Apr 5, 2010

Yuányáng, Yúnnán

The Hani of Yuányáng have carved vast networks of terraces into their hillsides in southern Yúnnán province, converting entire mountains into shimmering labyrinths. The terrace berms are just wide enough to walk across, and as tall as 15 feet on the downhill side. Their primary use is for rice cultivation, but they also stock fish, and some are filled in for buffalo grazing. At work in the maze are mostly Hani women, adorned with elaborate traditional dress despite their men sporting western wear.