Longji Rice Terraces Scenic Area

Historical Overview

Terrace construction began during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368 AD) and peaked in the Ming and Qing dynasties as ethnic communities adapted to steep slopes. The Zhuang and Yao people developed irrigation systems using bamboo pipes and forested ridges to retain water and soil. Over centuries, the terraces became a symbol of sustainable farming and cultural resilience. In 1999, the area was designated a provincial scenic spot, later earning UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2018 for its ecological and cultural significance.

Structural Layout

The park is divided into two major zones:

Ping’an Zhuang Village Terraces: Known for their "Seven Stars with the Moon" pattern, featuring curved terraces wrapping around hills.

Jinkeng Yao Village Terraces: Famous for the "Thousand-Layer Terraces" and "Seven Stars Around the Moon" vistas, accessible via cable car.

Key structures include:Stilt Houses: Traditional wooden homes with thatched roofs, some over 300 years old.

Dragon’s Backbone Ridge: The central mountain range offering 360-degree panoramas.

Ancient Irrigation Channels: Bamboo pipelines that distribute water from mountain springs.

Major Attractions

Ping’an Zhuang Village: Explore stilt houses, handicraft workshops, and the "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers" terrace formation.

Jinkeng Yao Village: Hike to the "Golden Buddha Peak" or ride the cable car for aerial views of the "Thousand-Layer Terraces."

Yellow Luo Han (Arhat) Terraces: A section where terraces turn golden during harvest season (October).

Seven Stars with the Moon: A natural depression in the terraces that fills with water, reflecting the stars at night.

Longji Ancient壮寨 (Zhuang Village): Witness traditional Zhuang dance performances and silver craftsmanship.

Hongyao Ethnic Culture Museum: Learn about Yao customs, including long-hair traditions and embroidery.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (Half-Day):

Ping’an Village entrance → "Seven Stars with the Moon" viewpoint → Stilt House Visits → Lunch at a local farmhouse.

Highlights: Iconic terrace patterns and cultural interactions.

Extended Route (Full Day):

Jinkeng Cable Car (up) → Thousand-Layer Terraces → Golden Buddha Peak → Huangluo Yao Village → Hongyao Museum.

Highlights: Hiking, ethnic villages, and museum exhibits.

Comprehensive Route (2 Days/1 Night):

Day 1: Ping’an Village hike → Sunset at "Nine Dragons" viewpoint → Overnight in a stilt house.

Day 2: Jinkeng Cable Car → Thousand-Layer Terraces → Farming demonstration → Local market shopping.

Highlights: Immersive cultural stay, sunrise photography, and hands-on experiences.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via WeChat mini-programs (e.g., "Longji Terraces Official") or travel platforms (Ctrip, Fliggy) up to 3 days in advance.

On-Site: Tickets available at village entrances; cash accepted.

Prices:

Adults: ¥80 (peak season), ¥70 (off-season).

Students/Seniors: ¥40 (peak), ¥35 (off-season).

Cable Car (Jinkeng): ¥100 round-trip.

Free: Children under 1.2m.

Transportation

Bus:Guilin Bus Station → Longsheng County (2.5 hours, ¥25) → Transfer to Longji shuttle bus (1 hour, ¥15).

Direct buses from Yangshuo to Longji (4 hours, ¥50).

Taxi/Private Car: Direct hire from Guilin (2 hours, ¥300–400).

Tour Group: Organized trips with hotel pickup (¥150–250/person, including tickets).

Best Time & Tips

Peak Seasons:April–June: Flooded terraces (mirror-like reflections).

September–October: Golden harvest season.

Avoid Crowds: Weekdays and early mornings (before 9 AM).

Weather: Bring rain gear (May–August) and warm layers (November–February).

Essentials

Wear hiking boots (steep, muddy paths).

Carry cash (some villages lack ATMs).

Respect local customs: Ask before photographing people.

Prohibited: Drones (require prior permission) and littering.