Private Day Tour: Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village

If you’re planning a trip to Guilin and want to see some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes combined with a taste of local minority culture, a private day tour to the Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village might be just what you’re after. This tour promises a personal touch, expert guides, and plenty of photo-worthy moments—all wrapped into approximately nine hours of natural beauty and cultural discovery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert-guided journey ensures you get rich insights into the local ways of life. Second, the stunning vistas of terraced fields offer unparalleled views that photograph beautifully at any time of day. Third, the opportunity to learn about Yao and Zhuang minorities—including the legendary long-haired women of Huangluo—adds an authentic cultural flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day tour, and the transportation time from Guilin or Yangshuo can be around 1-2 hours each way. If you’re not a fan of long bus rides or early mornings, this might be a consideration. However, for those eager to see the countryside without the hassle of self-planning, this tour offers a smooth, guided experience that suits most travelers looking for a combination of natural beauty and culture.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving scenic landscapes, cultural stories, and personalized attention—perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to explore Guilin’s surroundings.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Personalized attention with a knowledgeable guide enhances the visit.
• Stunning Landscapes: Longji Rice Terraces are among China’s most photogenic sights.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the Yao women’s tradition of long hair and local minority lifestyles.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle, round-trip from Guilin or Yangshuo makes logistics simple.
• Flexible Options: Optional upgrades like cable cars or hikes add adventure and flexibility.
• Authentic Cultural Visit: Visiting Long Hair Village and Ping’an offers genuine glimpses into rural minority life.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Pickup & Departure from Guilin or Yangshuo

Your day begins early, with pickup around 8:30am, either from your Guilin hotel, Guilin airport, or the railway station. If staying in Yangshuo, you’ll depart at the same time, after which a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you out of the city towards the countryside. The drive to Ping’an takes about two hours from Guilin or just over an hour from Yangshuo, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Visit to Huangluo Village: The Long-Haired Women

Your first stop is Huangluo Village, renowned for its Yao women who are famous for their extraordinary hair, some stretching over 6.6 feet (2 meters). This is more than just a photo opp; it’s a chance to learn about their lifestyle and the cultural significance of their hair care traditions. One reviewer mentioned how helpful and friendly the guide, Peter, was in navigating this visit, making the experience smooth and engaging.

Exploring Ping’an Village and the Rice Terraces

Next, you’ll head up to Ping’an Village, nestled among the terraced slopes. The village still features traditional wooden houses and is home to Zhuang and Yao minorities who have farmed these terraces for centuries. During your visit, you can enjoy a traditional lunch (at your own expense) that offers a taste of local cuisine amidst the stunning landscape.

Following lunch, your guide will lead you through the terraces, explaining their history and the clever engineering that allows rice to flourish on these steep slopes. Expect plenty of photo opportunities—the terraces are especially photogenic with water in the fields or golden after harvest. One reviewer commented, “The views were stunning, and I truly enjoyed every moment of the trip,” emphasizing how captivating the scenery can be.

Optional Upgrades & Flexibility

Depending on your interests, you could add optional upgrades like a cable car ride or a shuttle bus to explore more of the terraces with less walking. Some hikers might prefer to venture further on foot or take in additional viewpoints, making this tour adaptable for both leisure and adventure.

Return Journey

Most travelers will leave Ping’an around 3:30 pm if returning to Guilin, arriving back at their hotel or station by 5:30 pm. If you’re in Yangshuo, the trip extends slightly, with departure around 4:30 pm. The comfortable ride back means you can relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

The Value of This Tour

At $100 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the private guide, transportation, and entry to the terraces. While food and drinks aren’t included, the opportunity to enjoy a traditional meal and gain cultural insights makes the cost well worth it.

The inclusion of a private guide means you get tailored attention and plenty of insights—not just a generic group experience. Reviewers praised the guides, especially Peter, for their helpfulness, friendliness, and cultural knowledge, which greatly enhanced the overall experience.

The timing is well-structured, allowing you to see key highlights without feeling rushed. The round-trip transportation from Guilin or Yangshuo simplifies logistics, especially since the drive offers scenic views that are often as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Authentic Experiences and Cultural Insights

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Huangluo Village, home to the women famous for their long hair. As one reviewer mentioned, “The Yao women grow their hair to spectacular lengths, and learning about their lifestyle adds a fascinating layer to the trip.” This isn’t just a quick stop; it’s an opportunity to connect with living traditions that have been preserved for generations.

Similarly, Ping’an Village offers a glimpse into rural life, with traditional wooden houses dotting the hillside and terraced fields stretching into the horizon. The terraces themselves are an extraordinary feat of labor and ingenuity, carved into the mountains over centuries. The story behind their creation is compelling and lends a deeper appreciation for the landscape.

The Scenic Wonder of the Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces are the real star of this tour. Their intricate, stepped design creates a stunning visual that’s especially striking when the fields are flooded or golden after harvest. Reviewers highlighted how the landscape changes with the seasons—water-filled terraces reflect the sky, while dry, golden terraces exude a warm glow.

Photographers will love the variety of angles and perspectives available throughout the walk. One reviewer described the landscape as “absolutely fantastic,” with “beautiful scenery that invites you to unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.” The terraces aren’t just a sight to see—they’re a place to feel connected with the land and the centuries-old farming traditions.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

The private transportation included is a major plus—air-conditioned vehicles that pick you up from convenient locations, ensuring a hassle-free day. The timing, with a 8:30 am pickup, allows for a full day of exploration without feeling overly rushed. The journey from Guilin or Yangshuo is comfortable, and the return is well-timed to avoid late-night travel.

The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate. This allows for a more relaxed pace and personalized interaction with your guide. The admission tickets to the terraces and the village are included if you select the guided options, adding ease and transparency to the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for culture and landscape lovers who want a comprehensive, guided experience. It’s a good fit for first-time visitors wanting to avoid the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning scenery, while those interested in minority cultures will find the visit to Huangluo Village especially enriching.

It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with flexible options, as upgrades like cable cars or additional hikes can be tailored to your interest level. If you want a full-day, curated experience of one of China’s most iconic rural landscapes, this tour offers great value.

The Sum Up

This private day tour to the Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village offers a well-rounded blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and comfort. Guided by knowledgeable locals like Peter, you’ll enjoy seamless logistics, insightful commentary, and unforgettable vistas. The inclusion of authentic cultural stops, such as Huangluo Village, adds depth that many other tours lack.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see and learn about one of China’s most iconic landscapes while supporting local minority communities. Whether you’re a photographer, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking peaceful scenic views, this tour delivers a memorable experience that’s worth every penny.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Your guide will pick you up at 8:30 am from your Guilin or Yangshuo hotel, airport, or railway station, so aim to be ready a little earlier just in case.

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a private air-conditioned vehicle for round-trip travel, making logistics easy and comfortable.

Are entrance tickets included?
If you select the guided tour option, yes, the Longji terraces ticket and access to Long Hair Village are included. Check with your booking if you’re unsure.

Can I customize the tour or add extra activities?
Optional upgrades such as cable car rides or additional hikes are available, providing flexibility based on your preferences.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some snacks or water for the day are recommended. Lunch is at your own expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Consider your child’s comfort with walking and outdoor environments.

This detailed exploration should give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village tour. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of Guilin’s most captivating scenery and authentic cultural traditions—all with the ease of guided, private transportation.