The Hani rice terraces in Yuanyang county, Yunnan are a popular World Heritage Site, and Xichuan county, Nanyang is currently building its own "Hani terraces".

The county is not trying to develop a UNESCO site, but rather trying to establish a unique modern industry that incorporates both agriculture and tourism. Over the years, the county has been working to transform common farm fields into terraces in Laocheng, Jinhe and Madeng townships, where apricot plum trees and the traditional Chinese medicine Cynanchum otophyllum are grown.

Local farmers build terraces. [Photo/WeChat account xichuan-guangdian]

In Shimen village, Laocheng town, the terraces are beginning to take shape alongside the plum trees, resulting in picturesque views.

When the apricot plum trees and Cynanchum otophyllum plants bloom in spring, the terrace will offer spectacular views with seas of flowers.

The area aims to become a demonstration zone for modern ecological agriculture, promote the integration of agriculture, tourism, and health, increase the income of locals, raise people out of poverty, and aid in the construction of beautiful villages.

Work on Xichuan county's terrace fields is well underway. [Photo/WeChat account xichuan-guangdian]

Lu Zongshan, deputy Party chief of Laocheng town, said that the terraces are expected to become a signature scenic spot of the town, increasing production efficiency while also promoting tourism.

Lu said that the town will work vigorously to develop rural tourism and help more people out of poverty.

Apricot plum trees are planted on the terraces in Laocheng town, Xichuan county. [Photo/WeChat account xichuan-guangdian]