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The Hani Terraces are best explored by hiking along the various scenic viewpoints. Visitors should enjoy walking through the lush rice fields, take in the picturesque landscapes, and learn about the traditional Hani culture. Photography enthusiasts will love capturing the unique layers of the terraces, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces, located in the southern part of the Ailao Mountains, are a masterpiece of the Hani people, created over generations. The terraces, stacked layer by layer according to the terrain, are truly spectacular. They consist of four main areas: the Bada Scenic Area, the Laohuzui Scenic Area, the Duoyishu Scenic Area, and the Qingkou Scenic Area. A visit to the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces offers both the opportunity to witness the magnificent sunrise and sunset over the terraces and to experience the unique charm of the Hani villages.
Locals often say, "Sunrise over Duoyishu, sunset over Laohuzui." It takes about half an hour to drive from the old county town to Duoyishu, so getting up early to capture the best sunrise vantage point is crucial. Along the road in front of Duoyishu Village lies a vast hillside that can accommodate a thousand people. The Duoyishu rice terraces are not only magnificent in form, but their most remarkable feature is the golden clouds. Often shrouded in mist, sunrise creates a breathtaking spectacle of radiant clouds, reflected across the terraces. This is a favorite spot for photographers.
Subtropical mountain monsoon climate; Hani Terraces is one of the favorite places for photographers. The best time for shooting is from November to April of the following year, with January being the best.
Duoyishu, Laohuzui, Qingkou, etc.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 days
Daily ticket: 100 yuan/person, weekly ticket: 180 yuan/person
Open all day (opening hours of important attractions in the scenic area: 6:00-19:30)
The Hani Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are famous for their stunning beauty and historical significance. The terraces, which have been cultivated for over 1,000 years, are a testament to the ingenuity of the Hani people in managing the land and water resources in the steep mountains of Yunnan.
The Hani Terraces are located in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province. The nearest town is Yuanyang, where you can take a taxi or private vehicle to reach the terraces. Public buses are also available, but taxis or rented cars are more convenient for exploring the terraces.
The Hani Terraces are open year-round. The best time to visit is during the rice-growing season (April to June) or during harvest (October to November), when the fields are filled with water or golden rice. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography.
The entrance fee for visiting the terraces is around 100 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Some tour companies offer package tours that include transportation and entrance fees.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays to avoid long waits. You can usually buy tickets on-site.
A visit to the Hani Terraces typically takes 2-3 hours to fully explore, especially if you plan to hike and take photos from multiple viewpoints. Spending the whole day is ideal for those wanting to fully immerse in the landscape.
The most famous areas to visit are the Bada and Duoyishu terraces. Bada is known for its breathtaking panoramic views, and Duoyishu is famous for its beautiful sunrise views over the rice fields.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tour operators may offer tours in English, but it’s best to book in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available, but local guides can provide rich cultural insights about the terraces.
The best viewpoints for photography are at Bada and Duoyishu. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for capturing the terraces. The misty mornings and golden-hour light enhance the beauty of the terraces.
Start by visiting the Duoyishu terraces early in the morning for sunrise. Afterward, head to the Bada terraces for panoramic views. If you have time, explore other smaller terraces like Laohuzui, which offers a unique perspective of the landscape.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Hani Terraces. However, the early morning sunrise and late afternoon sunset provide spectacular views that make the terraces a prime spot for natural photography.
The terraces can get crowded during holidays, weekends, and peak tourist seasons. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the off-season (winter or early spring) or early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Basic facilities like toilets, water fountains, and small rest areas are available near the terraces. There are small shops selling snacks, water, and souvenirs, but there are no large restaurants or cafes at the terraces themselves.
The Hani Terraces involve a lot of walking and hiking on uneven terrain, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the visit but should be supervised due to the steep slopes.
Cash is widely accepted in the area, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used than credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local vendors.
There are several small local restaurants near the terraces offering Yunnan specialties like rice noodles and stir-fried vegetables. For a more substantial meal, you can head to Yuanyang town, where there are more dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at local eateries, with dishes like stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and rice. Halal food is less common in this area, so it’s best to check in advance or bring your own food if necessary.
There are various hotels and guesthouses in Yuanyang town, which is around 30-40 minutes away by car from the terraces. These range from budget options to more comfortable hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Yuanyang County, which is known for its rich ethnic culture and traditional architecture. You can also explore the Ailao Mountain for hiking or visit local Hani villages to experience their way of life.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops near the terraces selling items such as ethnic clothing, handmade crafts, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include Hani-style jewelry, woven baskets, and wooden carvings.
The best transportation options after visiting the Hani Terraces are by taxi or private vehicle. For longer trips, buses are available to major cities like Kunming or Dali, but renting a car or joining a tour group provides more flexibility.
