Guilin Longji: Rice Terrace with Oil Tea Demo & Zhuang Lunch

Planning a day trip from Guilin that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and authentic local flavors? This tour offers a compelling blend of all three, giving travelers the chance to explore beyond the usual sights and dive into the traditions of China’s minority communities. We’ve reviewed a popular, highly-rated experience that takes you into the heart of Longji’s rice terraces, immerses you in Zhuang culture, and even invites you to craft your own oil tea—a true hands-on adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it combines multiple layers of experience: the peaceful charm of a traditional village, an engaging workshop that demystifies local cuisine, and spectacular panoramic views that are genuinely breathtaking. Plus, the flexible options to hike or take a cable car up to the terraces mean you can tailor it to your energy and interest levels.

One thing to consider might be the timing—if you visit between early November and late March, expect to see the mirror terraces filled with water instead of golden crops, which offers a different kind of beauty. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy cultural learning, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed pace. If you’re after strenuous hikes or accessible routes for wheelchairs, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with visits to ancient Zhuang villages and museums
• Interactive workshop making traditional oil tea with local ingredients
• Delicious local lunch with stunning terrace views
• Picturesque viewpoints overlooking the Longji rice terraces
• Flexible options for hiking or taking a cable car to viewpoints
• Full-day experience with convenient pickup and drop-off in Guilin

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Scenic Drive into Longsheng County

The day begins with a comfortable two-hour drive from Guilin, offering glimpses of China’s countryside—bamboo groves, patchworks of rice paddies, and quiet rural roads. This part of the journey sets the tone, as you quickly realize that the landscapes here are more than just pretty—they’re a testament to centuries of farming ingenuity. Your guide will fill you in on the stories of the Zhuang and Yao minorities, who have cultivated these mountains for generations.

Exploring Guzhuang Village: A Glimpse of Village Life

Guzhuang Village often remains under the radar compared to the more touristy Ping’an, but that’s what makes it special. Here, you can stroll along stone paths lined with wooden houses that have over 100 years of history. The local museum showcases traditional costumes, weaving tools, musical instruments, and artifacts passed down through families. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for getting a sense of what daily life looks like for mountain villagers.

A reviewer mentioned that their guide, Town, was “very attentive and patient,” which highlights how small-group tours tend to foster more meaningful interactions, especially in these lesser-visited villages. This stop offers a chance to see authentic mountain life away from crowds and learn about the migration stories and cultural customs of the Zhuang people.

Making Your Own Longji Oil Tea

Next is the hands-on part—an oil tea workshop at Ping’an Village. Here, you’ll roast peanuts and soybeans, grind ingredients, and mix them with fragrant tea to create what’s called “Longji oil tea.” It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of local hospitality and tradition. The review praises this activity as “the most fun part of the day,” emphasizing how interactive and flavorful the experience is.

This involves a bit of effort, but it’s rewarding to craft something that’s deeply rooted in local customs. Plus, tasting your homemade oil tea afterward makes the experience even more memorable. This workshop not only offers insight into local ingredients and culinary techniques but also provides a tangible souvenir of the day.

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Enjoying a Traditional Zhuang Lunch

The meal afterward is a hearty, homemade affair served in a mountain village with stunning terrace views. Expect dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, prepared with generous hospitality. It is a good opportunity to relax, refuel, and take in the surroundings. One reviewer raved about the “authentic local dishes,” noting that the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the food made the experience a highlight.

The Iconic Longji Rice Terraces – Views That Leave You Breathless

The tour’s centerpiece is the panoramic terrace viewpoint, where you can either hike uphill for about 30-40 minutes or take a scenic cable car. The views are spectacular: cascading rice terraces carved into the mountainside, shimmering in different shades depending on the season and lighting.

Even when the rice has been harvested, the terraces can reflect the sky like giant mirrors, a “stunning mirror effect” that one visitor described. These terraces symbolize centuries of agricultural resilience and are a photographer’s dream. The flexibility to hike or take the cable car ensures travelers of different fitness levels can enjoy the vistas comfortably.

Flexibility and Comfort

The tour’s duration is approximately 9 to 10 hours, with pickup and drop-off included in Guilin. This makes it convenient for those staying nearby or with limited time. The private group format also means you’ll get a more personalized experience, with the guide able to adapt to your interests—whether that’s spending more time at viewpoints or exploring the villages.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with scenic views en route.
• Timing: Multiple start times are available, and you can request an earlier or later start if needed.
• Physical activity: Some walking involved; comfortable shoes recommended.
• Seasonality: Visiting between November and March offers different scenery—mirror terraces—so be aware of what you want to see.
• Language options: Tours are available in several languages, including English, Russian, Spanish, French, Japanese, and Korean.

What Reviewers Say

The sole review, from a traveler in the UK, highlights the stunning scenery even after the harvest when the rice isn’t golden, and praises the guide Town for sharing a lot about Zhuang culture. They enjoyed making oil tea the most, describing it as “fun,” and appreciated the authentic local dishes. This feedback shows that the tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines learning, activity, and relaxation.

This tour is excellent for travelers seeking a cultural experience with scenic rewards. It suits those who are interested in traditional Chinese minority cultures and want to see iconic landscapes without strenuous trekking. The mix of activities—villages, workshops, viewpoints—makes it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and photography.

However, it’s less suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, given the walking involved and uneven village paths. The full-day nature means it’s best for travelers with a general good level of fitness and patience for a relaxed pace.

This Guilin Longji Rice Terrace tour offers a thoughtful blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery. The value lies in its small-group setting, authentic village visits, and the chance to make your own traditional oil tea—adding a personal touch to your travel memories.

From panoramic views that stretch for miles to intimate encounters with minority communities, it’s a chance to see a side of China that often escapes mass tourism. The experience balances guided insight with enough flexibility to enjoy at your own pace, making it a worthwhile addition to your Guilin itinerary.

Whether you’re a landscape lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply craving an authentic taste of mountain life, this tour checks many boxes. Just bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and curiosity—you’re in for a rewarding day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel, activities, and meals, making it a full but manageable day trip from Guilin.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from anywhere in Guilin, with a comfortable vehicle provided for the scenic drive and return.

Can I choose to hike or take the cable car?
Absolutely. You can hike uphill for about 30-40 minutes or opt for the cable car to reach the terrace viewpoint, based on your preference and energy level.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because of some walking involved in village paths and trails. Dress appropriately for the weather—layers work well, especially if visiting during cooler months.

What will I learn from the guide?
Your guide will share insights about the Zhuang and Yao minorities’ culture, history, and daily life, making the visit more meaningful than just sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activities are generally suitable for families, especially those with children who enjoy outdoor exploration and hands-on experiences. However, the walking and hiking should be considered for younger or less mobile children.

Can I stay overnight in the Longji area?
Yes, after the tour, you can be dropped off at your hotel if you plan to stay longer and explore more of the rice terraces at your leisure.

This tour offers a genuine and memorable way to explore the beauty and culture of Longji’s rice terraces, perfect for those who want to experience more than just a quick look.

You can check availability for your dates here: