Located in the southern part of Yunnan Province, Yuanyang (元阳) is nestled in the southern section of the Ailao Mountain range. This region is home to seven ethnic groups: the Hani, Yi, Dai, Miao, Yao, Zhuang, and Han. Over centuries of hard work, these communities have carved out more than 360,000 acres of terraced fields on the mountainsides, creating a landscape that is truly unique in the world.
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces beautifully adapt to the undulating topography, with each layer of terraces nestled among vast forests and shrouded in a sea of clouds, resulting in a stunning and enchanting scenery. These terraces represent the fruit of human labor and are a legacy of the local people’s dedication across generations.
The scale of the terraces is immense, stretching along the entire southern bank of the Red River. They are particularly breathtaking at sunrise, when the sky is painted in hues of red and gold, and the clouds roll over the terraces, which gleam in the sunlight like stairways reaching into the sky. At sunset, the terraces, mountain villages, and trees are bathed in a golden glow, creating a picturesque scene that captivates countless photographers and nature lovers alike.
Travel Information about Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Tickets and Opening Hours
Admission Fee: ¥70 (includes access to Ba Da, Duyishu, Laohuzui, and Qingkou Hani Ethnic Village). A special tourist shuttle bus between the scenic spots costs ¥80.
Opening Hours: Open all day.
Best Time to Visit
The best season for photography at the Yuanyang Rice Terraces is from November to April of the following year. The area only has one rice crop per year:
- May: Rice planting begins.
- July: The terraces are lush green.
- October: The fields turn golden yellow.
After winter, the fields are flooded, and the clear lines of the terraces become beautifully visible, making it a perfect time for photography.
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture. The rice terraces are distributed across various townships, with the highest concentration in Xinjie Town.
Transportation: Buses are available from Kunming Southern Passenger Station to Xinjie Town. Once in Xinjie, you can hire a local vehicle (often referred to as a “minibus”) to reach various scenic spots.
Scenic Spot Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★★★
- Romance: ★★★
- Adventure: ★★
Highlights of Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Bada Scenic Area
Located 16 kilometers south of Xinjie Town, the Bada Scenic Area is one of the most renowned spots for viewing sunsets, Hani rice terraces, and sea of clouds. It encompasses the largest terrace region in Yuanyang, covering approximately 9 square kilometers, including contiguous areas such as Qingkou, Quanfuzhuang, Malizhai, and Zhulu. The most breathtaking views of the terraces occur during sunset.
The Bada Rice Terraces are expansive, spectacular, and characterized by beautiful lines and strong three-dimensionality. They stretch from Malizhai River at an altitude of 1,100 meters, seamlessly rising to the mountaintop at 2,000 meters. As time and lighting change throughout the day, the terraces shimmer in a variety of colors, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that leaves visitors spellbound.
Related Details:
In Yuanyang, rice planting typically begins in May, with harvesting occurring in September and irrigation in December. The optimal time for sightseeing is from October to April of the following year, with the best period being around the Spring Festival. During this time, visitors can easily witness the breathtaking sea of clouds. Around the Lantern Festival, the local wildflowers bloom, covering the mountains in stunning shades of red and white.
The local climate can be quite variable, so it’s advisable to bring an umbrella for both sun protection and rain coverage. Additionally, the temperature can vary significantly between morning and evening, so be sure to dress warmly to stay comfortable.
Duoyishu Scenic Area
The Duoyishu Scenic Area is located 25 kilometers from Xinjie Town and encompasses thousands of acres of terraced fields, including Duoyishu, Aichun, and Dawangzhe. Known for its breathtaking sunrises, Duoyishu is arguably the most photographed spot in Yuanyang.
At sunrise, the changing colors of the water-filled rice terraces create a mesmerizing spectacle, captivating visitors with their beauty. The misty rain shrouds the nearby Duoyishu village, making it appear as a dreamlike paradise, blending seamlessly with the ethereal landscape. This enchanting atmosphere makes Duoyishu a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Laohuzui Scenic Area
The Laohuzui Scenic Area spans an impressive 8 square kilometers and is renowned for its steep and dramatic rice terraces, making it one of the most breathtaking locations in Yuanyang. From the mountain vantage point, the terrain resembles “two mountains enclosing a valley,” with a small river gently flowing at the bottom. The landscape features lush green hills, vibrant trees, and quaint villages, while layers of terraced fields cascade down into the valley below.
These terraced fields are known for their striking three-dimensional appearance, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. The colors shift dramatically, ranging from deep greens to vivid hues, making it a stunning spectacle for visitors.
Laohuzui includes several notable areas such as Mengpin, Dongpu, Amengkong, and Honghezhai. The terraces here are not only visually striking due to their depth but also boast a vibrant palette that resembles a masterpiece painted by an artist. This captivating scenery makes Laohuzui a beloved spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Qingkou Hani Folk Village
Qingkou Hani Folk Village is located just a short distance from the Bada Scenic Area, perched on a hillside. The village is home to over 150 households and more than 800 residents. Surrounded by lush forests, the area is alive with the sounds of birds and cicadas, creating a vibrant and authentic rural atmosphere.
This folk village is a concentrated representation of Hani terrace culture, showcasing the interconnection of forests, villages, terraces, and rivers—making it known as the “Four-Dimensional Display Area” of the Hani people.
Visitors to Qingkou can explore traditional Hani mushroom-shaped houses, sacred groves, irrigation channels, wooden water distribution carvings, and various water-powered facilities such as water mills and grinding houses. The traditional Hani mushroom houses, bathed in sunlight, appear particularly quaint and natural, resembling pure mushrooms sprouting in the deep mountains and harmoniously blending with the surrounding nature.
Hani Mushroom Houses:
The Hani Mushroom Houses are distinctive structures resembling mushrooms, constructed with earthen walls, bamboo frames, and thatched roofs, featuring four sloping surfaces. These houses are typically divided into three levels:
- Lower Level: This area is used for keeping cattle and horses, as well as for storing furniture and other items.
- Middle Level: The floor is laid with wooden planks, divided into three sections—left, middle, and right. The central section features a square fire pit that is continuously lit, providing warmth and a place for cooking.
- Upper Level: This level is covered with earth, serving as both a fireproof barrier and a storage area for various items.
The Hani Mushroom Houses are known for their durability, keeping warm in winter and cool in summer, making them unique within China’s residential architecture. These charming homes, alongside towering mountains, enchanting seas of clouds, and the intricate patterns of terraced fields, create a captivating landscape in the Hani mountain villages.
Visitor Guide for Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Accommodation in Yuanyang Rice Terraces
When visiting Yuanyang Rice Terraces, you can choose to stay in Yuanyang County, but many visitors prefer to stay in Xinjie Town (the old county seat) due to its proximity to the terrace scenic areas and rich ethnic culture, which offers a closer experience of Hani life. For those specifically aiming to capture the sunrise over the terraces, staying in one of the villages within the terraces is also an excellent option. This allows for convenient early morning photography, and staying in a Hani Mushroom House offers a unique and immersive experience.
Yuanyang Cloud Terrace Hotel (元阳云上梯田酒店): This hotel features a structure resembling Hani Mushroom Houses, blending beautifully with the surrounding terraced landscapes. It offers over 100 spacious and clean rooms equipped with complete facilities.
Jiangwai Huawo Boutique Hotel (江外花窝突精品酒店): Located near the Yuanyang Rice Terraces in Dayutang Village, this hotel is surrounded by lush woods. It offers well-equipped rooms and amenities, including a coffee bar and a pub, providing a relaxing environment for guests.
Local Cuisine in Yuanyang
In Yuanyang, you can find numerous street vendors selling local specialties such as grilled tofu and grilled sweet potatoes. These dishes feature slightly fermented tofu cubes and potato slices grilled until golden brown, served with a spicy dipping sauce. Other local favorites include dried beef from young yellow cattle and fried pork ribs, which are staples on almost every restaurant menu.
Xianrenju Restaurant (仙人居酒楼): Located on the north side of the Rice Terrace Square in Xinjie Town, this restaurant is known for its cleanliness and relatively higher prices. The owner, originally from Zhejiang, fell in love with the area’s beauty during a trip years ago and decided to settle here.
Liu Jun Restaurant (六军饭店): Situated next to the Rice Terrace Square in Xinjie Town, this restaurant has a long history. Although it has a simple décor, the food is delicious, and it has hosted many renowned photographers over the years.
Photography Tips for Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Best Locations:
- Morning Sunrise: For capturing the stunning sunrise over the rice terraces, head to Shengcun Duoyishu. The unique curves and lines of the terraces create a mesmerizing landscape, making it an ideal spot for early morning photography.
- Afternoon Sunset: In the afternoon, visit Laohuzui for breathtaking sunset shots. From the viewing platform at Laohuzui, you can see terraces on three sides, offering a majestic view.
Arrive Early: If you want to photograph the sunrise, be sure to wake up early. Many photographers and tourists flock to the best spots, so arriving late could mean missing out on prime locations.
Wear Proper Footwear: To enjoy the terraces, you’ll need to hike up, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes. The terrain can be rugged and uneven, and the area often experiences fog, so stay alert while walking and shooting.