Mini Group: Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour

Taking a trip to China isn’t complete without experiencing the iconic Longji Rice Terraces—and this guided tour from Guilin makes it as accessible and rewarding as possible. The Mini Group: Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and hassle-free logistics, all packed into a manageable 8-hour day.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group size—limited to just 10 people—which ensures plenty of personal attention and space for questions. Second, the insights from knowledgeable guides who bring the scenery and local customs to life. Third, the delicious, authentic local lunch, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. One consideration? The drive up the mountain can be long and winding, so it might not be ideal if you’re prone to car sickness or dislike mountain roads.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of Guilin’s stunning landscapes and diverse ethnic cultures without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, cultural stories, and photo-worthy vistas.

Key Points:

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• Insightful guides enhance understanding of local culture and history.
• Stunning scenery of rice terraces and mountain viewpoints.
• Authentic lunch served at local farms or villages.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Accessible for most travelers, with a mix of walking and scenic drives.

Discovering the Longji Rice Terraces

Our journey begins early—around 8 am with hotel pickup. The tour is designed for intimate groups of no more than 10, which means less chaos and more opportunity to ask questions and capture photos. The highlight here is the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, which are an architectural marvel. The local Zhuang and Yao people have been farming these terraces for over 800 years, carving the mountain slopes into shimmering, layered mosaics.

Traveling from Guilin, the drive to Longsheng county takes about three hours, but it’s part of what makes this trip worthwhile. The scenery on the way is compelling, with lush greenery and rugged mountain vistas that keep your camera busy. Once at the terraces, the panoramic views are spectacular, with the highest altitude of the villages around 1,300 meters.

Travelers consistently mention how the terrain and history make the terraces feel almost alive, as if they’ve been grown and shaped by generations of farmers. Matthias_W, a reviewer, shared how the guide Lily was “very friendly and helpful,” and how the landscape was “amazing.” Lily’s deep knowledge about the area’s history and cultural significance adds depth to the experience, transforming simple sightseeing into a meaningful journey.

Exploring Ethnic Minority Villages

Next, the tour takes you to Ancient Zhuang Village—the birthplace of the Zhuang people’s terraced farming. Here, you get a glimpse of traditional rural life, with some local homes still actively farming. The village’s originality and preserved architecture let you imagine how life has been for centuries.

The tour also includes a hike from Guzhuang Village to Ping’an Village, which is perfect for those who want a more active experience. The walk offers a different perspective of the rice terraces, with many reviewers noting how the trail is scenic and well worth the effort. If walking isn’t your thing, you’ll appreciate that the guide can recommend alternative options, such as taking a cable car for easier access.

Lunch and Cultural Encounters

A highlight of the tour is the authentic lunch, provided at a local farmers’ house or restaurant. Reviewers rave about how much better the food is compared to typical organized tour fare, with delicious dishes that include bamboo rice, meats, and vegetables. Stacey, for example, called the meal a “tasty” highlight, appreciating the attention to local flavors.

After lunch, the group visits Ping’an Village, the most famous mountain village in Longji. The Seven Star with Moon viewpoint provides a stunning backdrop for photos, and the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers viewpoint is often described as the most breathtaking spot—a perfect culmination point for your day.

Cultural Highlights: The Yao Ladies and Local Customs

One of the most memorable parts, according to reviews, is the visit to meet an old Yao woman with long hair, dressed in vivid red. Her story about the long hair culture—where women are only allowed to cut their hair twice in their lifetime—is a fascinating insight into local customs. Reviewers like Jeanine_S noted how this encounter offers a rare glimpse into the Yao people’s unique traditions.

However, some visitors mention that the market stalls and souvenir sellers outside the cultural performance can be overly persistent, which is worth keeping in mind if you wish to avoid that pressure.

Viewpoints and Photo Opportunities

The tour’s highlight viewpoint, called Nine Dragons and Five Tigers, offers a breathtaking view of the terraced fields winding down the mountainsides. Many guests, like Stacey, describe it as “spectacular” and a perfect spot for photos. The dramatic landscape changes with the seasons, but the overall visual impact remains impressive year-round.

Travelers also enjoy a stop for a tea or refreshment break on the way back, adding a relaxing end to an active day. The entire trip wraps up with a drive back to Guilin or Yangshuo, arriving around 6 pm.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Transportation and Flexibility: With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you won’t need to worry about transport logistics. The journey involves a rough but scenic mountain drive, so if you have a sensitive stomach or bad back, consider this beforehand. The shuttle bus fee for access to certain viewpoints is included, which makes managing restrictions easier.

Group Size and Guide: The max of 10 travelers ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides are notably praised for their excellent English and local knowledge. Multiple reviews mention guides like Lily, Hill, and Mr. Jianng as being friendly, informative, and helpful, making the experience more engaging.

Duration and Pace: The 8-hour schedule balances sightseeing with enough time for photography, cultural stops, and a leisurely lunch. Expect some walking, especially on the hike from Guzhuang to Ping’an, but alternatives like cable cars can ease this.

Cost and Value: At $158 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the full-day included transportation, guide, entrance fees, and authentic meal. Many reviewers feel this offers good value, especially given the small group setting and rich experience.

Reviews Echoing the Experience

The overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 reflects strong satisfaction. Guests like Matthias_W appreciated the “fantastic day”, highlighting the friendly guide Lily and delicious bamboo rice. Others like Al3x called it “one of the best tours in China,” praising the high-quality guide and scenic beauty.

Some travelers warned about long drives or rough mountain roads, but most agree that the views and cultural insights outweigh the inconvenience. Stacey summed it up as “a day of delights”, with “spectacular” rice fields and friendly local people.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Guilin’s iconic rice terraces and vibrant minority villages. The small group size and expert guides mean you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who want depth over speed. The included lunch and cultural encounters add authenticity and flavor, letting you truly connect with local life.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply after breathtaking scenery, this trip delivers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a comfortable pace, meaningful insight, and genuine local experiences.

If you want to see the best of Longji in one day, enjoy good company, and learn about the area’s fascinating traditions, this tour is a smart choice. Just be prepared for some mountain driving and a full, active day that leaves you with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

FAQ

How early do I need to book?
On average, this tour is booked about 28 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Guilin or Yangshuo hotels are part of the package, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to hike or walk around viewpoints. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring some water.

Can I customize my experience?
While the tour follows a set itinerary, guides like Lily or Hill are known for being knowledgeable and accommodating, so don’t hesitate to ask about options like cable car rides or extra photos.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Guilin to Longsheng takes approximately three hours one way, so expect around six hours of total driving plus sightseeing.

Are meals vegetarian options available?
The included lunch features local dishes like bamboo rice and vegetables, so vegetarians should have no trouble enjoying the meal.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers with children found the pace manageable, especially with the option to take a cable car. However, be aware that some walking is involved, and mountain roads can be bumpy.

This guided trip to Longji’s rice terraces offers a genuine and beautifully curated experience, perfect for those wanting a meaningful glimpse into China’s rural charm and ethnic diversity.