Guilin Tea plantation and Longji Rice Terraces Day Tour from Guilin hotel

Taking a day trip from Guilin to explore the tea plantations and Longji Rice Terraces offers a fantastic blend of nature, culture, and authentic local life. This particular tour, offered by happychinatours, has quickly gained a reputation for being well-organized, intimate, and full of captivating sights. With a perfectly balanced itinerary, it’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of this stunning region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, sharing stories about tea production and local minority cultures in an engaging way. Second, the spectacular views of terraced fields and traditional villages provide prime photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. Third, the combination of cultural experiences and scenic landscapes makes it feel like a well-rounded day out.

A potential consideration? The journey from Guilin to Longji can take approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your starting point, so it’s a longer day on the road. That said, most travelers find the trip worthwhile for the scenery and cultural insights.

This experience is best suited for those eager to see iconic rice terraces, interested in traditional Chinese tea culture, and seeking a personalized, small-group vibe. If you love nature, photography, and learning about local minorities, this tour offers a very authentic snapshot of the Guilin area.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour enhances the experience with personalized attention and local insights.
• Scenic drives through Guilin’s countryside lead to some of China’s most picturesque landscapes.
• Visit to the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute offers a hands-on taste of Chinese tea culture.
• Longji Rice Terraces provide a stunning backdrop and a chance to understand centuries-old farming techniques.
• Cultural stops at Huangluo Yao Village and Ping’an Village immerse travelers in local minority traditions.
• Convenient pickup from your hotel streamlines the journey and maximizes your sightseeing time.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itself

Starting Strong: Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute

Your day begins at 8:30am with a pickup at your hotel—an easy, stress-free start. The first stop is the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute, about 10 km from the city center. Here, the focus is on Chinese tea culture, which the guides bring to life with tea performances and detailed explanations of tea picking and processing.

The staff’s expertise shines through as they demonstrate how to pick tea leaves correctly and explain the different types of tea. A highlight is the tea tasting session, which allows you to appreciate the nuanced flavors of local varieties. Reviewers mention how engaging and professional the guides are, with one saying, “He responded individually to my needs, responded in both English and Chinese, and made the experience super organized.” It’s a peaceful, sensory experience that offers a welcome cultural break before heading into the countryside.

Journey to Longji: The Rice Terraces

After about an hour at the tea institute, the adventure continues with a scenic drive toward the Longji Rice Terraces. Depending on your starting point—Ping’an village, Yangshuo, or Xingping—the drive can range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, covering approximately 100 to 180 km. The roads wind through lush rural landscapes, with views that are a feast for the eyes.

The ticketing process happens at the Longji ticket office, where a 15-minute stop lets you purchase entrance tickets. From there, the vehicle takes you to either Ping’an or Dazhai villages, where most of the stunning rice terraces are located.

Exploring the Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces are undoubtedly the highlight. Carved into the hillsides over centuries, these terraces are also called the “Dragon Backbones” because of their zigzagging, scale-like appearance. The three-hour visit allows ample time to walk along the terraces, soak in the panoramic views, and learn from your guide how local farmers have cultivated these fields for generations.

One reviewer notes, “The landscape is breathtaking, and you can see the careful craftsmanship that went into creating these terraces over hundreds of years.” As you ascend, you’ll notice the layers of greenery—rice in the growing season, interspersed with patches of bamboo and small farmhouses. The terraces are at their most vibrant during planting or harvest seasons, but even off-season, they maintain a tranquil beauty.

Visiting Ping’an Village and Huangluo Yao Village

Your next stop is the famous Ping’an Village, perched among the rice terraces. Here, you’ll find traditional wooden houses and a chance to witness minority cultures firsthand. Don’t miss the nearby Huangluo Yao Village, home to women with some of the longest hair in the world—some stretching to 6.6 feet (2 meters).

Understanding the Yao minorities’ way of life adds depth to the experience. The guide shares stories about their customs and living traditions, enriching your visit. Many travelers find the contrast between the vibrant minority culture and the lush landscape fascinating.

Lunch and Relaxation

A highlight for many is the traditional lunch in Ping’an, which is usually at your own expense. Locally prepared dishes, often featuring rice, vegetables, and meats, give a real taste of regional cuisine. Afterward, the group often takes a leisurely walk through the terraces or relax, appreciating the quiet beauty.

Returning to Guilin

Most travelers return in the late afternoon, ending a day packed with scenic vistas, cultural insights, and memorable moments. The private car and driver ensure comfort on the way back, leaving you to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Personal Attention

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and responsiveness. One mentioned how the guide tailored explanations to their language needs and responded to individual interests, making the whole day more meaningful.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

Visiting Huangluo Yao Village and Ping’an Village offers genuine interactions with local minorities, adding depth beyond just sightseeing. These stops are not commercialized but focus on traditions that have persisted for centuries.

Stunning Photography Opportunities

Whether it’s the terraced fields at sunrise or sunset or the long-haired Yao women, the scenery is picture-perfect. The tour offers plenty of time to capture these iconic views without feeling rushed.

Value for the Cost

At $178.02 per person, the tour includes main entrance tickets and private transport, which makes it quite good value considering the personalized experience and diverse sights. The small-group setting, often with just your party, makes for a more intimate day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your camera: The scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll want to capture the landscapes and cultural details.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Walking along terraces and village pathways can be uneven.
• Prepare for the weather: The region can be misty or sunny, so layered clothing and rain gear might come in handy.
• Bring cash: For optional purchases and the lunch (if not included).
• Be mindful of the drive: It’s a longer day on the road, so pack snacks or water for comfort.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and expert guidance—everything most travelers seek in a Guilin excursion. The ability to visit both traditional rice terraces and local minority villages makes it especially appealing for those wanting an authentic experience.

If you’re after stunning landscapes, meaningful cultural encounters, and a hassle-free day with personalized attention, this tour hits many marks. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops ensure you won’t just see the scenery—you’ll understand and appreciate it.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, be prepared for a fair amount of walking and driving. Because of the longer journey time, it’s best suited for those with a full day to spare and a keen interest in rural China’s traditions and landscapes.

In all, this is a solid choice for travelers eager for a genuine, photo-worthy, and culturally enriching day out from Guilin.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from Guilin hotels, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long is the journey from Guilin to Longji? The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours from Guilin to Ping’an, but it can be longer depending on your starting point—up to 2.5 hours from Xingping.

Are tickets included in the price? Yes, the main entrance tickets for the rice terraces and villages are included in the tour price.

What is the group size? It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to choose local dishes you prefer.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, guides are often flexible and responsive to your interests, but major changes should be discussed beforehand.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the terraces and villages.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers find it kid-friendly, but be mindful of walking distances and uneven terrain.

This tour provides a balanced look at Guilin’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture, making it a memorable choice for anyone eager to see China’s stunning rural landscapes firsthand.