Shaoxing Rice Culture: Villages, Wine & Terraces

The Secret Life of Rice: Inside Shaoxing's Ancient Villages

Destination:ChinaProvince:ZhejiangCity:Shaoxing
The Secret Life of Rice: Inside Shaoxing's Ancient Villages
Expat Natt2025-01-1212 min

This weekend, our China Roadtrip has taken us to Shaoxing, just a couple of hours from Shanghai, nestled between Hangzhou and Ningbo. Famous for its rice wine and rice production, this trip was the perfect opportunity to find out how rice is grown, harvested, and fermented in China to make the delicious rice wine and cooking wine. Along the way, we’re discovering the rice terraces, lost villages, and old streets which play an important role in the rice industry, and discover the must-see locations that Shaoxing has to offer.

Chinese rice wine is also known as Shaoxing wine or simply Shao Wine (绍酒). The brewery utilizes a natural process using the "pure" water of the Jianhu-Mirror Lake. It has a unique flavour and a reputation both nationally and internationally. It is used as a liquor and in cooking as well as a solvent for Chinese herbal medicated ointments.

📍Fuzhi Rice Terrace覆卮山

📍Meiwu Ancient Village 梅坞古道

📍Shaoxing 绍兴

📍Anchang Ancient Town 安昌古镇

📍Fushan Park 府山公园

📍Dong Hu 东湖

📍Luxun Old Street鲁迅故里

--- Expat Natt
January 12, 2025, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:12Secrets of China's rice
  2. 0:46Where the rice is grown
  3. 2:35Rice harvesting process
  4. 6:18Rice wine fermentation
  5. 8:09Peaceful parks and areas
  6. 10:06Dong Hu park visit
  7. 10:36Old streets and rice wine

Expat Natt's Shaoxing adventure unveils the secrets of rice wine production, exploring ancient villages and stunning rice terraces. A journey filled with cultural immersion and delicious discoveries!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Visit the rice terraces in Shaoxing to witness the stunning scenery and learn about rice cultivation. The best time to visit is during rice growing season for optimal views. (0:46)
  2. Tip 2Observe the traditional rice harvesting methods in Shaoxing. Many farmers still use hand harvesting techniques, which is a fascinating process to witness. (2:35)
  3. Tip 3Explore the ancient town of Anchang, a central hub for rice fermenting. This town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture. (6:18)
  4. Tip 4Escape the bustle of the towns and villages by visiting one of Shaoxing's peaceful parks. Dong Hu park is a great option for a relaxing boat ride. (8:09)
  5. Tip 5Wander through the old streets of Shaoxing in the evening to discover local shops and sample the famous rice wine. It's a great way to experience the local atmosphere. (10:36)

Explore Shaoxing, China with Expat Natt as they uncover the secrets of rice production in this ancient region. From stunning rice terraces to traditional villages and bustling ancient towns, this journey reveals the unique process of cultivating, harvesting, and fermenting rice into the world-renowned Shaoxing rice wine. Witness the beauty of Fuzhi Rice Terrace, the charm of Meiwu Ancient Village, and the historical significance of Anchang Ancient Town. Savor the local delicacies and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Shaoxing, a hidden gem nestled between Hangzhou and Ningbo.

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The Secret Life of Rice: Inside Shaoxing's Ancient Villages

This video follows Expat Natt on a captivating journey through Shaoxing, China, a region renowned for its rice wine and unique rice cultivation practices. Nestled between Hangzhou and Ningbo, Shaoxing offers a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The journey begins with breathtaking aerial views of the Fuzhi Rice Terrace, showcasing the stunning rice paddies. Expat Natt details the process of rice cultivation, from planting to harvesting, highlighting the traditional methods still employed by local farmers. The meticulous process of drying the rice, often laid out on sheets in the middle of roads, is also shown, a testament to the dedication and care involved in rice production.

The video then shifts focus to the ancient villages and towns that form the heart of Shaoxing's rice industry. Expat Natt explores the charming streets of Meiwu Ancient Village and Anchang Ancient Town, observing the local life and interacting with residents. The unique architecture and atmosphere of these ancient settlements are beautifully captured.

Beyond rice, the video explores Shaoxing's diverse culinary scene. Expat Natt samples local specialties, including the famous Shaoxing noodles and stinky tofu, offering viewers a glimpse into the region's rich gastronomic traditions. The journey concludes with a visit to Dong Hu, a peaceful park providing a tranquil contrast to the bustling towns and villages.

Throughout the video, Expat Natt shares personal insights and observations, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience. The stunning visuals, combined with Expat Natt's engaging narration, provide a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Shaoxing's unique culture and natural beauty. The video is a testament to the dedication and skill involved in rice production and provides viewers with a deeper appreciation for this essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine. The tranquil beauty of the rice terraces and the vibrant energy of the ancient towns create a captivating travelogue, offering viewers a unique perspective on life in rural China. Expat Natt's personal touches and enthusiastic narration make this a truly engaging and informative exploration of Shaoxing and its rice-centric culture.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What is Shaoxing most famous for?
A: Shaoxing is famous for its rice wine, rice production, and beautiful scenery. It's also known for its stinky tofu and fermented foods!
Q: What are some must-visit locations in Shaoxing?
A: Definitely the rice terraces, Anchang Ancient Town, and Dong Hu park! The old streets are also worth exploring.
Q: What's the best way to experience Shaoxing?
A: Get out and explore! Wander through the ancient towns, sample the local food, and take a boat ride in Dong Hu park. It's a beautiful place to experience traditional Chinese life.

Shaoxing Rice Culture: Villages, Wine & Terraces

Unveiling The Chinese Village Famous For Rice: A Shaoxing Travel Vlog 绍兴 Just 2hr From Shanghai! This weekend, our China Roadtrip has taken us to Shaoxing, just a couple of hours from Shanghai, nestled between Hangzhou and Ningbo. Famous for its rice wine and rice production, this trip was the...

Shaoxing Rice Wine: Exploring Ancient Villages & Rice Terraces

Expat Natt's China road trip takes them to Shaoxing, a city nestled between Hangzhou and Ningbo, renowned for its rice wine and production. The vlog documents their journey into the heart of Shaoxing's rice industry, showcasing the rice's cultivation, harvest, and fermentation into delicious rice wine and cooking wine. Viewers will see stunning rice terraces, charming lost villages, and historical old streets. Key locations visited include Fuzhi Rice Terrace, Meiwu Ancient Village, Anchang Ancient Town, Fushan Park, Dong Hu, and Luxun Old Street. The unique flavor of Shaoxing wine, also known as Shao Wine, is highlighted, emphasizing its use in cooking and traditional medicine. The video offers a captivating glimpse into the cultural significance of rice in Shaoxing.

Attractions in this video: Fuzhi Rice Terrace, Meiwu Ancient Village, Anchang Ancient Town, Fushan Park, Dong Hu, Luxun Old Street