Longsheng Rice Terraces - China
Visit the iconic and unique Longsheng Rice Terraces, one of China’s most hidden and impressive assets. Snaking around Longji Mountain, the terraces are one of the world’s most spectacular agricultural creations. The rice crops form a natural mosaic as they snake up the mountainside, which form a variety of intricate patterns and colours. Built over 600 years ago, the coiling fields change from beautiful layers of water in spring to layers of vibrant green rice shoots in summer, until final fruition into rice in autumn. The Longji Mountain translates to ‘Dragon Backed Mountain’, thanks to the striking pattern of the mountain peaks resembling the back of the iconic Chinese symbol. See the national minorities of Yao and Zhuang as they lovingly grow their crops, and marvel at the length of the Yao women’s hair, which is famously never cut but wrapped above their heads. Then take a relaxing dip in the Longsheng Hot Spring, for the perfect seat to take in the wondrous surroundings.
Where is it?
Longsheng is located in the south of China, in the Guangxi district, to the north-west of Hong Kong.
What is it?
An agricultural marvel, the terraces set high in the mountains have been in use for over half a millennium by Chinese minorities wishing to make a living from the valuable crop.
Best time to visit?
May is the best time to visit, as you can witness the terraces full of water at the very first stage of growing the rice. Dawns and dusks are especially heightened by the effect of the water filled hillsides reflecting the sun's rays.
Must See?
Hike through Ping’An town to the Nine Dragons and Five Tigers Viewpoint, for an unforgettable view of the valley and the adorning rice terraces.
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