Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields (多依树梯田景区) is located in Yuanyang County (元阳县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. This stunning agricultural landscape is a renowned tourist destination, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The terraces are situated in the Yuanyang Rice Terraces National Wetland Park and are part of the core area proposed for World Cultural Heritage status.

Overview of Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields

The Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields are located approximately 23 kilometers from the old county seat (Xinjie Town, 新街镇), at an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level. The terraces cover an area of 650 hectares and are scattered across the Duoyishu, Aichun, and Dawazhe areas, which feature slopes of 25° to 50°. The terraces are shaped like a bay and offer an exceptional vantage point for viewing and photographing the sea of clouds, rice terraces, sunrise, and the picturesque mountain villages.

The Duoyishu Rice Terraces are renowned for their spectacular landscapes and cultural significance, making it an ideal place to explore and appreciate both nature and local heritage.

Key Attractions in Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields

The main attractions in Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields include the Huangcaoling Sunrise Viewing Terrace (黄草岭观日出梯田景), the Pugao Laozhai Terraces (普高老寨梯田景), the Duoyishu Terraces (多依树梯田), the traditional Hani residences (民居景), and the Zongwa Tusi’s Zhaozhai Yamen (宗瓦土司掌寨衙门). The region is also a provincial nature reserve, contributing to its conservation and biodiversity.

Features of Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields

1. Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

The Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields are mainly comprised of five Hani (哈尼族) villages and four Yi (彝族) villages. The region includes over 6,000 acres of terraces, such as those in Aichun (爱村), Dawazhe (大瓦遮), and other surrounding areas. This landscape offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with its dramatic sea of clouds, sprawling terraces, and mountain villages.

2. Unique Agricultural and Ecological Features

The terraces are not just agricultural marvels, but they also form part of a unique ecological system, showcasing the biodiversity of the region. The area is home to 16,000 hectares of pristine forests, which are part of a provincial nature reserve. Within these forests, visitors can find rare species of plants and animals that are protected under national conservation laws.

Honors and Recognitions

In April 2021, the Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields and the surrounding Xinjie Town (新街镇) were recognized by the Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism (云南省文化和旅游厅) as a Tourism Famous Village in Yunnan Province. This honor was given to Pugao Laozhai Village (普高老寨村), located in the Duoyishu Village Committee (多依树村委会). The recognition highlights the cultural, natural, and historical significance of the area as a prime travel destination.

Traditional Poetry and Cultural Significance

The Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields hold a special place in the hearts of the local Hani and Yi people, and their cultural landscape is reflected in the traditional songs, poetry, and stories passed down through generations. These verses often describe the beauty of the rice terraces and the changing seasons. A common poem recited by the Hani people to celebrate the rice-growing culture goes:

“In the morning mist, the terraces gleam,
Golden fields as far as the eye can see,
Rice stalks sway, ripe and full,
The harvest will soon be here, the joy of the land.”
(晨雾中，梯田闪耀，
金色的田野远远延展，
稻秧摇曳，丰收在望，
大地的喜悦即将来临。)

This poetic reflection of the terraces emphasizes the deep connection between the Hani people and the land, as well as their agricultural traditions that have flourished for centuries.

Travel Information

Location and Address

The Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields (多依树梯田景区) are located in Yuanyang County (元阳县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. The closest town is Xinjie Town (新街镇), approximately 23 kilometers away. The terraces themselves are located at an elevation of 1,900 meters, providing panoramic views of the terraces and surrounding landscapes.

How to Get There

1. By Air

• The nearest airport is Jinghong Airport (景洪机场) in Xishuangbanna or Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水国际机场). From Kunming, you can take a high-speed train or long-distance bus to Yuanyang.

2. By Train/Bus

• From Kunming (昆明), you can travel to Yuanyang by high-speed train or long-distance bus. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. From Yuanyang, local transport such as taxis or buses can take you directly to the terraces.

3. By Private Tour

• Many visitors prefer taking a guided tour to Duoyishu, which includes transportation to the site, making it a convenient option.

Entrance Tickets

• Ticket Price: The entrance fee to the Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields generally ranges from ¥30 to ¥100, depending on the specific viewpoint or scenic area.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to April, especially during the winter and spring months, when the terraces are full of water and the sunrise views are at their most stunning.

Travel Tips

1. Arrive Early for Sunrise: To capture the best sunrise views, arrive early (around 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM). The sea of clouds and the golden sunrise light make the terraces appear like a scene from a dream.
2. Bring Warm Clothing: Even in the spring or autumn, early mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it's best to bring layers to keep warm.
3. Photographic Gear: The landscape at Duoyishu is a photographer’s paradise. A tripod and wide-angle lens will help you capture the panoramic views, especially during sunrise.
4. Respect the Local Culture: The Hani and Yi people have a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful when visiting their villages and engaging with locals.

The Duoyishu Rice Terrace Fields in Yuanyang are a remarkable blend of nature, culture, and history. This stunning landscape offers breathtaking views, especially at sunrise, when the terraces shimmer like a golden sea under the rising sun. The region is a vital part of the Hani and Yi peoples' agricultural and cultural identity, making it a must-see destination in Yunnan Province. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, Duoyishu promises an unforgettable experience.