Ride the Dazhai cable car above the Dragon's Backbone and walk down through 650-year-old rice terraces. This private day tour from Guilin pairs dramatic karst scenery with village visits and flexible hiking options.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning mist clings to stepped fields as the cable car lifts you above tiered paddies—rice mirrors the sky in shallow pools, and narrow stone paths wind like stitches across the hillside. This private day tour focuses on the Dazhai and Ping'an viewing areas of the Longji (Dragon's Backbone) Rice Terraces, roughly two hours' drive from Guilin, where centuries-old farming shapes a living landscape.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours (including drive)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness; expect short steep walks and many steps when exploring viewpoints
Wildlife
History
The terraces were hand-cut and managed by Zhuang and Yao minority communities for more than six centuries, reflecting adaptive agriculture on steep karst slopes.
Conservation
Stay on paths and avoid trampling field edges; choose local guides and homestays to support village economies and sustainable tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Longji Rice Terraces with the Dazhai Cable Car Private Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use the cable car to save energy
Take the one-way cable car to Golden Buddha Peak in the morning to avoid the long uphill climb and midday lines.
Bring small cash
Vendors and village homestays often accept only cash for snacks, costumes, or small purchases.
Footwear and footing
Wear grippy walking shoes—flagstone paths and wet steps get slippery after rain.
Timing beats crowds
Arrive early or have lunch before 12:30pm; the cable car and main viewpoints fill up after midday.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good grip is useful on flagstone paths and terraced steps.
Light rain jacket
Spring showers and mist can make paths slick and temperatures cool.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Low-altitude exposure on terraces means strong sun, especially midday.
summer
Small daypack
Carry water, snacks, camera, and purchases while keeping hands free.