Yunnan's last secret realm, Azheke

Azheke is the filming location for 'Forever Young'. It boasts the famous Yuanyang Rice Terraces. The name Azheke is somewhat peculiar; it means a place that is lush and prosperous in the Hani language. It is a poverty alleviation point, yet it possesses an unspoiled simplicity that poverty has not tarnished. The ticket bears this message: 'Do not give money to local children to prevent them from gaining without working.' This instantly adds a layer of respect for this place! 🚄Transportation: First, arrive in Kunming from all over the country. Route A: Kunming—Jianshui (train), Jianshui—Nansha Town (30R), Nansha Town—Xinjie Town (20R), carpool from Xinjie Town to Duoyishu (15R)/Azheke (20R). Route B: Kunming—Gejiu (train), Gejiu—Nansha Town (20R), Nansha Town—Xinjie Town (20R), carpool from Xinjie Town to Duoyishu (15R)/Azheke (20R). 🌿Attractions: 1️⃣Duoyishu Rice Terraces: Where you can watch the sunrise and the stunning terraces under the sunrise. 2️⃣Blue Terrace Viewpoint, about 6 kilometers from Duoyishu, where you can see the sky-like blue terraces on a clear day. The view of the terraces here is broader than that of Duoyishu. 3️⃣Azheke Village: A 210-year-old ancient village, where the mushroom-shaped buildings are traditional Hani houses. The village is full of winding stone paths, and transportation of heavy objects relies on mules, donkeys, or human strength. An elderly lady carrying a heavy basket tried her best to answer my questions in her broken Mandarin. Stone paths, rice terraces, water mills, swings, green trees all make up this tranquil place like a paradise. The elderly and children, the crisscrossing paths, the sound of chickens and dogs, all contribute to a very comfortable atmosphere. The hometown that Huang Xiaoming takes Zhang Ziyi back to in 'Forever Young' is Azheke. 🏡Accommodation recommendation: Near the viewing platforms of Azheke or Duoyishu, for the convenience of watching the sunrise and sunset.