Private Custom Tour: 2 day Longji Rice Terraces Private Tour

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces on a Private 2-Day Tour: An Authentic Countryside Escape

Booking a trip to China often means visiting bustling cities like Guilin or Yangshuo, but for those craving a break from urban life, a private two-day tour of the Longji Rice Terraces offers a chance to see some of the country’s most breathtaking rural landscapes. This tour promises flexibility, authentic village visits, and a chance to hike through terraced fields that have been cultivated for generations.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the customizable itinerary allows you to tweak your plans on the go, ensuring you visit what interests you most. Second, personalized transport and guides mean you won’t be stuck in crowded groups or rushed through highlights. Lastly, the tour’s focus on authentic village visits and scenic views offers a genuine look at local life, well beyond the typical tourist trail.

Of course, it’s worth noting that this is a two-day private experience, which might be a bit tight if you’re not a fan of long driving hours or physical activity like hiking. You’ll want to be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized, immersive escape into China’s lush countryside, especially those interested in photography, culture, and scenic landscapes.

Good To Know

• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
• Private guide and vehicle for a relaxed, personalized experience
• Visits to authentic villages like Ping’an and Dazhai
• Scenic hiking routes through the rice terraces
• Includes entrance tickets and cable car rides
• Accommodation at a four-star hotel (Baike Hotel)

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Longji Rice Terraces Tour

What to Expect on Day 1: Guilin or Yangshuo to Ping’an Village

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or the airport in Guilin or Yangshuo. The transfer to Ping’an Village takes about 2 to 3 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. The drive itself is a highlight, often filled with panoramic views of the rolling hills and lush countryside that set the tone for your adventure.

Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a hiking route from the Nine Dragons & Five Tigers area to the Seven Stars with Moon area—these names evoke the poetic, almost mythical atmosphere of the terraces. If you’re up for more, there’s an option to visit the Long Hair Yao Village, famous for its distinctive hairstyles, adding an extra cultural layer to your experience.

The terrain can be quite varied, with hiking paths that wind through terraced fields and small villages. Reviewers mention the “beautiful views” and the “authentic atmosphere” of these villages, which feel miles away from tourist-heavy spots. One guest pointed out how “the hike from Nine Dragons to Seven Stars was a highlight, offering a peaceful soak in local life and stunning landscapes.”

Accommodation at Baike Hotel in Ping’an Village

Your stay in Ping’an Village is booked at a 4-star hotel, the Baike Hotel, which offers comfortable amenities and a chance to rest before another day of exploration. Guests appreciated the clean, well-maintained rooms and the opportunity to wake up with terrace views over the rice terraces, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

Day 2: Dazhai Village and Return to Guilin

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred by car to Dazhai Village, a famous spot known for its dramatic terraced fields. Here, the highlight is a round-trip cable car ride—a quick, scenic way to see the terraces from above without the exhaustion of hiking. The cable car ride has been praised for its smoothness and spectacular views, giving you a different perspective of the landscape.

The return trip concludes with your transfer back to Guilin or Yangshuo, where the tour ends. The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing without overextending your schedule.

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Transportation and Logistics

The private car and guide ensure a smooth, comfortable journey with flexible timing. The total driving time over the two days is approximately 5-6 hours, which, while a bit long, allows ample time to enjoy the scenery and avoid feeling rushed. Guests often note that the vehicles are clean and well-maintained, adding to the enjoyment of the trip.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a dedicated guide, entrance tickets to the Longji Rice Terraces, and the cable car tickets to Dazhai Village. The accommodation at the Baike Hotel is also included, offering a comfy base for the night.

However, travelers should note that meals and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning meals ahead is advisable. Also, hotels in Guilin or Yangshuo are not included—the tour only covers the overnight stay at the Longji area, which is perfect for those wanting a more authentic experience away from city hotels.

Authentic Village Life and Scenic Highlights

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to visit authentic rice-growing villages rather than commercialized tourist spots. Guests have remarked on the peaceful, uncommercialized atmosphere of Ping’an and Dazhai villages, which remain largely unchanged for decades.

The hiking routes also stand out. The paths from Nine Dragons & Five Tigers to Seven Stars with Moon are described as “beautiful” and “peaceful,” with plenty of photo opportunities. The terraces themselves are a marvel—steep, shimmering, and carved into the hillsides by generations of farmers.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

While the tour mainly focuses on natural beauty, the visits to villages like Long Hair Yao offer glimpses into local cultures and traditions. Reviewers appreciate the chance to interact with local residents, see traditional hairstyles, and observe rural life up close.

Pricing and Value

At $288 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value and personalized experience. For what amounts to two days of private guiding, scenic hikes, and included tickets, this is a competitive price point—especially considering the luxury of private transport and hotel accommodation.

The inclusion of a four-star hotel stay in Ping’an village adds to the overall value, providing comfort amidst an otherwise rustic experience. For travelers wanting a more intimate, tailored journey away from crowded tours, this price is quite reasonable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to explore rural China, photographers looking for stunning landscape shots, and culture enthusiasts interested in traditional village life. It’s perfect for those who prefer a custom plan, avoiding overly rigid group tours, and value authenticity over luxury.

Final Thoughts

This private, flexible tour of the Longji Rice Terraces is a fantastic way to experience China’s countryside. It balances scenic hikes, cultural visits, and comfortable accommodations, offering a genuine taste of rural life while avoiding crowded tourist traps.

While the long driving hours and physical activity may not suit everyone, those who enjoy a mix of adventure and serenity will find it highly rewarding. The inclusion of a private guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your interests, making it a memorable journey into some of China’s most iconic landscapes.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic escape that combines natural beauty with cultural insights, this tour is a superb choice—especially for travelers who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter sightseeing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for travelers who dislike hiking?
Yes, but keep in mind there are hiking segments from Nine Dragons & Five Tigers to Seven Stars with Moon. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing, you may want to focus on the scenic spots accessible by cable car and vehicle.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Definitely. The tour is described as flexible, so you can adjust the stops and activities according to your interests during your booking.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to plan some snacks or meals in advance, especially for the break at Ping’an village.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
The tour includes a stay at the Baike Hotel in Ping’an Village, a four-star hotel offering comfortable rooms with scenic views.

How long is the transfer from Guilin or Yangshuo?
The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours each way, offering scenic views and a chance to settle in before exploring.

Are entrance tickets and cable cars included?
Yes, the package covers the Longji Rice Terraces entrance tickets and Dazhai Village cable car fare.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The terraces, villages, and views provide stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, spring and autumn are typically ideal for rice terraces, with lush greenery or golden harvests providing the most photogenic scenery.

This 2-day private tour combines scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and flexibility—making it a fantastic choice for those eager to see a different side of China.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby