Longsheng Rice Terraces

LongshengRiceTerrace

Longsheng Rice Terraces (Chinese: 龙胜梯田; Pinyin: Lóngshèng Tītián), also known as the Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田; Lóngjǐ Tītián), are located in Longsheng Various Nationalities Autonomous County, about 100 kilometers from Guilin, in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The terraces are built into the hillside, and their history dates back over 650 years, to the Yuan Dynasty.

History

The construction of the Longsheng Rice Terraces began in the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and was completed in the early Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), taking around 400 years to complete. They were built by the Zhuang and Yao people, two of the ethnic minorities in China, as a solution to the scarce arable land in the mountainous region. The terraces are a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of these communities, as they transformed what was once inhospitable terrain into fertile farmland.

Geography

The Longsheng Rice Terraces cover an area of over 66 square kilometers (25 square miles) and are situated at an elevation ranging from 300 to 1100 meters (980 to 3600 feet). The terraces are carved out of the mountainsides, following the natural contours of the landscape. This not only maximizes the use of available land for agriculture but also creates a breathtakingly beautiful landscape that changes with the seasons. In spring, the terraces are filled with water, reflecting the sky and the surrounding mountains. In summer, they are lush and green with growing rice plants. Autumn brings a golden hue as the rice matures, and in winter, the terraces may be covered in snow.

Culture

The Longsheng Rice Terraces are not just an agricultural marvel; they are also a cultural heritage site that reflects the traditions and lifestyles of the Zhuang and Yao people. The communities living among the terraces have preserved their traditional ways of life, including unique architectural styles, languages, and customs. The Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces, as they are sometimes called, are also the site of various local festivals and events, which often include traditional music, dance, and attire.

Tourism

The Longsheng Rice Terraces have become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at the engineering achievement and the natural beauty of the area. There are several villages within the terraces that offer accommodations and other services for tourists. Ping An Village and Dazhai Village are among the most popular, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the terraces, learn about the local culture, and even participate in farming activities.

Conservation

As the popularity of the Longsheng Rice Terraces as a tourist destination has grown, so has the concern for their preservation. Efforts are being made to balance tourism with conservation, ensuring that the terraces continue to be a sustainable source of livelihood for the local communities, as well as a preserved natural and cultural heritage site.