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Yunhe Rice Terraces (Meiyuan Rice Terraces) are located in Chongtou Town. They were first developed in the early Tang Dynasty and flourished in the Yuan and Ming Dynasties. They have a history of more than 1,000 years. It is one of the first 4A-level tourist attractions in Yunhe County, integrating tourism and leisure, photography sightseeing, and folk appreciation.
The scenic area is mainly distributed on the high mountains around Chongtou Town, Yunhe County, with an altitude span of 200 meters to more than 1,400 meters and a vertical height of more than 1,200 meters. It spans three geological landscape belts of mountains, hills and valleys, with more than 700 layers at most. It is the largest terrace group in East China and is known as "China's most beautiful terraces". It is the main base for collecting materials in Lishui, the hometown of photography in China. The scenic area has natural landscapes such as terraces, sea of clouds, mountain villages, bamboo sea, streams, waterfalls, and rime. "Cloud wonders, floating cloud world" is a major highlight of the Yunhe Terraces.
The alpine azaleas bloom in April and May each year. The Ploughing Festival, held around the Dragon Boat Festival in June, is a large-scale sacrificial ceremony held by local farmers before they begin planting rice. Activities include welcoming the gods, refining fire, and performing buffalo shows. Hawthorns are ripe all over the mountains by October.
Number of days played: 1 day
80 yuan/person
8:00-16:30
The Yunhe Terraces, also known as the Yunhe Rice Terraces, are a marvel of ancient agricultural engineering. Dating back over 1,000 years, these terraced fields have been cultivated for rice production by local farmers. The terraces are not only a vital part of the local economy but also an iconic symbol of the harmonious relationship between humans and nature in rural China. They are considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved terraced landscapes in the country.
The Yunhe Terraces are located in Yunhe County, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, about 300 kilometers southwest of Hangzhou. You can reach the terraces by taking a bus or a private car from Hangzhou or Lishui. The closest train station is Lishui, from where buses or taxis can be taken to the terraces. Once at the terraces, walking is the best way to explore the various viewpoints and trails.
The Yunhe Terraces are open year-round. The best time to visit is during the rice growing season (May to October), when the terraces are lush and green. For the most scenic views, visit during sunrise or sunset. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
The entrance fee to the Yunhe Terraces is typically around CNY 60-80. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Some online platforms may offer advance booking options, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons (spring, summer, and national holidays) to avoid long lines. It is generally advisable to book at least a few days in advance during these times.
A visit to the Yunhe Terraces typically takes about 3-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking and taking photographs. If you wish to explore the nearby villages or take a longer hike, you may want to spend a full day in the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer basic English-speaking guides. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin. It’s recommended to check in advance for availability of English-speaking guides if necessary.
Start at the entrance and take a guided tour or audio guide to understand the history and significance of the terraces. Then, explore the main terraced fields, stopping at key viewpoints along the way. If you have time, visit a nearby village to get a glimpse of local life. End your visit by capturing photos at sunset from one of the observation platforms.
Night visits are not common at the Yunhe Terraces as the main attraction is the natural beauty of the landscape. However, sunset views offer a magical experience, with the lighting creating a beautiful scene. Special tours can be arranged, especially for photography or cultural experiences in nearby villages.
The Yunhe Terraces can be crowded during peak seasons, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons in winter or autumn. Early mornings are also less crowded.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops around the terraces. Local food is available in nearby villages, with options for snacks and traditional dishes. Water stations are also available, especially at the main observation points.
The terraces are located in mountainous areas, so access can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The main viewpoints are accessible by car, but some areas require walking on uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check accessibility in advance if you have mobility concerns.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted throughout the area. Credit cards may be accepted at larger establishments, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller vendors and local shops.
There are several local restaurants and cafes offering traditional Zhejiang cuisine. Nearby villages serve simple yet delicious meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try local rice-based dishes, tofu, and mountain vegetables.
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in local restaurants where dishes are made from rice, tofu, and vegetables. Halal food options may be limited, so it's best to inquire in advance if you require specific dietary needs.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns and villages, offering basic amenities and a chance to experience local hospitality. For more luxury options, you may need to stay in Lishui City, which is about an hour away by car.
There are several small souvenir shops around the Yunhe Terraces selling local handicrafts such as handmade paper, bamboo products, and traditional clothing. Locally grown tea and dried fruits are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting the Yunhe Terraces, you can continue your journey by taxi or bus to Lishui City, from where you can take a train or bus to other destinations. If you are traveling to Hangzhou or Shanghai, the high-speed train is a convenient option from Lishui Station.
