Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces
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This part of Guangxi boasts stunning views of terraced paddy fields, and the
clear standout is
Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces
(Longji Titian; adult ¥80)
. The rice fields rise up to 1000m high and are an amazing feat of farm engin-
eering on hills dotted with minority villages. The best time to visit is after the
summer rains in May, which leave the terraces shimmering with reflections.
The fields turn golden just before harvesting (October), and become snow-
white in winter (December). Avoid early spring (March), when the mountains
are shrouded in mist.
There are several villages to visit.
Ping'an
, a sprawling 600-year-old
Zhuang village, is the biggest settlement and the most popular among tourists.
Further along is
Dazhai
, a laid-back Yao village that has an idyllic rural al-
lure with a bubbling stream. Continue uphill to the village of
Tiantouzhai
atop
the mountain. It's a sublime place to marvel at the panoramic views of the ter-
races, the sunrise or the starry night sky.
Most locals here are Zhuang or Yao, but you'll also find Dong and Miao
people in the area.
As all of the villages are perched on hills, bring a daypack and leave your
luggage at the hotel in Guilin or at left luggage in the main ticket office. Other-
wise porters can help lug your luggage up for ¥40. There's nowhere in this
area to change money.
