Private Day Tour to Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village from Guilin

If you’re looking to experience some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes combined with unique cultural sights, the Private Day Tour to Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village from Guilin offers a compelling option. While the tour is priced at $148 per person, it promises a full-day adventure that packs in scenic vistas, cultural storytelling, and flexible exploration options.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who helps you grasp the history behind the rice terraces and the traditions of the local minority groups. Second, the scenic views of the rice terraces are truly impressive, with opportunities for stunning photos from different angles. Lastly, the experience includes private transportation and the convenience of optional cable car rides, which save your energy for the scenery — not the climb.

Of course, the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. It’s on the pricier side, and some travelers may find it less of a value if they’re not particularly interested in cultural sites or scenic photography. Still, if you’re after a personalized, comfortable way to see Longji’s highlights, this tour suits those who want depth over speed and are happy to pay a premium for quality service.

<h3 id="section-0">Who should consider this tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a private, guided day trip that balances cultural insights with natural beauty. It’s ideal for those who appreciate comfortable transportation, flexible options like cable cars or hikes, and a small group environment. If you love photography or want to understand minority cultures, this tour ticks those boxes.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour with an experienced English-speaking guide ensures personalized attention.
• Flexible exploration options include scenic cable car rides or leisurely hikes around rice terraces.
• Cultural highlights like Huangluo Long Hair Village add depth and authenticity.
• The scenic rice terraces provide stunning photo opportunities, especially from multiple viewpoints.
• The tour offers all-inclusive convenience: entrance fees, lunch, private transportation, and optional cable cars.
• Cost versus value might be a consideration for budget travelers, but many find the experience worth the price.

In-Depth Review of the Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village Tour

Starting Point: Guilin Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day begins early with a hotel pickup in Guilin, a convenience that simplifies logistics after a long journey or a busy morning. The private, air-conditioned vehicle offers a comfortable ride through Guangxi’s lush landscapes, with the journey to Longji taking about 2 hours. During this drive, you’ll get a first glimpse of the rural scenery—terraced fields snaking up mountainsides, patchworks of green, and occasional traditional villages.

Traveling in a private vehicle means fewer stops and a tailored pace, so you can relax and enjoy the changing scenery. Many reviews highlight how smooth this transfer is, making the day less about logistics and more about soaking in views.

Longji Rice Terraces: The Heart of the Experience

Your first stop is the Longji Rice Terraces — often called the “Dragon’s Backbone,” a name that captures their intricate, undulating beauty. Built over centuries, these terraces date back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), and their construction through the Yuan and Qing Dynasties makes them a marvel of agricultural ingenuity.

You’ll visit the main viewing areas: Pingan Zhuang Village and Jinkeng, where the terraces are at their most impressive. The viewing spots are designed for photos, with expansive views that showcase the terraces’ winding patterns—perfect for snapping that Instagram-worthy shot. Reviewers mention being able to take photos from multiple locations, which helps capture the scale and detail of this UNESCO-listed landscape.

Cultural Encounter at Huangluo Long Hair Village

Next, your journey takes you to Huangluo Long Hair Village, home to the Yao minority, famous for their incredibly long hair. The women here have kept their long hair for generations—often reaching waist-length or longer—as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. You’ll be treated to a traditional long hair show, where local women demonstrate their hair care routines, offering a rare insight into cultural traditions that have persisted for centuries.

Guests describe Huangluo as “a peaceful, authentic village,” with the long hair show adding a special cultural flavor. The village itself is picturesque, with red embroidered dresses and traditional wooden houses that give you a sense of stepping back in time.

Lunch and Discussion About Your Interests

Lunch is included in the local village, often a simple but delicious affair featuring regional dishes. Reviewers praise the meal, mentioning how tasty and plentiful it is—an important aspect after a morning of sightseeing.

Post-lunch, you’ll discuss your interests with your guide, deciding whether to explore Dazhai or Ping’an Rice Terraces further. This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your day, whether you prefer an easy walk, a cable car ride, or more time in the rice fields.

Dazhai and the Golden Buddha Peak Cable Car Experience

If you opt for Dazhai, you’ll travel approximately 40 minutes by vehicle to a different part of the terraces, where three viewpoints—Music from Paradise, Thousand Layers to the Heavens, and Golden Buddha Peak—offer iconic vistas. Here, the cable car ride (about 20 minutes round-trip) provides a breathtaking aerial view of the terraced landscape, making the ascent effortless.

Many reviewers rave about the cable car ride, noting that it offers “amazing views of the No 3 sightseeing zone,” and makes photo-taking even easier. Once at the top, a gentle walk around the viewpoints allows for more snapshots and appreciation of the terraced scale.

Ping’an Village: Smaller but Equally Beautiful

The alternative is visiting Ping’an Village, which is smaller but renowned for its well-preserved terraced fields. Hikers and photographers love it for its “dragon’s spine” scenery, with viewpoints at West Hill Music and the Large-Scale Thousand-Layer Terraces. The walk here takes about 2 hours, and reviewers mention that it’s a peaceful, beautiful spot for wandering and taking photos.

Final Remarks on Exploration Options

Both Dazhai and Ping’an offer fantastic views but differ in scale and activity level. Dazhai’s cable car ride is a highlight, while Ping’an’s charm lies in its more intimate, hikeable scenery. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a more relaxed, scenic ride or a hiking adventure in a smaller village.

Tour Flexibility and Drop-off Options

After exploring, you have the choice to end the tour either in Longsheng or return to Guilin, offering flexibility based on your itinerary. Many travelers appreciate the ability to customize the day and avoid unnecessary travel back to Guilin if convenient.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Emily, for example, received high marks for her professionalism and excellent English, making the experience more engaging and informative. One traveler remarked, “Emily is a bubbly, intelligent guide whose English is extremely good,” which underscores how valuable a good guide can be.

The scenery is highlighted repeatedly as a standout feature. “The show at the cultural village was excellent,” one reviewer wrote, emphasizing the lively cultural element alongside the natural beauty. Many appreciate the photo opportunities—from terraces and viewpoints to village streets, the day is packed with Instagram moments.

While some reviewers mention that the tour is expensive, they also agree that the service level and personalized experience justify the cost. The private vehicle, flexible options, and insider knowledge make it a premium experience, especially compared to group tours or self-guided visits.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day with a focus on scenic beauty and cultural richness. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy photography, learning about minority cultures, and comfort — the private transportation and flexible itinerary are a big plus.

If you’re on a budget, you might find cheaper options, but many say the quality of guides, private transport, and included activities make this a worthwhile splurge. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and customizable experiences rather than rushing through multiple sites with large groups.

Overall, it offers a well-rounded taste of Guilin’s stunning landscapes and local traditions, delivered with professionalism and a touch of personal charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers English-speaking guide, entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, and cable car rides if you choose that option.

Can I choose to visit either Dazhai or Ping’an?
Yes, during the tour, you can discuss your interests with your guide to decide whether to explore Dazhai with the cable car or spend more time hiking around Ping’an Village.

How long does the drive from Guilin to Longji take?
The scenic drive to Longji takes approximately 2 hours, offering a relaxed start to your day.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible. You can opt for short walks or longer hikes, and cable car rides take away the physical strain of climbing.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to hike. Bring sun protection, water, and a camera to capture the views.

Are there options to end the tour early?
Yes, you can choose to conclude the tour either in Longsheng or return to Guilin, based on your schedule and preferences.

How many people typically book this tour?
On average, this tour is booked about 50 days in advance, indicating good demand, especially among travelers seeking private experiences.

To sum it up, this Longji Rice Terraces and Long Hair Village tour offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and personalized service. While it’s priced higher than some group options, the quality of guides, comfort, and flexibility make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a memorable and insightful day outside Guilin. Whether you’re a avid photographer, culture lover, or simply want a relaxing day immersed in nature, this tour delivers on many fronts.