Longji Rice Terraces in Guilin | A must-visit in October! Watch the sunrise amidst the golden waves of rice paddies

The Longji Rice Terraces are renowned for their magnificent scale and graceful lines, known as the "Hometown of the World's Terraces," "Earth's Fingerprint," and "The Most Beautiful Curve on the Surface." Covering 66 square kilometers with a vertical drop of 800 meters, the terraces flow like clouds and water. In spring, the irrigated paddies resemble silver chains; in summer, green waves roll; in autumn, golden rice blankets the mountains; and in winter, the terraces are wrapped in silver, offering breathtaking scenery throughout the seasons. 【Core Scenic Areas】 ① Jinkeng Dazhai (Red Yao Terraces): The most spectacular, developed relatively late. Xishan Shaole (No. 1) Viewing Platform: The highest altitude with a broad view, ideal for watching sunrise and sunset. Qiancheng Tianti (No. 2) Viewing Platform: Close to the terraces, perfect for photography. The road condition is good and the distance is relatively short. Jinfoding (No. 3) Viewing Platform: The only platform accessible by cable car (one way 55 RMB, round trip 110 RMB), also a popular spot for sunset and panoramic terrace photos. ② Ping'an Village (Zhuang Terraces): Developed earlier with relatively mature tourist facilities. Qixing Banyue Viewing Platform: Seven small hilltop terraces surround a large hilltop terrace, one of the highlights of Longji Terraces. Jiulong Wuhu Viewing Platform: "Jiulong" refers to nine mountain ridges, and "Wuhu" refers to five small hills, all offering views of terraces encircling the landscape. Electric shuttle buses (40 RMB) run round trip from the parking lot. ③ Longji Ancient Zhuang Village and Huangluo Yao Village Longji Ancient Zhuang Village: A historic Zhuang ethnic village where you can see the most original Zhuang architecture. Note that the terrace harvest here is usually about a month earlier than other areas. Huangluo Yao Village: Famous for the Red Yao's long hair culture, where you can enjoy Yao songs and dances and taste oil tea. 【Best Visiting Seasons】(Longji Terraces offer different scenery each season) 'Mirror Terraces' in May-June: After irrigation, the terraces reflect the sky like a mirror, especially magical at sunrise and sunset. 'Green Terraces' in July-September: The rice grows lush and green, covering the hills with vitality. 'Golden Terraces' from late September to mid-October: The rice ripens to golden layers, the peak tourist season and the most classic view. 'Hibernating Terraces' from November to April: After harvest, terrace lines remain clear. Fewer visitors allow for a peaceful mountain living experience. 【Itinerary Planning】 If time is limited (1 day), focus on the three viewing platforms in Jinkeng Dazhai; with 2-3 days, combine visits to Ping'an Village and the Ancient Zhuang Village for a deeper experience. 【Transportation Guide】 ① Self-driving: Navigate to "Longji Rice Terraces Scenic Area," about 2-3 hours from Guilin city. Note that from the ticket office to the villages, there is about 30 km of mountain road. ② Public Transport: Take a direct bus from Guilin city (65 RMB/person) or charter a car (400 RMB/trip), about 2.5 hours. The scenic area’s eco-bus costs 40 RMB/person (round trip included). 【Practical Tips】 ① Ticket Management: 80 RMB/person (valid for 3 days). Tickets are checked again when entering each village, so keep them safe. Parking for self-driving cars is 10 RMB/vehicle. ② Gear and Clothing: Wear non-slip, comfortable shoes. Mountain weather is changeable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes. ③ Cultural Experience: Try Longji bamboo tube rice and local chicken. In Huangluo Yao Village (Yao Long Hair Village), enjoy Yao songs and dances (some performances require extra fees), see the world's longest braid (Guinness certified), or rent ethnic costumes for photos. ④ Environmental Reminder: Do not step on seedlings or litter. Some areas require hiking; please assess your physical condition. The Longji Rice Terraces are a masterpiece blending nature and culture. The golden autumn rice waves combined with Zhuang and Yao ethnic customs make it an excellent destination for photography and cultural exploration. It is recommended to visit after October 10 to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the northern border’s autumn charm in peace.