Longji Rice Terraces All In One Dazhai and Pingan Villages Tour

This comprehensive tour of the Longji Rice Terraces offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxed travel. While it’s a full day on the move, the carefully curated itinerary ensures a rich experience that’s manageable even for those short on time.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning scenery of the terraces—like winding dragons carved into the mountainside—never fails to impress. Second, the knowledgeable guides keep the experience engaging, sharing insights about local minority cultures. Third, the convenient private transportation makes the day smooth and stress-free.

One aspect to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you may want to budget extra time and money for a local meal. This tour suits travelers who want to see the most iconic rice terraces without sacrificing comfort or rushing, making it ideal for those with limited time or first-timers eager for a well-rounded introduction to Guilin’s landscapes.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combines Dazhai and Pingan Rice Terraces in one day
• Private, air-conditioned transport ensures comfort and flexibility
• Scenic cable car ride offers stunning views without strenuous hikes
• Authentic village visits provide cultural insights and local food options
• Expert guides enhance understanding of the landscape and traditions
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds up to 24 hours prior

The Beauty of Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces, often called the “Dragon’s Backbone,” are a marvel of ancient engineering and natural artistry. The terraces wind across the mountainsides, creating a mesmerizing pattern that changes with the seasons—lush green in spring and summer, golden in harvest time, and snow-dusted in winter. This tour showcases their two most celebrated areas: Dazhai and Pingan.

The Dazhai Rice Terraces are famous for their impressive cable car system, which provides a relaxed and scenic way to ascend to the viewing platforms. For those who prefer a break from walking, this transportation method offers a comfortable peek at the landscape’s vastness. The reviews mention the cable car as “relaxed on” and a highlight for the views it provides.

Meanwhile, Pingan Village offers a closer look at the iconic “Dragon’s Backbone” terraces, with a round-trip golf cart ride from the base to the top. The viewpoint called Nine Dragons and Five Tigers delivers a perfect bird’s-eye view, with the terraces snaking along the mountains like a giant, intricate puzzle.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Drive

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am in Guilin, where your private driver-guide greets you in an air-conditioned vehicle. This setup ensures a comfortable start, removing the stress of navigating public transport or confusing group tours. The drive to Longji takes around an hour or more, depending on traffic, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Dazhai Rice Terraces

The first stop is Dazhai, renowned for its stunning terrace landscapes and the cable car journey that connects visitors to the viewing platforms. The cable car takes approximately half an hour, during which you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of terraced fields carved into the mountains. The experience is ideal for those who want stunning scenery without heavy physical exertion.

Reviewers have noted the cable car as a “very scenic way to discovery this area,” and the ease of access makes it perfect for travelers of varying fitness levels. This part of the tour also provides an opportunity to take photos of the terraces from different angles and appreciate the scale of the craftsmanship involved.

Pingan Village and the “Dragon’s Backbone”

Next, the tour moves to Pingan Village, often praised for its spectacular terraces—especially during different seasons when the rice paddies change color. Here, you’ll take a roundtrip golf cart from the village base to the scenic viewpoints called Nine Dragons and Five Tigers.

According to reviews, the views from these points give a “bird’s-eye” perspective and are considered the best spots to admire the terraced fields. The name “Nine Dragons” refers to the nine ridges that resemble dragons stretching across the landscape, while the “Five Tigers” are uniquely shaped rocks that add to the enchanting scenery.

At this stage, you can soak in the peaceful village atmosphere, observe traditional architecture, and perhaps buy some local handicrafts. It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn about the rice farming culture and the efforts of minority groups living here.

Lunch and Optional Activities

While the tour does not include lunch, the guides usually recommend local eateries in the village. You might find options like bamboo rice, bamboo chicken, and smoked pork—dishes that give you a taste of regional flavors. Reviewers have enjoyed this part, noting that local food adds to the authentic experience.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Guilin, arriving around late afternoon. Since it’s a private tour, your schedule remains flexible, and you can ask your guide for additional recommendations or stops en route.

Transportation and Comfort

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide. This means you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting for buses, making your experience smooth and personalized.

The tour also offers the option for pick-up from hotels outside Guilin, like Yangshuo or Xingping, but with an additional fee ($70 USD). This flexibility extends the tour’s accessibility but requires planning ahead.

Cost and Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package: transportation, entrance fees, and exclusive access to the key scenic spots. When you consider the convenience, the guided insights, and the scenic cable car ride, it’s a good value—especially for first-time visitors wanting an immersive experience without the hassle of self-organizing.

What’s Not Included

Extras like the cable car (100 yuan) and golf cart (50 yuan) are additional costs, though reviewers often find them worth the expense for the views and comfort they offer. Keep in mind, meals are not included, so budgeting for lunch is advisable.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Visitors

Two reviews stand out for their honest insights. Flora_Y describes the experience as “very excellence,” highlighting the professional knowledge of the guide and the beauty of the scenery. She notes that the guide’s expertise added depth to the trip, making it more than just sightseeing.

LUCIA_F appreciated the quiet, off-season atmosphere, mentioning that they were the only two travelers with their guide, Li. She praised Li’s conversation skills and knowledge, which made the experience even more enriching. This suggests that outside peak seasons, the tour can offer a more intimate and relaxed vibe.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want to see both Dazhai and Pingan in one day without rushing. It’s ideal for those who appreciate sweeping views, cultural insight, and comfort. The private vehicle and guided approach make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a tailored experience.

However, those craving extensive hikes or culture in local villages should note that some parts of the tour involve limited walking and are designed for scenic appreciation rather than strenuous activity.

The Sum Up

This Longji Rice Terraces all-in-one tour strikes a thoughtful balance between scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and comfort. The private transport ensures you avoid the chaos of public options, while the cable car and viewpoints provide spectacular photo opportunities.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights, and the stunning vistas that change with the seasons. It’s a well-priced option that captures the essence of Guilin’s iconic rice terraces in just a day—perfect for travelers short on time but wanting maximum impact.

If you’re after a hassle-free, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to understand the beauty and culture behind China’s legendary rice terraces.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 9:00 am in Guilin, making it easy to plan your day.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour with only your group participating, allowing for a relaxed, personalized experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide is included for the entire day.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance fee to Longji Rice Terraces is included, but optional activities like the cable car (100 yuan) and golf cart (50 yuan) are extra.

Can I join this tour from hotels outside Guilin?
Yes, pickups from Yangshuo or Xingping are possible for an additional USD 70.

What about meals?
Meals are not included, but local dining options are available in Pingan Village, and reviewers recommend trying regional dishes.

How long is the drive from Guilin?
It typically takes about an hour or more, depending on traffic, with comfortable private transport.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the inclusion of cable car rides and golf carts makes it accessible for most, though some walking around viewpoints may be involved.

What’s the best time to see the terraces?
While the review mentions an off-season visit, the terraces are beautiful year-round, with particular charm during planting and harvest seasons.

What makes this tour special compared to other options?
The combination of two key scenic areas, private transport, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a comprehensive and stress-free way to experience Longji.

In summary, this tour offers a carefully curated glimpse into one of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. With a focus on comfort, authenticity, and scenic highlights, it’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable day without the hassle. Expect stunning views, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace that makes the magic of the rice terraces truly come alive.