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The Duoyishu Terraces offer breathtaking views of the stunning rice terraces, especially during sunrise. Visitors can explore the agricultural heritage of the local Hani ethnic group, who have maintained these terraces for centuries. Photography is a popular activity, with the vibrant colors of the terraced fields contrasting beautifully against the surrounding mountains. A hike through the terraces also allows you to experience the unique culture and architecture of the region.
The Duoyishu Rice Terraces Scenic Area is located in the core area of Yuanyang Rice Terraces National Wetland Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is 23 kilometers from the old county seat (Xinjie Town) and sits at an altitude of 1,900 meters. The Duoyishu Rice Terraces is a scenic spot for watching the sunrise, and the most beautiful time to see it is when the sun rises.
The sunrise terraces of Doi Suthep offer a seasonal highlight, bridging autumn and winter with spring and summer. After the autumn harvest, clear water flows into the fields, bathed in the morning and evening sun, casting a golden glow across the mountains. White clouds and blue sky are reflected in the terraces, creating shimmering waves of light. Winter, the season for the terraces, is at its most vibrant. The shifting colors of the terraces create a sense of being transported to a vast, boundless maze, with no end in sight.
With the arrival of spring, oxen busily plow the fields, and workers busy planting rice. Lush green seedlings blanket the terraced fields, and the lush green hills and clear waters, washed by gentle rain, burst into vibrant life. As spring lingers and the summer breeze arrives, the surging sea of mist, now and then appearing and disappearing, casts a shadow over the distant Hani village, creating a poetic, dreamlike wonderland, a paradise inhabited by immortals. Then comes the autumn harvest season, when the mountains are covered in golden hues, the fragrance of rice wafts through the air, and the countryside is a scene of abundant harvest. This repeats itself year-round.
The subtropical plateau monsoon climate has no distinct seasons. Summers are cool and humid with lots of rain, while winters are warm. All seasons are suitable for travel.
The Duoyishu Rice Terraces Scenic Area encompasses tens of thousands of acres of terraced fields, including those in Duoyishu, Aichun, and Dawazha. Thousands of terraces stretch from the foot of Duoyishu Village into the deep Red River Valley. Water, mountain, sky, and the village are all connected, enveloped by a perpetually surging, steaming mist, creating a scene that appears to be a single, seamless world. These numerous terraces and villages, nestled within the vast forest and blanketed by a sea of clouds, create a magical and magnificent landscape. In Duoyishu Village, the people live in harmony with the mountains, a true haven for nature.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
65 yuan/person
Open all day
Duoyishu Terraces are part of the UNESCO-listed Honghe Hani Rice Terraces in Yunnan. These terraces have been cultivated for over 1,300 years, showcasing the deep agricultural knowledge and traditions of the Hani people. The terraces are a marvel of engineering, built to adapt to the mountainous terrain and to optimize water use for rice cultivation. They represent the harmonious relationship between human activity and nature in this region.
Duoyishu Terraces are located in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province. The nearest major city is Kunming, from where you can take a bus or taxi to reach the terraces. The journey takes about 5-6 hours by car. Once in the region, local transport options like taxis or guided tours can take you to the terraces.
The Duoyishu Terraces are open year-round. The best times to visit are during sunrise (for stunning photographs) or in the spring, when the rice terraces are flooded with water, creating a mirror effect. The terraces are especially beautiful during the harvest season, from late summer to early autumn. Avoid visiting during the rainy season, as heavy rainfall can make the trails slippery.
There is a small entrance fee for visiting Duoyishu Terraces, typically around 50-60 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, though some local tour agencies may include tickets as part of guided tours.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, though it is advisable to arrange a tour or transportation ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. For guided tours, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
A visit to the Duoyishu Terraces typically takes 2 to 3 hours, allowing time for photography, a short hike, and to enjoy the views. If you plan to visit nearby villages or take a more extensive hike through the terraces, you may want to allocate an entire day.
The main highlight is the panoramic view of the rice terraces, especially during sunrise when the terraces are bathed in soft light. Don't miss the view from the "viewing platform" at the top of the terraces, which provides the most iconic perspective. The nearby villages of the Hani people are also worth exploring to see their traditional wooden houses and daily life.
Guided tours are available, and most guides speak Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, though these are less common. Audio guides are not typically offered, but guides will provide detailed explanations of the terraces' history and significance.
The best viewpoint is at the top of the terraces, where you can capture the sweeping view of the fields. The sunrise viewpoint is a popular spot, as the early morning mist and soft sunlight create stunning photo opportunities. The reflection of the rice terraces in the water is also a fantastic subject for photographers.
Start by walking along the main path leading to the viewing platform, which offers the best panoramic views. You can then continue to explore the terraces, walking through narrow paths between the fields. After taking in the views, consider visiting a nearby Hani village for a cultural experience before heading back.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Duoyishu Terraces. However, some tour groups may offer evening activities like a traditional Hani dinner or folk performances in nearby villages.
The terraces can get crowded during peak seasons, especially in the spring and autumn. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays or early in the morning during the off-peak months (winter and early spring).
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls are available near the entrance. However, there are no major restaurants or shopping centers within the terrace area, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks.
The terraces are located in a mountainous region, and while there are paths for walking, the terrain may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues. Elderly visitors and young children should be cautious, and it's recommended to take it slow or opt for a shorter walk.
Cash is commonly used in the area, though some shops may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases or when paying for entrance fees.
There are small food stalls near the terraces offering local snacks and simple meals, such as rice noodles and grilled meat. For more dining options, it's best to head to nearby towns or Kunming city.
Vegetarian options are available, with rice dishes and vegetable-based meals common in local eateries. Vegan and halal food options are limited, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
There are small guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Xinjie, about a 30-minute drive from Duoyishu. For more luxurious accommodations, consider staying in Kunming and making a day trip to the terraces.
Nearby attractions include other parts of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, such as Bada and Laohuzui terraces. You can also visit the Hani villages and experience the local culture and traditional houses.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling locally made crafts such as hand-woven textiles, bamboo items, and rice-based products.
After visiting Duoyishu, taxis and local buses can take you to nearby attractions or back to Kunming. Many visitors also opt to hire a private driver for more flexibility in exploring the surrounding area.
