Things To Do
in Yezhi

Yezhi is a mountain town in southwestern China known for its scenic tea terraces, misty mornings, and winding rivers. At coordinates 27.7035, 99.0458, the town sits among pine forests and terraced hillsides, with cool air and dramatic valley views. Its streets blend multiple ethnic cultures, with craft shops, tea houses, and family-run eateries lining weathered stone lanes.

Visitors come to hike, photograph fog-wreathed ridges, and savor distinctive regional dishes while staying in guesthouses that feel intertwined with the hillside landscape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Yezhi's Ancient Temples
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Temple of the Nine Dragons, immersing yourself in its intricate architecture and rich history. Take a moment to meditate in the serene environment, allowing the morning sun to illuminate the stunning carvings. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a nearby teahouse, where you can sample local delicacies and warm tea.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely morning, embark on a guided tour of the surrounding countryside, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and picturesque rice terraces. Stop for lunch at a local eatery and savor the flavors of authentic Yezhi cuisine. Spend the afternoon visiting the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and experience the vibrant culture of the village.

evening
:

As dusk falls, take a stroll along the riverbank to witness the stunning sunset reflecting on the water. Head to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in specialties such as spicy hot pot while mingling with friendly locals. Wrap up your day by attending a cultural performance, where traditional music and dance bring the history of Yezhi to life.

day 2
Adventure in the Mountains
morning
:

Rise early and prepare for a thrilling hike in the nearby mountains, where stunning vistas and fresh air await. Equip yourself with a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint along the trail, soaking in the beauty surrounding you. The exhilaration of the hike will energize you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After descending, relax at a local café where you can regroup and share stories with fellow travelers. Spend the afternoon visiting a small village nestled in the mountains, engaging with local artisans who create beautiful works of art. Don’t miss sampling freshly made snacks unique to the region.

evening
:

Return to Yezhi in the evening and unwind with a soothing hot spring visit, a perfect remedy after your mountain adventure. Enjoy a dinner featuring grilled meats and seasonal vegetables while enjoying the sounds of the night around you. As the day concludes, take part in a stargazing session, marveling at the clarity of the skies far from city lights.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$8-15
🛏️Budget hotel per night$25-50
🚌Public transport day pass$2-4
Coffee or tea$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic landscapes and peaceful pace of life
  • Rich tea culture and ethnic diversity
  • Compact town center easy to explore on foot
  • Accessible hiking and nature close to town
  • Limited English in rural areas
  • Smaller towns may have fewer medical facilities
  • Weather can be unpredictable on higher slopes
  • Some attractions require private transport or guided tours
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "多少钱?" - How much?
  • "厕所在哪儿?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
  • "可以刷卡吗?" - Can I pay by card?

Places to Visit in Yezhi

Visit one of these nice places.

Mist Ridge Overlook

An airy viewpoint where fog swirls above terraced fields at dawn.

Old Town Stone Bridge at Dawn

A centuries-old bridge with soft morning light and reflections on the river.

Tea Terrace Fields at Sunrise

Terraced tea fields climbing the hillside with golden light.

Riverside Promenade

Tree-lined path along the river with traditional boats and lanterns.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yezhi

Yezhi's cuisine is built on hillside produce, mushrooms, tea-infusions, and millet-based staples, shared in a spirit of family-style meals and seasonal ingredients.

Yezhi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tea-Smoked Pork Ribs

Tender ribs gently smoked over tea leaves, served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Bamboo Shoot and Mushroom Hotpot

A communal hotpot rich with fresh bamboo shoots, wild mushrooms, and herbs.

Rice Noodles with Chili Oil

Slippery rice noodles tossed with chili, pickled vegetables, and sesame oil.

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Fresh river fish steamed with aromatics, a staple on family tables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Old Town Night Market

A lively lane filled with skewers, steamed buns, pickles, and sweet treats after sunset.

Riverfront Morning Market

Seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and dried herbs sold by local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yezhi enjoys a mild highland climate with cool evenings year-round. Summers are warm but refreshed by mountain breezes; winters are cool but not severe, and spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A simple nod or handshake; use both hands when presenting a small gift.

Respect for Elders

Address elders with proper titles and avoid interrupting during conversation.

Shoes

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional guesthouses.

Respect for Religion and Customs

Ask before taking photos in religious or culturally sensitive spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take usual travel precautions: watch your belongings in crowded markets, use licensed guides for hikes, and stay hydrated. Roads can be narrow and steep after rains; carry a basic first aid kit and check weather forecasts before hikes. In case of emergencies call local authorities or 110/120 equivalents.

Tipping in Yezhi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not common in most eateries; it may be appreciated at upscale or tourist-oriented services. Round up bills or leave small tips for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are common in towns and markets; carry small denominations for markets that may not take card payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days, frequent afternoon showers; carry a rain jacket, insect repellent, and sun protection. Humidity can be high, but mornings are cool.

Autumn

Clear skies and crisp air; perfect for photography and hikes. Harvest festivals bring local markets and performances.

Winter

Cool to cold nights; some nights may see frost. Lodgings may have heating; daylight is shorter.

Spring

Milder temperatures with intermittent rain; landscapes turn green and flowers bloom, making trails slick after rains.

Nightlife Guide

Yezhi at Night

Nightlife in Yezhi is quiet and cozy, centered on tea houses, small bars, and evening markets. Expect traditional music or dance performances during festivals and at cultural centers; late-night noise is uncommon in most neighborhoods.

Hiking in Yezhi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mist Ridge Trail

Forest-clad ridges with fog and valley views, best in the early morning.

Tea Terrace Loop

A scenic loop through terraced tea plantations with tea-processing stops.

Airports

How to reach Yezhi by plane.

Jinghong Xishuangbanna International Airport (JHG)

Gateway in southern Yunnan; connects to major Chinese cities and some international hubs; ~4-6 hour drive to Yezhi depending on route.

Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG)

Regional hub in northern Yunnan; good access to major cities; longer road transfer to Yezhi.

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)

Major international gateway for Yunnan; frequent flights and good onward connections; distance longer by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is highly walkable with pedestrian streets and riverfront paths. Rural and hillside neighborhoods involve stairs and steeper lanes, so wear sturdy shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic minorities

A diverse mix of Yi, Hani, and other local communities contribute to crafts, dress, language, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Popular among locals and visitors; courts widely available in parks and schools.

Table Tennis

Common indoor sport in community centers and homes; often played in the evenings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic consists of narrow mountain roads and village lanes; buses and shared vans connect towns to larger cities; taxis are available but sometimes scarce in remote areas; plan extra travel time during or after rain.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yezhi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; ask for vegetables, tofu, and mushroom-based options. In markets, avoid meat-heavy broths and opt for vegetable hotpots.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available at county hospitals and clinics; urban-style facilities in larger towns with bilingual staff exist. Travel insurance and international coverage recommended; carry any essential medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide