Full Day Longsheng Rice Terraces

Part of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region with its capital Guilin, the Longsheng (or Longji) Rice Terraces surpasses any visitors…and this is merely the tip of the veil. Considered to be the pearl of China’s thriving tourist industry on account of its stunning natural beauty and historic treasures, the region around Guilin houses some of the most spectacular and rare karst scenery in the world as well is home to over twelve different ethnic groups, all with their own cultural traits and traditions. There is really plenty to see and do when you make Guilin your base for exploration of the finest kind in China.

You will be picked up by your professional driver and English speaking guide early in the morning from your Guilin based accommodation, from where a 2 hour drive brings you through the stunning landscape of this autonomous region on the way to the Longji Rice Terraces. Translated as the ‘Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, these man-made agricultural marvels are located in the county bearing the same name. There are about 66 square kilometres of terraced fields in the southeast of Longsheng. At Longji, the terraces are built all along the slope, from the riverside to the top of the mountain. At its highest point the terraces rise 1100 meter above sea level. These rice terraces, first carved by hand into the hillside over 600 years ago, resemble great chains or ribbons (or a Dragon’s backbone for the more imaginative) as they wind from the base to the top of the hill. This ingenious construction makes the best use of the scare arable land and water resources in the mountainous area. We will ensure that you will get the best panoramic views available once you reach the top of these staggered mountain ridges. Lunch is included at a local restaurant near the rice terraces.

Part of the day is reserved to get to know the ethnic minorities that have lived for centuries nearby the rice terraces. Villages inhabited by the Zhuang and Yao are pleasant walks through history, where daily life has not changed for generations. Many of these people work and around the Longji Rice Terraces as their sole source of income and your guide will explain what these families sometimes have to endure to ensure that they can feed their families. Before we leave back to Guilin and leave the twisting, winding lines of the terraces behind you, as they seem to dance up along the mountain side, we highly recommend to take some final snapshots as the lights, reflecting in the water will give Longji a new persona. Arrival back in Guilin and your booked hotel will be early in the evening.