Hidden in the heart of southwest China’s Yunnan Province lies Azheke, a small village enveloped by cascading rice terraces. Over 60 “mushroom cottages” with thatched roofs and brick walls stand here, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Hani people.
Regarded by experts as the best-preserved cluster of ethnic Hani architecture, Azheke means “a place where bamboo forests flourish” in the Hani language. The village’s distinctive “mushroom cottages” reflect traditional building techniques passed down through generations.
The rice terraces of Yuanyang County, part of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, frame the village in a breathtaking landscape. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, these terraces are a marvel of agricultural ingenuity.
Azheke’s harmonious blend of architectural heritage and natural beauty makes it a unique destination for those seeking to experience the enduring legacy of the Hani culture in southwest China.
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Next Stop: 'Mushroom cottages' surrounded by cascading rice terraces
cgtn.com
