Private Day Tour: Longji Terraces Cultural Villages and Hike
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Chinese minority cultures on this private 1-day tour. Your personal guide will share insights into the customs of the Yao and Zhuang people as you explore Huangluo Village, famed for its "Long Hair" tradition. Then, trek through Ping’an Village to witness the most spectacular rice-terrace vistas, resembling a dragon’s scales. Enjoy a delicious local lunch featuring bamboo rice, smoked pork, and rice wine, before relaxing with private door-to-door transfers back to your Guilin hotel.
Highlights:
• Discover the sculpted landscapes of the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces
• Learn about Yao and Zhuang culture from your private guide
• Feast on authentic local dishes in Ping’an village
• Relax with hassle-free private transfers from your hotel
Available options
Pickup from Guilin
Pickup included
Pickup from Yangshuo
Yangshuo Departure: Pickup from Yangshuo/Xingping<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private Transfer
Air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking private driver-guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your driver-guide will pick you up at 8:30am (or your preferred time) from Guilin Airport, Railway Station, your hotel in Yangshuo/central Guilin, or any designated location. The drive takes about 2 hours from Guilin city to Ping'an, or just over 1 hour from Yangshuo.
2
Your day begins with a scenic drive from Guilin to the Longji Rice Terraces area, where your private guide will introduce you to the fascinating traditions of the Yao and Zhuang ethnic groups. Your first stop is Huangluo Village, famously known as the "Long Hair Village" due to the unique hair-care customs of the local Yao women. Here, you’ll gain insight into their daily lives and traditional practices, which have been preserved for generations. The village’s serene atmosphere and cultural richness make it a captivating introduction to the region’s heritage.
You can purchase tickets for Longji Rice Terraces when you arrive at the Longji parking lot.
3
Stop 3
After exploring Huangluo Village, you will continue to Ping'an Village in the heart of the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces. Begin with a self-paid lunch of local specialties such as fragrant bamboo rice, smoked pork, and sweet rice wine in the village. Then, follow your guide from the Ping'an parking lot up steep stone stairs through the village, observing the Zhuang people's daily life and traditional wooden architecture along the way. Your first stop is Viewing Platform No. 2, where you'll see the iconic "Seven Stars with the Moon" terrace formation. Next, take a moderate hike along peaceful trails past bamboo groves and terraced fields to Viewing Platform No. 1 for a spectacular panoramic view of the terraces - a magnificent landscape shaped by centuries of farming that appears especially dramatic during planting and harvest seasons.
4
After a wonderful day exploring the majestic Longji Rice Terraces, encountering local ethnic communities, and completing your scenic hike, you'll be transferred back to your Guilin hotel (approximately a 2-hour drive). Relax or take a nap during the journey, arriving around 6:00 pm with lasting impressions of rural China's breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage.
What's not included
Entrance fees of Longji Rice Terraces
Lunch and personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Guilin
Guilin is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, with the Li River meandering through picturesque peaks and lush greenery. This city offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination in southern China.
Top Attractions
Li River Cruise
A scenic cruise along the Li River, offering breathtaking views of karst peaks, lush greenery, and traditional villages. The cruise typically starts from Guilin and ends in Yangshuo, covering a distance of about 83 kilometers.
Nature
4-5 hours for the full cruise
Moderate (¥150-300 depending on the type of cruise)
Elephant Trunk Hill
A famous landmark in Guilin, shaped like an elephant drinking water from the Li River. The hill offers hiking trails, a scenic cave, and panoramic views of the city and river.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥30-50)
Reed Flute Cave
A stunning limestone cave with a history of over 1,800 years. The cave is known for its intricate rock formations, colorful lighting, and ancient inscriptions.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥80-100)
Longji Terraced Fields
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Nature
Full day trip
Moderate (¥100-200 for transportation and entrance fees)
Yangshuo
A picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. Yangshuo is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day trip
Budget to Moderate (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)
A local specialty made from rice, served with various toppings and broths. The noodles are thin, chewy, and often served with ingredients like pickled vegetables, peanuts, and meat.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu)
A local delicacy featuring fish marinated in beer and deep-fried, served with a spicy sauce. The dish is known for its crispy texture and unique flavor.
Dinner
Contains fish and gluten (beer)
Liangpi (Cold Noodles)
A refreshing and light dish made from rice flour, served cold with a variety of toppings and sauces. It is a popular street food and a great option for hot summer days.
Snack/Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Bing)
A traditional sweet made from glutinous rice flour, osmanthus flowers, and sugar. The cake has a unique fragrance and a soft, chewy texture.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Rafting and kayaking
Hiking
Li River cruise
Tea house visits
Spa and wellness
Visiting ethnic minority villages
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lush greenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Cantonese, Zhuang (local dialect)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Guilin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Bargain for souvenirs and street food, and be cautious of overpriced or fake goods
Getting there
By air
- Guilin Liangjiang International Airport • 27 km from city center
By train
Guilin Railway Station, Guilin West Railway Station
By bus
Guilin Long-Distance Bus Station, Guilin South Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with routes covering most of the city and connecting to popular tourist spots.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Zhengyang District
Xiangshan District
Qixing District
Day trips
Yangshuo
65 km from Guilin • Half day to full day trip
Yangshuo is a picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a variety of adventures, from biking and rock climbing to rafting and kayaking.
Longji Terraced Fields
70 km from Guilin • Full day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Xingping Ancient Town
25 km from Guilin • Half day trip
A well-preserved ancient town along the Li River, known for its traditional architecture, historic sites, and scenic views. The town is famous for its appearance on the back of the 20 RMB note.
Festivals
Li River Festival • September
Guilin Tea Culture Festival • March
Zhuang Ethnic Minority Festival • Varies (usually in spring or autumn)
Pro tips
- Take a Li River cruise at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages or historic sites
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture
- Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors, tips, and small purchases
- Use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenient and affordable transportation, but ensure you have a local SIM card or eSIM
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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