Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Chinese Name: 元阳牛角寨梯田
English Name: Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Keywords: Terraces, Hani festivals and culture, cloud sea
Location: 21 kilometer to the west of Yuanyang County
Admission Fee:￥100
Opening Hours: All day long

The Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces (牛角寨梯田), located in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province, are a lesser-known yet captivating part of the renowned Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces. Situated near Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth) in Xinjie Town, these terraces are celebrated for their vibrant red hues, primarily due to the presence of red duckweed in the water-filled fields during certain seasons .​

? Distinctive Features

• Colorful Terraces: Niujiaozhai is renowned for its vivid red terraces, which are especially prominent around the Chinese New Year when red duckweed blooms, creating a striking contrast against the water's surface .​

• Compact and Intricate: Compared to other terrace areas, Niujiaozhai's fields are more compact and intricately designed, offering a unique perspective for visitors and photographers .​

• Scenic Waterfalls: The area boasts waterfalls on both its eastern and western slopes, which are particularly impressive during the rainy season from May to July .​

? Photography Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The optimal period for capturing the red terraces is from December to March, coinciding with the presence of red duckweed .​

• Sunset Views: Evenings offer the best lighting conditions, with the setting sun enhancing the terraces' colors and creating picturesque reflections .​

? Getting There

• Location: Niujiaozhai is approximately 40 minutes by car from Yuanyang's Xinjie Town .​

• Transportation: While public transportation options are limited, hiring a local driver or joining a guided tour can provide convenient access to the terraces.​

?️ Accommodation

While Niujiaozhai itself is a tranquil village with limited facilities, nearby Xinjie Town offers a range of accommodations, from guesthouses to hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets.​

Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces offer a serene and colorful alternative to the more frequented spots in Yuanyang, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking unique landscapes and cultural experiences

‣ About Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County

Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County is formed by water fields with red duckweed, it presents the wisdom of Ailaoshan people vividly. It’s a part of Yuanyang Terraced Fields and not renowned like other scenic spots. It looks extremely beautiful especially in a sunny day. The beauty of red fields lies on its exquisite lines( field rand) and the diversity in color with red, blue water fields. You may see locals with ethnic costumes working the land, taking photos to seize the moment, it could be a special photography work. Trek up to the hill and have a visit to local families, experience a simple farming life of Hani people. Visitors can get a wider view in Niujiaozhai Village.