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The Hesa Terraces are known for their stunning landscapes and scenic beauty. Here are the most recommended things to do:
The Tasa Rice Terraces are located in Tasa Village, Jiayin Township, Honghe County, known as the "Home of Palm Trees." In Jiayin, each village is crowned by a lush forest dotted with palm trees; in the middle, clusters of mushroom-shaped houses nestle beneath the trees; and at the bottom, a series of terraced fields stretch out in layers.
Looking down from the Twelve Dragon Springs Viewing Point in Hesa, you can see the continuous Hesa terraces, which are connected to each other and cover a total area of more than 2,000 mu. All the terraces are dug on the hillside, forming a surrounding U-shaped terrace valley from top to bottom.
Located in the subtropical monsoon climate zone, it is spring-like all year round with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
He spreads out acres of terraced fields, each one a beauty of its own, like a string of wondrous musical notes scattered across the mountain ridges. Infused with the purity of water, the fragrance of earth, the gentle breeze of green fields, and wrapped in the blazing sunshine, they pour into the heart and seep into the soul. The terraces, layer upon layer, are majestic, exquisitely designed, and gracefully contoured. Set against the backdrop of seas of clouds, mushroom houses, palm trees, reservoirs, and forests, they appear even more captivating.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Hesa Terraces are part of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They have been cultivated by the Hani people for over 1,000 years. The terraces are not only a farming achievement but also a symbol of the harmonious relationship between the Hani people and nature.
Hesa Terraces are located in the Red River region of Yunnan Province, about 1-2 hours from the city of Mengzi. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited, but there are buses available from nearby towns.
The Hesa Terraces are open year-round. The best times to visit are from April to June, during the planting and early growing season, or from September to November, during the harvest season. Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography.
The entrance fee to the Hesa Terraces is typically around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the terraces or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but if you're planning a visit during peak seasons (spring and autumn), it's recommended to book a local guide or tour package to ensure availability.
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to explore the Hesa Terraces, including a walk through the fields and a visit to nearby villages. If you plan to hike further or spend more time in the surrounding area, it may take up to half a day.
The main highlight is the vast expanse of terraced rice fields, especially those that are reflective after rainfall. The viewpoints located around the terraces offer the best photo opportunities, with sweeping views of the landscape.
Guided tours are available and often provided by local villagers or designated tour operators. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may have limited English-speaking abilities. Audio guides are not commonly available.
The best viewpoints are at the highest points of the terraces, where you can capture the stunning landscape of tiered fields stretching to the horizon. The best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon, during sunrise and sunset.
Start by visiting the main viewpoint to get a panoramic view of the terraces. Then, walk down into the fields to get closer to the water-filled terraces and observe the farming methods. End your visit with a trip to a nearby village to experience local culture.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Hesa Terraces. It is best to visit during the day to appreciate the full beauty of the rice fields, as the area is remote and lacks nighttime attractions.
The terraces can get busy during peak tourist seasons, especially during the harvest time in late autumn. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning or during weekdays. The off-season (winter and early spring) is also less crowded.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water can be purchased at small local vendors, and there are some shops selling souvenirs. For more dining options, it is best to head back to the town of Mengzi.
The terrain around the Hesa Terraces can be uneven and challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and those who can walk short distances will enjoy exploring the area. Some areas may require hiking, so be prepared for some physical activity.
Cash is commonly used in the Hesa Terraces area. While some vendors may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay, it is advisable to carry cash, especially if you are purchasing from small local stalls.
There are no large restaurants or cafes inside the terraces themselves, but you can find small local eateries serving Yunnanese cuisine in nearby towns like Mengzi. Try the local rice dishes and hotpot.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially in local eateries that serve traditional Yunnanese dishes. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but some restaurants may accommodate these dietary preferences.
There are several small guesthouses and hotels in nearby Mengzi. For a more immersive experience, you can stay in one of the rural guesthouses or homestays near the terraces.
Nearby attractions include the Yuanjiang River, which offers scenic views and opportunities for boating, as well as other parts of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces. The city of Mengzi also offers historical sites to explore.
There are small souvenir shops around the terraces selling local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Hani items like embroidered clothing and bags. You can also buy rice-based products as souvenirs.
After visiting the Hesa Terraces, the best options for continuing your trip are by taxi or private car. There are buses available to nearby towns, or you can hire a car to explore further attractions in the region.
