Longji Rice Terraces – A Breathtaking Masterpiece of Layered Landscapes
The Longji Rice Terraces are about 80 kilometers from Guilin’s urban area. Construction began during the Qin and Han dynasties. With a history of more than 2,300 years, they are an agricultural marvel created by the ancestors of the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups, who carved them into the mountainsides.
On clear days, you can see far into the mountains, and on rainy days, you can watch the clouds float low and brush over the terraces and nearby Karsts. See how people lived in ages bygone as the terraces are too narrow and fragile to support modern farming equipment. The local ethnic minorities are also very welcoming and happy to share their culture which has been largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Please feel free to contact us if you need any assistance planning a tour to the Longji Rice Terraces.
Quick Facts
- Entrance Fee: 100 CNY
- Hours of Operation: 24/7
- Suggested visiting time: 1.5-2 days
- Location: Longji Town, Longsheng County, Guilin
Longji Rice Terraces Map
Major Scenic Areas of the Terrace
The Longji Rice Terraces span a vast area across several villages (scenic zones). The most popular ones to visit include:
Ping’an Village
The most iconic and picturesque terraces are found around Ping'an Village, home to the Zhuang ethnic minority. This area can typically be explored on foot in about two hours. As the most popular section of the Longji Rice Terraces, it tends to be busier than other parts of the terraces.
The village’s traditional wooden houses—built on stilts and usually three stories high—add to the charm, creating a beautiful contrast with the surrounding golden or emerald rice fields. Despite its rustic appearance, Ping’an offers a good range of modern amenities, including hotels, hostels, convenient transportation, and plenty of dining options. Check out 4-day Guilin tour package with Ping'an Village.
Highlights of Ping’an Village:
- Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon - At this viewpoint, seven small piles of rocks are scattered across the terraces, surrounding a crescent-shaped field that resembles a bright moon.
- Nine Dragons and Five Tigers- Here, nine terrace ridges branch out from a single slope, evoking the image of nine dragons winding across the hills. Along these ridges, five prominent rocks resemble crouching tigers, adding to the scene’s vivid, mythical charm.
Jinkeng (Dazhai Village)
Jingkeng is home to the Red Yao ethnic minority. This area is less crowded but takes longer to visit (4-5 hours). These terraces are much larger than the Ping’an terraces, so hikers should be prepared for a workout.
Although cablecars go to the height of the terraces (Golden Buddha Peak), the cable cars are not good for getting to nearby accommodation, so it’s best to walk from the peak if you are staying in a hotel nearby. There is accommodation all along these terraces: at the foot of the climb, near the carpark, during the climb, at the middle of the terraces, and at the top, as well (about an hour or 2 from the carpark).
Highlights of Jinkeng:
- West Hill (Celebration West Mountain) - Rising to 1,180 meters (3,870 feet), West Hill is the highest point in the Longji Rice Terraces. It offers sweeping panoramic views of the terraces—so iconic that many of the classic photos you’ve likely seen were taken from here.
- Golden Buddha Peak - It is the best spot in the area to catch a stunning sunset over the terraces. For easier access, a cable car is available, taking just about 20 minutes to reach the top. Those who prefer to hike can expect a rewarding 2–3 hour trek through scenic mountain paths.
The Best Times to Visit the Longji Rice Terraces
Spring
From May to June, the Longji Rice Terraces enter one of their most photogenic seasons, as farmers transplant rice seedlings across the hillsides. During this time, the water-filled terraces mirror the blue sky and drifting clouds, creating a stunning, dreamlike landscape.
The prime window for photography is from May 25 to June 10, when the fields are fully flooded. To capture the shimmering reflections without underexposure, it’s best to shoot with backlighting, allowing the terraces to glow with light and depth.
Summer
In June, visitors can still catch the final stages of rice seedling transplantation in the Longji Rice Terraces. By July and August, the terraces are in full growth, blanketed in lush, vibrant green. Under clear summer skies, the thriving fields and the lively presence of local villagers create a scene full of energy and life—perfect for memorable midsummer photography.
Mid-July is an especially beautiful time, when the greenery is at its peak. For the best photos, head out just after dawn or just before dusk, when the soft light enhances the terraces’ rich colors and contours.
Autumn
From September to November, the Longji Rice Terraces are at their most breathtaking. Many visitors consider autumn the most beautiful season, when the terraces turn a rich golden hue as the rice ripens for harvest.
The period around the Mid-Autumn day—especially the week before and after—is ideal for photography. During this time, the fields glow with golden color, and in the early morning or late afternoon, you may be rewarded with pink-tinged clouds and dramatic rays of sunlight streaming across the terraces.
Winter
January and February are the most scenic winter months at the Longji Rice Terraces. When snowfall occurs, a delicate layer of white blankets the mountains, transforming the terraces into a serene, almost magical landscape—truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can be quite cold.
Winter visits require a bit of planning, as snow is not very common in Longji. It’s best to keep a close eye on the weather and time your trip to coincide with a forecasted snowfall or shortly after fresh snow has fallen for the most spectacular views.
Recommended Longji Tour Pakages
Longji Rice Terraces Hiking Routes
A full hiking trip around the Longji Rice Terraces is not for the faint of heart, as a complete hike around the area is about 25 kilometers (15.6 miles), but some of the most beautiful overlooks are worth hiking to.
Route 1: Ping’an Area
Around Ping’an, a hike of 1-1.5 hours (full circuit) will take you to see the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers (Viewpoint 1), as well as the Seven Stars With Moon (Viewpoint 2). Further along, there are the Thousand Layer Terraces and Golden Buddha Peak. There are many well-posted signs that indicate where to go in Ping’an and the viewpoints around it. Please check out Hiking Longji Terraced Fields for more details.
Hotel Recommendations
Fortunately, Ping’an, Longji, and Dazhai villages all have accommodation available. From high-end boutique hotels to travelers hostels, there are many options for a wide range of visitors. The vast majority of the hotels are in Ping’an and Dazhai villages. Please feel free to contact us if you need any assistance booking a hotel on the Longji Rice Terraces.
Recommended Hotels in Jinkeng (Dazhai)
The hotels near Dazhai village and the villages adjacent to it (Tiantouzhai and Zhuangjie) are much lower cost and plentiful.
1. Dragon's Den Hostel
Frequently rated as one of the best-value accommodations in Longsheng, Dragon's Den Hostel offers a cozy wooden stay nestled among the scenic terraced fields of Tiantouzhai Village, about a 40-minute walk from Dazhai.
Guests can arrange sightseeing tours, hiking trips, and transportation to different parts of the Longji Rice Terraces or back to Guilin at the tour desk. The on-site restaurant serves both Chinese and Western cuisine. At Dragon’s Den, you can enjoy the tranquility of rural life while still benefiting from modern comforts such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
2. The Wood House
The hike is well worth it! Located in Tiantou Village near Dazhai, Longji Wooden House Hotel is a charming boutique stay known for its warm service, cozy atmosphere, and excellent location.
Guests especially appreciate the home-cooked meals and the helpful local advice on hiking routes and activities around the Longji Rice Terraces. Despite its rustic setting, the hotel also offers comfortable amenities, making it a great balance between authentic village life and convenience.
3. Wisdom Inn
With an English-speaking manager, scenic views, and convenient airport transfer services, Longji Wisdom Inn is often rated as one of the best-value places to stay in the Longji Rice Terraces. Guests particularly enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding terraces and the charming bamboo-style design of the property.
Recommended Hotels in Ping’an
The hotels in Ping’an are more expensive and boutique, but much further off the beaten trail. If you want to avoid the tourists and enjoy yourself in a homey and relaxing environment, then Ping’an is the place for you to stay.
1. Terrace Villa
The 30-minute uphill walk is well rewarded at Longji Terrace La Vie Inn, one of the most highly rated places to stay in the Longji Rice Terraces. From its elevated position, guests are treated to stunning panoramic views of the terraces.
Visitors consistently praise the delicious food, warm hospitality, and the presence of an English-speaking manager. Practical amenities—such as washing machines—also make it a great choice for travelers on longer trips in China. Rooms are typically available from around 100 RMB per night, offering excellent value for such a memorable stay.
2. Baike Hotel
Located in Ping'an Village, Baike Hotel is well known for its excellent amenities, English-speaking staff, convenient airport transfer service, and welcoming atmosphere. The quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff make it especially popular among Western travelers.
3. Longji One Hotel
For those seeking a more luxurious stay in Ping'an Village, Longji One Hotel is an excellent choice. Guests can enjoy organic, locally inspired cuisine, attentive English-speaking staff, and well-appointed rooms in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Longji Travel Tips
- See golden fields -The harvest time in Longji begins in early October so if you want to see golden-field vistas, visit the place before harvest.
- Hire porters - You can have porters help carry big luggage up to your hotels from the bus drop-off points- yes, it needs some walk from the foothill to your hotels.
- Recommended local food - bamboo stuffed rice.
- Keep warm - Located in a mountainous area, Longji has noticeable temperature differences between day and night. Even in spring and summer, it’s advisable to bring a light jacket with you.
- Necessary items - The Longji mountainous area has strong UV radiation, and its dense vegetation means there are plenty of mosquitoes. During your visit, take proper sun protection measures and bring insect repellent.
Bus to Longji from Guilin City
There are daily buses running from the train stations in Guilin to the Jinkeng Terraces area. If you plan to visit Ping'an Village, be sure to inform the driver in advance so they can let you know where to get off.
Guilin Railway Station to Longji
- Address: Parking lot of Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel, near Guilin Railway Station
- Departures: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, and 15:00
- Ticket Price: CNY 50
Guilin North Railway Station to Longji
- Address: Parking lot of Guilin North Railway Station
- Departures: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, and 15:00
- Ticket Price: CNY 65
Guilin West Railway Station to Longji
- Address: Tourist Center near Guilin West Railway Station
- Departures: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, and 15:00
- Ticket Price: CNY 65