Yunhe rice terraces in Yunhe county of Lishui, Zhejiang province, are now attracting urban tourists with their lush fields and innovative attractions.

Yunhe rice terraces in Yunhe county of Lishui, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Wang Jinhong]

Two months ago, the Osaka World Expo highlighted the green transformation of Yunhe rice terraces as a case study on how Zhejiang province transforms natural treasures into sustainable growth.

Chongtou town — home to the terraces — faced challenges such as outmigration, abandoned farmland, and degraded irrigation systems over two decades ago.

To address this, local authorities implemented an ecological restoration project with nature-based solutions. Artisans restored stone walls, rebuilt irrigation networks, and improved water and soil conservation, reviving over 5,000 mu (333.33 hectares) of terraces. This significantly enhanced water retention, air quality, and biodiversity.

Tourists visit the Yunhe rice terraces scenic area in Yunhe county of Lishui, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Wang Jinhong]

The ecological restoration has spurred economic growth. At Dayang village's agricultural base, specialty vegetables like white eggplants, peppers, and cucumbers are sold at premium prices to major supermarkets in the Yangtze River Delta.

A 43 million yuan ($6.04 million) rural vitalization project for provincial-level "Rice Plus" eco-terraces is also advancing, with 12 sub-projects already completed.

In Kenggen village, 175 unique homestays now dot the area. Local homestay operator Gu Xiaohang transformed old cattle sheds and traditional houses into bookstores, cafes, and inns, driving rural tourism. Inspired, villagers converted their homes into homestays, vitalizing the once-declining village.

In 2024, the Yunhe rice terraces scenic area became China's first 5A-level terrace scenic spot, drawing 1.92 million visits and generating tourism revenue of 357 million yuan that benefited over 40,000 residents.