Lose Yourself in the Rice Terraces of Asia
It doesn't get much more photogenic than the lush green rice terraces that sprawl across The Philippines, China, and Vietnam.
There are very few images more evocative of Asia than that of lush green rice terraces clinging to the side of a mountain, and it's possible to hop across Asia exploring these incredible feats of human engineering.
Here, we've rounded up our favorite spots – considered some of the most picturesque on the continent.
They may not be easy to get to, but the rice terraces of Banaue are almost without comparison. Some of these rice fields are over 2,000 years old, and within seconds you'll understand why they're UNESCO World Heritage-listed. The terraces each have different aesthetics, and you can spend days in the region without ever getting bored.
The rice terraces in Longsheng have earned the nickname Dragon's Back Rice Terraces, thanks to the scale-like fields and the mountain range that resembles the spine. Located not far from the town of Yangshuo, the area has also become a popular hiking destination in recent years.
You can break up the journey with visits to minority communities such as the Yao people, who will not be shy in sharing their potent rice wine. The Yao women are famous for their long hair, which is cut only twice during their lifetime. One of the most incredible spectacles is their Long Hair Performance, where they sing and dance, incorporating their flowing locks.
Traveling north towards the border with China, travelers will find themselves in amongst the majestic natural beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. A winding road leads to the remote mountain town of Sapa, where it's possible to glimpse rice fields and water buffalo peeking through the mountain mist.
At 10,312 ft above sea level, Fansipan Mountain has earned its nickname of 'The Roof of Indochina', and offers you some of the most breathtaking vistas imaginable.
Get in touch with our curators now and we'll start planning your trip – just make sure to pack your camera.
Rick Lunt
Originally from the Northwest of England, Rick has found his way to New York via the Czech Republic, Spain, and a myriad of other destinations. Rick dreams of owning a Hacienda in Mexico, but Asia has always been his main passion. In the last decade, highlights have included meals with Geisha in Japan and being adopted by the Asaro Mudmen in Papua New Guinea.