Mingya is a small village nestled deep in the Yongjia Mountain Range of southern Zhejiang, bordered by the mountains to the west and the sea to the east. Its terraced fields, layer upon layer, are truly spectacular. The smoke rising from among the dense woods, the terraced fields filled with water that mirror the surroundings like a bright pane, and the distant, misty mountain ranges create a breathtaking scene. The ancient engineering projects, shaped by our forebears with rudimentary tools, form a magnificent landscape. Hiking up Mingya’s terraced fields to watch the sunrise or strolling through the fields offers urban dwellers a return to nature’s simplicity. It is the largest terraced field area in southern China aside from Yuanyang in Yunnan, consisting of two parts: Zhengshan Terraces and Mingya Terraces. It is also recognized as a terraced field photography base by the China Photographers Association.
Zhengshan Village; the best photo spots are along both sides of the road on the northern hillside of Zhengshan Village; Spot 5 is in Zhengshan Village, with the best vantage point at the southern village entrance, known as Tianzhongtian; Spot 6 is in Zhengshan Village, with the best shooting location on the western hilltop. For sunrise photography, it’s best to stay in the village and be guided up the mountain by local villagers.
The mountain temperature is three to five degrees lower than in the city, so remember to bring extra clothing, especially if you’re heading out early for photos. The elderly farmers in the mountains have traveled far and wide, are well-informed, and are particularly good at striking up conversations with strangers. If you don’t know which way to go or want to ask about scenic spots, don’t hesitate—just ask. Their wealth of knowledge might just give you some pleasant surprises. While there’s still no admission fee, be sure to visit sometime soon~