Longji Rice Terraces
Longji Rice Terraces — six centuries of Zhuang and Yao minority farming carved into mountain slopes
Highlights — Why we like Longji Rice Terraces
Intro
The Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon's Backbone) are among the most spectacular agricultural landscapes in the world. Carved into the steep slopes of the mountains northeast of Guilin by the Zhuang and Yao minority peoples over 600 years, the terraces cascade from the mountain peaks to the valley floors in sweeping curves that follow every contour of the hillside. The name comes from their resemblance to the scales on a dragon's back.
Best Time to Visit
May-June (terraces filled with water, vivid green young rice) and late September-October (golden harvest). Both periods are spectacular.
Getting There
From Guilin: 2 hours by bus (¥26) or organised tour to Longsheng county, then minibus to the village bases. Most visitors stay overnight in a guesthouse in one of the villages.
Tickets & Entry
- Typical visit
1-2 days
Local Tips
Stay overnight to experience sunrise and sunset over the terraces — the light in early morning is extraordinary. Guesthouses in both Ping An and Dazhai villages are simple but atmospheric. The steep walk from the minibus drop-off to the villages takes 30-45 minutes — porters are available if needed.
More in Guilin
Li River Cruise
A four-hour river journey through the world's most celebrated karst landscape
Yulong River Bamboo Rafting
Drifting through rice paddies and karst peaks on a bamboo raft — the quieter Li River
Cycling the Yangshuo Countryside
Yangshuo cycling — the finest rural cycling in China through karst valleys
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