Asia's most beautiful rice terraces: Yuanyang
Nestled in the mountains of southwest China’s Yunnan province, Yuanyang remains a hidden gem for many Western tourists. Yet it is home to China’s largest and most spectacular rice terraces, a masterpiece patiently sculpted by the Hani people over the centuries.
Since 2013, these rice paddies have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting more and more travellers from all over the world to admire these “stairways to heaven” situated between 1500 and 1800 meters above sea level.
A work of art combining beauty and immensity
When the Yuanyang terraces are flooded, the landscape is transformed into a veritable paradise on earth. The sunlight dances across the fields of water, creating a spellbinding spectacle where emerald and silver mirrors change hue with the light of day. This natural phenomenon offers a palette of colors ranging from deep blue to golden pink, captivating all those lucky enough to observe it.
With over 11,300 hectares of rice-growing hills, the rice fields of Yuanyang stretch as far as the eye can see, forming a vasts scenery of terraces that perfectly follow the sloping contours of the hills. They blend harmoniously with the surrounding tropical vegetation, creating a landscape of striking beauty and impressive architectural complexity.
Whether at Duoyishu, Bada or Tiger Leaping Gorge each site offers a unique and breathtaking view. At sunrise in Duoyishu, the terraces gradually light up, revealing shimmering reflections. At Bada, sunset bathes the terraces in golden light, while at Tiger Leaping Gorge, at dusk, they glow in incomparable light. These magical moments make the Yuanyang rice fields an unforgettable spectacle and a natural masterpiece not to be missed.
The sculptors of the Earth
The Hani are often called the “Sculptors of the Earth” because of their incredible ability to transform the mountain landscape into magnificent rice terraces. For over 1300 years, they have shaped the Ailao mountains on the banks of the Red River in southern Yunnan, using ingenious farming techniques to create a system of terraces that follow the natural contours of the land. These rice terraces, irrigated by a complex network of bamboo canals, bear witness to the harmony between man and nature that the Hani have maintained over the centuries.
This transformation of the landscape is not only an agricultural feat, but also a living work of art that changes its color and appearance according to the seasons. The Hani have used every plot of land, large or small, to grow rice, demonstrating a deep understanding and respect for their natural environment.
These practices and techniques have been handed down from generation to generation. Each year, the harvest feeds 150,000 people. The majority of the inhabitants of this mountainous region depend on the cultivation of rice, whether white or red. At the start of the harvest season, it’s common to see bowls of this freshly harvested rice, grown without the use of pesticides, on the markets. Rice cultivation here is unique, using a traditional method in which rice grows among ducks and fish. At the end of the harvest, these ducks, rice and fish end up on the table.
Yuanyang markets
Yuanyang marketplace is one of the few villages in China where you can still admire local women in traditional costume. The market is a precious opportunity for these minority women to get together. We highly recommend visiting at least one market during your stay in Yuanyang. It’s a feast of color for the eyes! Market dates are set according to the lunar calendar, so it’s a good idea to consult an Asian lunar calendar to synchronize your visits to the region with the market days. Our guides are on hand to help you make the most of your stay. Here are the two most interesting markets in Yuanyang.
Shengcun market
The village of Shengcun lies halfway between the old town of Yuanyang and the village of Duoyishu. You can stroll through this market where Yi and Hani women gather after admiring the sunrise over the village’s rice terraces.
Niujiaozhai market
Niujiaozhai is home to a livestock market. Located 30 km from the old town, access is via a chaotic and narrow but picturesque road. Along the way, you can admire villages perched on the slopes, with houses featuring adobe walls and characteristic mushroom-shaped roofs.
Practical advice
When to go to Yuanyang: The ideal time to admire Yuanyang’s rice fields is from February to May. At this time, the terraces are filled with water, creating a mirror-like landscape that perfectly reflects the sky and surrounding environment, offering a breathtaking spectacle.
Transport and accomodation: From Kunming, it’s a 5.5-6 hour drive to Yuanyang. We recommend a stopover in Jianshui, an ancient town with a rich history and charming old buildings. In terms of accommodation, the region offers many charming hotels, allowing visitors to better appreciate the local culture and gastronomy.
Yuanyang rice terraces are not only an agricultural wonderland, but also an example of cultural and ecological preservation. They demonstrate the deep bond between man and nature, and are a must-see destination for all those who love nature and culture. Exploring these magnificent terraces not only allows you to admire the wonder of nature, but also to experience the rich and varied way of life of the ethnic minorities.
Contact ASEV Travel and let our team of travel experts design the perfect holiday for your customers.