Trips and Tours to LongshengTake a group tour to the 'Dragon's Backbone'

Located in a beautifully scenic area of China, Longsheng is home to some ten ethnic minority groups and surrounded on all four sides by forested mountains. The region is largely untouched by the modern world, wooden houses are squeezed between farmed terraces and villagers continue to use age-old farming techniques and dress in their colourful, traditional costume. However, the main attraction is the Dragon’s Backbone terraces where grassy rice fields coil around Mount Longji, climbing layer upon layer to its summit. Covering 66 square kilometres and a resembling a luminous green contour map the terraces are over 700 years old, construction was started by the Zhuang people back in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and was finally completed during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Hike along the stone paths, that are no more than a metre wide, for panoramic views of the ribbon-like terraces complete with picturesque valleys and meandering streams below. It also gives you the chance to see the different traditional costumes as the local women work the fields – quite a colourful sight. The whole area changes with the seasons, with snow covering the terraces in winter, the rice fields a rich green in summer, and a golden hue in autumn at the time of harvest.

Longsheng is the perfect place to visit if you are looking to experience traditional China. With its beautiful scenery of rich green rice terraces and idyllic hiking trails that connect the rustic villages. This autonomous region has a vibrant mix of cultures and is primarily made up of the Zhuang and Yao people, so expect to see many locals in traditional attire observing the unique customs of their respective cultures. This makes for an eye-opening experience, broadening your understanding of these ethnic minorities. If you are hoping to see traditional Chinese living then look no further that Longsheng, with cultural performances, traditional wooden housing and a deep connection to their historic ways, you are sure to get the best cultural experience in Longsheng. With stunning landscapes, delicious local cuisine and a peaceful atmosphere a visit to Longsheng is sure to make you feel grounded and leave you with a deeper understanding of China’s traditional roots.

The best times to visit Longsheng are spring and autumn. Spring is when the rice terraces are filled with water, creating stunning reflective surfaces that highlight the intricate patterns of the terraces. This season also features mild temperatures and lush, green landscapes, making it ideal for photography and hiking. In Autumn the rice terraces turn a brilliant golden colour as the rice is harvested, offering spectacular views. The weather is generally cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring the terraces and local villages. These seasons provide the most picturesque scenery and comfortable weather for experiencing the beauty and culture of Longsheng.

Visiting Longsheng offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of China’s most stunning and culturally rich landscapes. The breath-taking Longji Rice Terraces, or Dragon’s Backbone as they are often called, with their intricate patterns and seasonal transformations, provide a visual feast for nature lovers and photographers alike. Beyond the terraces, the chance to engage with the warm and welcoming Zhuang and Yao communities offers a unique cultural experience, from traditional customs to local craftsmanship. Whether you’re hiking through picturesque trails or savouring authentic regional cuisine, Longsheng presents a serene and authentic escape that captures the essence of rural China and promises a memorable and enriching journey.