Guilin: In-Depth Longji Rice Terraces Day Trip with Lunch

Traveling through China’s southern landscapes, especially around Guilin, often conjures images of dramatic karst peaks and lush rice terraces. This tour promises an authentic look at the Longji Rice Terraces, away from the usual crowds and commercialized spots. It’s a full day of scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and local flavors, all carefully curated by ZANBUS and CITS. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply craving a peaceful escape into nature, this trip aims to tick those boxes.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic ethnic culture, with visits to unspoiled villages and home stays, along with a scenic hike that’s designed to avoid the tourist trap feel. Plus, the inclusion of Yao women’s long hair shows and a hearty bamboo rice lunch adds a dash of local flavor. That said, it’s a long day—so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and some walking.

One potential drawback is the duration—at over 10 hours, this isn’t for everyone, especially if you prefer relaxed, shorter excursions. Also, since the tour involves quite a bit of walking and hiking, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with physical activity. The tour would be perfect for travelers who value in-depth cultural experiences and are eager to see less commercialized parts of Longji.

Overall, it’s well-suited for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a meaningful day away from crowds. Just remember, this tour is about authentic engagement rather than shopping or souvenir stops, making it a refreshing choice for those who want to truly connect with local life and breathtaking scenery.

Good To Know

Authentic ethnic culture — Visits to unspoiled villages with well-preserved traditions
Immersive experiences — Home visits, local performances, and scenic hikes
Scenic vistas — Stunning views from famous terraces and viewpoints
No shopping stops — Focus on cultural and natural highlights
Comfortable transportation — Scenic 2.5-hour coach ride plus manageable hikes
Expert guides — Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction and Overall Impression

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Longji’s revered rice terraces without the overwhelming crowds often found at more popular spots. Instead of crowded viewpoints, you’ll explore two quiet villages, each brimming with authenticity, from their ancient houses to their friendly inhabitants. The guides, praised for their knowledge and personable manner, help turn what might be just a scenic hike into a meaningful cultural experience.

A standout feature is the home visit to a local family, which allows travelers to see daily life up close. Many reviewers highlight how these moments—like chatting with villagers or tasting homemade dishes—make the trip memorable. The Yao long hair shows add a cultural sparkle, with women showcasing their legendary long hair, a tradition passed down through generations.

One of the few considerations is the timing—the long day might be tiring, but the stunning vistas and local interactions make the effort worthwhile. We’d recommend this tour to those who enjoy active exploration and want to avoid commercialized tourist traps. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager for deeper cultural connections and authentic scenery.

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Guilin: In-Depth Longji Rice Terraces Day Trip with Lunch

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pick-up and Departure

The adventure begins early at the Guilin Sheraton Hotel, with a friendly guide waiting in the lobby. The coach ride to Longji takes about 2.5 hours, offering a chance to enjoy the changing landscapes of southern China. The scenery during the drive is often praised for its lush greenery and mountain vistas, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Ancient Zhuang Village Exploration

Arriving at the ticket office atop Ancient Zhuang Village, you’re greeted with a less-commercialized atmosphere. The village’s stone paths and traditional houses evoke a peaceful, timeless quality. Unlike more touristic spots, this village maintains a laid-back charm that guides say is increasingly rare.

Here, guests often marvel at the well-preserved architecture and take plenty of photos of the terraces cascading down the mountains. The tour includes a visit to the Ecological Museum, where you can learn about the history and environment of the area—an interesting touch for those curious about the land’s stories.

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Local Home Visit and Cultural Insight

One of the highlights, as noted by reviewers, is the home visit. Guests get to chat with villagers over tea or snacks, gaining insight into their daily routines and traditional lifestyles. It’s a rare chance to see a side of rural China untouched by commercialization. Visitors often mention how welcoming and eager the locals are to share their stories.

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Scenic Hike to Pingan Village

After immersing in village life, the group embarks on a 1-hour hike through lush terraces and winding mountain paths toward Pingan Village. This trek offers stunning views and photo opportunities, especially at stops where the famous Long Hair Yao women perform. Their long, flowing hair is not only a visual spectacle but a symbol of cultural pride, and many reviewers find the performance both fascinating and inspiring.

Lunch with Local Flavors

Once in Pingan Village, a Zhuang-style lunch is served, with bamboo tube rice as the star dish. Many describe the meal as hearty and flavorful, emphasizing its authenticity. The lunch is a perfect break after the morning’s activities and an opportunity to sample local cuisine.

Viewpoints and Photo Stops

In the afternoon, the tour takes visitors to Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon and Nine Dragons and Five Tigers viewpoints—both renowned for panoramic views of the terraces. These platforms provide excellent photo opportunities and are often praised for their breathtaking vistas.

Reviewers note that the views are particularly stunning during clear weather, and the guides are helpful in pointing out details and sharing stories about the terraces’ construction and history. The walk around these viewpoints allows for relaxed photography and soaking in the landscape.

Return Journey

After spending several hours enjoying the views and exploring, the coach heads back to Guilin, typically arriving around 7 p.m.. The long journey back, though tiring, is often accompanied by reflections on the day’s highlights and new cultural understandings.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The coach ride is generally comfortable, with modern vehicles used by ZANBUS and CITS. The tour often operates with small groups or private options, which means more personalized attention and less crowded conditions. The timing is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, cultural activities, and rest.

Guests have noted that pick-up arrangements are clear, with guides wearing blue vests and carrying ZANBUS signage, making them easy to spot. This organization minimizes stress and helps keep the day running smoothly.

Value and Price Analysis

While the tour’s exact cost isn’t provided here, reviews commend its value for money, especially considering the inclusion of transport, a professional guide, a local lunch, and cultural performances. It’s a comprehensive package designed to maximize authentic experiences without the distraction of shopping stops, which often inflate costs in similar tours.

The long duration and inclusion of multiple scenic stops make it a good investment for those wanting an immersive day rather than a rushed overview. For travelers who prioritize cultural depth and scenic beauty, the price reflects a fair exchange for the quality and authenticity offered.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers eager to see less touristy parts of Longji, and those interested in ethnic cultures. It’s ideal for active explorers comfortable with walking and hiking, as well as guests who appreciate local hospitality and genuine cultural exchange.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, short outing or those with mobility issues, given the day’s length and walking involved. Perfect for photographers, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts looking for stunning vistas and authentic stories, this tour delivers on those fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, a comfortable coach is used for the 2.5-hour scenic drive to Longji and the return journey. The transportation is included in the tour price.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10.5 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending around 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic conditions.

Are there any shopping stops?
No, this tour specifically avoids shopping stops to focus on cultural and scenic experiences.

What is included in the lunch?
A traditional Zhuang-style meal featuring local dishes, with bamboo tube rice as a highlight, is included. The meal is hearty and reflects local flavors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves walking and some hiking, so it’s best for active, capable kids.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Passport is required for the entry points, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the hikes and village exploration.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Chinese?
Yes, the tour is led in English by knowledgeable guides, ensuring smooth communication and insightful commentary.

Final Thoughts

This Longji rice terraces day trip offers more than just pretty scenery; it provides a chance to genuinely connect with local cultures and witness the agricultural beauty of China’s famous terraces. The focus on authentic villages, cultural shows, and scenic viewpoints makes it a rewarding experience for those willing to spend a full day exploring.

The tour’s careful curation to skip commercialized stops means you’re left with meaningful interactions and stunning landscapes. The guides are praised for their knowledge and warmth, making the experience not just about the sights but about understanding the stories behind them.

If you’re after a well-organized, culturally immersive day that balances adventure with authenticity, this trip offers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want to see beyond the typical tourist spots and get a true taste of Longji’s mountain villages and rice terraces.