Exploring Vietnam’s Rice Terraces: A Must-See for Asian Tourists

Rice terraces in countries like China, Vietnam, and more offer breathtaking natural landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities, and a rich display of art, creativity, and culture.

Hani Terrace, Hong Ha, China

Photo: Petro Times

This is the terraced field of the Ha Nhi people in Hong Ha province, China. It is located in Yuanyang county, in Honghe province, southern Yunnan province. The terraces cover an area of 1 million hectares and have been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.

The road leading to the rice terraces is a zigzag path that resembles a spider’s web. Walking on this road in the early morning feels like floating on a cloud due to the thick fog that covers the area. The sides of the road are adorned with delicate wildflowers in the fog, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Banaue Rice Terrace, Philippines

Banaue terraced fields, created by the Ifugao people in the Philippines, have been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site for their impressive size and ancient farming techniques. With a height of thousands of meters, these terraces cover an area of 10,360 km2 on the mountainside.

The terraced fields in Ifugao resemble mountains and showcase a perfect balance of natural and human beauty. Photo: Petro Times

Walking on these terraces is a delightful experience, although it is recommended to seek the guidance of local guides as the fields can be up to 10 meters apart. Along the way, visitors can also explore the villages of Batad and Bangaan, nestled among the verdant rice fields.

Mu Cang Chai, Vietnam

“Golden rice season” of photographer Vu Ngoc Tuan (Hanoi) captures the winding, gorgeous rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai.

Mu Cang Chai in North Vietnam is highly recommended as a must-visit destination. The area is renowned for its magnificent rice terraces that adorn the slopes of velvet green hills. This centuries-old cultivation has created some of the most stunning rice terraces in the world. The region also offers hiking trails and a vibrant local culture, providing a unique insight into the way of life of the Black Hmong ethnic minority.

Sapa Terraces, Vietnam

Photo: Shutterstock

The Sapa terraces in Vietnam have a rich history and unique beauty that encapsulates the cultural identity of the local indigenous community. This form of traditional agriculture, cultivated at an altitude of 700 to 1,500 meters above sea level, showcases the “yellow raspberries” and “green raspberries” that majestically grace the Northwest mountains, symbolizing the prosperous life of the indigenous people. The Sapa terraced fields are a favorite subject for photographers, earning the nickname “a gold mine of photography.”

Hamanoura Rice Terraces, Saga Prefecture, Japan

The scenery here is pristine and unique. Photo: TripZilla

Located in the Saga Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, the Hamanoura Rice Terraces are a hidden gem. These terraces are considered one of the 100 most beautiful rice terraces in Japan and are famous worldwide. The Hamanoura terraces offer stunning views all year round, with each season showcasing a different charm. The most breathtaking time to visit is from mid-April to mid-May, when the fields are filled with water and the setting sun bathes the land in a warm orange hue.