Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces, are a masterpiece of agricultural art nestled in the mountains of Longsheng County, Guangxi Province. Located about 80 kilometers from Guilin city and 20 kilometers from Longsheng County, these terraces have become one of China's most spectacular landscapes.

Overview

Spanning an impressive 70.16 square kilometers, these terraces wind like a giant dragon across the mountainside, encompassing eleven administrative villages including Jinkeng, Ping'an, and Ancient Zhuang Village. The terraces are built at gradients ranging from 15° to 50°, with the majority falling between 15°-25° (45.16% of the area) and 25°-35° (30.34% of the area).

The history of these terraces dates back over 2,300 years to the Qin and Han dynasties. The local Yao and Zhuang ethnic minorities carved these terraces into the mountainsides, creating an ingenious irrigation system that has sustained agriculture for generations. The terraces reached their current scale during the Ming and Qing dynasties, earning recognition as a "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System" and a national AAAA-level scenic area.

Best Time to Visit

The terraces offer distinct views throughout the year:

• Late April to Mid-June: The flooding season creates stunning mirror-like terraces reflecting the sky and clouds.
• Early July to Early September: Growing season turns the terraces into waves of vibrant green rice plants.
• Mid to Late September through October: Harvest season transforms the terraces into golden waves of ripe rice.
• Mid-December to Early February: Occasional snowfall creates a unique winter wonderscape.

Main Scenic Areas

1. Jinkeng Red Yao Terraces

The largest of the three terrace clusters, featuring three main viewing platforms:

• West Hill Music Platform: Perfect for sunrise viewing and photography
• Thousand-Layer Terraces: The most spectacular view of the cascading terraces
• Golden Buddha Peak: The highest viewing point, ideal for sunset views

2. Ping'an Zhuang Terraces

Known for its unique formations:

• Nine Dragons and Five Tigers: Offers panoramic views of the terraces
• Seven Stars with Moon: Popular for photography, especially during sunset

3. Ancient Zhuang Village

The most traditional area featuring:

• Original Zhuang architecture
• Less commercialized atmosphere
• Early rice planting viewing opportunities

Practical Information

Admission

• Entrance fee: ¥80 (covers all three terrace areas)
• Cable car to Golden Buddha Peak: ¥100 round trip

Transportation

1. From Guilin:

   • Direct bus: 2-3 hours, ¥50-65
   • Departure times: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00
   • Return times: 9:00, 12:00, 13:30, 14:30, 16:00

2. From Yangshuo:

   • Direct bus: 4 hours, ¥90
   • Departure times: 8:00, 10:30, 13:30
   • Return times: 9:00, 13:30, 14:30

Recommended Itineraries

One Day Tour:

• Morning: Visit Jinkeng Village and take the cable car to Golden Buddha Peak
• Afternoon: Explore Ping'an Village and its viewing platforms
• Evening: Return to Guilin

Two Day Tour:

• Day 1: Explore Ping'an Village, stay overnight in a local guesthouse
• Day 2: Visit Jinkeng Village and Ancient Zhuang Village

Tips

1. What to Wear

   • Comfortable walking shoes
   • Layers of clothing (temperature varies with altitude)
   • Rain gear during wet seasons
   • Sun protection

2. Photography Tips

   • Best light: Early morning and late afternoon
   • Recommended spots: Golden Buddha Peak for sunset, West Hill Music Platform for sunrise
   • Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots

3. Cultural Etiquette

   • Respect local customs and traditions
   • Ask permission before photographing local residents
   • Support local businesses

4. Accommodation

   • Recommended areas: Ping'an Village or Jinkeng Village
   • Book in advance during peak seasons
   • Consider staying overnight for sunrise views