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Best Choice to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Private Car
While the Yuanyang Rice Terraces offer a mesmerizing spectacle, their remote location presents a challenge when it comes to transportation, especially considering the limited options in serene yet remote areas of Yunnan.
As you can see from the transportation guide to Yuanyang Rice Terraces below you would have to find your own way from Yuanyang County to the actual Rice Terraces site in Yuanyang.
So why not join a tour offered by Asia Odyssey Travel with door to attraction transportation and cultural insights at a great price. With a tour group you can enjoy:
- Convenience: Door-to-door service from your accommodation (often Kunming) eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar Yuanyang Terraces routes.
- Time Efficiency: Skip the stress of figuring out public transport schedules and potential delays. Tours are planned for optimal sightseeing of the Yuanyang Terraces within a timeframe.
- Local Knowledge: Experienced guides navigate scenic Yuanyang Terraces routes, ensuring you see the most breathtaking viewpoints.
- Cultural Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the Hani people and the Yuanyang Terraces' history through insightful commentary.
- Comfort: Relax and enjoy the scenic journey in a comfortable car.
Yunnan Maps: Yunnan China Map & Yunnan Tourist Map (2024)
How to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming by Bus: Direct Bus, Straightforward Choice
Direct bus is the most straightforward way to get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming: Take the direct bus from Kunming South Bus Station (昆明汽车南站) to Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminal (元阳新街客运站), then take a bus, minivan, or carpool to the Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
The whole journey from Kunming to Yuanyang Rice Terraces by bus would take 6 to 8 hours and cost around ¥150. There are other routes to get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces by bus from Kunming, which would involve a layover. So we at Asia Odyssey Travel would recommend the direct bus from Kunming to Yuanyang.
To get to Yuanyang from Kunming by direct bus, you can take a bus from Kunming South Bus Station to Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Station. There are usually 3 daily non-stop buses in high season from Kunming to Yuangyang County, and the journey is about 323 km or 200 miles. As we have observed in 2024 there would be only one or two services to Yuanyang in low season, departures are typically at around 10 am in the morning.
Tip: You can also consider joining a tour by Asia Odyssey Travel for a hassle-free travel to Yuanyang Rice Terraces, with private transportation and an insightful local guide. No research needed, no language barrier to worry about. Contact your travel expert for a great Kunming to Yuanyang Tour!
Recommended Bus Route to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming
Here are the easy steps to get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming:
- First you go to Kunming South Bus Station(昆明汽车南站)Address: No.7, Shangbo Street, Guandu District, Kunming City(昆明市官渡区商博街7号), buy tickets at the counter of book in advance online. Bring your ID for check-in.
- Then Board the 10:20 Bus to reach Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminal(元阳新街客运站), Address: Nearby Provincial Road 214, Xinjie Town, Yuanyang County(元阳县新街镇214省道附近).
- After 6 to 7 hours bus ride get off at Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminaland look for Bus stop nearby or carpool to the actual scenic area of Yuanyang Rice Terraces. The bus runs every 30 minutes in high season and cost around RMB 15 while minivan car pool will take you to designated destination for around RMB 30.
Tip: Please note that schedules and prices may vary, due to seasonal difference. So it's recommended to check locally for the most currentinformation. Or simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for a personalized Yuanyang Rice Terraces Trip.
How to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming by Train & Bus: Laid-back Side Trip to Jianshui
If the 7 hour bus ride feels a bit too long for you consider a side trip to Jianshui County on your way from Kunming to Yuanyang Rice Terraces. It’s also an ideal option to go to Yuanyang Rice Terraces by train for the first half of your journey from Kunming. Then you can switch to coach to get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
You can take train to Mengzi(蒙自) then take bus to Yuangyang as well. We at Asia Odyssey Travel would still recommend switch to Bus at Jianshui to get to Yuanyang for a journey with more travel possibilities. Because Jianshui is a well-preserved ancient town boasting traditional architecture, delicious local Yunnan Cuisines, and rich cultural heritage.
Tip: As a tour destination, Yunnan is truly versatile with countless travel possibilities. Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for more routes from Kunming to Yuanyang Rice Terraces, and discover more amazing destinations.
Recommended Train Route to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces (Bus Change Needed)
To get to Yuanyang from Kunming, go by train to Jianshui, then bus to Yuanyang, you can follow these steps:
- First, you go to Kunming Railway Station (昆明火车站)No. 1, Beijing Road, Guandu District, Kunming (昆明市官渡区北京路1号). You can buy tickets at the counter or book in advance online. Don’t forget to bring your ID for check-in.
- Then, board a train to Jianshui Railway Station (建水火车站,红河哈尼族彝族自治州建水县金鸡寨). There are about 6 daily high-speed trains (C train) and 1 regular train from Kunming to Jianshui, taking around 2 - 3.5 hours for the whole train journey. Ticket costs from RMB 30 to 60.
- After reaching Jianshui Railway Station, transfer to Jianshui Bus Terminal (建水汽车客运站), which is about 10 - 15 minutes’ driving distance from the train station.
- Then, take a coach to Yuanyang for about 3 hours. The buses start about every 30 minutes during about 07:15 - 18:40, so you could choose one according to your arrival time in Jianshui.
- Finally, after a 3-hour bus ride, get off at Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminal (元阳新街客运站) and look for a bus stop nearby or carpool to the actual scenic area of Yuanyang Rice Terraces. The bus runs every 30 minutes in high season and costs around RMB 15 while a minivan carpool will take you to a designated destination for around RMB 30
So in total, you might expect the train & bus journey to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming Via Jianshui take approximately 6.5 to 9 hours and cost around RMB 160 to 190. However, please note that these are rough estimates and the actual cost and time may vary.
Tip: Spending an extra day or two in Jianshui is always a good idea, especially for culture explorer. Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for more travel inspirations for your Yuanyang Rice Terraces Trip with seamless transportation from Kunming to Yuanyang Rice Terraces all the way!
How to Plan a Trip to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming
If you are visiting Yunnan don’t miss the breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces (元阳梯田), with cultural and scenic highlights in Kunming (昆明) and the charming Jianshui (建水) town as a delightful add-on.
Arrive in Kunming (昆明) (2-3 Days)
Start your exploration in Kunming(昆明), the City of Eternal Spring, known for its mild climate year-round. Explore the Stone Forest (石林), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique karst formations that resemble a petrified forest.
Feel the serenity of the Yuantong Temple (圆通寺), a Buddhist temple dating back to the 8th century. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Green Lake Park (翠湖公园), a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming (元阳哈尼梯田) (3-4 Days)
Dedicate the core of your trip to marveling at the Yuanyang Rice Terraces (元阳梯田), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photographers should be aware that winter (December to February) offers the most dramatic landscapes. Spring and Autumn are also ideal for hiking and visiting Yunnan local ethnic group.
For the most captivating sunrise views, consider staying near Duoyishu (多依树). This village offers a prime location to capture the golden light reflecting on the water-filled terraces. Head to Bada (坝达) for mesmerizing sunset views.
Optional Jianshui (建水) Side Trip (1-2 Days):
If time allows, take a detour to the charming town of Jianshui (建水) on your way from Kunming to Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
Explore the well-preserved Zhu Family Garden (朱家花园), a private garden showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and landscaping.
Walk across the iconic Double Dragon Bridge (双龙桥/十七孔桥), a symbol of Jianshui (建水) with its unique architectural style.
Consider adding a day trip to other nearby destinations like Dongchuan Red Land (东川红土地) for its vibrant landscapes.
This Kunming-Yuanyang Rice Terraces itinerary is a suggestion, feel free to adjust the number of days spent in each location based on your interests and pace. Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for more travel inspiration!
Marvel at God’s Palette with Asia Odyssey Travel at Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Carved into the verdant slopes over centuries, the Yuanyang Rice Terraces captivate all who witness their breathtaking beauty. Lose yourself in a patchwork of vibrant greens, glimmering silvers, and fiery oranges as you explore this UNESCO-protected wonder. Embrace the timeless traditions of the Hani people and discover hidden viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of this enchanting masterpiece of Rice Terraces in Yuanyang.
If you love to explore diverse culture or crave for picture perfect views Go to Yuanyang Terraces!
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, All the Way from Kunming to Yuanyang Terraces
- Authentic Experience: Discover the Most Unique Yunnan Cuisines with local guides
- Genuine Service: Personalized itinerary, lock the Besttime to visit Yunnan
- Skip the Tourist Routine: Walk into Everlasting Spring, live like a local
- Exclusive Access: Secure your tickets and beds even in high seasons
- Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities - all taken care of!
- 24/7 Support: Peace of mind throughout your trip
Spring awaits, like always, in Yuanyang Terraces.
Asia Odyssey Travel, leading your Asia Adventure Since 2011. What's your travel idea? Let's talk!
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