Hani Xiaozhen Town in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Hani Town is located in Xinjie Town (新街镇), Yuanyang County (元阳县), Honghe Prefecture (红河州), Yunnan Province. Nestled in the southern part of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山) and on the southern bank of the Red River (红河), it lies at the heart of Yuanyang County. Surrounded by the magnificent Hani Rice Terraces (哈尼梯田), the town is embraced by undulating mountains and layers of terraced fields, cascading like silver chains from the foot of the hills to the mountain tops. Its unique location not only makes it a prominent showcase of Hani terrace culture but also provides visitors with convenient access to poetic natural landscapes and traditional farming scenes, all while experiencing the rich ethnic customs of the region.
History and Culture
Xinjie Town (新街镇) boasts a long history, and Hani Town is deeply rooted in the thousand-year-old cultural traditions of the Hani ethnic group (哈尼族). As an ancient agricultural people, the Hani have cultivated this land and created the world-renowned Hani Terrace culture. The town’s architectural styles and daily customs reflect the wisdom of Hani ancestors. Through the passage of time, this area has become a living testimony to traditional Hani festivals, rituals, and cultural practices, embodying the people’s profound understanding of nature and life, and their hopes for the future.
Folk Customs
Hani Town is rich in traditional folk culture. During major festivals such as the Ang Ma Tu Festival (昂玛突节) and the Ku Zha Zha Festival (矻扎扎节), the town bursts into celebration. Hani men and women dress in their colorful traditional attire—men in black cross-collared jackets and wide-legged trousers, women in intricately embroidered slanted-collar tops and pleated skirts. People gather in the town square to hold solemn sacrificial ceremonies, praying for favorable weather and abundant harvests. This is followed by joyful Luo Zuo dance (乐作舞) performances, with dancers holding hands in circles, moving lightly and rhythmically to the beat of drums and the sound of lusheng flutes.
Additionally, traditional Hani crafts such as embroidery and bamboo weaving are still practiced here, with locals showcasing their skills for visitors to appreciate the charm of ethnic craftsmanship up close.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Yuanyang County (元阳县) experiences a subtropical mountain monsoon climate, warm and humid throughout the year. Hani Town is worth visiting in all seasons, but the best time is from November to April. This period is the dry season, with clear skies and abundant sunlight. The terraces sparkle in the sun, reflecting colorful light and shadow, creating breathtaking views. Around the Chinese New Year, traditional Hani festivals abound, offering a chance to admire both the terraces and participate in festive cultural activities for an immersive experience.
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time
Core Viewing Platform of Hani Terraces (哈尼梯田核心区观景台)
Located close to Hani Town, this platform offers a panoramic view of the vast terraces. At dawn, the first rays of sunlight reflect golden hues on the water-filled terraces, often shrouded in mist like a fairyland.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours, perfect for capturing sunrise photos.
Hani Town Folk Culture Square (小镇民俗文化广场)
The cultural center of the town, featuring ethnic sculptures and displays of traditional farming tools. Folk performances such as the Luo Zuo dance and traditional Hani songs are held at scheduled times daily.
Recommended visit duration: 0.5–1 hour to enjoy the artistic spirit of the Hani people.
Qingkou Folk Village (箐口民俗村)
Adjacent to Hani Town, this village preserves traditional Hani mushroom-shaped houses. Visitors can walk through the village, explore the architecture and lifestyle, and admire handmade crafts.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours for an in-depth rural Hani experience.
Transportation
External Transportation
By Air: Fly to Mengzi Airport (蒙自机场) in Honghe, about 130 km from Yuanyang County (元阳县). From there, take a direct shuttle to Yuanyang (approx. 2–3 hours) or hire a private car for more flexibility (though more expensive).
By Train: Take a train to Jianshui Station (建水站), then transfer to Jianshui Bus Station (建水汽车站) for a frequent bus service to Yuanyang (approx. 2 hours).
Local Transportation
Once in Yuanyang County, take a bus from the county bus station to Xinjie Town (新街镇) at an affordable price. Alternatively, take a local minivan or taxi directly to Hani Town for convenience.
Local Cuisine
Terrace Red Rice Noodles (梯田红米线)
Made from locally grown red rice, the noodles are soft and chewy. Served with fragrant chicken broth, tender slices of terrace fish, and seasonal vegetables. Rich in flavor and nutrition, this is a local specialty.
Hani Grilled Tofu (哈尼烤豆腐)
Handmade from high-quality local soybeans and grilled over an open fire. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. Served with a dipping sauce made of chili, Sichuan peppercorns, and cilantro—spicy and addictive.
Fish Stewed with Pickled Bamboo Shoots (酸笋煮鱼)
A traditional Hani dish. The pickled bamboo shoots offer a distinctive sour aroma, stewed together with terrace fish for a tangy, rich broth that awakens the taste buds.
Local Products & Souvenirs
Hani Embroidery (哈尼族刺绣工艺品)
Many local women operate embroidery shops. The pieces are colorful and intricate, featuring designs inspired by nature and folklore, such as birds, fish, and terraces. Items range from handkerchiefs to bags and clothes—great for gifts or souvenirs.
Terrace Red Rice (梯田红米)
With a long history of cultivation, this red rice is rich in minerals. Bringing a bag home allows family and friends to enjoy the unique taste of Yuanyang when cooked into soft, aromatic rice.
Bamboo Weaving Products (竹编制品)
Locally made baskets, stools, and containers showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and rural charm of the Hani people—both practical and beautiful keepsakes.
Accommodation
Ethnic-style Guesthouses in Hani Town (哈尼小镇特色客栈)
Family-run inns based on traditional Hani architecture, decorated with ethnic elements. Rooms are clean, with some offering views of the terraces. Affordable and great for experiencing rural life.
Hotels in Xinjie Town (新街镇酒店)
More lodging options than Hani Town, from budget hotels to cozy inns. Convenient facilities, dining, and shopping.
High-End Hotels in Yuanyang County (元阳县城高档酒店)
Ideal for those seeking more comfort. Star-rated hotels with better amenities are available in the county seat, though transportation to and from Hani Town needs to be planned accordingly.
Travel Tips
- Respect Local Customs: Hani Town is home to the Hani ethnic group. Visitors should respect local customs and religious beliefs. During ceremonies or performances, follow the organizers’ instructions, remain quiet, and don’t disrupt the order.
- Protect the Terraces: As a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, the terraces should not be stepped on. Help protect the environment and avoid littering.
- Secure Your Belongings: During peak seasons or crowded events, be mindful of your valuables, especially phones, cameras, and wallets.
- Photograph Respectfully: Always ask for permission before taking photos of residents or cultural events to avoid causing offense.
Suggested Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrive at Hani Town in the morning and check into a local guesthouse. Visit the Folk Culture Square, enjoy performances, and learn about Hani culture. Try red rice noodles and grilled tofu for lunch. In the afternoon, explore Qingkou Folk Village, admire the architecture, and experience village life. Return in the evening to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 2:
Wake early to visit the Core Viewing Platform for a stunning terrace sunrise. Rest afterward, then browse the town’s market for handmade souvenirs. Try fish with pickled bamboo shoots for lunch. In the afternoon, take a bus to Xinjie Town, do some final shopping, and soak up the lively ambiance before departure.
