Guilin: Day tour of Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo

Guilin: Day Tour of Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo — An In-Depth Review

Travelers looking to soak up some of China’s most iconic landscapes often dream of the Longji Rice Terraces and the charming town of Yangshuo. This private day tour from Guilin promises a well-rounded experience that takes you through two of the area’s most celebrated sights. With a price of around $159 per person, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to see the highlights without fussing over logistics. But as with any guided tour, it’s important to weigh what’s included versus what you might need to arrange yourself.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic rural scenery and local culture, offering visits to minority-inhabited areas with distinct villages and hamlets. Plus, the flexibility of over eight options for customization means you can tailor your day to your interests—whether that’s photography, culture, or simply soaking in the views. However, the long 10-12 hour duration is something to consider if you’re not a fan of full-day outings or prefer a slower pace.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, scenic landscapes, and local culture. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive day trip that combines natural beauty with cultural insight, without the hassle of planning multiple transportation segments. Just keep in mind that entrance tickets and lunch are not included, so budget for those extras to avoid surprises.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines visits to the Longji Rice Terraces and Yangshuo, saving time and effort.
• Flexible Options: Over 8 choices allow you to customize your trip based on your interests.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to minority villages (Zhuang and Yao) offer authentic glimpses into local life.
• Scenic Beauty: Expect stunning views of flooded rice terraces, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private car and guide ensure smooth transportation and personalized attention.
• Value for Money: For $159, you get a full day with professional guidance—just be prepared for additional costs for tickets and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup
Depending on your selected option, you’ll be picked up from your Yangshuo hotel or another specified location. This flexibility is useful, especially if you’re staying in Yangshuo and want a seamless start. The tour typically lasts between 10 to 12 hours, so it’s a long day but packed with highlights.

Yangshuo’s Charm (Approx. 2 hours)
Yangshuo itself is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery, with the Li River weaving through karst peaks. During your guided visit, you’ll get a taste of this small town’s lively vibe and stunning backdrop. We loved the way Yangshuo’s relaxed atmosphere contrasts with the more rural Longji terraces, offering a quick but memorable glimpse into local life and landscape.

Longji Rice Terraces (Approx. 2 hours)
The highlight for many is the Longji Rice Terraces, which are divided into two main areas: Ping’An and JinKeng. Ping’An, inhabited by the Zhuang minority, comprises lush terraced fields and small villages that are perfect for slow walks. JinKeng, home to the Yao minority, features more rugged terrain and higher-altitude hamlets such as TianTou village.

Arriving near the end of May, you’ll witness the fields in the first water-filled stage of rice planting—a sight described as “breathtaking” by previous visitors. Dawn and dusk are especially spectacular, when the flooded terraces reflect the sun’s rays, creating pools of shimmering emerald.

Transport and Flexibility
The private vehicle and guide make it easy to move between sites, allowing for a tailored experience. With over eight options available, you might choose to focus more on the rice terraces, spend extra time in Yangshuo, or customize your stops based on your interests.

What to Expect on the Day

The tour begins with your pickup, which sets the tone for a comfortable and personalized day. The drive from Guilin to Longji offers scenic views, preparing you for the visual feast ahead. Once at the terraces, your guide will explain the cultural significance of the minority villages and point out notable features, such as traditional architecture and farming practices.

In Yangshuo, you’ll get a guided tour of the town, which is small but packed with photogenic spots along the Li River. This part of the day allows you to stretch your legs and enjoy some local flavor, perhaps with a quick snack or a walk along the riverbank.

The Longji rice terraces are the star attraction, offering a visual journey through terraced fields carved into mountain sides. Walking through these areas, you’ll see how local minorities cultivate rice in harmony with the landscape, a practice unchanged for generations.

Remember: Entrance tickets and lunch are not included, so plan to bring some cash or prepare for options at each site. You might find local eateries near the terraces offering simple, hearty meals, or you could pack a picnic if you prefer.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

Many travelers appreciate the chance to see minority villages—each with its own customs and dress—that add depth to the experience. The Zhuang and Yao minorities inhabit different parts of the terraces, giving you a glimpse into China’s diverse ethnic tapestry. The tour’s guided nature helps you understand the significance of their traditions and how they adapt to modern life.

From a review: “Nice tour!!” sums up the positive feedback, with travelers appreciating the scenery and cultural exposure. The focus on stunning views is a recurring theme, with some noting that dawn and dusk offer particularly photogenic moments.

The Cost and Value

At $159 per person, this private tour offers good value, especially considering the convenience of transportation and a guide. While entrance fees and lunch are not included, the cost covers a full day of professional guidance and private transport, reducing the stress of navigating public transit or organizing multiple guides.

You might find similar experiences at a similar price point, but what we love about this tour is its flexibility and personalized approach. For those serious about experiencing Guilin’s landscape without the hassle of planning, this can be a smart choice.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic, and cultural day in Guilin and Yangshuo. It suits those who prefer guided experiences, value local insights, and don’t mind a full day on the move. If you’re interested in photography, nature, or local cultures, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

It’s less ideal if you prefer a leisurely pace, shorter excursions, or are on a tight budget and prefer to arrange your own tickets and meals. Still, for most visitors wanting a well-curated snapshot of Guilin’s natural beauty, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This private Guilin day tour delivers a well-rounded experience that balances natural beauty with cultural richness. The stunning views of rice terraces and the picturesque Yangshuo town are highlights that stay with travelers long after the trip ends. The flexible options allow you to personalize your journey, making it suitable for a range of interests.

While a full day can be tiring, especially with travel time involved, the convenience of private transport and expert guidance makes it worth considering. It’s likely to appeal most to travelers who want an efficient way to see two major sights, enjoy authentic rural scenery, and learn about local minorities.

For anyone seeking a mix of breathtaking landscapes and cultural insights—and who doesn’t mind a longer day—this tour offers solid value and authentic experiences.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. It’s a full day of sightseeing, so travelers should be comfortable with long hours. Families with children who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views will find it engaging.

Are entrance tickets and lunch included?
No, these are not included. You should budget separately for entrance fees and meals, which can be purchased at or near the sites.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so you’ll have a guide and vehicle just for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, with over eight options available, you can tailor the day based on your interests and preferences.

What is the best time of year to visit?
Arriving near the end of May is ideal for seeing the rice terraces in their water-filled stage, but the scenery varies throughout the year, and dawn or dusk tends to be especially beautiful.

How long does the tour last?
Expect to be out for around 10 to 12 hours, from pickup in the morning to drop-off in the evening.

In the end, this tour is a strong option for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally rich day in Guilin and Yangshuo. With careful planning for extras and a bit of energy, it promises a memorable glimpse into some of China’s most stunning landscapes—perfect for photography lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see the true beauty of rural southern China.

You can check availability for your dates here: