Ziquejie Terraced Fields 

Photo/Zeng Wengui 

The Ziquejie Terraced Fields are included in the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) and the World's Heritage Irrigation Structures (WHIS). Located in Xinhua County, Loudi City, Ziquejie Terraced Fields enjoy a history of more than 2,000 years. It is a combination of rice culture in southern China and fishing-hunting culture of Miao and Yao ethnic groups in mountainous areas.

The Ziquejie Terraced Fields have a unique monsoon climate with abundant rainfall. Spanning 80,000 mu (about 5,333 hectares) of land, these terraced fields utilize a gravity-powered irrigation system, eliminating the necessity for ponds or dams.

The Ziquejie Terraced Fields Scenic Area, situated at an average altitude of over 1,000 meters, features terraced fields that cascade down the mountainside, transforming in color with each passing season. The graceful curves of the terraced fields meander through the mountains, revealing a breathtaking and grandeur beauty that exemplifies nature's masterful artistry.

Chinese source: Chinanews

Part of English source: People's Daily