Rice Terraces Facts: Terraced Fields for Rice Planting in China
China's Rice Terraces are carved into mountainsides, creating step-like fields for growing rice, hence the name, Terraced Rice Fields.
Rice Terraces are marvels of Chinese engineering. Water flows from mountain streams, feeding the terraced rice fields level by level, maximizing land use and minimizing waste.
These Terraced Rice Fields in China hold cultural significance too. The Rice Fields represent the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, often linked to local ethnic traditions.
Here are the iconic Rice Terraces in China:
China Rice Terraces | Location | Best Time to Visit | Travel Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
Yuanyang Rice Terraces(元阳梯田) | Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province | Nov-April (water & reflections), Jan-Apr (flowers & festivals) | Hani people's engineering marvel on Ailao Mountains |
Longji Rice Terraces(龙脊梯田) | Longsheng County, Guangxi Province | April-June (water-filled), Sept-Oct (golden harvest) | Terraced fields resembling dragon scales |
Jiangling Rice Terraces(江岭梯田) | Wuyuan County, Jiangxi Province | March-April (rapeseed flowers) | Rapeseed flowers & Huizhou architecture |
Jiabang Rice Terraces(加榜梯田) | Congjiang County, Guizhou Province | April-June (water-filled), Sept-Oct (harvest) | Colorful, lesser-known and Tranquil |
Youxi Rice Terraces(尤溪梯田) | Youxi County, Fujian Province | March-May (tea picking), Sept-Oct (harvest) | Tea plantations |
Ziquejie Rice Terraces(紫鹊界梯田) | Xinhua County, Hunan Province | April-June (water-filled), Sept-Oct (harvest) | Steep hillsides, traditional farming techniques by Tujia & Miao people |
1. Yuanyang Rice Terraces (元阳梯田): Best Photo-worthy Rice Fields in China
Location: Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province (云南省红河哈尼族彝族自治州元阳县), China
Area Size: Over 113 sq km (44 sq mi)
Travel Highlights: Hani ethnic minority's engineering marvels. Terraces cascading down the slopes of the Ailao Mountains
Attractions: Bada Scenic Area (坝达景区), Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth) Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区), Duoyishu Scenic Area (多依树景区)
Best for: Cultural enthusiasts, landscape photographers, hikers
Best Time to Visit Yuanyang Rice Terraces: November to April (water-filled terraces, beautiful reflections), January to March (blooming season, traditional festivals)
Transportation: Fly to Kunming (昆明), then take a bus from airport directly to Yuanyang County or hire a car to Yuanyang Rice Terraces scenic area.
Looking for a picture-perfect, postcard-worthy Terraces? Yuanyang Rice Terraces is the Terraces to visit!
Yuanyang Rice Terraces are among the best terraced rice fields in China, renowned for their intricate and breathtaking landscapes crafted by the Honghe Hani people over 1,300 years ago.
These Terraced Rice Filed in Yunnan, cascading down the slopes of the Ailao Mountains, create stunning reflections during the water-filling season and vibrant colors during harvest.
Being an UNESCO Heritage Site in China, and home to the unique Hani(哈尼族) culture, festivals, and traditional farming techniques, Yuanyang Rice Terraces offer an immersive cultural experience for you to explore culture diversity in China. For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Yuanyang Rice Terraces provide a paradise of picturesque scenes and cultural richness.
Best Time to Visit Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Winter. Spring & Autumn Also Great
The best time to visit Yuanyang Rice Terraces depends on what you want to see:
For the "mirror effect" with reflected sky in water, visit the Rice Terrace in winter. For lush green landscapes, go in spring.
To see the golden rice paddies, the iconic sight of Chinese agriculture, visit in autumn.
The best sunrise views are from Duoyishu(多依树), while Bada(坝达) offers the most stunning sunsets.
Be aware that Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth, 老虎嘴) has the most dramatic views but also the most rugged terrain.
How to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Direct Bus Service Available from Kunming
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces, located in Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Yunnan is one of the hottest travel destinations in China for laid-back holiday, outdoor adventure and nature beauty.
As of May 2024 there are direct buses from Kunming to Yuanyang, which would take 6 to 7 hours and around RMB 110 to Get to Yuanyang County, then take a short bus or carpool ride to Yuanyang Rice Terraces. It's the most efficient way to get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
Check full guide on How to Get from Kunming to Yuanyang or skip the research join a tour to the gorgeous Rice Terraces for hassle-free travel. Talk to your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel and book your tour. Contact us now!
2. Longji Rice Terraces (龙脊梯田):The Dragon Back-Like Landscape
Location: Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi Province (广西省桂林市龙胜县), China
Area Size: Approximately 66 square kilometers (25 square miles)
Travel Highlights: Terraced fields resembling dragon scales, Unique Zhuang and Yao traditional dances and songs
Attractions:Ping'an Village (平安寨), Longji Village (龙脊村), Dazhai Village (大寨村), Jinkeng Red Yao Terraces (金坑红瑶梯田)
Best for: Nature enthusiasts, photographers, cultural explorers
Best Time to Visit: April to June (water-filled terraces), September to October (golden harvest)
Transportation: Accessible via Guilin (桂林), with bus services to Longsheng (龙胜) and onward to Ping'an or Dazhai Villages (approximately 2-3 hours from Guilin)
Longji Rice Terraces boast a unique landscape. Hiking on the top tier of the Terraces is just like walking on the back of a giant, sprawling Chinese dragon!
Longji Rice Terraces are our favorite terraced rice fields in China at Asia Odyssey Travel, renowned for their sprawling, dragon-back-like appearance. Sculpted into the mountainsides over 650 years ago, the layers of these terraces resemble dragon scales.
These terraced rice fields in Guangxi offer dramatic landscapes and panoramic views. Visitors can hike on the top tier of these terraced rice field.
Being home to the vibrant Zhuang(壮族) and Yao(瑶族) ethnic cultures, Longji Rice Terraces provide rich cultural experiences with traditional dances, songs, and Zhuang people's distinctive stilted houses called "Diaojiaolou" (吊脚楼) . For those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration, Longji Rice Terraces offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of China.
Best Time to Visit: Spring & Autumn. Year-round for Cultural Immersion
The best time to visit Longji Rice Terraces depends on what you want to experience:
For the lush, green landscapes, visit the terraced rice fields in spring when the rice plants are young and vibrant.
To witness the golden rice paddies, a quintessential sight of Chinese agriculture, visit in autumn when the fields are ready for harvest.
The best sunrise views can be enjoyed from the viewpoint at Jinkeng Dazhai (金坑大寨), while Ping'an Village (平安寨) offers some of the most picturesque scenes throughout the day.
Xiaozhai (小寨) provides some of the most serene and less crowded views at Longji Rice Terraces, perfect for a peaceful visit year-round regardless of seasons in these rice fields.
Note: There are quite a few hiking routes for the Longji Rice Terraces, where you can enjoy the great views of walking on the back of a giant dragon. Check out a detailed guide or simply get in touch with your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for detailed planning. Let's talk!
How to Get to Longji Rice Terraces: Direct Bus from Guilin
The Longji Rice Terraces, located in Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi Province. Guangxi is a popular travel destination in China known for its stunning karst landscapes in Guilin, picturesque rivers, and vibrant ethnic culture.
Visiting the Longji Rice Terraces from Guilin is convenient, with several daily air-conditioned buses operating between Guilin and the scenic area, especially to the Jinkeng Rice Terraces (Dazhai Village). The 2.5-3 hour bus journey costs around ¥45-85. Travelers arriving by train can also take shuttle buses directly from Guilin Railway Station or Guilin North Railway Station to the Longji Rice Terraces parking area, with a similar travel time but slightly higher costs.
3. Jiangling Rice Terraces (江岭梯田): Sun-kissed Sea of Gold in China
Location: Wuyuan County, Jiangxi Province (江西省婺源县)
Area Size: Approximately 13 square kilometers (5 square miles)
Travel Highlights: Known for its springtime rapeseed flowers, Picturesque terraces and traditional, Huizhou architecture
Attractions: Jiangling Village (江岭村), Scenic views of terraced fields and rapeseed flowers
Best for: Photographers, nature lovers, cultural explorers
Best Time to Visit: March to April (rapeseed flower season)
Transportation: Travel via Jingdezhen (景德镇) or Huangshan (黄山), then by bus or car to Wuyuan (approximately 1-2 hours from either city)
Surprisingly, the Jiangling Rice Terraces have been made famous by their rapeseed flower bloom scenes in spring, instead of the wheat harvesting scenes.
Witness Provence-like fields of China in Jiangling, where golden rapeseed flowers bloom amidst picturesque rice terraces! Unlike the first two Rice Terraces above Jiangling Rice Terraces is not an iconic destination for ethnic culture in China, but the best terraced rice fields celebrated for stunning springtime display of rapeseed flowers, creating a golden sea among the terraces.
These terraced rice fields in Jiangxi, complemented by traditional Huizhou architecture(徽派建筑), offer a picturesque blend of natural and cultural beauty.
Being a perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers, Jiangling Rice Terraces provide vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage with Huizhou-style villages and ancient buildings. For an immersive cultural and natural experience, Jiangling Rice Terraces are a must-visit.
Best Time to Visit Jiangling Rice Terraces: March to April for Massive Flora Scenes
Golden Rapeseed Spectacle (March to April): Witness a breathtaking display of vibrant yellow rapeseed flowers blooming amidst the rice terraces. This short window offers a unique and picturesque landscape perfect for photographers.
Cultural Immersion Throughout the Year: Walk right into the picturesque charm of traditional Huizhou architecture nestled amidst the rice terraces, creating a peaceful atmosphere throughout the year.
Note: As the most renowned travel destination for Terraced Rice fields with rapeseed bloom, the best time to visit Jiangling Rice Terraces for the flora can be short and varying each year. Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel to for a free travel consultation.
How to Get to Jiangling Rice Terraces: Transfer Required, Worthy Trip to Floral Rice Fields in China
The Jiangling Rice Terraces, located in Wuyuan County, Jiangxi Province. Jiangxi is celebrated for its beautiful countryside, ancient villages, and traditional Huizhou architecture.
Also worth noting is Jiangling Rice Terraces is only 2 hour drive way from one of the most famous mountains in China, Huangshan, and 1.5 hour drive from the "China's Porcelain Capital", Jingdezhen, making it a perfect side trip destination for your Huangshan China tour.
Reaching Jiangling Rice Terraces requires a transfer in most cases. You can first head to Jingdezhen(景德镇) or Shangrao(上饶) in Jiangxi Province. From Jingdezhen, you can take a bus to Wuyuan(婺源), which is about 2 to 3 hours away and costs around RMB 70. Once in Wuyuan, several local buses go to Jiangling, a short ride of approximately 30 minutes.
4. Jiabang Rice Terraces (加榜梯田): Less-traveled Down-to-earth Rice Fields in China
Location: Congjiang County, Guizhou Province (贵州省从江县)
Area Size: Hundreds of hectares (approximately 1.5 square miles)
Travel Highlights: Rolling terraces with colorful reflections, tranquil experience, Traditional Miao and Dong architecture and customs
Attractions: Jiache Village (加车村)
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers, cultural explorers, nature lovers
Best Time to Visit: April to June (water-filled terraces), September to October (harvest season)
Transportation Jiabang Rice Terraces: Fly to Guiyang (贵阳), then take a bus or car to Congjiang County (approximately 6-7 hours)
Let's face it, as of 2024, China has become one of the hottest destinations worldwide, so it can be crowded in the high season at the most famous Chinese Rice Fields. That's why some would choose to skip the crowds and visit Jiabang Rice Terraces.
Though equally gorgeous, if not more, than other Terraced Rice Fields in China, Jiabang Rice Terraces are less famous, offering a tranquil and less-touristed experience with their rolling terraces and colorful reflections.
These terraced rice fields in Guizhou, maintained by the Miao(苗族) and Dong(侗族) ethnic groups, provide insight into traditional agricultural practices and unique cultural customs.
For off-the-beaten-path travelers and those seeking serene landscapes, Jiabang Rice Terraces showcase the harmony between nature and traditional farming. Jiabang is an ideal destination for exploring the peaceful and authentic side of China's terraced rice fields.
Best Time to Visit Jiabang Rice Terraces: Spring & Autumn. Summer for Authentic Experience
Colorful Reflections(April to June): Witness the Jiabang Rice Terraces filled with water, creating vibrant reflections that enhance the tranquil atmosphere. This is the ideal time for those seeking a peaceful and less-crowded experience, especially with Chinese long holiday in May.
Harvest Season (September to October): Experience the harvest season with golden rice paddies and witness the traditional farming practices of the Miao and Dong people.
To See the True Farming Culture (May to August): While not the peak season for water reflections or harvest, these months offer comfortable temperatures and lush green rice terraces, and you would get a chance to truly experience the local lifestyle in Guizhou.
How to Get to Jiabang Rice Terraces: Remote Rice Fields, Best Join a Tour or by Charter Vehicle
The Jiabang Rice Terraces, located in Congjiang County, Guizhou Province. Guizhou is renowned for its lush landscapes, ethnic diversity, and well-preserved cultural traditions, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity of China.
Reaching Jiabang Rice Terraces requires planning due to limited public transportation options. The nearest major city to the Jiabang Rice Terraces is Kaili(凯里). From Kaili, you can catch a bus to Congjiang(从江), which takes about 4 hours and costs roughly ¥80. From Congjiang, local transport options like minibuses or hired cars are available to take you the rest of the way to the Jiabang Rice Terraces, which can take about 2 additional hours depending on road conditions.
The journey to reach the remote Jiabang Rice Terraces may be a bit more complex, but it is well worth the effort. Join a guided tour with Asia Odyssey Travel for seamless logistic and all-rounded travel service!
5. Youxi Rice Terraces (尤溪梯田): Terraces in Home of Black Tea
Location: Youxi County, Fujian Province (福建省尤溪县)
Area Size: Approximately 20 square kilometers (7.7 square miles)
Travel Highlights: Unique terraced landscape and tea plantations
Attractions: Youxi Village (尤溪村), Scenic views of tea fields and terraced landscapes
Best for: Tea enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers
Best Time to Visit: March to May (tea picking season), September to October (harvest season)
Transportation Youxi Rice Terraces: Travel via Fuzhou (福州), then by bus or car to Youxi (approximately 2-3 hours)
Located in the origin of Black Tea, Fujian Province, Youxi Rice Terraces come with a tea flavor. That's why it's a must-visit for Tea Lovers.
Youxi Rice Terraces are known for their unique terraced landscape intertwined with tea plantations. These terraced rice fields in Fujian offer a distinct charm with their lush greenery and traditional Han Chinese agricultural practices.
Visitors can explore picturesque views and participate in tea picking during the season, making Youxi Rice Terraces an ideal destination for tea enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in traditional farming techniques. Youxi Rice Terraces provide a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit Youxi Rice Terraces: Tea Picking Seasons, Preferably Early Spring of China
Youxi Rice Terraces boast a unique landscape intertwined with tea plantations. Here's how to choose your ideal visit this Terraced Rice Field located in the origin of black tea in China:
Tea Picking Experience(March to May): Participate in the traditional tea picking season and witness the vibrant green tapestry of the tea plantations and rice terraces.
Harvest Season and Vibrant Colors (September to October): Witness the golden hues of the rice paddies during harvest season, creating a stunning contrast with the lush green tea plants.
Note: Tea picking season usually last through out the spring with varying exact time. Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel, get travel inspiration with cultural insights with detailed planing according to local weather for a best trip to Youxi Rice Terraces. Contact us now!
How to Get to Youxi Rice Terraces: Bus from Sanming to Best Rice Fields in Fujian
The Youxi Rice Terraces, located in Youxi County, Fujian Province. Fujian is famous for its scenic coastal areas, historic Fujian Hakka Tulou (earthen buildings of Hakka), and rich tea culture, making it a unique destination for exploring both nature and cultural heritage of Chinese tradition.
To visit the Youxi Rice Terraces, you can first head to Sanming(三明) in Fujian Province. From Sanming, there are direct buses to Youxi(尤溪) County, taking approximately 1 hour and costing around RMB 40. Once in Youxi, local taxis or minibuses can be arranged to the terraces field in Youxi. Asia Odyssey Travel's guided Fujian Tour would offer the best personalized travel plan for your Youxi Terraces trip! Simply talk to your travel expert and let us know your travel idea.
6. Ziquejie Rice Terraces (紫鹊界梯田): Prototype of China Terraced Rice Fields
Location: Xinhua County, Hunan Province (湖南省新化县)
Area Size: Approximately 78 square kilometers (30 square miles)
Travel Highlights: Unique terraces built along steep hillsides, Traditional farming techniques preserved by the local Tujia and Miao people
Attractions: Feldspar Terraces, Jinlong Terraces, Scenic viewing platforms, Local villages showcasing traditional Tujia and Miao architecture
Best for: Cultural enthusiasts, history buffs, photographers
Best Time to Visit: April to June (water-filled terraces), September to October (harvest season)
Transportation to Ziquejie Rice Terraces: Travel via Changsha (长沙), then by bus or car to Xinhua County (approximately 4-5 hours)
Ziquejie Rice Terraces boast a history claimed to be over 2,000 years, with some estimates suggesting they could be as old as the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an. While the exact origin of China's terraced rice fields remains unknown, the Ziquejie terraces might be one of the early prototypes for the eco-friendly irrigation systems used throughout China's many rice terraces and the world including the famous Sapa Terraces in Vietnam. Ziquejie Rice Terraces in Hunan Province are remarkable for their steep hillsides and the traditional farming techniques of the Tujia and Miao community. These terraces, constructed over 2,000 years ago, provide a unique glimpse into ancient agricultural practices. The breathtaking landscape and rich cultural heritage make Ziquejie Rice Terraces a must-visit for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers seeking dramatic and historic terrace views.
Best Time to Visit Ziquejie Rice Terraces: Planting Season to See How Locals Grow Rice in the Terraced Field
Ziquejie Rice Terraces offer dramatic landscapes and a glimpse into ancient farming techniques passed down from ancient times in China:
Spectacular Water Reflections and Lush Greenery (April to June): During this period, the rice paddies are filled with water, reflecting the sky and creating a breathtaking scene. This is also a good time to experience the lush green landscape.
Golden Rice Paddies and Dramatic Views (September to October): Witness the harvest season with golden rice paddies clinging to the steep hillsides.
To See the Ancient Farming in Action (May): During this time, you can witness the ancient farming techniques that have been used for thousands of years on Rice Fields in China. The local farmers engage in the traditional method of planting rice, which provides a unique cultural experience.
How to Get to Ziquejie Rice Terraces: Rural Roads from Loudi to Terraced Rice Fields in Hunan
The Ziquejie Rice Terraces, located in Xinhua County, Hunan Province. Hunan is known for its dramatic mountain scenery including the inspiration for movie Avatar, Zhangjiajie Scenic area with world's highest outdoor lift, longest and highest Glass Bridge, historic sites, and vibrant ethnic culture.
Ziquejie Rice Terraces are best accessed from Loudi(娄底) City in Hunan Province. From Loudi, you can take a bus directly to Xinhua County(新化县), which takes about 1 hour and costs RMB 50. From Xinhua, hire a local taxi or catch a minibus for the final leg to the rice terraces of Ziquejie, which can take up to 1.5 hours.
The journey to Ziquejie Rice Terraces involves rural roads but provides an authentic glimpse into the scenic landscapes and rural Chinese life of Hunan.
Travel Ideas for Visiting Best Rice Fields in China
Your China tour can be so fulfilling with various possible extensions. Visit not only the best rice fields in China, but traverse beyond. Each destination where these rice terraces are located is worth more time to explore. Here are some travel ideas for your China tour, with the Best Chinese Rice Terraces being a main highlight.
Travel the Two Iconic Terraces in Yunnan & Guizhou
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Longji Rice Terraces are the two most iconic rice fields in China. The good news is that both terraces are located in Southwestern China, and they are both in marvelous travel destinations with numerous attractions nearby. Combining these two terraces in your China travel plan can be a great option!
Day 1-2: Relax in Kunming, explore Green Lake Park. Day 3: Witness the unique red soil landscapes of Dongchuan Red Land. Day 4-6: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces, catch sunrise at Duoyishu and sunset at Bada. Day 7-8: Explore the charming Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, and Cangshan Mountain. Day 9-10: Wander through Lijiang Old Town's canals, and hike majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Day 11-12: Witness the stunning Longji Rice Terraces, visit Ping'an Village and Jinkeng Dazhai for panoramic views. Day 12-14: Cruise the Li River amidst Guilin's karst formations. Relax and enjoy outdoor activities in Yangshuo on the Yulong River.
From Jiangling Rice Terraces to Huangshan Over the Sea of Clouds
Huangshan: Begin with 2 days in Huangshan to explore the otherworldly Yellow Mountains with stunning sea of clouds beneath, and embrace the ancient villages of Hongcun. Wuyuan: Spend 2-3 days in Wuyuan County, visiting the Jiangling Rice Terraces for their springtime rapeseed flowers, and explore nearby ancient villages. Jingdezhen: Visit Jingdezhen for 1-2 days to explore the "Porcelain Capital" of China and its ceramics museums. Explore further to water towns: Journey on to nearby water town in Zhangjiajie or city buzz of Shanghai.
From Jiabang Rice Terraces to Majestic Huangguoshu Water Fall
Guiyang: Start with 1-2 days in Guiyang, visiting the Jiaxiu Tower and Qianling Park. Kaili: Spend 2-3 days in Kaili exploring the Miao and Dong villages and their unique festivals and traditions. Jiabang: Dedicate 2-3 days to Jiabang to explore the terraces and immerse in the local Miao and Dong cultures. Huangguoshu Water Fall: Visit Huangguoshu Water Fall to admire the majestic water wonder for a strong finish for you Jiabang Rice Fields trip.
From Youxi Rice Terraces to Hakka Tulou in Home of Black Tea
Fuzhou: Start with 1-2 days in Fuzhou, exploring attractions and the local street food like Rouyan Wonton. Youxi Rice Terraces: Spend 2-3 days in Youxi exploring the terraces and participating in tea-picking activities. Wuyi Mountain: Head to Wuyishan Mountain for 2-3 days to enjoy hiking, bamboo rafting, and exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed scenic area. Xiapu: Visit Xiapu for 1-2 days to capture the picturesque mudflat landscapes and traditional fishing villages.
From Ziquejie Rice Terraces to Avatar Mountains, Zhangjiajie
Changsha: Start with 1-2 days in Changsha, visiting the Yuelu Academy and Orange Isle. Ziquejie: Dedicate 2-3 days to Ziquejie to explore the terraces and learn about the Tujia and Miao cultures. Fenghuang: Visit Fenghuang Ancient Town for 1-2 days, experiencing its well-preserved architecture and riverside scenery. Zhangjiajie: Conclude with 2-3 days in Zhangjiajie, exploring the famous Avatar Mountains and the Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk.
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