In-Depth Travel Guide to Longji Rice Terraces' Jinkeng Dazhai

1. Transportation Options 1. Self-drive: If departing from Guilin or Yangshuo, navigate directly to the "Jinkeng Village" parking lot, approximately a 2-3 hour drive. Mountain parking costs about ¥30 per vehicle per night. You can book QIAN No.2 Courtyard Hotel in advance, which has its own free parking lot with direct access to the hotel. 2. Chartered car: When hiring a car, clearly specify the destination as Jinkeng Dazhai parking lot to avoid being dropped at the ticket office, which would require long walks or additional transfers. 3. Public transport: From Guilin Qintan Bus Station, take a bus to Longsheng, then transfer to a Longji Rice Terraces-bound bus (round trip about 4 hours). Yangshuo offers direct shuttle buses (round trip about 5 hours). High-speed rail stations also have direct buses to Dazhai parking lot - ask your homestay to help book tickets in advance. 2. Attraction Guide Jinkeng Dazhai features three main viewing platforms: 1. Golden Buddha Peak: The highest point offering panoramic terrace views. A cable car runs here (¥55 one-way/¥100 round-trip, with child discounts). The 1-hour hike up is an alternative for the physically fit. 2. Thousand-Layer Ladder: Photographers' favorite with stacked terraces resembling a celestial staircase. Now accessible via new two-lane road from Longsheng North, making it beginner-driver friendly. Parking is conveniently close. 3. Xishan Shaoyue: Ideal sunrise spot, just 1km from Thousand-Layer Ladder. The final few hundred meters feature narrow, steep mountain roads requiring skilled driving. 3. Accommodation Recommendation - QIAN No.2 Courtyard Hotel This 2024-opened boutique hotel blends Shezhen designer aesthetics with local Hong Yao ethnic inspiration. Premium amenities include Panasonic AC, Hansgrohe fixtures, LACIS mattresses with luxury bedding, smart lighting, double-glazed windows, and fire safety systems. Strategically located: - 30-minute walk to Golden Buddha Peak - Private shuttle service to Thousand-Layer Ladder (boarding at hotel entrance) - 5-minute private transfer to cable car station for Golden Buddha Peak Guests enjoy terrace views from rooms - whether morning sunbeams or sunset glows over the paddies. The observation deck offers perfect tea-sipping vantage points. Additional luxuries include Dubai-style aromatherapy, 24-hour laundry, butler service, complimentary breakfast/afternoon tea, and post-sightseeing relaxation with essential oil treatments.