Shangmadian Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Shangmadian Terraces (上马点梯田) are located in the southern section of Ailao Mountain (哀牢山), 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). These terraces are part of the Bada Scenic Area (坝达景区), situated southeast of Xinjie Town (新街镇). They are approximately 15 kilometers from the old county seat (Xinjie Town) and about 43 kilometers from Nansha (南沙), the new county seat of Yuanyang.

History and Culture

Yuanyang Terraces (元阳梯田) are a remarkable achievement cultivated by the Hani people (哈尼族) over more than 1,300 years. As a key section of this heritage, the Shangmadian Terraces also embody rich historical and cultural value. Utilizing the unique terrain of Ailao Mountain, the Hani people created a distinctive four-element integrated landscape of “forest–village–terrace–water system.”

Folk Customs

The Bada Scenic Area, where Shangmadian Terraces are located, is home to many Hani communities and preserves a wealth of traditional Hani customs. Visitors can experience local festivals such as the Kuzhazha Festival (矻扎扎节) and the Village Sacred Forest Worship Ceremony (祭寨神林), as well as traditional lifestyles.

Climate and Best Visiting Time

Shangmadian Terraces have a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures and abundant rainfall, with an average annual temperature of about 15°C. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the terraces are filled with water, creating excellent conditions for photography and frequent sightings of sea clouds.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visiting Time

Shangmadian Terraces (上马点梯田): These terraces feature graceful, layered lines and are ideal for photography lovers.
Suggested time: 2–3 hours

Bada Terraces (坝达梯田): These spectacular terraces stretch from 1,100 meters above sea level at Malizhai River (麻栗寨河) to 2,000 meters on mountaintops.
Suggested time: 2 hours

Quanfu Village Terraces (全福庄梯田): These terraces are nestled among traditional villages, offering a great opportunity to experience Hani culture.
Suggested time: 1 hour

Transportation

Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus from Kunming South Bus Station (昆明南部客运站) to Yuanyang. The journey takes about 5–6 hours. Upon arrival in Yuanyang, transfer to a local minibus to reach the Bada Scenic Area. The fare is around 15 RMB per person.

Self-driving: Drive from Yuanyang County to Xinjie Town, then proceed to the Bada Scenic Area. The total distance is approximately 43 kilometers.

Food

Hani Bamboo Rice (哈尼族竹筒饭): Steamed rice cooked in bamboo tubes, offering a delicate and fragrant flavor.

Hani Barbecue (哈尼族烤肉): Made from locally sourced ingredients, the roasted meat is aromatic and savory.

Shopping

The Bada Scenic Area and its surroundings offer a variety of handmade crafts and agricultural products, such as Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣) and terrace red rice (梯田红米).

Accommodation

There are a few guesthouses and homestays near the Bada Scenic Area, though facilities may be basic. It is recommended to book in advance. For a more comfortable stay, consider hotels in Yuanyang County or Xinjie Town.

Travel Tips

• Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities, especially when visiting villages or participating in festivals.
• Help protect the environment by avoiding littering.
• Some paths in the terrace area are steep—wear comfortable walking shoes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Yuanyang County, check in at your hotel, then head to the Bada Scenic Area to explore the Shangmadian Terraces.
Day 2: Visit Quanfu Village Terraces to experience Hani culture, then return to Yuanyang County in the afternoon and conclude your trip.

Shangmadian Terraces (上马点梯田) are a place full of natural beauty and rich ethnic charm. Whether you're interested in discovering the traditional culture of the Hani people or admiring the awe-inspiring terraced landscapes, this destination promises a memorable experience. We hope you enjoy your time here．