Longji Rice Terrace Scenic Spot — Attraction in Guilin

Guilin - 龙脊梯田 Longji Terrace.

This terrace is formed over 700 years of farming by the 瑶族人, resulting in this tiered setting that presents a different view in each season. They harvest only once a year, where the seedlings are planted in June and Oct is said to be the best season as the terrace turns golden yellow as they prepare for harvest by end Oct.

Beautiful views from the top, with some fog initially that added a mystical vibe. But the rain got heavier and the fog thicker, such that the view was marred, could hardly see anything but pure white fog. It was also a challenge taking selfies, had to do it quickly in between moving the umbrella away.

There are many costume shops here that offers costume rental (fairly cheap at starting from CNY30) and photography services (CNY10 per digital copy). If not for the rain, I might have done it, since there wasn't much else to do up here. And the view is really amazing for a nice photo-shoot. Plus they have the best vantage points cordoned off only for those who pay for the service.

Had to pay CNY55 (one way or CNY100 for 2 ways) for the cable car ride up to the top of the terrace. I opted for one-way thinking I'll walk down after that to better experience the terrace but the rain got heavier in the end I paid for another 1-way ticket to go down by cable car. The crowds are so crazy I was in the queue for almost 30 mins just to board the cable car which took another 20 mins to get to the summit.

It is also here that I tried the sweetest passion fruit, another local produce in season. These are amazingly sweet, the sweetest passion fruit I've ever had. CNY1 for 1. Would have bought more to bring home if this was...

There are primarily four main viewpoints, but each one will take several hours to tackle due to travel time. (There are tons of other smaller ones, but they are not worth a day trip.)

I highly suggest covering at least two viewpoints in particular, as they will have the best panoramic view of all the terraces without being too time consuming. Ping'an and Jinkeng.

There are a ton of winding roads atop these mountains, so it is highly recommended that you book a one-day tour with a driver who will take you from one viewpoint to another.

I took a ride from 8 AM and returned back to my hotel at 8 PM, and only managed to cover three viewpoints and a village. Even the driver didn't recommend doing three, but made it work anyway upon request.

Most booked tours will likely cover 1-2 of the viewpoints, as there is just too much travel involved. So if you have a say, request to go to the two that I mentioned.

There are a lot of complications involved with shuttle buses and other fees like admission, so a driver who knows about these and can handle all of them for you is the best...

Our group was lucky to arrive around a week before the harvest took place, my husband and I absolutely loved the rice terraces, they are absolutely beautiful and picture perfect. The particular area is also known as the ‘Dragon’s Spine Rice Terraces’ due to their undulating form. All of the locals working in the area were friendly as we passed by a number of different shops / street vendors as we made our way around the terraces. Be sure to watch your step, there are lots of animals around the paths including frogs, huge spiders and colourful caterpillars. The bamboo growing in the area is also great to look at. The buggy ride up is very bumpy and the bus rides down very speedy so hold on to your stomach. This is a must see area when you are visiting and staying in Guilin and you won’t regret coming here for the views and picture...