The best times to visit the Yuanyang Rice Terraces are during the months of November to April when the paddies are full of water, and the reflections are most vivid.
Tianlong Tunbao refers to an ancient fortress-like village located in Anshun, Guizhou Province, China. It is known for its unique architectural style and for being the home of the Tunbao people, an ethnic group descended from the Ming Dynasty soldiers who were stationed in the region over 600 years ago. The Tianlong Tunbao has a rich cultural heritage, including the Dixi opera, which is often referred to as the "living fossil of the ancient shows."
The women of Longhorn Miao are known for their distinctive large horn-shaped headwear, from which the name "Longhorn" is derived. This headwear is made from the hair of ancestors, which is passed down from generation to generation, symbolizing respect and continuity.
The best time to visit the Longji Terraced Fields is in early autumn when the rice is ready for harvest and the fields turn a golden yellow.
The name "Tiger Mouth" comes from one of the many scenic spots in the Yuanyang Rice Terraces where the terraces resemble the open mouth of a tiger. The best times to visit are during the early morning and late afternoon when the sunlight and the water in the fields create a stunning reflection that photographers from around the world come to capture.
The Hani people's market is not just a place for buying and selling goods; it's a social hub where people from various villages gather. It's a riot of colors, sounds, and smells. Villagers come dressed in their traditional attire, which is both a visual treat and a symbol of their identity.
The Hani are an ethnic minority in China, with a rich cultural heritage and a strong connection to their land. One of the most fascinating aspects of their culture is the traditional market.
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces are not only a testament to human ingenuity and persistence but also a crucial part of the local ecosystem. The terraces support biodiversity and maintain local water resources. They were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, which has helped to preserve their beauty and cultural significance for future generations.
The Bada Rice Terraces are part of a larger cluster that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting not only the stunning beauty of the terraces but also the cultural significance and agricultural ingenuity of the Hani people.
Tunbao Dixi Opera, also known as "Ground Opera," is a traditional form of Chinese opera from the Guizhou province. It is an ancient art form that dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is primarily performed by the local Tunbao people. This unique style of opera is characterized by its vibrant costumes, energetic performances, and distinctive facial masks that reflect the historical military culture of the region.
Jidao Miao Village is a traditional ethnic village located in Guizhou Province, China. It is well-known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to the Miao people, an ethnic minority with a distinct language, traditional clothing, and customs.
Wudong Miao Village is a picturesque community nestled in the rolling hills of China, where the Miao people have resided for centuries. The village itself is a harmonious blend of wooden stilted houses and narrow winding paths, surrounded by terraced fields that change with the seasons.
The Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, often referred to as the "One Thousand Household Miao Village," is a prominent cultural attraction located in the Guizhou province of China. It's renowned for being the largest gathering of Miao minority communities in the world.
Longhorn Miao Village, also known as the Long Skirt Miao, is a unique ethnic community located in Guizhou Province, China. This village is particularly famous for its rich cultural heritage and traditional customs that have been preserved over centuries.
Kala Miao Village is renowned for its intricate and beautiful birdcages that are a testament to the local craftsmanship. These birdcages are not just functional; they are also considered pieces of art, reflecting the cultural heritage of the village. Each cage is made with precision and care, often featuring elaborate designs that include floral motifs and traditional patterns.
Gaoyao Terraced Fields in Guizhou are not only an example of extraordinary agricultural engineering but also a testament to the harmony between humans and nature.
Colorful textiles are a prominent feature at the Rongjiang Sunday Market. The Miao people are renowned for their intricate embroidery and silver jewelry, and their handiwork is displayed in full force here. You can find beautifully embroidered costumes, silver ornaments, and accessories that reflect the craftsmanship passed down through generations.
The Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Yongji Bridge or Panlong Bridge, is a distinctive and renowned piece of architecture found in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. This beautiful bridge spans the Linxi River of Sanjiang County and is a perfect example of Dong minority craftsmanship.
The Zhaoxing Drum Tower is a magnificent example of Dong ethnic minority architecture found in Zhaoxing Village, which is located in Liping County, Guizhou Province, China.
Zhaoxing Dongzhai Village is renowned for its lush green surroundings, traditional wooden stilt houses, and the rich cultural heritage of the Dong people. The village is also famous for its five Drum Towers, which are wooden structures that serve as community centers and are unique to the Dong ethnic group.
Visitors to Tangan Dongzhai can expect to be greeted by the sight of ancient buildings made of wood and stone, which have stood the test of time. For those interested in experiencing authentic Chinese rural culture, Tang'an Dong Village offers a unique glimpse into the past, as well as an opportunity to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of traditional village life.
Tangan Dongzhai Village, characterized by its peaceful ambiance and traditional architecture, is a quintessential representation of rural life in China. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, the village is known for its well-preserved cultural heritage and historical significance.
Longji terraced fields are built on steep mountainsides, covering an area of over 66 square kilometers. The local Zhuang and Yao communities have cultivated these fields for centuries, primarily growing rice. The terraces are designed to make use of the abundant rainwater and to prevent erosion while maximizing arable land area in mountainous terrain.
Visitors to the Longji Terraced Fields can enjoy hiking and exploring the various villages dotted around the mountains. Notable spots include the "Seven Stars around the Moon" in Jinkeng Terraced Fields and the "Nine Dragons and Five Tigers" in Ping'an Terraced Fields. These spots offer some of the most breathtaking views of the terraces.
The best time to visit the Longji Terraced Fields is in late spring when the paddies are being irrigated and the water glistens in the sun.
You can choose from a variety of boats, ranging from large, comfortable vessels to smaller bamboo rafts, depending on your preference for a more luxurious or adventurous experience for Li River cruise.
The journey along the Li River unfolds over several hours, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the region, with highlights including the Nine Horse Fresco Hill and the 20 Yuan Bill Hill, which is featured on the back of the Chinese 20 yuan note.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

DAYS CITIES  TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ACCOMMODATIONS
1 Kunming Arrival Airport/Train Station Pickup Hotel
2 Yuanyang Jianshui Ancient City, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Sunset of Bada Hotel
3 Yuanyang Sunrise of Duoyishu, Laomeng Market, Sunset of Laohuzui Hotel
4 Kunming, Train to Anshun Qingkou Terraced Fields, Shengcun Market on Sheep, Pig & Rabbit Days, Transfer to Kunming Train Station, Overnight Train to Anshun. Hotel
5 Anshun Train Station Pickup, Suoga Long Horn Miao Villages Hotel
6 Kaili Tianlong Village, Ground Opera, Stone Village Hotel
7 Kaili Chong’anjiang Wanba Gejia Village, Jidao Miao Village Hotel
8 Leishan Shidong Piantou Miao Village, Xijiang Miao Village Hotel
9 Rongjiang Xijiang Miao Folk Museum, Paika Miao Village, Datang Xinqiao Village, Shiqiao Miao Village, Gaoyao Rice Terraces Hotel
10 Zhaoxing Rongjiang Sunday Market, Baisha Miao Village, Zhaoxing Dong Village Hotel
11 Zhaoxing Local Family Visit, Tang’an Dong Village, Shage Dong Village Hiking Hotel
12 Sanjiang Chengyang Dong Village, Wind & Rain Bridge Hotel
13 Longsheng – Yangshuo Longji Dragon Backbone Rice Terraces, Seven Stars with Moon, Nine Dragons & Five Tigers, Night Performance of Impression Liusanjie Hotel
14 Guilin Departure Li River Cruise, Mopanshan Pier Pickup, Transfer to Guiling Liangjiang Airport. /

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

PRICE INCLUDES PRICE EXCLUDES
Trains: 2nd-class seat tickets on a high-speed train from Kunming to Anshun. China Visa: You should apply for it in your country. If any visa invitation is needed, please inform us. Visa Invitation is a free offer.
Accommodations: Well-selected 3/4-star hotels with breakfasts (or you can upgrade to better levels with extra charges). Flights: No international or domestic arrival/departure flights are included on the 1st day and the last day.
Transport: From 5-seat cars to 61-seat tour buses, different types based on group size, but all are well-maintained and comfortable. Gas fees and parking fees are all included. Meals: No lunches or dinners included (your guide can make recommendations according to your needs).
Entrance Tickets: All included except for optional activities not mentioned. Tips: Tips to tour guide and driver.
Guide: Licensed local English-speaking guides. Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks, optional tour activities such as boating, camel riding, performances, etc.
Travel Insurance: A free one from a Chinese insurance company, but you should buy one from your country for better insurance services. Extra Expenses: Additional days’ cost caused due to unexpected situations such as natural disasters, political incidents, or any other force majeure.

Ajourney through the heart of rural China, where ancient traditions are woven into the fabric of life, and nature’s artistry creates landscapes that take your breath away. You’ll immerse yourself in the cultural richness of ethnic villages and marvel at the world-famous rice terraces of Yuanyang in Yunnan, Qiandongnan in Guizhou, and Longsheng in Guangxi. This tour is not just a vacation; it explores China’s lesser-known treasures, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

The Spectacular Yuanyang Rice Terraces
A trip to Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a masterpiece of agricultural ingenuity. These terraces, carved into the Ailao Mountains over generations by the Hani people, create a stunning mosaic of intricate patterns and reflections. Witness the sunrise over the terraces, a photographer’s dream, and interact with local farmers to understand their ancestral farming techniques.

Nestled in the terraced hills of Yunnan, China, the Yuanyang Hani people have cultivated more than just their famous rice paddies; they have also fostered a vibrant market culture. The Hani people, known for their rich traditions and colorful attire, come together in these markets not just to sell their wares but to socialize, exchange news, and maintain their cultural bonds.

One cannot talk about the market without mentioning the lively livestock section. Here, farmers barter and negotiate over chickens, pigs, goats, and even water buffalo. The sounds of animals mix with human chatter, creating an energetic atmosphere that’s both chaotic and charming.

Heart of Guizhou – Qiandongnan Ethnic Villages Unveiled
Next, we delve into Guizhou province, home to a mosaic of ethnic minorities. In villages like Xijiang and Zhaoxing, time seems to stand still. Discover the Miao and Dong people‘s unique customs, from their intricate silver jewelry to their grand wooden drum towers, learn about their textile crafts, and witness their iconic long-hair traditions. Experience their hospitality during a traditional dance performance and taste their distinct cuisine.

The Miao villages of Qiandongnan are more than just tourist destinations; they are living communities where ancient traditions continue to thrive. Each village tells its own story through its customs, festivals, and daily life.

Longsheng Rice Terraces – A Dragon’s Backbone
Our odyssey takes us to the Longsheng Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone. These terraces ripple across the hills like the scales of a mighty dragon. Hike along the scenic paths to reach viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of this agricultural wonder. Before concluding our tour, we stop in Yangshuo, a county famed for its stunning karst mountains and serene rivers. Enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Li River, surrounded by peaks that have inspired poets and painters for millennia.

Farewell to China’s Countryside
From the warmth of village welcomes to the cool mist of mountain mornings, this journey through rural China has offered an authentic experience far beyond the usual tourist paths. More than just sightseeing – it’s an intimate encounter with China’s living heritage. You’ve walked the paths of ancient farmers, celebrated with local communities, and stood in awe of landscapes that defy imagination, which will leave you with a profound appreciation for the diversity and resilience of rural Chinese cultures.

Join us on this unforgettable journey and connect with the soul of China.

Popularity 91%
Difficulty 14%
Cost Performance 68%

  • Customized private tour in accordance with your needs.

  • Guaranteed complimentary two bottles of mineral water daily.

  • FREE days in Yangshuo & Guilin can be arranged.

  • BIG discounts for kids or seniors. Please consult your travel advisor for more information.