DRAGON'S BACKBONE

The Longsheng Rice Terraces, ake the Dragon's Backbone are about a three hour bus ride north of Guilin.  The terraces consist of two separate areas - Ping’an Zhuang Terrace and Jinkeng/Dazhai Yao Terrace - reflecting the two minority ethnic groups in the region.  You can visit either terrace individual or visit both via hiking along a pathway that connects the two terraces.  The Dazhai Yao Terrace is slightly farther then the Ping'an Terrace and draws slightly less day trip visitors.  For the best views of the terraces you will need to hike through the terrace up to a vantage point where you can look back on the terraces below.  The two terrace areas have a couple of places to eat and sleep, however, if you need to find a rest point between the villages there's a bit more limited options.

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​Map - https://www.chinadiscovery.com/guilin-tours/maps/longsheng-maps.html
It was slightly overcast during my visit but the primary concern when visiting a rice terrace is the season. You do not want to show up and visit the rice terraces out of season when the terraces aren't filled and empty.
I spent the night in Zhongliu which added to the great experience. I actually think I would have been a little disappointed if I showed up, it was overcast, I walked out two hours then raced back to catch a bus back to Guilin. Definitely spend the night.
For additional Dragon's Backbone photos see FLICKR ALBUM.