Yunnan Tribute Rice

Last updated 2026-11-15 — Yunnan’s tribute rice refers to the high-quality rice historically offered as tributes to the imperial court by local governments in the region. The tribute rice includes Zihuo, Zhefang rice, and Babao rice. Zihuo is a type of glutinous rice with a deep purple-black color, sweet aroma, sticky yet not greasy texture, produced in the Mojiang area. It was a tribute during the Yuan and Ming dynasties. Zhefang rice, classified as premium rice, has a smooth, jade-like white color with large, long grains, and is grown in Humin Village, Yunwu Community, Zhefang Township, Luxi County. When cooked, Zhefang rice is fragrant, richly flavored, with an oily mouthfeel, and highly nutritious. It does not harden when cooled but may become slightly sticky. It was a tribute rice during the Qing dynasty. Babao rice is renowned for eight qualities: intense aroma, sweet and mellow taste, rich oiliness, large grains, smooth texture, appealing appearance and color, fast maturation, and high yield. It is produced in two Miao ethnic villages along the Babao River in Babao Township, Guangnan County, and has been served as tribute rice throughout history. (Kunming)