Hani Rice Terraces of Honghe – The Harmonious Landscape of Nature and Humans

The Hani Rice Terraces of Honghe, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, represent a unique cultural landscape where traditional rice farming, spiritual values, and governance have sustained a breathtaking terrain for over a thousand years. This study highlights the terraces' intricate spatial structure—integrating forests, water systems, and villages—and identifies the physical factors that preserve this harmony between nature and human activity. The research emphasizes the indispensable role of Hani culture in maintaining the landscape, while also addressing challenges posed by modern tourism and development. By analyzing traditional practices and their ecological impact, the study offers insights into preserving such landscapes amid contemporary pressures.

Zhan *, G., & Jin **, Z. (2019). Hani Rice Terraces of Honghe – The Harmonious Landscape of Nature and Humans. 21st Century Challenges Facing Cultural Landscapes, 7–19. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315628493-2