Longji Rice Terraces
Guilin was just our entry point to explore the Longji Rice Terraces in the Longsheng County about 90 kilometres away. The private driver showed up as we were finishing our not-so-much English breakfast. The day before, we tried to organise the Longji Rice Terraces by public or private buses. Unfortunately, both options were impractical. So we spent 450 yuan for a very comfortable 3-hours drive to the Ping'An terrace fields - one of the most fantastic scenery in China or indeed the world?
We checked in at the Baike Hotel and quickly freshen up to start the 13 kilometres trek. The hike takes from 6 to 7 hours to complete.
Nine Dragons and Five Tigers Viewpoint
We climbed up to the first viewpoint, 'Nine Dragons and Five Tigers'. The vantage point offered a breathtaking view of the endless rice terraces cascading down into the Ping'An valley. Most tourists will stop there and return the Ping'An. We didn't. We caught our breath, admired the spectacular panorama and kept on walking.
Through the Terraces
We wandered on a natural stone path through the beautiful scenery for another 5 hours to reach the small village of Tiantou. We couldn't stop taking photos of the steep terraced hills. At every turn, the landscape was more mesmerising.
The trails were not well marked, but we relied on the map downloaded on Maps.me beforehand and on the locals which were always happy to show us the direction. We did a detour for one or two kilometres but tell no one. We are so bad with a map...
Reaching Dazhai Village
The second section of the hike was shorter and in less than 2 hours we reached the more touristic Dazhai village. Hotels were growing like mushrooms to support the booming Chinese tourism in the minority village.
The Bus Adventure
Shortly, we arrived at the end of the hike on a large car park. Most will drive up here and take a cable car to climb up the top of the rice terraces. We looked for a private car as transport was problematic. As we were asking around, the lady from the gondola ticket office pointed to a public bus.
As we tried to board the bus, we got mix feelings whether it was going to where we wanted. People on the bus sounded to disagree. The driver confirmed so we hopped for the best and boarded the bus. After half an hour's drive, we missed the exit for the Ping'An Village. We stayed put in the bus - slightly worried.
Suddenly, as we crossed with a bus going up the hill, we stopped. So did the other bus. A woman shouted this your bus for Ping'An. So we rushed out and hopped on the vehicle. What did just happen? Not sure. But it seemed our bus driver called the bus going to Ping'An to make sure he would stop to take us to our final destination.
Hiking the Longji Rice Terraces
- The Longji Rice Terraces are 90km from Guilin - private driver recommended (450 yuan for 3 hours)
- The full trek from Ping'An to Dazhai takes 6-7 hours (13km) - start early!
- Download offline maps (Maps.me) - trails are not always well marked
- Bring water, snacks, and comfortable hiking shoes - it's a challenging trek with steep sections
- Most tourists only visit the first viewpoint - continue hiking for a more authentic experience
- Locals are incredibly helpful with directions - don't hesitate to ask
- Stay at Baike Hotel in Ping'An Village for convenient access to the trailhead
Note:
Pin These Moments
🏞️ Rice Terrace Panorama
Breathtaking views of endless terraced fields cascading down the Ping'An valley
🥾 13km Trek
A challenging but rewarding 7-hour hike through one of China's most spectacular landscapes
🏘️ Minority Villages
Exploring authentic villages nestled among the ancient rice terraces of Longsheng County
Have you hiked the Longji Rice Terraces? Which viewpoint was your favorite? Did you tackle the full trek or just visit Ping'An? Share your experiences below!