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Visitors to the Malizhai Terraces can enjoy hiking through the rice terraces, admire the stunning views, and photograph the intricate layers of the fields. It's also a great opportunity to experience local Naxi culture and visit traditional villages nearby.
The Malizhai Terraces belong to Shengcun Township, Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is located to the west of Shengcun Township, 5 kilometers away from the township government. The road to the township government is a dirt road, and transportation is inconvenient. It is 53 kilometers away from Nansha, the county seat.
The terraced fields in the Malizhai Scenic Area are vast, spectacular, and feature beautiful lines and a strong sense of three-dimensionality. Starting from the Malizhai River at an altitude of 1,100 meters, thousands of terraced fields stretch endlessly to the peak of a mountain at an altitude of 2,000 meters, lifting the Hani villages of Malizhai, Bada, Shangmadian, and Quanfuzhuang high into the sea of clouds.
Standing at the Malizhai Tea Factory and looking out over the terraced fields, the nearly 10,000 mu (approximately 10,000 mu) of rice terraces resemble a vast expanse of shimmering waters, a truly spectacular sight. After 4 p.m., the vast expanse of white gradually turns pink, then red, then pink, then white as the sun sets. It's a perfect place to watch and photograph the terraces transforming with the passing of time.
The subtropical plateau monsoon climate has a relatively uniform seasonal pattern, with rainy and cool summers and warm winters. All seasons are suitable for travel.
The Malizhai Rice Terraces are dominated by Hani customs, humanities and natural landscapes. It is a place to enjoy the scenery of Hani rice terraces, sea of clouds, Hani architecture, etc. It is also a central area for understanding, studying and experiencing Hani culture.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Malizhai Terraces are one of the oldest rice terraces in the Red River Valley, with a history that dates back over 1,000 years. They are significant for their stunning agricultural beauty and their role in preserving the traditional farming techniques of the Naxi people.
The Malizhai Terraces are located in the Red River region of Yunnan, China. They are accessible by car or bus from the town of Jianshui or Yuanyang. It is recommended to travel by taxi or private car as public transportation is limited.
The terraces are open to visitors year-round. The best time to visit is from late autumn to early winter, when the fields are filled with water, creating beautiful reflections. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography.
The entrance fee is typically around 50 RMB for the area around the terraces. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It's recommended to buy tickets on-site, as there are limited options for online booking.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you plan to visit during peak travel seasons such as Chinese New Year. It's a good idea to book at least a few days in advance during busy times.
Exploring the Malizhai Terraces can take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the time spent hiking through the terraces and visiting the surrounding villages.
The main highlight is the expansive view of the rice terraces themselves, particularly from the viewing platforms. Also, the surrounding villages with traditional Naxi houses and local markets are worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. Audio guides may not be available, but local guides can provide information about the history and culture of the terraces.
The best viewpoints are the elevated platforms scattered around the terraces, offering sweeping views of the rice fields. Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting for photographs, especially when the terraces are filled with water.
Start by walking to the nearest viewing platform to take in the panoramic views. From there, explore the terraces by walking along the paths between the fields, and visit the nearby villages to experience local life.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Malizhai Terraces. However, visiting during the early morning or late afternoon offers the best atmosphere for capturing the beauty of the terraces.
The terraces are most crowded during holidays and peak seasons, such as Chinese New Year. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-peak seasons, particularly in the fall or early spring.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas, but food and water may not be readily available within the terraces themselves. It’s best to bring your own water and snacks or visit local eateries outside the terraces.
Due to the steep terrain of the terraces, it may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Children and fit adults can easily explore the site, but strollers may not be suitable for the terrain.
Cash is accepted for entrance fees and purchases, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards are less commonly used in the area.
There are several small local restaurants in the nearby villages offering Yunnanese cuisine. You can find basic meals such as rice, noodles, and local vegetables. It’s recommended to bring snacks if you prefer more options.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, and some may offer vegetarian Yunnan specialties. Halal food is limited in this area, but some local restaurants may cater to dietary preferences upon request.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels around the area, particularly in the nearby towns of Jianshui and Yuanyang. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in one of the traditional Naxi guesthouses in nearby villages.
Nearby attractions include the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Jianshui Ancient Town. Both can be easily visited in a day trip, and offer insights into the region's cultural and agricultural heritage.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the nearby villages. Typical souvenirs include locally made handicrafts, such as woven baskets, scarves, and ethnic jewelry. You can also find tea and local produce in the shops.
After visiting, taxis or buses are the most common options for continuing your trip. If you're traveling to nearby attractions like the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, it's best to hire a local driver or join a tour group for convenience.
