Home
Destinations Guide

Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng County, Guilin

Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng County, Guilin

Attractions Overview

Terraces are distributed between 300 meters and 1100 meters above sea level, with a maximum slope of 50 degrees. Almost all roads leading to the terraces are winding mountain roads, rising to an altitude of more than 600 meters and reaching 880 meters above sea level when reaching the terraces.

Chinese Name: 龙脊梯田
English Name: Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng County, Guilin
Type: Guilin Scenic Area, Guilin famous spots & Guilin attractions
Best Time: All Year Around
Recommended Visiting Hours: 2-3 hours
Location: Located in Longji Mountain, Pingan Village, Longji Town, Longsheng Autonomous County, Guangxi

The Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田) are located in Longsheng County (龙胜县) in the Guilin (桂林) area of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (广西壮族自治区). Situated in Ping’an Village (平安村), Longji Town (龙脊镇), within the Longji Mountain (龙脊山), the terraces are recognized as an important global agricultural heritage site. The geographical coordinates of the site are East 110°04′06″—110°11′52″ and North 25°42′33″—25°50′15″.

Geographic Environment

The Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田) are located in the Yuecheng Mountains (越城岭), which are part of the Nanling Mountain Range (南岭山脉). The terrain is characterized by long, rolling ridges, with dramatic and imposing mountain peaks. The region features mountains at elevations between 800 to 1,500 meters above sea level, and the terraces themselves range in altitude from 380 meters to 1,180 meters, with a vertical drop of up to 800 meters.

Climate

The Longji Rice Terraces experience significant rainfall, as they are situated in the subtropical monsoon climate zone. The average annual temperature is 17°C, with an annual rainfall of approximately 1,650 millimeters. The hottest month is July, with an average temperature of 25.4°C, while the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 7.1°C. The lowest recorded temperature is -6°C. The total accumulated temperature is 3,198°C·days, and the average frost-free period lasts for 290 days.

The unique microclimates created by the varying elevations also play a key role in the region’s ecological balance. The temperature difference between the lower and higher altitudes results in the evaporation of water from rivers and streams in the lower mountains. As the water vapor rises through warm air layers, it cools and condenses, forming clouds that eventually result in rain. This process nourishes the high-altitude forests and provides a crucial water supply for the rice terraces. The terraces are mainly located in the lower half of the mountain, where the frost-free period is longer, rainfall is abundant, and sunlight is plentiful, making it ideal for crop cultivation.

Natural Resources

The Longji Rice Terraces region is home to over 450 plant species, as recorded by the Digital Herbarium of China (中国数字植物标本馆) and various botanical catalogues.

Layout and Scenic Areas

The Longji Rice Terraces span a total area of 66 square kilometers and consist of several scenic areas, including:

Jinkeng•Dazhai Red Yao Terraces Scenic Area (金坑•大寨红瑶梯田观景区)

Ping’an Zhuang Terraces Scenic Area (平安壮族梯田观景区)

Longji Ancient Zhuang Village Terraces Scenic Area (龙脊古壮寨梯田观景区)

Historical Background

The Longji Rice Terraces are considered one of the top 20 scenic spots in Guangxi (广西). Over centuries, the terraces have stood as a testament to human perseverance, showcasing the strength, wisdom, and resourcefulness of the people who worked the land to build these agricultural wonders.

The terraces are arranged like a massive chain, winding around mountain peaks to form giant snail-shell shapes. Some terraces appear like giant half-opened fans, while others resemble fragmented pieces of a celestial mirror, set in layers that form intricate patterns. A winding path leads through the terraces, and the melodies of Zhuang (壮族) mountain songs drift through the air, adding to the mystic atmosphere. Traditional Zhuang (壮族) houses, bathed in light reflected from the water, look almost ethereal, like palaces in the sky.

Legends and Stories

One popular legend tells of a strict landowner who ordered his workers to finish plowing 206 fields before they could rest. After a long day’s work, the farmers counted only 205 fields. Just as they were about to give up, one of the farmers picked up his raincoat, only to discover that the 206th field had been hidden under it!

The story highlights the incredible resilience of the Zhuang (壮族) and Yao (瑶族) people who, facing the steep mountains, relied on the most primitive farming methods to carve out the first rice terraces. The allure of rice cultivation was so strong that future generations took up the tools of their ancestors, continuing to work the land year after year. For these people, the happiest moment was not just harvesting the rice, but hearing the news that a new field had been opened, even when they were elderly, playing with their great-grandchildren.

Terrace Areas:

The Longji Rice Terraces consist of multiple scenic areas, including:

Jinkeng•Dazhai Red Yao Terraces Scenic Area (金坑•大寨红瑶梯田观景区)

Ping’an Zhuang Terraces Scenic Area (平安壮族梯田观景区)

Longji Ancient Zhuang Village Terraces Scenic Area (龙脊古壮寨梯田观景区)

These terraces cover a total area of 66 square kilometers.

Cultural and Ethnic Heritage

The Longji Rice Terraces are home to two main ethnic groups: the Zhuang (壮族) and Yao (瑶族), with the Zhuang being the dominant group. The Zhuang people’s traditional costumes are unique, and their folk dances, mountain songs, and customs are well-preserved. Visitors can enjoy these cultural performances, along with the exquisite local cuisine, including the famous Longji Copper Drum Dance, a ritual performed with copper drums. You can also try the local Longji tea and chili, along with the refreshing local rice wine, known as “Dragon’s Water” (龙脊水酒).

The terraces are not only an agricultural marvel but also a cultural treasure. The Zhuang and Yao people have managed to preserve their heritage in harmony with the natural landscape, including the traditional wooden stilt houses that dot the hillsides. The area is also home to songs that echo across the terraces and serve as a soundtrack to the stunning vistas.

Legends and Stories

A well-known legend of the Longji Rice Terraces tells of a strict landlord who tasked his farmers with cultivating 206 plots of land. After a long day of work, the farmers counted only 205 fields. Disheartened, one farmer picked up his raincoat, only to discover that the 206th field was hidden under it. This story symbolizes the resilience and ingenuity of the Zhuang and Yao people, who have long relied on primitive farming techniques to create these stunning terraces.

For the people of Longji, cultivating these terraces was more than just about growing rice—it was a way of life and a cultural legacy that has been passed down through generations. Even today, visitors can hear stories of ancestors who carved out these terraces by hand, turning them into what is now regarded as a masterpiece of both art and agriculture.

In summary, the Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田) represent not only an agricultural marvel but a cultural and artistic treasure, beautifully merging the natural landscape with the rich traditions of the Zhuang and Yao people. The terraces stand as a symbol of human perseverance and the seamless integration of culture and nature.

Geography:

The terraces are located within the Yuecheng Mountains (越城岭) in the Nanling Mountains (南岭山脉). The landscape is marked by towering ridges and dramatic cliffs, creating a majestic and grand scenery. The region features mountainous areas with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 meters above sea level. The highest point of the terraces is 1,180 meters, while the lowest point is 380 meters, giving the terraces a vertical drop of up to 800 meters.

Where is Longji Rice Terraces

It is located in Longsheng County, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Guilin and 140 kilometers (90 miles) from Yangshuo. The construction of incredible Longji Rice Terraces started in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and lasted till the early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Main Attraction of Longji Rice Terraces

Scenic Spots

The Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田) are divided into two main viewing points: Viewpoint 1 and Viewpoint 2. Viewpoint 1 is located higher up on the east side of the village and is a bit farther from the terraces, while Viewpoint 2 is more accessible. The two viewpoints are connected by a flat road, and from both, you can see the famous “Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon” (七星伴月) formation, which is the essence of the Longji Rice Terraces. This feature consists of seven small mountain-top terraces surrounding a larger one, with the entire mountain covered in narrow terraces that resemble contour lines.

Beyond the main Longji area, there is the Jinkeng Rice Terraces (金坑梯田) in Dazhai Village (大寨村), home to four Yao (瑶族) villages. This area can be reached in 3-4 hours from Ping’an Viewpoint (平安观景点) and offers more rustic living conditions and larger-scale terraces. The local Yao people have preserved their unique traditions, such as the Yao dance, the making of local rice wine, and the exquisite taste of Longji tea and chili.

The Longji Rice Terraces are spread across several villages, including Longji Village (龙脊村), Ping’an Village (平安寨), Zhongliu Village (中六寨), Dazhai Village (大寨村), and Tianhou Village (田头寨), all of which showcase different facets of the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Jinkeng Red Yao Terraces

The Jinkeng Red Yao Rice Terraces (金坑红瑶梯田) are located in Dazhai Village, where you can visit three notable viewpoints: Xishan Shaole (西山韶乐), Dajie Qiancheng Tianxi (大界千层天梯), and Jinfo Peak (金佛顶). These spots offer breathtaking views of the terraces, including vast fields that look like giant staircases reaching into the clouds. Xishan Shaole provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the highest peak of Fupingbao (福平包) in the Longsheng (龙胜) district, and views of Xing’an (兴安) and its mountains. Jinfol Peak offers a spectacular view of the Golden Line Hanging Gourd and the beautiful sunset.

Standing at the highest point, the rice terraces resemble waves of water rising from the earth, forming an expansive and stunning landscape. The terraces’ curves and contours create a sense of raw, natural beauty that leaves visitors in awe. The poet Mao Zedong’s daughter-in-law, Shaohua, who is a famous writer and photographer, once described Longji as a photographic haven, praising its magnificent scenery and unique ethnic culture.

Ping’an Terraces

The Ping’an Rice Terraces (平安梯田) span both Ping’an and Longji villages and stretch across a hillside, resembling a dragon rising majestically from the land. The most notable features of these terraces are the “Nine Dragons” and the “Five Tigers,” with “Nine Dragons” representing nine small ridges dividing the Longji main ridge and “Five Tigers” referring to five small peaks surrounded by terraces. The “Seven Stars” (七星) formation is another unique feature, with seven small mountain peaks positioned in the center of the terraces, resembling stars surrounding a crescent moon, creating a stunning and poetic landscape.

Colorful Folk Customs of Zhuang and Yao Minority People

The residents of Longsheng terrace are mainly Zhuang and Yao. They have their own unique and interesting customs in terms of diet, clothes and lifestyle. For example, their house is a stilt house for moisture protection. Yao women like to have long hair, some of which is more than 1m long. Their clothes are colorful with exquisite embroidery.

Key Features

The Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田) are a remarkable sight, with vast stretches of terraces that are rare on such a grand scale. From the rushing river valleys to the mountaintops shrouded in clouds, from the lush forest edges to steep rocky cliffs, wherever there is soil, terraces have been carved out. The vertical height can reach up to several miles, with horizontal stretches equally impressive. The undulating mountains, soaring into the clouds, resemble a staircase to the sky, creating breathtaking abstract patterns in nature. Visitors are always deeply moved by this stunning landscape, a mix of nature’s magnificence and human ingenuity.

The terraces are divided into two main areas: Jinkeng (Dazhai) Red Yao Terraces (金坑大寨红瑶梯田) and Ping’an Zhuang Terraces (平安壮族梯田). The Ping’an Zhuang Terraces are the more well-known and are located in Longji Village (龙脊村), offering the earliest development of these terraces. The terraces stretch from 300 meters to 1100 meters above sea level, with slopes as steep as 50 degrees. Most of the roads to the terraces are winding mountain roads that climb to over 600 meters above sea level, with the terraces themselves reaching an elevation of 880 meters.

Natural Beauty and Conservation

The Longji Rice Terraces are located in the Yuecheng Mountains (越城岭), surrounded by high peaks, isolated from the outside world. The area remains without roads, and the local economy is still largely self-sustaining. The highest peak in Longsheng (龙胜), Fupingbao (福平包), stands at 1916 meters, and its forests remain pristine above 1500 meters. Numerous streams and ample water resources support the lush greenery of the region throughout the year. The wooden stilt houses typical of the area blend harmoniously with the mountains, offering a picturesque, ancient feel. Visitors to Jinkeng will experience a return to nature and simplicity.

Scenic Charm

The terraces of Longji are meticulously arranged, with rich, colorful lines, predominantly curved, which add dynamic beauty. The long, sweeping curves and waves of the terraces resemble ribbons falling from the sky, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Jinkeng Terraces are especially unique, as the terraces follow the mountain shapes, resembling pagodas, or in other places, they form patterns like soaring eagles or the “Seven Stars Accompanying the Moon.” The terraces have a rhythm and harmony that feels almost musical, with an intricate balance between beauty and functionality. The varying levels of the terraces, ranging from steep to more gradual, create a sense of depth and perspective, offering an ever-changing visual experience.

Traditional Culture and Ethnicity

The Longji Rice Terraces are home to the Zhuang (壮族) and Yao (瑶族) people, with the Zhuang as the predominant group. The Zhuang are known for their distinctive clothing and vibrant folk dances, and visitors can enjoy Zhuang mountain songs and immerse themselves in local customs and traditions. The region is also famous for its Longji Copper Drum Dance and the unique food culture, including Longji tea and spicy Longji chili. The Yao people in the Jinkeng area preserve their long-hair traditions, which are celebrated through various performances, including the Yao long hair dance and drum dance.

In the Longji Rice Terraces, the community spirit remains strong. Inhabitants work together to build roads and bridges, help one another in times of need, and maintain a sense of unity and mutual respect. The tradition of “mutual work exchange,” where people help one another without expecting payment, remains prevalent. The culture is founded on deep respect for the elders, and during weddings and funerals, the entire village gathers, with no gifts exchanged in return for the invitation.

Local Legends

A popular local legend tells of a strict landlord who once ordered a farmer to work until 206 fields were completed. After a full day of work, the farmer counted only 205 fields. Discouraged, he was about to leave when he noticed the last field was hidden under his raincoat, which had fallen on the ground. This story is symbolic of the persistence and resilience of the Zhuang and Yao people, who have toiled for generations to cultivate the terraces.

Cultural Significance

The Longji Rice Terraces are a symbol of the agricultural culture of Southern China and represent the strength, artistry, and wisdom of the Longsheng peoples. The terraces are a world-class landscape and are home to six national traditional villages, four ethnic villages, and 35 items of intangible cultural heritage. The terraces are not only an agricultural achievement but also a monumental cultural and artistic legacy.

Development and Protection

In November 2017, the Longji Rice Terraces (along with other southern rice terraces in Fujian, Jiangxi, and Hunan) were tentatively approved for inclusion in the Global Important Agricultural Heritage Systems by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. By April 2018, the terraces officially received the National Important Agricultural Heritage status.

In December 2020, the Longji Rice Terraces were recognized as a National Wetland Park by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration of China. The terraces’ sustainable development model, based on “mountain above, farmland below,” has attracted significant attention and is considered an exemplary model of soil and water conservation in China.

Honors and Recognition

In 2010, the Longji Rice Terraces were upgraded to a National 4A Tourist Attraction.

In 2020, the Longji Rice Terraces were recognized as part of the National Wetland Park program.

The Longji Rice Terraces Protection Regulations were passed by the People’s Congress of Guangxi in April 2024.

Best Time to Visit Longji Rice Terrace

1. Mid-April to middle or late June: At the time, the rice terraces are filled with water for rice planting. You will see hundreds of “water mirrors” with reflections of the blue sky, floating clouds and mountains on the surface.
2. Late September to October: The rice in the terraces is ripen. Visitors can appreciate a sea of golden rice fluttering and dancing in the wind with distinctive layers.
3. July to middle September: The green world will bring you a sense of tranquil that is hard to find in the hustling and bustling city.
4. The festival time is also a good choice to visit Longsheng rice terraces, when visitors can have a lot of fun.

Cole Flower Festival	March to April	Tourists will be amused by the sea of cole flowers.
Spring Plowing Festival	May to June	It’s a good opportunity for photography enthusiasts to shoot beautiful pictures of the rice terraces. Also they can take part in the photo competition to win prizes.
Drying Clothes Festival	The 6th day in 6th lunar calendar	Yao minority people sun clothes on that day. Afterwards, they perform folk dances and songs in the village. Tourists can take this chance to appreciate Yao people’s traditional costume and wonderful performances.
Golden Autumn Cultural Festival	September to October	During the festival, tourists can enjoy folk performances of the Yao Minority and join the campfire party at night.

How To Get There

In peak season, passenger can take direct shuttle bus to get to Ping’an or Dazhai villages in Longji Rice Terraces from Guilin Qintan Coach Station, Guilin North or West Railway Station, taking 2.5 – 3 hours and costing CNY 50 – 60. The depart time is from 8:00 to 15:00 depending on passenger flow.

Passengers can also take a coach from Guilin Qintan Coach Station to Longsheng County, and the depart time is 08:00, 09:10, 11:00, 12:00, 13:10, 14:00, 15:10, 16:10, 17:10 and 18:20, taking about 2 hours. Then take the shuttle bus from Longsheng to Longji Rice Terraces, duration is about an hour, and this bus depart at 07:30, 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:00.

Tips for Visitors

Hiking: Hiking is a popular activity in the Longji Rice Terraces area. When walking through the villages and looking for viewpoints, keep in mind that there are many intersections. Always follow the stone-paved roads. If unsure, feel free to ask the local farmers working along the roads; they are very helpful and will direct you. If hiking seems tiring, you can rent a sedan chair at the entrance for a quicker ride. The locals will carry you up, and they have the right of way on the paths, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost or going the wrong way.

Cultural Performances: Visitors can enjoy performances in the villages, where local ethnic dances and songs are often showcased.

Local Traditions: The locals often help visitors with directions or carry their luggage as part of their customary hospitality.

Accommodation: It is advisable to call ahead to inquire about transport and book a room. You can also arrange for someone from the hotel to pick you up.

Weather: The weather in Longji can change rapidly, so it’s recommended to bring a raincoat and warm clothing.

Best Visiting Time: The best times to visit are about half a month after the 15th of the 4th lunar month (around May), when the terraces begin to be irrigated, and in the period after Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October). Snowfall in Longji is also beautiful, though it is unpredictable. The hottest month is July with an average temperature of 28.3°C, and the coldest is January with an average temperature of 7.9°C.

Best Photography Locations: The Ping’an Seven Stars and Moon (平安七星伴月) viewpoint is especially beautiful for photos. There are also local shops where you can rent traditional ethnic costumes and accessories for a small fee (about 15 RMB per set) to enhance your photos. Bring your own camera.

Transportation: There are three main entrances to the terraces: Ping’an Village (平安村), Longji Village (龙脊村), and Dazhai Village (大寨). Public transport from Guilin (桂林) to each entrance is available, so you can choose the most convenient route.

Scenic Rating and Admission

Rating: National 4A-Level Scenic Area

Ticket Price: 95 RMB

Opening Hours: Open throughout the day

Location: Longsheng County, 77 kilometers from Guilin

Seasonal Highlights

Mid-April to Late June: Rice planting season (water filling and sowing)

July to Early September: Lush green landscapes

Late September to Early November: Golden Longji terraces

Late December to Early February: Snow-covered landscapes (especially in the Jinkeng Terraces)

March: Rapeseed Flowers (油菜花) bloom

The terraces are beautiful throughout the year, but April is especially stunning with water-filled fields, and September offers the most striking golden views.

Special Features of the Scenic Area

International Rural Tourism: Here, you can experience both local rural charm and a sense of international flair.

Friendly Locals: The Zhuang (壮族), Yao (瑶族), and other ethnic groups in the area are always ready to greet visitors with a warm “Hello.”

Volunteer Guides: Anyone aged 10-60 can become a local guide, providing an authentic experience of the area.

Authentic Village Experience: The area offers a genuine ethnic vibe, with wooden stilt houses, ethnic performances, and local culinary delights.

Accommodation: There are ethnic-themed family-run inns in the villages, where you can stay in traditional stilt houses. These homes typically accommodate around 20 people, and you can even cook your meals with local ingredients.

International Appeal: The Longji Rice Terraces attract people from all walks of life, including domestic and international tourists of all skin colors and ethnic backgrounds. It’s a true international rural tourism destination.

Local Cuisine

One of the must-try dishes is Longji Free-Range Chicken (龙脊土鸡), made with mountain spring water. It’s a delicacy you won’t find in cities, priced around 150 RMB per chicken. Other specialties include bamboo rats, wild mountain chickens, mountain turtles, and wild honey. Adventurous tourists may also get a chance to taste edible insects.

Note on Food Pricing:

Dazhai Village: Transportation is inconvenient, and fresh pork is scarce. Meat dishes are more expensive, ranging from 30-65 RMB. Regular dishes are around 20-35 RMB.

Ping’an Village: More accessible, with moderate pricing.

Accommodation Guide

You can stay at Zhongliu Yao Village (中六瑶寨) or between Tiantou Village (田头寨) and Ping’an Village (平安村). There are no dedicated hotels, but you can stay with the Yao people in their homes, which offer a rustic, yet charming experience. The accommodations may be basic, but the prices are reasonable. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons when photography enthusiasts flock to the area.

Ping’an Village offers several rural inns for accommodation.

Shopping Guide

Longji’s Four Treasures

Tea: Longji tea was once a tribute in the Qing Dynasty.

Chili: Known for its strong, unique aroma.

Rice Wine: Called the “Moutai of Longsheng,” it is made from local rice and has a rich, sweet taste.

Fragrant Glutinous Rice: A local specialty used in various traditional dishes.

Ethnic Handicrafts

The area is famous for the Yao (瑶族) people’s handcrafted embroidery, wax printing, and silverware. Many homes sell these beautiful products, including embroidered scarves, flower belts, silver hats, embroidered balls, grass shoes, and hand-stitched insoles. These make perfect souvenirs or gifts. The prices are reasonable, and bargaining is possible, especially for handcrafted items.

Additional Tips

Language

The local dialect is a variant of Guilin Dialect, which can be challenging for newcomers to understand. However, with a little effort, you’ll quickly notice the unique charm and patterns in the language.

Banking

There are no banks within the scenic area, so make sure to bring enough cash.

Healthcare

There are no hospitals within the scenic area. The nearest health center is in Longji Town (龙脊镇), and larger hospitals are in Longsheng County (龙胜县), such as Longsheng People’s Hospital (龙胜县人民医院) and Longsheng Maternal and Child Health Hospital (龙胜县妇幼保健院).

Travel Safety

Rafting: Rafting can be dangerous, so be sure to buy tickets at official points and use the provided life jackets and safety equipment.

Transportation Safety: Be cautious around the train and bus stations as they can be crowded. Keep valuables secure.

The Longji Rice Terraces offer an unforgettable blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and an authentic rural tourism experience. Whether you’re hiking the terraces, enjoying the local food, or shopping for handicrafts, Longji offers something for everyone.

Useful Travel Tips

Admission Fee	CNY 80 covering Ping’an Zhuang Village and Dazhai Yao Village Rice Terraces Children below 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) are free of charge
Ticketing Time	08:30 – 17:30