Kriging interpolation procedure and the Local Moran's I index detected the locations of pollution hotspots of these five potentially hazardous metals. The concentrations of Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn in soils had a very similar spatial pattern, with contamination hotspots located together in the middle part of the study area, which is probably due to industrialization and other anthropogenic activities. The accumulation and availability of potentially hazardous metals in soil and rice is influenced by both metal concentrations in soil, and soil-plant physico-chemical properties that influence their uptake by rice. Therefore, we conclude that necessary environmental measures should be taken to control soil pollution in order to limit possible potentially hazardous metals contamination of the food chain in Shengzhou City.