6 Days Yuanyang Rice Terraces & Yunnan Tour Package: Explore Ancient Towns & Stunning Landscapes

Summary

Day 1 Kunming Arrival: Green Lake Park, Yunnan Military Academy, Guandu Ancient Town
Day 2 Kunming to Jianshui: Zhu Family Garden, Jianshui Ancient Town
Day 3 Jianshui to Yuanyang: Tuanshan Village, Yuanyang Rice Terraces Sunset
Day 4 Yuanyang: Duoyishu Sunrise, Azheke Village
Day 5 Yuanyang to Mengzi: Bisezhai Station, Mengzi Rice Noodles
Day 6 Mengzi to Dongchuan: Red Land Photography

Day1 Kunming Arrival

Upon your arrival in Kunming, your friendly local guide will be waiting for you at the airport or train station, holding a clearly marked “Your Way Holiday” sign for a smooth and easy meeting. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Kunming, often referred to as the “Spring City”, enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for visitors. Known for its vibrant flower markets and lush green parks, Kunming is not only the capital of Yunnan Province but also serves as a cultural and economic hub in Southwest China. As the gateway to the province, Kunming is rich in ethnic diversity, with a mix of Han Chinese and minority cultures, including the Yi, Hani, and Bai peoples. This dynamic blend of nature, culture, and history is what makes Kunming a captivating place to explore. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have the opportunity to dive right into its colorful local culture.

Start your exploration with a visit to Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), one of the city’s most scenic spots. The park is particularly renowned for its seasonal displays, especially in winter when flocks of seagulls migrate to the lake, creating a serene and picturesque scene. The gentle sound of the birds, combined with the beautiful lake views and surrounding greenery, makes this park a popular destination for both locals and visitors. As you stroll along the lake's edges, your guide will share insights into the history of Green Lake, explaining its significance in Kunming’s urban life and its importance as a habitat for migratory birds. The tranquil environment offers the perfect introduction to the relaxed atmosphere of Kunming, setting the tone for your upcoming adventures in this vibrant city.

In the afternoon, head to the Yunnan Military Academy, a site of great historical importance. Established in the early Republican era (1910s), this academy played a pivotal role in the training of soldiers and military officers who later contributed significantly to China’s modern history. The academy’s campus, with its colonial-style architecture and period features, offers a glimpse into the country’s military past. As you walk through the grounds, your guide will recount the academy's contributions to the nation's defense and the significant figures who studied here. The Yunnan Military Academy also houses exhibits dedicated to the history of the Republic era, including photographs, documents, and artifacts that showcase the academy's impact on China’s military development and revolutionary movements. This visit provides a fascinating journey into the political and military history of early 20th-century China.

In the evening, take a trip to Guandu Ancient Town, a charming town that offers a blend of historical significance and traditional architecture. Known for its well-preserved old buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant market life, Guandu gives visitors a chance to experience the essence of Kunming’s historical and cultural heritage. The town is particularly famous for its temples and old shops, which reflect the ancient culture of the region. As the sun sets, enjoy a stroll through the town’s lively streets, soaking in the atmosphere of the past while also exploring local shops. During your visit, be sure to try Qiguo Ji, a local specialty dish of pot chicken cooked in a traditional pot. This hearty, flavorful dish is a perfect example of Yunnan’s unique culinary style, featuring tender chicken and aromatic herbs. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of the dish and recommend some of the best places in Guandu to savor it. After dinner, you can either explore the town’s night market or return to your hotel for a restful night.

Day2 Kunming to Jianshui

Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel, followed by a transfer to the train station where you'll board a comfortable train for your journey to Jianshui. The scenic 3-hour ride gives you a unique view of rural Yunnan, passing through lush fields and charming villages, giving you a sense of the region’s peaceful pace of life. Upon your arrival in Jianshui, your friendly local guide will be waiting for you at the train station, holding a clearly marked "Your Way Holiday" sign to ensure a smooth and easy meeting. As you approach Jianshui, your guide will introduce you to this historically rich town, known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional culture that dates back over a thousand years.

Your first stop of the day: Zhu Family Garden, a stunning Qing Dynasty mansion that showcases the opulence and grandeur of ancient Chinese architecture. This mansion, once the home of the influential Zhu family, boasts traditional wooden carvings, decorative stone pathways, and tranquil courtyards that reflect the wealth and cultural importance of the time. As you explore the garden, your guide will take you through the various rooms, explaining the significance of the architectural features and how this space was designed to serve as both a residence and a social hub. The Zhu Family Garden is a testament to the wealth of the Zhu family and their influence on trade and culture in the region. You’ll learn how the garden incorporates elements of Chinese Feng Shui, providing a serene and harmonious space for the family to live, work, and entertain guests.

After touring the Zhu Family Garden, you’ll continue your journey through Jianshui Ancient Town, a place where time seems to stand still, with its cobblestone streets, ancient gates, and historical buildings. You’ll begin by visiting the Chaoyang Tower, a well-preserved landmark of Jianshui’s long history. This ancient structure, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty, stands as a symbol of Jianshui’s cultural heritage. Then, make your way to the Confucius Temple, a place of deep cultural and educational significance in China. This site, with its grand hall and historical inscriptions, offers insight into the teachings of Confucius and his profound influence on Chinese society. Afterward, your guide will take you to a local Tofu Workshop, where you’ll get a chance to watch how Jianshui’s famous stinky tofu is made. You'll learn about the traditional methods of preparing this unique delicacy, which has a history dating back centuries, and have a chance to taste it yourself. 

As the day winds down, consider an optional visit to Swallow Cave, a natural marvel where limestone formations and the arrival of thousands of swallows at sunset create a spectacular scene. The cave offers an ideal setting to relax and reflect on the day’s explorations, with its tranquil surroundings and stunning views providing the perfect backdrop for an evening of peace and serenity. The swallows’ arrival at dusk creates a mesmerizing spectacle as they swoop and dive into the cave, offering a unique wildlife experience that is both calming and awe-inspiring. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make this spot a perfect way to conclude your time in Jianshui. After visiting the cave, your guide will take you back to your accommodation in Jianshui, where you can rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for the exciting activities the next day holds. Whether you prefer a quiet evening at the hotel or a leisurely walk around the town, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the day’s cultural discoveries in this charming corner of Yunnan. You can also ask your guide for recommendations for nearby restaurants or strolls, ensuring you finish the day immersed in the local ambiance.

Day3 Jianshui to Yuanyang

Start your day with a drive to Tuanshan Village, nestled in the heart of the Hani Rice Terraces. This village is a stunning example of traditional Hani architecture and culture, offering a unique glimpse into the rural life of one of Yunnan's ethnic minorities. The houses in Tuanshan are built in a distinctive style, with intricate wooden structures and thatched roofs, all blending harmoniously with the surrounding terraced fields. As you explore, your guide will share fascinating stories about the Hani people’s customs and the village's role in maintaining the centuries-old traditions that have earned this region a UNESCO World Heritage designation. The sight of the village rising above the fields with the terraced hills in the background makes for a picturesque and serene atmosphere that will leave you with lasting memories of rural Yunnan's beauty.

After your visit to Tuanshan, continue your journey to Yuanyang, where you’ll explore the world-famous Bada Terraces, one of the most breathtaking sights in all of China. These terraces are carved into the mountainsides, creating an intricate pattern of water-filled fields that reflect the sky, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. As you walk through the terraces, your guide will explain the fascinating engineering behind their creation, developed by the Hani people over 1,300 years. The terraces are particularly stunning during the planting and harvest seasons when the water reflects the light in mesmerizing ways, transforming the landscape into a natural mirror. This location is not just a photographic paradise but a living testament to the Hani people's deep connection to the land and their ingenious farming methods. After a walk through the terraces, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the incredible views from various vantage points, where the beauty of the landscape unfolds before you.

In the evening, head to Laohuzui, also known as the Tiger Mouth Terraces, to witness one of the most iconic sunsets in Yunnan. This spot offers an unparalleled view of the terraced fields, where the sun sets behind the jagged peaks of the surrounding mountains, casting golden light over the water-filled terraces. The landscape changes dramatically with the fading light, creating a vivid array of colors that will captivate nature lovers and photographers alike. The terraced fields below, coupled with the backdrop of the mountains, make this an unforgettable sunset experience. Your guide will ensure you have the perfect spot to take in the natural beauty and will share local legends and stories tied to the area’s history and culture. After watching the sunset, you can either return to your accommodation to rest for the night or enjoy a leisurely evening walk through the nearby village, reflecting on the stunning scenery and the day’s experiences.

Day4 Yuanyang

Start your day early with a visit to Duoyishu, one of the most popular and picturesque spots for witnessing the sunrise over the rice terraces. As the first rays of sunlight touch the terraced fields, they create a stunning visual display of vibrant reflections in the water-filled rice paddies. The vast expanse of the terraces stretches out before you, with mist lingering over the fields, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. This is the perfect opportunity to capture some classic photographs of the terraced landscape as the light shifts, revealing the intricate patterns of the fields. Your guide will share tips on how to best capture the beauty of the sunrise, while also explaining the significance of the terraces to the local Hani people. Watching the sunrise in this tranquil setting will be a highlight of your trip, offering a sense of peace and awe as nature wakes up around you.

After the sunrise, head to Azheke Village, a charming Hani village known for its traditional thatched roof houses and unspoiled beauty. This village is an excellent example of Hani architecture, where homes are built using local materials such as bamboo and wood, with roofs thatched with grass, giving the village a timeless, rustic appearance. As you walk through the village, your guide will share insights into the Hani people’s way of life, including their farming practices, customs, and how their culture is deeply intertwined with the land. The village is also a perfect place to witness local life, as many of the inhabitants still maintain traditional agricultural practices. The stunning views of the surrounding terraces and the peaceful atmosphere of the village make it a perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the authentic rural experience.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Qingkou Folk Village, which is home to a small but fascinating Hani culture museum. This village offers a deep dive into the history, customs, and traditions of the Hani people. The museum features exhibits showcasing the Hani’s agricultural tools, traditional clothing, and artifacts that have been passed down through generations. As you explore the museum, your guide will explain the significance of the artifacts and how they relate to the daily lives and rituals of the Hani people. The village itself is also a great place to observe traditional Hani architecture and interact with local residents, who are often eager to share their stories. Qingkou offers a quiet and authentic glimpse into the culture of one of China’s most unique ethnic groups, making it a must-visit stop for those interested in cultural exploration.

After an afternoon of cultural immersion, the evening is yours to revisit your favorite terraces from the day. Whether you’re drawn back to the spectacular views of Duoyishu or the tranquil scenes at Laohuzui, this is a wonderful opportunity to take in the terraces at a different time of day. The changing light during the evening creates a completely different atmosphere, with the golden hues of the setting sun casting dramatic shadows over the terraces. This is also a great time to explore new viewpoints or capture more photographs, as the landscape continues to shift with the changing light. If you prefer, you can also spend the evening relaxing at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s experiences, or enjoying a leisurely walk through the nearby villages.

Day5 Yuanyang to Mengzi

On your journey from Yuanyang to Mengzi, make a stop at Bisezhai Station, a fascinating historical site and a relic of the French-Vietnamese Railway. This station was once a vital part of the railway that connected French Indochina to southern China, making it a key point in the region’s colonial history. As you explore the area, your guide will share stories of the railway’s construction and its importance in facilitating trade and cultural exchanges between China, Vietnam, and the French colonies. The station’s colonial architecture, with its faded brick walls and vintage design, offers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era. Bisezhai’s quiet atmosphere, surrounded by lush countryside, provides a perfect setting to reflect on the past while appreciating the stunning landscapes that now define this once-bustling transit point. The site is an interesting mix of history and scenic beauty, offering a memorable stop on your journey.

Upon arrival in Mengzi, head to South Lake, a tranquil spot that is historically significant as the birthplace of the famous Yunnan dish, "Across the Bridge Noodles". The story behind this iconic dish dates back to the late Qing Dynasty, when a scholar's wife created the meal to keep it hot during long study sessions. According to legend, she would carry a pot of hot broth across the bridge to her husband, and he would add raw ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and noodles to create the perfect soup. At South Lake, you’ll have the chance to enjoy this dish in a picturesque setting, surrounded by peaceful waters and lush greenery. As you dine, your guide will tell you more about the origins of the dish and how it has become a beloved staple in Yunnan cuisine. South Lake not only offers a great place to taste this local delicacy but also provides a serene environment to relax and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

After lunch, visit the Customs Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to the French colonial influence in Yunnan and the history of trade in the region. The museum is housed in an elegant colonial-era building and features a variety of exhibits that detail the customs and trade practices that took place between China, France, and Southeast Asia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You’ll learn about the goods exchanged, the role of the French in shaping the region’s economic landscape, and how the local population interacted with foreign traders. Your guide will provide insights into the colonial history of Mengzi and how this period left a lasting impact on the local culture and infrastructure. The museum offers a unique perspective on Mengzi’s historical significance and is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the influence of colonialism on China’s development. It’s a thoughtful stop to deepen your understanding of the region’s complex past.

To wrap up your day in Mengzi, enjoy an authentic Bridge Crossing Noodles dinner at a local restaurant. This iconic Yunnan dish is prepared in a unique way, where a steaming bowl of hot broth is served alongside a variety of fresh ingredients, including thinly sliced meats, vegetables, and noodles. You can add the ingredients to the broth as you like, allowing the raw ingredients to cook in the piping-hot liquid. The experience of enjoying this dish is not only a culinary delight but also a chance to immerse yourself in a centuries-old tradition that is deeply rooted in local culture. Your guide will explain the story behind the dish and its significance to Yunnan’s culinary heritage. As you enjoy this delicious meal, take a moment to reflect on the day’s experiences, savoring the rich flavors of the region while soaking in the relaxed evening ambiance.

Day6 Mengzi to Dongchuan

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Dongchuan Red Land, a breathtaking agricultural region located approximately five hours from Mengzi. Known for its striking red soil, this area is often referred to as “China’s most beautiful land.” The landscape here is a photographer’s paradise, with vivid layers of red earth and vibrant crops creating a stunning contrast. Your journey will take you through rural villages, where you’ll have the chance to see local farmers working the land in this picturesque setting. Dongchuan Red Land is not only famous for its natural beauty but also for the deep connection between the land and its people, who have lived and cultivated it for generations. As you drive through the countryside, your guide will share stories of the area’s agricultural traditions and the significance of the land to the local communities. This journey offers a great opportunity to experience the rural charm of Yunnan before heading to your next photography stop.

Your first photography stop is Luoxiagou, a must-visit location within the Dongchuan Red Land region. The layered fields here are a stunning sight, especially during the planting seasons, when the crops create an incredible array of colors, ranging from deep reds to vibrant greens and golden hues. The fields, shaped by the hard work of generations of local farmers, are meticulously arranged in terraces that enhance the beauty of the landscape. This place offers a perfect opportunity to capture the breathtaking natural scenery, as the sunlight plays off the colorful layers, creating dynamic contrasts and shadows. Your guide will help you find the best vantage points to ensure you get the most out of your photography experience. Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply an enthusiast, Luoxiagou offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of China, making it an unforgettable stop on your journey.

Next, head to Jinxiu Garden, a stunning location in Dongchuan that showcases the region's flower seasons from May to September. During this time, the garden comes alive with a breathtaking display of various flowers, including vibrant sunflowers, wildflowers, and other seasonal blossoms. The fields are carefully cultivated, creating a patchwork of colorful flowers against the backdrop of the red soil. This site is particularly famous for its unique ability to blend agricultural landscapes with floral beauty, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. Your guide will take you through the garden, explaining the different species of flowers and the farming practices that contribute to the area’s beauty. Whether you’re interested in capturing macro shots of the flowers or panoramic views of the field, Jinxiu Garden offers the perfect backdrop for both. The vibrant colors and lush landscapes provide a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere that will leave you with lasting memories of Dongchuan’s natural beauty.

After a day of exploring the striking landscapes of Dongchuan Red Land and capturing its natural beauty, it’s time to begin your journey back to Kunming. The drive takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the wonderful experiences you’ve had over the past few days. As you return to Kunming, your guide will offer suggestions for last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping, depending on your flight or train schedule. Whether you’re heading to the airport or train station, your guide will ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer, providing assistance with any final arrangements. By the time you arrive in Kunming, you’ll have experienced some of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas of Yunnan, making this trip an unforgettable journey filled with scenic landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant local cultures.

Price Per Person in US Dollars