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Azheke Village offers a unique cultural and natural experience for visitors. Here are the top activities:
Azhek, meaning "an auspicious little place" in the Hani language, is located approximately three kilometers from the Duoyishu Rice Terraces Scenic Area and belongs to Aichun Village in Xinjie Town, Yuanyang County. Azhek Village preserves traditional Hani houses, also known as mushroom houses.
Azheke Village exemplifies the Hani people's rice-growing culture. The Hani people have shaped their perfect lifestyle around the "four elements" of terraced fields, forests, water systems, and villages. For thousands of years, facing the challenges of living in high mountains and valleys, the industrious Hani people have built dikes and embankments tailored to the varying terrain and soil types. Capitalizing on the natural conditions of "the higher the mountain, the higher the water," they channel year-round mountain springs and streams through canals and ditches into the terraced fields. As the clouds and mist dissipate, the terraced fields of various shapes and sizes are filled with clear springs. Under the bright sunshine, the gentle mountain breeze creates a shimmering scene, creating a fairyland-like experience.
The Hani people revere and worship nature. Despite carving the mountains for 1,300 years, they have never harmed nature. They rationally utilize water resources, cultivate terraced fields according to the terrain, beautify their homes, and live in harmony with nature. By the streams of Azheke, you can often see tree frogs hunting in the bushes.
The subtropical plateau monsoon climate zone is like spring all year round, with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel all year round.
Hidden deep in the terraced fields, Azheke still maintains a simple lifestyle. The original mushroom houses are scattered around. The village is pristine and peaceful, the people are simple and honest, and the local flavor is strong. It is a home in the terraced fields.
The Mushroom House's ground floor is used for livestock and farm tools, while the second floor is for living. Only one side is separated by wooden planks for bedrooms, while the other side houses an earthen stove. A hearth, the family's centerpiece, sits in the center, atop a kang for baking food. Part of the second floor serves as an extended sun terrace, a place for children to play and adults to socialize. The Mushroom House is warm in winter and cool in summer. The Hani people call the top floor granary "Fenghuolou," a highly valued location. It also holds a well-kept secret: it's a dating spot for Hani couples.
Azheke Village boasts a village god forest, a village gate, a water mill, a well, a sacrificial area, and a milling ground. The Hani people believe in animism, a primitive religion. The village god forest, where the village god resides, is located above the village, while the milling ground is located below the village. Both are built on the mountainside and by the water.
It is recommended to visit for about 1 day.
30 yuan/person
Open all day
Azheke Village is a culturally rich area known for its strong Yi ethnic heritage. The village has preserved many of its ancient traditions, including folk music, dance, and agricultural practices. It is a significant example of the diverse cultural landscape of Yunnan.
Azheke Village is located in the Red River area of Yunnan Province, China. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from the nearest town or city center. The nearest major city is Gejiu, which has regular bus connections to the village. Visitors may also choose to drive or hire a taxi from Gejiu or other nearby towns.
The village is open to visitors year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes are at their most vibrant.
There is typically no entrance fee for Azheke Village. However, certain cultural performances or specific guided tours may have fees, which can usually be paid in person or through local tour agencies.
For general visits, no booking is necessary. However, if you plan to attend a specific event or cultural performance, it's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
You can fully explore Azheke Village in half a day to a full day, depending on how much time you spend hiking, interacting with locals, or attending events. Plan for longer if you intend to visit nearby scenic spots or go on guided tours.
The must-see spots in Azheke Village include its traditional wooden houses, terraced fields, and the scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys. The local markets and cultural performances are also highlights.
Guided tours are available, often in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be found with prior arrangement. Local tours can offer insights into the culture, history, and daily life of the villagers.
The best photography spots are from the hilltops overlooking the terraced fields and the surrounding mountain ranges. The village itself, with its traditional architecture, also makes for stunning photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start by walking through the village to see the traditional houses and local markets. Next, head to a scenic viewpoint for panoramic views of the terraced fields and valley. If you're interested in culture, visit the local performance or craft workshop.
Night visits are not common, but you may be able to catch a local performance or event in the evening. Special cultural tours are sometimes available during festivals or holidays.
The village can get busy during national holidays and peak tourist seasons. For a more peaceful visit, come during weekdays or off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or winter.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and rest areas. There are small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. For food, try the local eateries offering traditional Yunnan cuisine.
Azheke Village's terrain is rural, with uneven pathways and steep areas, which may not be ideal for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore the village, but supervision is recommended, especially near the terraces.
Cash is commonly used in Azheke Village, but some larger shops may accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. It is advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions or in rural areas.
There are small, local restaurants in the village serving traditional Yunnan dishes. You can also find nearby cafes offering local teas and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in traditional Yunnan cuisine, with plenty of vegetable-based dishes. Halal food may be harder to find in the village but can be found in larger cities like Gejiu.
Accommodation options in the village itself are limited to guesthouses and small inns. For more upscale options, consider staying in Gejiu, which is around an hour’s drive from Azheke Village.
Nearby attractions include the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, another UNESCO World Heritage site, and the scenic Red River Valley. Gejiu, with its historical sites and markets, is also an easy day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the village, offering locally made handicrafts such as woven textiles, wooden carvings, and ethnic jewelry.
The best way to continue your trip is by bus or taxi back to Gejiu, where you can catch longer-distance buses or trains to other destinations in Yunnan.
