The Longsheng Rice Terraces, also known as Dragon Backbone Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田), are a masterpiece of human ingenuity and natural beauty. Located in Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi Province, the terraces are often regarded as one of the most spectacular agricultural landscapes in China. Spanning an area of over 66 square kilometers, these terraced fields are not only a farming wonder but also a cultural heritage site showcasing the rich history of the Zhuang, Yao, and Miao ethnic minorities.

The terraces, dating back over 650 years, have been painstakingly built by hand, carving up the hillsides into rows of stepped rice fields. These terraces are often referred to as the "Dragon Backbone" because they resemble the spine of a dragon, with winding paths through the fields mimicking a dragon’s curves.

Best Time to Visit Longsheng Rice Terraces

Seasonal Highlights

The best time to visit the Longsheng Rice Terraces varies depending on your interests and what you wish to experience. Each season offers something unique, from lush greenery to vibrant golden hues to snow-covered panoramas.

• Spring (April to May): This is when the terraces are full of water, creating mesmerizing reflections of the mountains and sky. It’s also the time when rapeseed flowers bloom across the terraces, adding a golden hue to the landscape.
• Summer (June to August): The terraces turn lush green as the rice plants grow taller, providing a vibrant and lively scene. The temperature can be hot, but the green paddies are at their fullest.
• Autumn (September to October): The rice is harvested, and the terraces turn a beautiful golden color. This is one of the best times for photography, as the landscape is bathed in warm golden light.
• Winter (December to February): The terraces can be covered in snow, offering a tranquil, almost mystical atmosphere. Fewer tourists visit during this time, so you can enjoy the snow-covered terraces in peace.

Geographic Location and Access

Location and Coordinates

• Longsheng Rice Terraces
  • Address: Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China.
  • GPS Coordinates: 25.7781° N, 110.0208° E

The terraces are situated approximately 77 km from Guilin, a well-known tourist city in southern China. The most popular villages within the terraces include Ping’an, Jinkeng, and Longji, each offering a different view of the rice fields.

How to Get There

• From Guilin:
  • By Bus: Take a bus from the Guilin Qintan Bus Station to Longsheng County (approximately 1.5-2 hours). From Longsheng, transfer to the Ping'an Village or Dazhai Village by local bus (around 40-60 minutes).
  • By Car: You can hire a private car or taxi from Guilin directly to Ping’an Village or Dazhai Village (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
• From Guilin Airport: You can take a bus or taxi from the Guilin Liangjiang International Airport to Longsheng, which takes about 2-2.5 hours.
• By Train: Guilin Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in China, and from here, you can take a bus to Longsheng County.

Key Areas of Longsheng Rice Terraces

The Longsheng Rice Terraces are divided into several scenic areas, each with its own unique features.

1. Ping’an Zhuang Terraced Fields

This is the most accessible and developed area, with the largest concentration of accommodations, restaurants, and services. It is known for its incredible panoramic views and Seven Stars Around the Moon formation, which can be seen from the No. 1 Viewpoint.

• Highlights:
  • Seven Stars Around the Moon: A stunning formation of terraced fields arranged in seven clusters that represent the seven stars in the Big Dipper constellation.
  • Best Photography Spot: No. 1 Viewpoint for views of the terraces at sunrise or sunset.
  • Cultural Heritage: Visit the Zhuang villages to experience their traditional wooden houses and learn about their unique customs, including their famous toast song.

2. Jinkeng Red Yao Terraced Fields

The Jinkeng Terraces, located in a valley surrounded by mountains, are less commercialized compared to Ping’an, offering a quieter, more serene experience. It is primarily inhabited by the Red Yao people, known for their long hair and colorful traditional dress.

• Highlights:
  • No.1 Viewpoint (West Hill Music): The highest viewpoint at 1,180 meters offers an incredible view of the terraced fields and is perfect for capturing sunrise and sunset.
  • No.2 Viewpoint (Thousand-Layer Terraces): A popular spot for stunning panoramic shots, especially in the early morning.
  • Cultural Experience: Visit Huangluo Yao Village to witness the famous Red Yao women’s hair-combing ceremony.

3. Longji Ancient Zhuang Village

This is one of the most authentic and traditional areas of the rice terraces, with historic Zhuang stilt houses. It is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the traditional way of life of the Zhuang people.

• Highlights:
  • Longji Village: Known for its traditional wooden architecture, Longji Village provides insight into the daily life and customs of the Zhuang people.
  • Cultural Activities: Participate in local craft workshops, such as making rice cakes or weaving, and enjoy ethnic music performances.

Cultural Heritage and Local Ethnic Groups

1. Zhuang Ethnic Group

The Zhuang people are the largest ethnic minority in Guangxi and have lived in the Longsheng area for centuries. Their culture is rich in music, dance, and festivals. Their iconic Zhuang-style stilt houses are often seen throughout the terraces, constructed from wooden planks and supported by stilts.

2. Yao Ethnic Group

The Yao people, particularly the Red Yao, are famous for their long hair, which they treat as a symbol of beauty and wealth. Women in the village keep their hair long and wear it wrapped in intricate designs. During festivals, they often engage in traditional dances and hair-combing rituals that attract tourists from all over the world.

Best Hiking Routes and Activities

Classic Hiking Routes

1. Ping’an Village to Jinkeng Village
   • Distance: 5-6 km, approximately 2-3 hours.
   • Difficulty: Moderate.
   • Description: This route takes you through the heart of the terraced fields and offers panoramic views of the lush green rice paddies.
2. Jinkeng Terraces to Ping’an Village
   • Distance: 8 km, approximately 3-4 hours.
   • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
   • Description: Hike through the Red Yao villages, passing by local houses and offering unobstructed views of the rice terraces.
3. Longji Village to Dazhai Village
   • Distance: 8 km, approximately 4-5 hours.
   • Difficulty: Challenging.
   • Description: This route is longer and more strenuous, ideal for experienced hikers who want to explore deeper into the terraces.

Photography Tips

• Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset are prime times for capturing the beauty of the terraces. The golden light creates dramatic contrasts, especially during the harvest season.
• Seasons Matter: If you want to photograph lush green terraces, visit during summer (June-August). If you're interested in golden rice fields, come in autumn (September-October).
• Reflection Shots: The terraces are often filled with water, making them perfect for reflection photography. Aim for early mornings or after rain for the best results.

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation

Most accommodations are found in Ping’an and Jinkeng villages. While Ping’an offers a range of modern guesthouses and hotels, Jinkeng offers a more rustic, traditional experience. There are also options for local homestays, where you can immerse yourself in the culture of the Zhuang and Yao people.

• Ping’an: Comfortable guesthouses with modern amenities.
• Jinkeng: Simpler, but offers a more authentic experience.

Dining

• Local Cuisine: Taste the Zhuang and Yao cuisine, including rice cakes, rice noodles, and wild herbs. One of the highlights is the traditional smoked meat, which is prepared and cooked in the local way.
• Dishes to Try:
  • Zhuang-style Rice Noodles
  • Smoked Bacon
  • Longsheng Tofu
  • Wild Mushrooms and Vegetables

Practical Information

Entrance Fees

• Longsheng Rice Terraces Entrance Fee: ¥80 per person.
• Cable Car (Jinkeng): ¥70 one-way, ¥120 round-trip.

Best Time for Photography

• Morning: For reflection shots and capturing the golden light.
• Late Afternoon: For beautiful sunset photos and capturing the shadows across the terraces.

Local Etiquette

• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of the local customs, especially when visiting the Red Yao villages. Don’t touch women’s hair without permission.
• Photography Etiquette: Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially in remote villages.

The Longsheng Rice Terraces are not only a symbol of agricultural ingenuity but also a living museum of the rich ethnic culture of southern China. Whether you’re interested in hiking through verdant hills, photographing the picturesque landscapes, or experiencing the unique customs of the Zhuang and Yao people, Longsheng is a must-see destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.