Yuanyang

Yuanyang County (元阳县) is one of the counties under the administration of Honghe prefecture. It is located in southeast of Yunnan province, China, along the Red River. 74 kilometers from east to west, 55 kilometers from north to south, it covers a total area of 2189.88 square kilometers. Yuanyang becomes well-known for its spectacular rice terrace. Part of the area in Yuanyang now owns the 45th World Heritage Site in China.

Located in Honghe Prefecture, southeastern Yunnan Province, Yuanyang County is home to the stunning Yuanyang Rice Terraces, often considered the most beautiful rice terraces in China. These terraces are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces. Spanning from 140 meters along the Red River to nearly 3,000 meters in the Ailao Mountains, the terraces reflect over 1,300 years of ingenuity from the Hani ethnic group.

Highlights of Yuanyang

Yuanyang Terrace Culture: Yuanyang terrace has a long history of more than 1300 years. The Best-known terraces include Laohuzui(Tiger Mouth) Rice Terrace, Duoyishu Rice Terrace, Bada Rice Terrace and Longshuba Rice Terrace.

Ethnic groups and culture: There are Hani, Yi, Han, Dai, Miao, Yao, Zhuang, seven ethnic groups living in Yuanyang for generations. Among them, Hani people account for more than 50%. Hani people created a brilliant terrace culture.

A Heaven for Photographers: Every year, a crowd of photographers are attracted by the spectacular view of Yuanyang terrace like sunrise, sunset, sea of cloud. More and more people admire the charm of Yuanyang rice terrace.

Why Visit Yuanyang?

1. UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2013, Yuanyang Rice Terraces became the 45th World Heritage Site of China. The terraces cascade down the slopes of Ailao Mountains, creating a breathtaking view. The intricate network of channels, developed by the Hani people, brings water from the mountaintops to irrigate the fields, showcasing a perfect harmony between human ingenuity and nature.

2. Experience Hani Ethnic Culture

The Hani ethnic group has lived in this area for over 1,300 years. Their festivals, such as the October New Year, and traditional customs offer a unique cultural experience. You can also join the Long Table Banquet, visit local markets, and try Hani food to dive deeper into their way of life.

3. A Heaven for Photographers

Yuanyang is a photographer’s paradise. The terraces are often referred to as a “ladder towards heaven” due to their mesmerizing beauty, especially at sunset and sunrise. The sea of clouds, Hani folk houses, rice paddies, and even the local cattle provide endless photographic opportunities.