Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tours in April
Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Weather and Climate in April
When you travel to Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces in April. The weather in Yuanyang belongs to subtropical monsoon season, the average Maximum temperature in Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces in April lies around 22.8°C (73°F), the average minimum temperature(usually the minimum temperature is noted during the night) in Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces in April is 13.9°C(57°F). In the spring time, the cattle is working in the rice fields, the local Hani people is transplanting rice seedlings and after several days, the whole rice terraces turn into green which looks so lively together with green mountains.
Located in Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, the Yuanyang Rice Terraces are known for their subtropical mountain monsoon climate. The climate here features the unique phenomenon: “One mountain divides the four seasons, and ten miles have different weather”. In April, the terraces enter the irrigation season, where the fields reflect the sky and clouds, creating stunning mirror-like views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Temperature and Precipitation
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Temperature Range: Daytime temperatures range from 20–33°C, and nighttime temperatures drop to 17–20°C. In high-altitude areas (like the Bada Terraces at 1790 meters), early mornings and evenings can be as low as 2–12°C, so it’s important to dress warmly.
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Precipitation: There are occasional showers or light rain in April, but overall rainfall is moderate and will not significantly affect the travel experience.
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Climate Features: Large diurnal temperature variations, with plenty of sunlight during the day and cool evenings. The UV rays are particularly strong, and mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially when watching the sunrise.
Historical Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Average Daily Temperatures in April
April | Average High | Average Low |
1 | 19.4°C /67°F | 13.9°C /57°F |
2 | 20°C /68°F | 13.9°C /57°F |
3 | 20°C /68°F | 14.4°C /58°F |
4 | 20°C /68°F | 14.4°C /58°F |
5 | 20°C /68°F | 14.4°C /58°F |
6 | 20.6°C /69°F | 14.4°C /58°F |
7 | 20.6°C /69°F | 15°C /59°F |
8 | 20.6°C /69°F | 15°C /59°F |
9 | 21.1°C /70°F | 15°C /59°F |
10 | 21.1°C /70°F | 15.6°C /60°F |
11 | 21.1°C /70°F | 15.6°C /60°F |
12 | 21.1°C /70°F | 15.6°C /60°F |
13 | 21.7°C /71°F | 15.6°C /60°F |
14 | 21.7°C /71°F | 16.1°C /61°F |
15 | 22.2°C /72°F | 16.1°C /61°F |
16 | 22.2°C /72°F | 16.1°C /61°F |
17 | 22.8°C /73°F | 16.1°C /61°F |
18 | 22.8°C /73°F | 16.7°C /62°F |
19 | 22.8°C /73°F | 16.7°C /62°F |
20 | 22.8°C /73°F | 16.7°C /62°F |
21 | 23.3°C /74°F | 17.2°C /63°F |
22 | 23.3°C /74°F | 17.2°C /63°F |
23 | 23.3°C /74°F | 17.2°C /63°F |
24 | 23.9°C /75°F | 17.2°C /63°F |
25 | 23.9°C /75°F | 17.8°C /64°F |
26 | 23.9°C /75°F | 17.8°C /64°F |
27 | 24.4°C /76°F | 17.8°C /64°F |
28 | 24.4°C /76°F | 18.3°C /65°F |
29 | 24.4°C /76°F | 18.3°C /65°F |
30 | 24.4°C /76°F | 18.3°C /65°F |
What to Wear for an April Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces
There are some temperature changes between day and night. So T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts as well as thin jackets are needed. In order to escape solar radiation, you need sunglasses and sun screen. Also T-shirts and thin jackets are necessary for daily temperature Volatility.
Basic Dressing Principles:
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Layering (Onion Style): Recommended for easy adjustment according to temperature changes. Daytime can be warm in the sun, but temperatures drop to around 10°C without sunlight.
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Warmth Preparation: A significant temperature difference between day and night, so a down jacket is advisable for early mornings or sunset viewing, especially in higher altitudes.
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Sun Protection: Strong UV rays on sunny days, so bring a sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
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Anti-Slip Footwear: The terraces’ embankments can be slippery; anti-slip shoes are a must.
Detailed Clothing Recommendations:
Activity/Time | Clothing Advice | Notes |
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Daytime Sightseeing | Light long-sleeve shirt + thin jacket | Wear cotton or linen for comfort; sunglasses are recommended for strong sunlight reflection |
Morning/Evening | Thick jacket/sweater + warm inner layers | Bring down jacket for sunrise viewing, especially at high-altitude spots |
Hiking | Comfortable anti-slip shoes (hiking shoes or sports shoes) + quick-dry clothing | Avoid flip-flops; the paths are slippery |
Photography | Prepare an ethnic-style shawl/scarf for photo props and warmth | Light-colored clothing works best for reflecting in the terraces |
Water Splashing Festival | Quick-dry clothing + anti-slip sandals | Avoid light-colored clothes that may become see-through when wet; store electronics in waterproof pouches |
Additional Useful Tips:
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Cash: Many remote areas have no signal, so carrying cash is more convenient.
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Rain Gear: Since April may have light showers, bring a folding umbrella or light raincoat.
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Footwear: Besides anti-slip shoes, you can bring a comfortable pair of slippers for the hotel or short walks.
Yuanyang Rice Terraces April Festival Activities
1. Yuanyang Water Splashing Festival (April 11–13)
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Location: Nansha Town, Yuanyang County
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Festival Highlights:
The festival is rich in Dai ethnic customs, transforming the streets and alleys into a joyous sea of water, symbolizing blessings and happiness. The event showcases the traditional costumes, music, dances, and food of seven resident ethnic groups in Yuanyang. -
Visitor Stats: In 2024, the festival attracted over 117,388 visitors, with a 39.7% increase in tourism income, showing a booming trend in local tourism.
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Suggestions for Participation:
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Book accommodations early as hotels in Nansha Town may be fully booked during the festival.
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Bring waterproof gear to protect electronics like phones and cameras.
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Respect local customs and avoid splashing water on the elderly, pregnant women, and infants.
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Try local Dai cuisine, such as pineapple rice and lemongrass grilled fish.
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2. Hani Ethnic “Kaoyangmen” Traditional Farming Ceremony (April 27)
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Location: Hani Terraces, Yuanyang County
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Event Content:
The Hani people wear festive clothes and perform the traditional “Bamboo Fan Dance”, praying for good weather and a bountiful harvest. The villagers start planting rice in the terraces, showcasing their deep agricultural culture. Visitors can participate in activities like rice planting and fish release. -
Cultural Significance:
“Kaoyangmen” is one of the most important agricultural rituals for the Hani people, marking the beginning of the new farming season. It has been practiced for centuries and offers an excellent window into their farming life and culture. -
Suggestions for Participation:
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Learn simple Hani dance moves in advance to better immerse in the festival atmosphere.
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Bring comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for rice planting.
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Always ask permission before taking photos during the ceremony.
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Taste unique Hani dishes, like Hani dipping chicken and bamboo rice.
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Main Attractions in April Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces
- Duoyishu Rice Terraces Fields
This scenic area is the best site to watch sunrise over the vast rice paddies, sea of clouds and enjoy harmonious Hani folk life. In spring, local Hani people and cattle are working in the fields, and the whole terraces turn into green. - Laohuzui Rice Terraces Fields
From November to April, the terraces are in irrigation period. To enjoy the breathtaking natural view in Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth) Rice Terrace. - Hani Folk Village
Qingkou Hani Ethnic Village is noted for the harmony gained among forests, village, terraced fields and water conservation system. A museum has been established to showcase the culture and history of the Hani People. - Mushroom-shaped Houses
As the shaped like mushrooms, here is the name: Mushroom-shaped Houses. It was built by stones or bricks and use thatch to cover roof with a four-slope shape. Living in the delicate and beautiful mushrooms rooms, people will never feel cold in Winter or hot in Summer, which is quite comfortable to stay.
Useful Travel Tips for Your Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tour in April
- The weather forecast of Yuanyang on the Internet may be not exact because the weather of the rice terraces area is always changeable and unpredictable.
- The temperature here varies greatly between day and night. Please pay attention to keep warm especially in early morning or at night.
- Tickets Prices:
The day ticket is CNY 100 (including Duoyishu, Bada, Laohuzui Scenic Areas and Jingkou Folk village).
The through ticket is CNY 180 ( you can visit the above four scenic areas in ten days of validity).
The annual ticket is CNY 360 ( you can visit the above four scenic areas in one year of validity). - Travelers can come all the year round and for photographers, the best time is from November to March of next year. November to April the entire field is irrigated with spring water from the forest above to rejuvenate and getting prepared for the next season. During that period, there is no rice in fields and the flooded paddies are bright with perfect effect of light and shadow.