The Honghe Hani Rice Terraces in Southern Yunnan, China, covers an immense 16,603-hectares.
These spectacular terraces cascade down the slopes of the towering Ailao Mountains to the banks of the Hong River.
The Hani people first came to the steep mountains some 2,500 years ago.
Last week, the terraced fields were officially acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site.
Although not exactly a tourist destination, hordes of photographers have visited Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
The landscape changes vividly through the year.
In February, the terraces become naked bare earth, with the water reflecting the sky.
Sources:UNESCO,China Daily,Travel China Guide.
Photos byMekong69andDavid Newbegin
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