Hike to Longji Rice Terraces and Meet Zhuang People
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
Ready for a breathtaking escape into one of China’s most stunning landscapes? The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon's Backbone, carve dramatic curves into the mountains of Guangxi. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a journey through time, culture, and nature’s artistry. And who better to share this story than the warm, welcoming Zhuang people, the region’s indigenous community?
Why Hike the Longji Rice Terraces?
Nestled in Longsheng County, about 100 km north of Guilin, the terraces span over 66 square kilometers and were first built during the Yuan Dynasty—over 650 years ago! Each season paints the landscape differently: spring brings mirror-like flooded fields, summer turns them lush green, autumn glows with golden harvests, and winter drapes them in misty stillness.
The real magic? Walking narrow stone paths between rice paddies that cling impossibly to steep slopes. You’re not just observing beauty—you’re immersed in it.
Meet the Zhuang: Keepers of the Land
The Zhuang ethnic group has lived here for generations, farming these terraces with traditional methods passed down through families. Their homes, built from wood and bamboo on stilts, dot the hillsides. Many still wear hand-embroidered clothing and celebrate festivals like the Sanyuesan (March 3rd Festival), filled with singing, dancing, and rice cake feasts.
Visiting a Zhuang village like Ping’an or Dazhai offers more than photo ops—it’s cultural exchange. Share a cup of sticky rice wine, learn how indigo dye is made, or try your hand at pounding glutinous rice. These moments turn tourists into travelers.
Hiking Routes & Practical Info
No matter your fitness level, there’s a trail for you. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Trail | Duration | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ping’an to Guapingle | 1.5–2 hours | Easy | Scenic overlooks, Zhuang villages |
| Dazhai Loop Trail | 3–4 hours | Moderate | Golden Buddha Peak, remote hamlets |
| Seven Stars Around the Moon | 5+ hours | Challenging | Panoramic views, ancient trees |
Best time to visit: April–May (water-filled terraces) or September–October (harvest season). Mornings offer the clearest skies and softest light for photography.
Entry fee: ~¥80–100 per person (village-dependent). Guides cost ~¥150/day but are highly recommended for deeper insight.
Travel Tips That Actually Help
- Wear grippy hiking shoes—those stone steps get slippery when wet.
- Carry water and snacks; options are limited once you’re on the trail.
- Respect local customs: ask before photographing people, especially elders.
- Stay overnight! Homestays in Ping’an Village offer cozy rooms and home-cooked Zhuang meals.
The Longji hike isn’t about ticking off a bucket list. It’s about slowing down, connecting—with nature, with history, with people whose lives unfold quietly among the clouds. So lace up, leave the noise behind, and let the mountains tell their story.