Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces (保山寨梯田) are located in the southern part of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山) 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). They are part of the Laohuzui Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区), which lies about 50.5 kilometers south of Yuanyang County seat and approximately 20.5 kilometers from Xinjie Town (新街镇), the old town center. The terraces of Baoshanzhai cling to the eastern side of the Laohuzui Scenic Area, forming a crescent-shaped “ladder to the sky” across seven semi-circular mountain ridges, offering highly aesthetic appeal.

History and Culture

The Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces (保山寨梯田) are one of the many remarkable rice terraces cultivated by the Hani people (哈尼族) in the Ailao Mountains for over 1,300 years. Adapting to the terrain and utilizing the area's unique geographic and climatic conditions, the Hani developed a distinctive "forest–village–terrace–water system" ecological structure. This system not only showcases their wisdom but also reflects a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

Local Customs

The Laohuzui Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区), where Baoshanzhai is located, is a Hani ethnic settlement preserving many traditional customs. Festivals such as the “Ten-Month New Year” (十月年) and “Worship of the Village Forest Deity” (祭寨神林) are joyful and peaceful celebrations. One of the area’s key cultural experiences is the Hani Long Street Banquet (哈尼族长街宴), where visitors can taste traditional delicacies.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces (保山寨梯田) lie in a subtropical monsoon climate zone, characterized by mild weather and abundant rainfall, with an average annual temperature of around 15°C. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the terraces are filled with water, creating stunning light reflections and frequent sea-of-clouds phenomena.

Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration

Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces (保山寨梯田): The terraces wind beautifully over seven semi-circular ridges, noted for their elegant lines, strong three-dimensionality, and artistic form.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

Laohuzui Rice Terraces (老虎嘴梯田): Covering over 6,000 mu and including Mengpin (勐品), Dongpu (硐浦), and Amengkong (阿勐控), this is one of the core scenic areas of Yuanyang, ideal for sunset views.
Recommended visit duration: 2 hours

Mengnong Tusi Ruins (猛弄土司遗址): Located within Laohuzui Scenic Area, this site is valuable for understanding Yi culture and feudal territorial economy.
Recommended visit duration: 1 hour

Transportation

Public Transportation: From Yuanyang County (元阳县城), take a bus to Laohuzui Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区), approximately 1.5 hours.

Self-Driving: From the county seat, drive to Laohuzui Scenic Area, about 50.5 kilometers in total.

Local Cuisine

Hani Bamboo Tube Rice: Steamed rice cooked in bamboo tubes, offering a fresh aroma.
Hani Grilled Meat: Grilled with local ingredients, releasing a mouthwatering fragrance.

Shopping

Local markets in and around Laohuzui Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区) offer a variety of handmade crafts and agricultural products such as Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣) and Red Rice from the terraces (梯田红米).

Accommodation

There are a few homestays and family-run guesthouses near Laohuzui Scenic Area (老虎嘴景区), though facilities may be basic, so it’s advisable to book in advance. For a more comfortable stay, consider accommodations in Yuanyang County or Xinjie Town (新街镇).

Travel Tips

• Respect local customs, especially when visiting villages or participating in traditional festivals.
• Protect the environment and avoid littering.
• Some paths in the terrace areas are steep; wear comfortable walking shoes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Yuanyang County (元阳县), check into a hotel, and visit Laohuzui Scenic Area to explore Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces.
Day 2: Visit Mengpin Rice Terraces (勐品梯田), enjoy the scenic beauty, and tour the Mengnong Tusi Ruins (猛弄土司遗址).
Day 3: Return to Yuanyang County and conclude your journey.

Baoshanzhai Rice Terraces (保山寨梯田) offer breathtaking natural beauty and rich ethnic culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring Hani traditions or admiring the majestic terraced landscapes, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. We hope you enjoy your trip．