Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai Marks 65 Years of Four Seasons with The Journey of Rice
In 2026, Four Seasons celebrates 65 years of a legacy shaped by genuine care, thoughtful service and meaningful human connection. At Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, this milestone finds a distinctly local expression in The Journey of Rice: Connecting Guests to the Heart of Lanna—an intimate experience created in gratitude to guests and rooted in the Resort’s emerald rice fields, its people, and the traditions that have shaped Northern Thailand for generations.
“Our rice fields have always been part of the soul of the Resort,” says Ivan Giles, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. “As we celebrate 65 years of Four Seasons, The Journey of Rice allows us to share something deeply rooted in who we are and where we are. It is about bringing our guests closer to the land, people and traditions of Lanna, while expressing our gratitude through the warmth and care that have always been at the heart of Four Seasons.”
A Story Rooted in the Land
Lanna, the historic cultural region of Northern Thailand, means “Land of a Million Rice Fields,” reflecting the deep connection between the land, its people and rice cultivation. Rice has long been at the heart of Lanna life, symbolising nourishment, gratitude and prosperity, while remaining an enduring part of the region’s traditions and way of life.
The working rice fields sit at the centre of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, offering guests a living connection to the traditions and landscape of Lanna. The journey begins with rice planting, as guests join the Resort’s local farmers in the fields to discover traditional farming practices and experience first-hand the rhythms of life in Northern Thailand.
Guided by the people who care for the fields, guests gain a closer understanding of the patience, knowledge and traditions behind rice cultivation—and of the people and traditions that shape life here.
Following each harvest, the rice remains part of daily life at the Resort. Some finds its way into natural arrangements, while the rest provides food for the Resort’s resident chickens and ducks, allowing what is grown in the fields to continue its journey within the landscape. In this way, the experience reflects a deeper respect for the land and its resources, extending the story of the rice fields beyond the harvest itself.
A Lanna Moment to Remember
Following their time in the fields, guests come together as the afternoon light settles over the landscape. At Khao Bar, the General Manager welcomes guests for an intimate sundowner overlooking the rice fields, where the Resort’s award-winning “In the Rice Fields” cocktail is complemented by thoughtfully crafted Thai canapés.
It is a moment to share stories, enjoy the changing light over the rice fields and simply spend time together. Before departing, guests receive a thoughtful keepsake inspired by the experience, a small reminder of their time in Chiang Mai and the moments they have shared.
“There is something very special about ending the day together in the rice fields,” says Ivan. As evening settles over the rice fields, guests come together over sunset refreshments and shared stories.
Celebrating 65 Years Through Generosity of Care
“As we celebrate 65 years of Four Seasons, it is a meaningful moment to reflect on what has brought us this far, while looking with purpose to what lies ahead,” says Ivan. “For us, that means continuing to value the people, culture and traditions that shape who we are, and finding thoughtful ways for their stories to live on.”
The Journey of Rice gives this milestone a distinctly Chiang Mai expression, bringing the Four Seasons generosity of care to life through the people, traditions and landscape that make this place so special.
Created in celebration of 65 years of Four Seasons, each part of the journey reflects the generosity of care through the land, traditions and people who bring the Resort to life.
