Longsheng Rice Terraces
Introduction
The rice terraces of Longsheng (aka Longji) cascade down over the mountainside for thousands of feet. The labour involved in making these must have been enormous and taken generations. The terraces are best when brimming with water - each looks like a shining mirror. However, a trip here is worth it at any time of the year. The terraces are simply stunning.
How to get there
You can get to Longsheng Town, not to be confused with the Longsheng mountain ridge, by public bus from Guilin. Other public buses leave here for Pingan and Dazai. It is possible to save a bit of time by hopping off part way to Longsheng Town - but that's really only for those who know what they are doing.
A scheduled minivan service leaves Yangshuo every day at 07:00 returning from Longsheng at 15:00. We don't recommend this service as several previous customers have complained about the driving.
A private vehicle may be more expensive but allows for a departure time that suits you and the opportunity to stop and take photos on the way. We also have more control over the driver and can be more certain that you will not be uncomfortable.
Where to stay
We have a long-standing relationship with one particular family in Pingan. They have two guesthouses and a restuarant. The older guesthouse is more popular as it has better views. Your choice then is between views or a more peaceful time. Both guesthouses serve a range of local and western food.
There are many other guesthouses in Pingan and one hotel
Dazai has a few guesthouses.
What to do
The obvious activity is hiking. Almost every visitor will walk up t the nominated viewing spots with the best views of the rice terraces. It is also worth walking to Longji village or, for those with more time, to Dazai. Dazai is about a 3-5 hour walk from Pingan. There are two good routes and the keen can walk back by the alternate route. For those keen on hiking with less time we would suggest walking to Zhongliu (which is halfway along one route) and back to Pingan.
Don't forget to leave time to explore the village. There are plenty of opportunities for photography.
In the evenings, the guesthouse owners can arrange a cultural show which includes traditional singing and dancing. This show is best enjoyed by 6 or more active participants. The more you get involved the more fun is had by all.
See a low resolution version of their brochure: Longsheng Rice Terraces Approx 146 kb
See a high resolution version of their brochure: Longsheng Rice Terraces Approx 508 kb
Posted on Mar 26, 2008 by Admin
Last updated on May 7, by Admin