Longji Rice Terraces are located in Longsheng Various Ethnic Groups Autonomous County, Guilin. They rank among China’s most iconic high-mountain terrace landscapes. The terraces cascade along the mountain slopes, creating a dramatic and layered view. Each season brings a distinct look: spring water reflects the sky, summer turns the hills green, autumn paints the fields gold, and winter adds a quiet layer of snow. Many travelers call it “the fingerprints of the earth.” This destination suits visitors who enjoy natural scenery, photography, hiking, and immersive ethnic culture experiences.
Opening Hours & Visitor Information
Opening hours: Daily 08:00–18:00. Actual hours may change due to season, weather, or site management. Check the latest official notice before departure.
Recommended visit duration: Half a day to one full day (about 4–8 hours). Routes and villages can be chosen based on fitness level and schedule.
Best time to visit:
April–June: Irrigation season, when water-filled terraces reflect the sky and create ideal photo conditions.
September–October: Harvest season, when golden rice fields cover the mountains and deliver the most striking views.
Additional notes:
Plan transportation in advance, as some sections require shuttle transfers.
Mountain paths consist mostly of stone steps, so wear shoes with good grip.
Temperatures vary in the early morning and evening, so a light jacket helps.
Longji Rice Terraces receive consistently high ratings from visitors. Many praise the untouched scenery and wide-open views, especially during sunrise, cloud seas, and sunset. Local ethnic villages also add cultural depth to the journey. However, some travelers note that crowds increase during holidays and peak seasons. Certain viewpoints may require waiting for photos, so arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours works best.
Related Guides & Recommended Tours
Looking for an easier way to plan your Longji Rice Terraces trip? We have prepared a complete travel guide covering major viewpoints, hiking routes, and practical photography tips. Pairing this visit with Guilin city or Yangshuo itineraries also allows you to experience both karst landscapes and terraced fields in one trip.
Q: Can I buy Longji Rice Terraces tickets on the same day at the site? A: Yes. On-site ticket counters are available, but lines may form during peak seasons or holidays. Arriving early or checking crowd levels in advance is recommended.
Q: Do I need a guide to visit Longji Rice Terraces? A: Not necessarily. Main trails and viewpoints are clearly marked, making independent visits easy. Guided services help if you want deeper insight into terrace history and ethnic culture.
Q: Are Longji Rice Terraces suitable for families or elderly travelers? A: Some areas are suitable. However, many paths involve slopes and stairs, so choosing gentler routes and adjusting plans based on physical condition is advised.
Q: Can I stay overnight near the terraces? A: Yes. Ping’an Village and Jinkeng Dazhai offer local guesthouses, ideal for sunrise photography and experiencing mountain village evenings.
Q: Is it still worth visiting Longji Rice Terraces on rainy days? A: Light rain creates misty and atmospheric views. Heavy rain or dense fog may limit visibility, so checking the weather forecast and adjusting plans is important.