Longji Rice Terraces | Guilin

Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田), also known as the Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, are a stunning agricultural landscape located in Longsheng County, in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. These terraces are famous for their breathtaking beauty, unique construction, and the way they seamlessly integrate into the natural environment. The terraces are an iconic symbol of traditional farming culture and a testament to the ingenuity of the ethnic groups who have cultivated the land for over 700 years.

1. Overview:

• Location: The Longji Rice Terraces are located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Guilin, which is the nearest city. The area can be accessed by bus or private car from Guilin.
• Terrace Formation: The terraces are built on the slopes of Longji Mountain, with the fields following the contours of the hills. The rice terraces are constructed in such a way that they form a series of steps, which gives them the appearance of a dragon’s backbone. The name “Longji” (龙脊) translates to “Dragon’s Backbone” in English, referencing the undulating shape of the terraces.
• Elevation: The terraces are located at an altitude of 300 to 1,100 meters (984 to 3,609 feet) above sea level, making them part of the mountainous region in southern China.

2. History and Cultural Significance:

• Ancient Rice Farming: The rice terraces were initially created over 700 years ago, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities began cultivating rice on the mountain slopes, adapting the steep landscape to agricultural purposes. Over time, they perfected the use of terraces to grow rice in a way that made the best use of the available water and sunlight.
• Cultural Heritage: The terraces are not just an agricultural wonder but also a significant part of the Zhuang and Yao people’s cultural heritage. These groups have maintained traditional farming methods for centuries, and the terraces are a testament to their sustainable agricultural practices.
• Traditional Villages: The area is home to several ethnic villages, such as Ping'an, Jinkeng, and Dazhai, where visitors can see traditional wooden houses, handicrafts, and cultural practices. The Zhuang and Yao people have preserved their unique way of life, which revolves around farming, weaving, and celebrating annual festivals.
• Yao Women’s Long Hair: One of the highlights of the area is the Yao women’s long hair culture. The women of the Yao ethnic group are known for growing their hair to exceptional lengths, often exceeding 2 meters (6.5 feet). Visitors can observe these traditions and even take part in cultural performances.

3. Stunning Landscape:

• Terraces: The terraces stretch across several hillsides and cover an area of more than 66 square kilometers (25 square miles). The fields are divided into layers, each with its own farming purpose. The terraces create a surreal, cascading effect, making it one of the most photogenic landscapes in China.
• Seasonal Beauty: The landscape changes dramatically depending on the season:
  • Spring: The rice paddies are filled with water, creating reflective pools that mirror the sky, clouds, and mountains. This makes the terraces look like a beautiful water mosaic.
  • Summer: The terraces are lush and green, with rice plants flourishing, creating vibrant, rich green fields.
  • Autumn: During the harvest season, the terraces are golden with ripe rice, and visitors can experience the traditional harvest activities of the local people.
  • Winter: Though colder, the terraces can look especially dramatic when covered with mist or surrounded by snow, providing a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere.

4. Visiting the Longji Rice Terraces:

• Viewing Points: The terraces are best viewed from several designated viewing platforms, which provide panoramic views of the landscape. Some of the most popular spots are located in the Ping'an Village, which offers stunning views of the terraces against the backdrop of mountain peaks. Other great viewpoints are accessible through hiking routes.
• Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails that wind through the terraces, allowing visitors to explore the fields up close. The hike offers the opportunity to walk through local villages and learn about the way of life of the Zhuang and Yao people.
• Cultural Experiences: Visitors can experience local culture by visiting the ethnic villages around the terraces. The villages offer a glimpse into the traditional architecture, customs, and daily life of the local people. In particular, the Ping'an and Dazhai villages are popular stops for tourists.
• Photography: The Longji Rice Terraces are one of the most photographed spots in China. The changing seasons, the reflections in the water, and the scenic views of the terraced hills create exceptional opportunities for photographers.

5. Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): This is the time when the terraces are filled with water, creating a stunning reflective surface. The landscape is perfect for photography and sightseeing.
• Summer (June to August): The terraces are lush and green, with the rice plants growing, making for a vibrant and picturesque landscape. It is also the best time to see the farming process in action.
• Autumn (September to November): This is the harvest season when the terraces turn golden, and visitors can witness the traditional rice harvest.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest time to visit, but it offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, especially with the potential for mist and snow in the area.

6. How to Get There:

• From Guilin: To reach the Longji Rice Terraces from Guilin, visitors can take a bus or private car. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
• From Longsheng: Longsheng is the nearest town to the terraces, and buses or taxis can take visitors from Longsheng to the entrance points of the rice terraces, such as Ping'an Village or Dazhai Village.
• Guided Tours: Many travelers choose to take a guided tour from Guilin, which includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals and activities at the villages.

7. Entry Fees:

• There is an entrance fee to visit the terraces, and the cost varies depending on the area you want to explore. The fee typically covers access to the viewing platforms and walking paths, as well as some of the villages.

8. Conclusion:

The Longji Rice Terraces are a remarkable natural and cultural treasure, showcasing the harmony between human ingenuity and the natural landscape. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or someone interested in experiencing traditional Chinese culture, the terraces offer a unique opportunity to witness the timeless beauty of the Chinese countryside. With their stunning beauty, historical significance, and cultural importance, the Longji Rice Terraces are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Guangxi or Guilin.