Yuanyangzhen,
Yuanyangzhen is a charming town located in the Yunnan Province of China known for its stunning rice terraces carved into the mountainside. The terraces have been cultivated by the Hani people for over 1,000 years and are considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town itself is small and surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere for visitors.
Yuanyangzhen is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of rural China.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - hello
- "谢谢 (xièxie)" - thank you
- "对不起 (duìbùqǐ)" - sorry
- "请 (qǐng)" - please
- "再见 (zàijiàn)" - goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Rice Terraces
morning:Start your day by watching the sunrise over the breathtaking Yuanyang rice terraces. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional breakfast at Mingyue Yi Nationality Hotel.
afternoon:Visit the Duoyishu Scenic Area to witness the stunning beauty of the terraces up close, and then savor a delicious local lunch at Tian Ran Ju.
evening:In the evening, head to Nansha, a charming village, for a relaxing walk and dinner by the terraces, followed by an enchanting bonfire experience.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Embark on a guided tour of the Hani Cultural Village, where you can learn about the local traditions and history. Be sure to try the renowned Hani style breakfast at Banngunayi Yanjiu Restaurant.
afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Yuanyang Ethnic Village Museum, followed by a delectable lunch at Fenghuang Village Restaurant, known for its authentic Hani cuisine.
evening:Enjoy an immersive cultural performance at the Cultural Show Theatre, and then experience the vibrant nightlife at the local Hani bars.
Nature's Beauty
morning:Embark on a scenic hike to the Bada Scenic Area and witness the sunrise over the mesmerizing terraces. Indulge in an energizing breakfast at Bada Scenic Restaurant to fuel your exploration.
afternoon:Venture to the Qingkou Scenic Area and admire the intricate irrigation system of the terraces. For lunch, savor delightful local dishes at Yuanyang Hani Courtyard Restaurant.
evening:Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll around the Shengcun Market, where you can sample delectable street food and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance.
Village Discovery
morning:Embark on a picturesque cycling tour to explore the charming villages surrounding Yuanyangzhen. Stop by Yijia Village for a delightful breakfast at the local teahouse.
afternoon:Continue cycling to the Laoyingzui Village, and take in the tranquil beauty of the terraced fields. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Yaozhai Laojie Restaurant, known for its scenic views.
evening:Attend a traditional Hani dance performance at the Xinyishang Theatre, and then unwind with a peaceful evening at a local teahouse, experiencing the warmth of Hani hospitality.
Yuanyangzhen Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles
This iconic Yunnan dish features a fragrant broth accompanied by separate platters of raw ingredients like meats, vegetables, and noodles to be added and cooked at the table. Visit Nanxi Market to savor an authentic bowl.
Must-Try!
Steam Pot Chicken
This delectable dish involves the steaming of tender chicken with an assortment of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic feast. Try it at Qingkou Village for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Yunnan Ham
Indulge in the renowned Yunnan ham, known for its long history and unique preservation methods that produce a rich, savory taste. Look for it at Shengcun Village, where you can sample this regional delicacy.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Nanxi Market
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, spices, and street food. Take a stroll through the vibrant stalls to sample freshly prepared snacks such as grilled skewers, rice cakes, and tofu delicacies.
Duoyishu Market
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Duoyishu Market, where you can relish a variety of street food options including fried pancakes, spicy noodles, and traditional Yunnan snacks.
Things to do in Yuanyangzhen
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Yuanyangzhen
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!