The opening ceremony of Zhejiang Week event at the China Pavilion of the Expo 2025 Osaka recently highlighted the green transformation of Yunhe rice terraces as a case study on how Zhejiang province transforms natural treasures into sustainable growth.

Yunhe rice terraces are located in Yunhe county in Lishui, Zhejiang and boast a history of over 1,000 years. They cover 23.54 square kilometers, making them the largest in East China.

Known for their layered rice fields, these terraces create a unique landscape of subalpine wetlands, river wetlands, and forests.

A view of the stunning scenery of Yunhe rice terraces in summer. [Photo/WeChat account: wxlishui]

In recent years, Yunhe county has implemented wetland restoration projects within the Yunhe Rice Terraces National Wetland Park, enhancing biodiversity and ecological balance.

The park now hosts 20 wetland vegetation types, 296 vascular plant species, and numerous protected wildlife species, fostering a thriving ecosystem.

Additionally, Yunhe has focused on integrating agriculture, culture, and tourism. The county has developed geographical indication products like terrace rice, pure brews, and tea, while expanding rice-fish and rice-turtle co-culture farming.

These efforts have turned Yunhe into a model of sustainable development, attracting 1 million visits annually and boosting local economic growth. The tourism sector's value-added growth averages 8.51 percent annually, offering residents tangible ecological dividends.