Mini Group: Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour

The Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Guilin region. This small-group excursion takes travelers on a journey through the iconic Longji Rice Terraces, carved into the mountainsides over centuries, and introduces them to the unique traditions of the Yao and Zhuang minorities. From the impressive floor-length hair of Yao women to the tasting of the local specialty, bamboo rice, this tour promises a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience. But what makes this tour truly exceptional is the opportunity to discover the intricate relationships between the land, the people, and their centuries-old way of life.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Guilin that discovers the Longji Rice Terraces and immerses visitors in the cultures of the Yao and Zhuang minorities.
• Includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission to the Longji Rice Field Terraces, and a hiking segment from Guzhuang to Pingan Village.
• Highlights the Huangluo Yao village, where visitors can observe the unique traditions and customs of the Yao people, including their floor-length hair.
• Offers a chance to taste the local specialty of bamboo rice, providing a glimpse into the authentic cuisine and culture of the Yao and Zhuang minorities.
• Provides a small group setting (maximum 10 travelers) for a personalized and immersive tour experience of the picturesque Longji Rice Terraces.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Guilin provides an opportunity to discover the captivating Longji Rice Terraces and take in the vibrant cultures of the Yao and Zhuang minority communities.

Visitors will explore Huangluo Yao village, learning about the unique traditions and lifestyles of these ethnic groups. A highlight of the tour is the chance to taste bamboo rice, a specialty dish cooked within a bamboo stalk.

The journey continues as guests ascend the mountain to reach Ping’an village and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Longji Rice Terraces. Throughout the tour, an English-speaking guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Included in Tour

The tour package includes round-trip transportation between the pickup location and the attractions, facilitated by an English-speaking local guide.

Plus, visitors receive admission tickets to the Longji Rice Field Terraces and complimentary bottled water throughout the day.

The itinerary also encompasses a hiking segment from Guzhuang Village to Pingan Village.

Travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy the local Yao and Zhuang minority cultures, including the chance to taste the unique bamboo rice dish.

With a small group size, guests can expect personalized attention and a more intimate experience during this full-day exploration of the stunning Longji Rice Terraces.

Not Included in Tour

While the tour package includes several amenities, there are some additional expenses travelers should expect. Gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t covered, and guests are typically recommended to budget CNY 50-100 per person for these tips. Lunch is also not included in the tour price. Plus, guests residing outside the Guilin and Yangshuo urban areas will need to arrange their own transportation to the appointed hotel for pickup.

Expense	Cost
Gratuities	CNY 50-100 per person
Lunch	Not included
Transportation to pickup location	Arranged by guests

Tour Details

As per the tour details, this experience offers instant confirmation, ensuring a personalized service in a small group setting, with a maximum of 10 travelers.

The full-day tour provides transport between attractions, including hotel pickup and drop-off within Guilin and Yangshuo urban areas.

An English-speaking local guide will accompany the group, sharing insights into the Longji Rice Terraces and minority cultures.

Admission to the rice field terraces is included, as well as bottled water and a hiking trip from Guzhuang Village to Pingan Village.

Guests located further away will need to arrange their own taxi to the designated hotel.

The tour lasts the full day, providing ample time to fully immerse in this unique cultural experience.

Pickup and Drop-off

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided within Guilin and Yangshuo urban areas, allowing travelers convenient access to the tour. For guests staying further away, they’ll need to arrange their own taxi to the appointed hotel. This ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

Pickup and Drop-off
Guilin and Yangshuo	✓
Outside Urban Areas		✓
Taxi Arrangement		✓

The tour operator designs this pickup and drop-off service to prioritize efficiency and accessibility, catering to the diverse needs of travelers exploring the stunning Longji Rice Terraces.

Huangluo Yao Village

The tour includes a visit to the Huangluo Yao village, where travelers can learn about the unique cultures and traditions of the Yao and Zhuang minority groups.

Situated in the heart of the Longji Rice Terraces, this quaint village offers a glimpse into the daily lives of these ethnic minorities. Visitors can observe the women of the Yao tribe, known for their long, floor-length hair that they proudly display.

They’ll also have the opportunity to sample a local specialty, bamboo rice, a dish cooked inside a hollowed-out bamboo stalk. This culture provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse heritage that defines the Longji region.

Bamboo Rice Tasting

Visitors on the Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour will have the opportunity to taste a local specialty dish known as bamboo rice. This unique creation is cooked inside a hollowed-out bamboo stalk. The rice is packed into the stalk, sealed, and then steamed over a fire.

The bamboo imparts a subtle, earthy flavor to the rice. Cooking the rice this way also gives it a wonderfully fluffy texture.

Tasting this specialty dish allows travelers to experience an authentic aspect of the local cuisine and culture. It’s a delicious way to get a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Yao and Zhuang minority groups who call this region home.

Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the ‘Dragon’s Backbone‘ rice terraces, are a stunning natural wonder located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China.

Carved into the steep mountainsides over centuries, these tiered rice paddy fields create a breathtaking patchwork of green, brown, and gold hues that seem to cascade down the slopes.

Visitors can explore the terraces by hiking through the picturesque villages of Ping’an and Dazhai, where they’ll discover the unique cultures of the Zhuang and Yao minority groups.

As the terraces are constructed on the side of the mountain, the views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the undulating landscape below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible. The terrain involves steep mountain paths and uneven ground, which could be challenging for wheelchair users. Travelers with mobility issues should consult the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks on the tour. However, it’s best to avoid bringing foods or drinks that could create a mess or disturbance for other participants. Guests should be mindful of any restrictions or policies set by the tour operator.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can inquire with the tour operator about adding extra time to the tour or customizing the itinerary to spend more time exploring the Longji Rice Terraces and minority villages.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, travelers can request a private tour instead of a small group tour. Private tours offer more flexibility and personalized attention from the guide. Guests should inquire with the tour provider about the availability and additional costs for a private tour option.

Is Photography Permitted at All the Tour Sites?

Photography is generally permitted at the tour sites, though visitors should be respectful and ask for permission before taking photos of local residents. Some sites may have restrictions on photography, so it’s best to check with the guide beforehand.

Recap

The Longji Rice Terraced Fields and Minority Villages Tour offers a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience.

Visitors will discover the iconic Longji Rice Terraces and explore the Huangluo Yao village, witnessing the unique traditions of the Yao and Zhuang minorities.

With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a hiking segment, this small-group tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.