Strolling around the Red River

Explore Honghe | Ethnic Minority Culture Hidden Within This Land 👣

Honghe's ethnic minority culture is truly captivating! Strolling through these ancient villages feels like stepping back into the pristine past. Let's take a look at my 3-day Red River itinerary✨

🚶‍♀️ Recommended Itinerary:
Day 1: Jianshui Ancient Town → Zhu Family Garden → Tuanshan Residences (focus on the Zhang Family Residence)
Day 2: Yuanyang Rice Terraces → Azheke Village (see the Hani mushroom houses)
Day 3: Mengzi Bisezhai → Red River Cross-Bridge Rice Noodle Street

🌈 Must-See Attractions:
1⃣ Jianshui Ancient Town: Bluestone pavements and Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture (Purple Pottery Street is a must-see). You can stay in the ancient town for the day.
2️⃣ Yuanyang Rice Terraces: The sunrise and sunset views of Duoyishu and Laohuzui are truly breathtaking. I recommend staying in a B&B near the terraces (there are many options in Hani Town).
3️⃣ Mengzi Bisezhai: Filming location for "Youth." The charming French-style train is beyond stunning! 4️⃣ Tuanshan Folk Houses: A well-preserved cluster of southern Yunnan folk houses. The carved doors and windows of the Zhang Family House are truly exquisite.

🍜 Food Guide:
✅ Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles: Mengzi is the birthplace of this dish, and "Qiaoxiangyuan" on Honghe Avenue is a time-honored establishment.
✅ Braised Tofu: The alleys around the west gate of Jianshui are lined with authentic shops.
✅ Purple Pottery Steamed Chicken: A Jianshui specialty, recommended at Lin'an Restaurant.
✅ Hani Wild Vegetable Banquet: Available at farmhouses around the Yuanyang Rice Terraces.

📌 Tips:
1. The weather in Honghe can be unpredictable, so bring a jacket and sunscreen.
2. Respect local customs when visiting ethnic minority villages.
3. The terraces are best viewed from November to April.
4. Avoid wearing shorts or skirts when entering temples.

Stay in a B&B for a deeper immersion in ethnic minority culture! We stayed at a boutique Hani B&B in Yuanyang, where we even sat around the fire and listened to stories from local grandmothers.

Post by amara.seraphine.hawkwood | Oct 18, 2025