Geographical Location & Transportation

Longji Rice Terraces is located in Longji Town, Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It’s about 80 kilometers northwest of Guilin city, nestled in a mountainous area. To get there, most travelers fly into Guilin Liangjiang International Airport first. From the airport, you can take a 2-hour car ride (arrange a private transfer or join a tour group). Alternatively, take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Longsheng County (~2 hours), then switch to a local minivan or taxi for the final 30-minute hilly drive to the terraces. For adventurers, renting a car and driving yourself is an option, but be prepared for winding山路!

Natural Landscape: A Sea of Rice Paddies

Longji Rice Terraces is famous for its massive scale—it’s one of the largest terraced rice fields in the world! The terraces are split into three main areas: Jin Keng Terraces, Ping An Zhuang Terraces, and Longji Ancient Zhuang Village Terraces. Each section has its own charm.

  • Jin Keng: Known for its steep, dramatic curves that look like giant stairs carved into the mountains. Sunrise here is magic—the morning light reflects off the water-filled paddies, creating a mirror-like effect.
  • Ping An: More accessible and popular for easy hikes. The Zhuang village here feels cozy, with wooden houses tucked among the fields.
  • Longji Ancient Zhuang Village: The oldest part, with traditional stone houses and narrow alleys. The terraces here are smaller but packed with history.

The best time to visit? April to October when the rice grows. In June, the water-filled paddies shine like silver. By September, the ripe rice turns golden, making for epic photos.

Cultural Experience: Ethnic Villages & Festivals

What makes Longji Rice Terraces special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the Yao and Zhuang communities living here. Small villages are scattered across the terraces, many still following traditional ways.

  • Yao People: They wear bright red costumes and are known as the “Red Yao.” Their clothes-drying festival (usually in mid-July) is a highlight. During this time, families hang their colorful garments outside to dry, turning the villages into vivid galleries.
  • Zhuang People: In Ping An and Longji Village, you’ll meet the Zhuang, who host guests with warm smiles and offer homemade rice wine. Don’t miss trying bamboo rice (cooked in bamboo tubes) or oil tea, a local drink.

Pro tip: Visit a local family for a meal. They’ll serve dishes like roast pork with sour herbs or fish from the rice fields—it’s real farm-to-table!

Practical Tips: What to Expect

Accommodation

Stay in Ping An or Jin Keng for convenience. Options range from basic guesthouses (~¥100/night) to luxury resorts with terrace views. For a unique experience, book a homestay in a Zhuang or Yao village—you might even get a cultural performance!

Hiking & Photography

  • For photographers: Arrive before dawn to catch the sunrise. Jin Keng’s No. 1 Viewpoint is crowded but worth it. For fewer crowds, try Ping An’s “七星伴月” (Seven Stars with Moon) spot.
  • Hiking routes: The Jin Keng loop takes ~4 hours and offers panoramic views. Wear comfortable shoes—some paths are muddy or steep.

Avoiding Crowds

Weekends and holidays can be packed. Go mid-week if possible. Also, visit outside peak seasons (early April or late October) for fewer tourists and cheaper prices.

Why You’ll Love It

Longji Rice Terraces isn’t just about taking photos (though trust me, you’ll take a lot!). It’s about walking through living history, chatting with locals, and feeling the connection between people and land. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, a foodie, or someone who just loves nature, this place has something for everyone. Just come ready for hills—and leave with your camera (and stomach) full!