Yakou Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe

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Yakou Terraces (垭口梯田) are located in Yiwan Shui Village Committee (一碗水村委会), Panzhihua Township (攀枝花乡), Yuanyang County (元阳县), under Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated in the southern section of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山), on the southern bank of the Red River (红河), the terraces are approximately 62 kilometers from Yuanyang County Town and form part of the core area of the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces (元阳哈尼梯田).

Cultural and Historical Background

Yakou Village (垭口村), where the terraces are located, is a traditional Hani (哈尼族) settlement rich in cultural heritage and well-preserved landscapes. In 2014, it was included in the third list of China’s Traditional Villages. Over 1,300 years ago, the ancestors of the Hani people began cultivating these layered terraces by adapting to the mountainous terrain. This resulted in the unique “forest–village–terrace–water system” four-element integrated landscape.

Local Customs

Yakou Village (垭口村) retains numerous traditional Hani customs such as the “Kuzhazha Festival” (矻扎扎节) and “Zhaishenlin Sacrifice” (祭寨神林), as well as traditional architectural styles including thatched houses. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Hani culture and way of life.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Yakou Terraces (垭口梯田) are located in a subtropical mountain monsoon climate zone, characterized by the saying “four seasons on one mountain, different weather every ten miles.” The best time to visit is from November to April, when the terraces are filled with water, creating beautiful light reflections and frequent sea-of-clouds views.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

• Yakou Terraces (垭口梯田): Featuring layered fields with strong depth and contrast, this is a paradise for photographers.
  Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours
• Yakou Traditional Village (垭口村传统村落): Visit traditional Hani homes and experience rich ethnic culture.
  Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours
• Laohuzui Terraces (老虎嘴梯田): Located nearby, this iconic part of the Yuanyang Terraces is ideal for sunset viewing.
  Suggested visiting time: 2 hours

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take a bus from Yuanyang County Town (元阳县城) to Panzhihua Township (攀枝花乡), then transfer to local transport to reach Yakou Terraces (垭口梯田).
• Self-Drive: Drive from Yuanyang County Town via main roads to Panzhihua Township, then continue to Yakou Terraces. The total distance is approximately 62 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

• Hani Bamboo Rice (哈尼族竹筒饭): Steamed rice cooked in bamboo tubes with a fragrant taste.
• Hani Grilled Meat (哈尼族烤肉): Grilled using local ingredients, offering a rich aroma and flavor.

Shopping

Visitors can buy unique handicrafts and agricultural products such as Hani embroidery (哈尼族刺绣) and Yuanyang Red Rice (元阳梯田红米) in Yakou Village and surrounding areas.

Accommodation

There are a few simple guesthouses and homestays available near Yakou Village. Conditions are basic, so it is recommended to book in advance. For a more comfortable stay, consider accommodations in Yuanyang County Town or inside the main scenic area.

Travel Tips

• Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities, especially during village visits or traditional festivals.
• Help protect the environment and do not litter.
• Some paths in the terrace areas are steep; wear comfortable walking shoes.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Yuanyang County Town, check in to a hotel, then head to Yakou Village (垭口村) in Panzhihua Township to explore the traditional village.
Day 2: Visit Yakou Terraces in the morning, then head to Laohuzui Terraces (老虎嘴梯田) in the afternoon for sunset photography.
Day 3: Return to Yuanyang County Town and conclude your journey.

Yakou Terraces (垭口梯田) offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich ethnic culture. Whether you’re seeking to explore the traditions of the Hani people or marvel at the breathtaking rice terraces, this is a place that promises unforgettable experiences. We hope you have a wonderful journey．

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