the landscape.

As the day comes to a close, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, providing you with a recap of the day's experiences. Along the way, you can relax and reflect on the beautiful sights you’ve seen, from the cultural landmarks to the natural wonders. Your guide will make sure your return is comfortable, offering assistance if needed, and ensuring that your time in Guilin is as enjoyable and seamless as possible. Once you’ve arrived at your hotel, your guide will bid you farewell, allowing you to rest and recharge before another exciting day of exploration. With the memories of the Sun and Moon Twin Towers and Diecai Hill fresh in your mind, you can look forward to the next chapter of your Guilin adventure.

D2: Guilin-Longsheng

In the morning, you will depart from Guilin and begin your journey toward Longsheng, a picturesque area known for its stunning rice terraces and ancient Zhuang villages. The drive takes you through lush countryside, with the landscape changing as you approach the rolling hills of Longsheng. You will enjoy the scenic views of mountains and rivers along the way, with each turn offering a new perspective of the surrounding beauty. Upon arrival in Longsheng, you will head to a local restaurant where you can experience the authentic flavors of the region. The menu will feature specialties like rice noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and locally sourced meats, giving you a true taste of Longsheng's culinary traditions. The restaurant itself is cozy and welcoming, offering a peaceful atmosphere to relax and enjoy your meal. After lunch, you will feel ready to begin your adventure into the heart of the region, knowing that you’ve had a delicious introduction to the local cuisine.

After lunch, you will start your hike from Longji Ancient Zhuang Village, a place rich in cultural heritage and surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in China. Your hike will take you along the Observation Terrace Path, which meanders through vast fields of terraced rice paddies. These terraces, carved into the mountains over centuries, create a stunning visual display, especially when viewed from above. As you walk, you will pass through Zhuang villages, where the traditional wooden houses and charming streets offer a glimpse into the way of life of the Zhuang people. You will have plenty of opportunities to take photos of the terraced fields, which change with the seasons, offering vibrant green in the spring and golden hues in the autumn. Along the path, local villagers may greet you, offering handmade goods or simply a friendly smile, adding to the experience of being in such a welcoming, rural setting. The Hike to Ping'an Zhuang Village is a moderate one, offering both a physical challenge and an opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the area. Once you arrive, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, a perfect moment to rest and take in the surroundings before continuing to your accommodation for the night.

Upon reaching Ping'an Zhuang Village, you will check in at your hotel, nestled among the terraced fields. The village is peaceful, with a calm atmosphere that makes it the ideal spot to relax after your hike. Your accommodation will offer comfortable rooms, many with balconies or windows that look out over the vast, green terraces. The staff at the hotel will greet you warmly, making sure you have everything you need to settle in. After a quick check-in, you will have some free time to explore the village at your own pace. Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit local shops selling handicrafts, or simply sit and enjoy the views of the rice terraces that stretch out in every direction. The evening is the perfect time to reflect on your journey so far, perhaps enjoying a cup of tea or a quiet meal at the hotel, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. As the sun sets, you will be able to witness the changing light over the rice terraces, a truly magical experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in this beautiful corner of the world.

D3: Longsheng-Guilin

On the morning of your adventure, you will rise early to catch the breathtaking Sunrise Over The Rice Terraces. The moment you step outside your accommodation in Ping'an Zhuang Village, you'll be greeted by the stillness of the morning air, and the cool breeze brushing against your skin. As the first light of dawn breaks over the horizon, the rice terraces shimmer with a soft golden hue, creating a tranquil and magical scene. The sun slowly rises, casting light over the mountainous landscape, and you’ll witness how the shifting light enhances the natural beauty of the area. The terraced fields, lush and green, will glow under the early morning sunlight, creating an incredible backdrop for your photos. As you stand there, you’ll feel connected to this peaceful corner of the world. This serene experience of watching the sunrise over the terraced fields is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip, leaving you with a sense of awe and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Longsheng.

After the sunrise, your journey will continue with a visit to Huangluo Yao Village, an ancient Yao ethnic minority village known for its distinctive culture and traditions. The drive to the village will take you through more scenic roads, where the mountains and terraces continue to offer picturesque views. Upon arriving at Huangluo Yao Village, you will step back in time, as the village remains deeply rooted in its centuries-old customs. The Yao people are famous for their long, flowing hair, and you will have the opportunity to witness the Yao women’s traditional hair-combing ceremony, which showcases their unique cultural identity. You can explore the village's traditional wooden houses, which are built with a distinct architectural style that reflects the harmony between the Yao people and the land. As you walk through the village, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the landscape, with the terraced fields creating a dramatic contrast against the village's rustic charm. This visit offers an authentic cultural experience, allowing you to connect with the Yao people and learn about their fascinating traditions.

Next, you will head to a local restaurant in Huangluo Yao Village, where you can enjoy a traditional meal prepared with fresh ingredients from the area. The restaurant, often run by the Yao villagers themselves, offers a cozy atmosphere and a warm welcome. The dishes served here are simple yet flavorful, reflecting the Yao people’s connection to the land and their natural surroundings. You will have the chance to try some of the region’s specialties, including steamed bamboo rice, stir-fried vegetables, and savory meats. Each dish is made with locally sourced ingredients, offering you a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. As you savor your meal, you’ll feel immersed in the local culture, with the traditional flavors providing a deeper connection to the area you’ve been exploring. Dining in this authentic setting is a wonderful way to experience the true essence of the region, adding a culinary dimension to your journey through the beautiful Longsheng countryside.

In the afternoon, you will have some free time to explore Huangluo Yao Village further, allowing you to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere before your return to Guilin. You may want to visit the village’s small shops, where you can find handcrafted Yao textiles, embroidered fabrics, and other unique souvenirs to take home. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the village, enjoying the views of the surrounding rice terraces and traditional homes. Afterward, you will begin your journey back to Guilin, taking with you fond memories of your visit to the Yao village and the incredible landscapes of Longsheng. The drive back will offer more scenic views, and as you approach Guilin, you’ll reflect on the unique cultural experiences you’ve had, from the sunrise over the rice terraces to the traditional meals and vibrant heritage of the Yao people. Upon arrival in Guilin, your guide will drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of this enriching adventure.

Price Per Person in US Dollars