Travel Guide

Longsheng

Immerse yourself in the minority cultures and terraced landscapes of Longsheng.

longsheng at a Glance

Everything you need to know before you go.

square_foot

2538 km²

Area

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167,000

Population

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77%

Minority Share

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Terraced fields and ethnic m

Known For

Where to Stay

Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.

Longsheng Hot Spring Resort Area

Nestled in the mountains, this area offers natural hot springs and lush scenery. It's ideal for relaxation, with resort facilities and easy access to the springs. Restaurants serve local dishes, and transport links connect to the county town. Suits travelers seeking wellness and tranquility.

Relaxation & wellness

Ping'an Village, Longji Rice Terraces

A classic base for exploring the Longji Rice Terraces, Ping'an offers stunning views, traditional Yao culture, and guesthouses. Trails lead to viewpoints like the Seven Stars with Moon. Local eateries serve bamboo rice and other specialties. Best for hikers and photographers.

Scenic views & hiking

Longji Ancient Zhuang Village

Located within the terrace area, this village preserves Zhuang ethnic heritage with stilted houses and stone paths. It's quieter than Ping'an, offering a more authentic stay. Nearby terraces provide sunrise views. Suitable for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Cultural immersion

Longsheng County Town

The county seat serves as a transport hub with bus stations, shops, and local restaurants. It's a practical base for day trips to the terraces or hot springs, with budget hotels and markets. Suits travelers needing convenience and connections.

Transport hub & budget

longsheng Highlights

The city's essential experiences.

🌾 Longji Rice Terraces

Longji Rice Terraces

Carved by Yao and Zhuang people over 650 years, these terraces span 66 sq km at 300-1100m altitude. Each season offers a unique view: silver chains in spring, green waves in summer, golden towers in autumn, and white jade in winter.

Longji Rice Terraces Sunrise (Ping'an Village)

Witness the sunrise from Ping'an Village, where the terraces glow with golden light. The best time is early morning when mist rolls over the hills, creating a dreamlike scene. Arrive before 6am to secure a good spot.

Sunset at 'Nine Dragons Five Tigers'

This viewpoint in Ping'an Village offers a spectacular sunset over the terraces. The name comes from the nine ridges and five tiger-like mounds. It's a 20-minute hike from the village, so start before 5pm to catch the golden hour.

Hike between Ping'an and Jinkeng Villages

This scenic 4-5 hour hike connects two of the most beautiful terrace areas. You'll pass through bamboo forests, small villages, and see the terraces from different angles. Bring water and snacks, and wear sturdy shoes.

♨️ Hot Springs and Mountain Villages

Longsheng Hot Spring Resort

Located 32 km from Longsheng county, these hot springs emerge from 1200m underground with temperatures between 45-58°C. Rich in minerals, they offer 16 pools. Try the hottest 'Jingmi Pool' at 50°C or the popular 'Qingyuan' pools at 38-42°C.

Datang Bay Mountain Village

This village showcases the cultures of Dong, Miao, Yao, and Zhuang minorities. Watch performances like the Dong reed-pipe dance and Yao rice cake making. You can also see traditional crafts like paper-making and oil pressing.

Dong Long-Table Banquet

Experience the famous Dong long-table banquet, where long tables are set up in a row for communal dining. The food is sour and spicy, with specialties like sour fish and rice wine. It's a lively event with singing and toasting.

🍲 Local Culture and Cuisine

Local Farmhouse Lunch

Enjoy a simple but delicious meal at a local farmhouse. Fresh mountain vegetables are naturally grown, and the homemade glutinous rice wine is sweet and fragrant, costing only a few yuan per jin. A great way to taste authentic local flavors.

Yanmen Gorge Rafting

For adventure seekers, rafting in Yanmen Gorge offers thrilling rapids and stunning scenery. The gorge is surrounded by lush forests and cliffs. Safety gear is provided, and the trip takes about 2 hours.

Best Time to Visit

Each season offers something different.

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Spring

Mild and wet, with blooming flowers. Ideal for hiking, but pack rain gear.

☀️

Summer

Hot and humid, with frequent showers. Best for terraced fields in lush green, but be prepared for rain.

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Autumn

Cool and dry, with clear skies. Perfect for photography, especially during the golden rice harvest.

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Winter

Cold and damp, with occasional frost. Fewer crowds, but bring warm clothing and expect slippery paths.

Suggested Itineraries

Plans for every schedule.

Classic 2-Day

schedule 2 Days

Day 1: Longji Rice Terraces Sunrise (Ping'an Village), Hike between Ping'an and Jinkeng Villages, Local Farmhouse Lunch, Sunset at 'Nine Dragons Five Tigers'. Day 2: Datang Bay Mountain Village, Dong Long-Table Banquet, Longsheng Hot Spring Resort.

Adventure 3-Day

schedule 3 Days

Day 1: Longji Rice Terraces Sunrise (Ping'an Village), Hike between Ping'an and Jinkeng Villages, Local Farmhouse Lunch, Sunset at 'Nine Dragons Five Tigers'. Day 2: Yanmen Gorge Rafting, Datang Bay Mountain Village, Dong Long-Table Banquet. Day 3: Longsheng Hot Spring Resort.

Relaxed 4-Day

schedule 4 Days

Local Tips

Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.

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Respect Local Cultures

Learn about minority customs and taboos before visiting villages.

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Carry Cash

ATMs are scarce, so bring enough cash for your trip.

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Pack for Humidity

Clothes dry slowly; bring quick-dry fabrics and extra layers.

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Use Public Trash Bins

Keep the scenic areas clean by disposing of waste properly.

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Mind Etiquette

Queue politely, stand on the right on escalators, and avoid smoking indoors.

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Choose Tours Wisely

If booking a tour, verify the agency and know the complaint hotline.

FAQs About longsheng

Quick answers to common questions.

What is the best time of year to visit Longsheng? add_circle

The best time is from April to July, which is the rainy season, but the terraces are full of water and beautiful. Avoid the brief rainy period in the first lunar month.

How much money should I budget per day in Longsheng? add_circle

A minimum of 50 yuan per day is needed for basic expenses, while 200-300 yuan per day allows for a more comfortable experience. Costs vary by season and personal habits.

Are there ATMs available in Longsheng? add_circle

ATMs are not everywhere in Longsheng, so it's advisable to carry enough cash. Plan ahead and withdraw money in the county town before heading to rural areas.

How can I get tourist information or help in Longsheng? add_circle

Contact the Longsheng Tourism Bureau at 0773-7511562 or visit their office opposite the health center. The website is www.longstour.com.

Is it safe to travel in Longsheng as a solo traveler? add_circle

Yes, it's generally safe. Respect local minority customs, avoid littering, and follow public order. For any disputes, call the tourism complaint hotline at 0773-7512502.

What languages are spoken in Longsheng? Can I get by with Mandarin? add_circle

Mandarin is widely understood, along with local dialects like Guiliuhua. Many minority people speak Mandarin, so communication is easy with basic Mandarin and gestures.

What should I pack for the weather in Longsheng? add_circle

Pack for a humid climate. Clothes may not dry quickly, so bring quick-dry fabrics. Winters are mild, but bring rain gear for the rainy season from April to July.

Are there any cultural taboos I should be aware of in Longsheng? add_circle

There are no strict religious taboos. Just respect local customs, avoid littering, and be polite. The main minorities are Zhuang, Yao, Dong, and Miao.

Can I take photos of the local people and their villages? add_circle

Yes, but always ask permission first. Be respectful, especially during ceremonies. Some may appreciate a small tip or buying their crafts.

Is Longsheng suitable for family travel with children? add_circle

Yes, it's family-friendly. The terraces offer easy walks, and kids can enjoy the rural scenery. However, be prepared for limited facilities and bring snacks and water.

What is the local cuisine like in Longsheng? Any must-try dishes? add_circle

Local cuisine features rice dishes, bamboo tube rice, and pickled foods. Try the famous Longji rice wine. Be cautious with spicy food if you're not used to it.

How crowded is Longsheng during peak seasons? add_circle

It can get crowded during Chinese holidays and summer. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. The terraces are less busy in the off-season.

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