A Local's Guide to Longji Rice Terraces: Your Cheat Sheet

1. Introduction to Longji Longji Rice Terraces are located in Longsheng Various Nationalities Autonomous County, Guilin, Guangxi. They are famous for their spectacular terraced landscapes, especially the Jinkeng Dazhai and Ping'an Zhuang villages. The scenery of the terraces varies throughout the year, with the best viewing periods being during spring plowing and autumn harvest. - 2. Transportation From Guilin: Bus: Direct buses to Longji Rice Terraces are available at Guilin Qintan Bus Station. The journey takes about 2.5 hrs. Car rental/Self-drive: Driving from Guilin takes about 2 hrs. The road conditions are good. From Yangshuo: You can go to Guilin first and then transfer to Longji Rice Terraces. - 3. Main Attractions Jinkeng Dazhai Terraces: The largest in scale, rich in Yao culture, suitable for photography. Ping'an Zhuang Terraces: Developed earlier, with complete facilities, suitable for leisure travel. Guzhuangzhai Terraces: Rich in Zhuang culture, fewer tourists, suitable for in-depth travel. - 4. Tour Routes One-day trip: Jinkeng Dazhai or Ping'an Zhuang villages are recommended. If time permits, hiking is a good option. - 5. Accommodation Jinkeng Dazhai: Various hotels and guesthouses are available. Staying in Tiantouzhai or Dazhai Village is recommended. Ping'an Zhuang: Offers better accommodation conditions, suitable for families. Guzhuangzhai: Fewer accommodation options, suitable for those who prefer peace and quiet. - 6. Food Bamboo Rice: Cooked in bamboo tubes, with a fragrant aroma. Bacon: A local specialty with a unique flavor. Yao Oil Tea: A traditional Yao drink with a unique taste. - 7. Things to Note Clothing: Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended due to the complex terrain of the terraces. Weather: The mountain weather is changeable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes. Environmental Protection: Please do not litter and protect the environment of the terraces. - 8. Recommended Travel Time Spring (Apr–May): The terraces are filled with water, creating a mirror-like landscape. Autumn (Sep–Oct): The rice is ripe and golden. Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush and green, suitable for escaping the summer heat. - 9. Tickets Ticket price: Approx. CNY 80/person, including Jinkeng Dazhai, Ping'an Zhuang, and Guzhuangzhai villages. 10. Photography Tips Best shooting spots: "Xishan Shaoyue" (West Mountain Music) and "Thousand-layer Terraces" in Jinkeng Dazhai; "Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon" and "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers" in Ping'an Zhuang. - Longji Rice Terraces attract numerous tourists with their magnificent natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. Whether it's photography, hiking, or leisure vacations, it can meet your needs. Plan your trip in advance, choose the right season to visit, and you will have an unforgettable journey.