Every spring, the Yunhe Rice Terraces in Zhejiang province enter one of their most spectacular seasons. Before rice seedlings are transplanted, the terraces are filled with water, transforming thousands of stepped paddies into giant natural mirrors. At sunrise, the still water reflects the sky, drifting clouds, and surrounding mountains, while mist lingers over the valleys to create one of China's most iconic landscapes.
But Yunhe is full of surprises. Here, an age-old agricultural landscape becomes the stage for an unexpected adventure — wakeboarding on the terraces. As the calm waters ripple beneath the board, thrilling jumps and graceful aerial tricks unfold against a breathtaking backdrop of emerald hills and centuries-old rice fields. The striking contrast between a modern extreme sport and one of China's oldest farming landscapes creates an unforgettable spectacle.
Watch local farmers in traditional bamboo hats tending their fields as wakeboarders glide across the shimmering terraces nearby. It's a rare scene where centuries-old farming traditions and contemporary adventure come together, offering visitors a fresh perspective on rural China.
Who it’s for
Ideal for: Lovers of nature, photographers, and thrill-seekers keen on exploring unique combinations of ancient traditions and extreme sports.
Not for: Travelers seeking conventional holiday experiences or those apprehensive about navigating rural terrain.
Best time to go
Late spring is the best time to visit, as the terraces are filled with reflective water in preparation for rice transplanting. This is also when seasonal wakeboarding performances take place.
Recommended experiences
1. Watch wakeboarding performed against the cascading terraces.
2. Capture the surreal beauty of mirror-like fields shrouded in morning fog.
3. See local farmers at work during the rice-growing season.
4. Explore hiking trails and nearby villages.
Know before you glide
1. Performances are seasonal and heavily weather-dependent.
2. Bring non-slip footwear as pathways can get muddy and wet.
3. Not a fan of extreme sports or heights? The calm beauty of the landscape still delivers.
Practical essentials & Getting there
Yunhe Rice Terraces Scenic Area
Address: Chongtou town, Yunhe county, Lishui, Zhejiang province
Opening hours:
Peak season (May 1-Sept 30): 8 am-5 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm)
Off-season (Oct 1-April 30): 8 am-4:30 pm (last entry at 4 pm)
Admission: 80 yuan ($11.80)/person
Getting there:
By train: You can reach the scenic area visitor center by taking the intercity bus from Lishui High-Speed Railway Station. Ticket price: 29.9 yuan/person
By air: The airports around Yunhe Terraces Scenic Area include: Lishui Airport, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, Wenzhou Longwan International Airport, and Yiwu Airport. After arriving at an airport, you can take the high-speed train to Lishui Station, and then take the tourist special line from Lishui High-Speed Railway Station to the tourist center of the scenic area.
By bus: You can take the No 104 bus from Yunhe Passenger Transport Center to Yunhe Rice Terraced Scenic Area