Visual Impact! The Terraced Field Miracle, More Dreamlike Than Switzerland! Right in Yuanyang, Yunnan!

“Hani Wisdom Creates Millennia of Earth Art,” Yuanyang Terraces are a photographer’s dream paradise, with layers of terraces reflecting the sun, stepping in feels like entering a fairyland, so beautiful it leaves you speechless! No more talk, here’s the essential info.

Address: Within Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

Attraction Introduction:

The Yuanyang Terraces are a masterpiece cultivated by the Hani people over thousands of years, listed as a World Heritage Site, and one of the largest mountain terraces in the world. Covering over 170,000 mu, the terraces undulate with the mountain terrain, creating the spectacular scene of “sunrise dancing with sea of clouds, sunset glowing with rosy light.” The winter irrigation period (November to April) offers the most stunning silver mirror reflections. It is a “living agricultural culture museum” and was designated a national 4A-level tourist attraction in 2024 (data based on Yunnan Department of Culture and Tourism report).

Must-Visit Spots:

1. Duoyishu Terraces: A divine sunrise viewing spot, terraces shimmer like silver chains amid mist and clouds. Arrive early between 5-6 AM for front-row views and photos with a natural fairy-tale filter!

2. Bada Terraces: The perfect sunset location, where golden sunlight bathes the layered terraces, and the evening glow turns the scene into a golden oil painting. A must for couples seeking double the romance.

3. Laohuzui Terraces: Steep and rugged, the best vantage point for panoramic views. The terraces look like the earth’s fingerprints, and aerial shots add an epic feel.

Transportation Guide:

• By plane to Kunming: Take the airport express line from Changshui Airport to Kunming South Station (30 RMB), transfer to high-speed train to Jianshui Station (1.5 hours), then carpool to Yuanyang (2 hours); taxi for the whole route takes about 6 hours, around 400 RMB.

• By train to Yuanyang: Take the K-series train from Kunming Station to Mengzi North Station (4 hours), then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus (1 hour, 20 RMB); taxi takes about 50 minutes, 60 RMB.

Travel Tips:

Morning: Rush to Duoyishu before 5 AM to watch the sunrise, sit at the scenic viewing platform to catch the first light (ticket 70 RMB), and stroll along the terrace trails.

Noon: Try the Hani village Long Street Banquet: bamboo tube rice, sour soup fish, about 40 RMB per person, spicy and authentic!

Afternoon: Walk or rent an electric scooter (50 RMB/day) to Bada for sunset shots, and visit Qingkou Hani Cultural Village to listen to the “Hani Ancient Songs” intangible cultural heritage performance.

Accommodation Guide:

• High-end: Yuanyang Wanshan Resort Hotel, terrace balcony rooms with panoramic views, equipped with a sea of clouds swimming pool, 800-1200 RMB per night.

• Cost-effective: Hani guesthouses near the terraces, 200-400 RMB/night, clean and convenient, with enthusiastic hosts teaching fabric dyeing skills.

Other Tips:

1. Open all day, best season November to April (irrigation period), recommended stay 1-2 days.

2. Essential items: sunscreen, sunglasses, non-slip hiking shoes; mountain areas have big temperature differences, bring a windbreaker.

3. Transparent pricing in the scenic area; local specialties include red rice and Pu’er tea, no risk of scams.

The grandeur of Yuanyang Terraces is a soul-stirring shock! Trust me, experiencing it once in person is unforgettable for life!