Location & Access

Phoenix Looking Back Viewpoint sits within the Longji Rice Terrace Scenic Area, near the intersection of County Road 552 and National Highway 321 in Longsheng County, Guilin, Guangxi. It’s nestled in the Dragon Spine Great Yao Village Terrace, about 80 kilometers northwest of Guilin city. To get here, you can:

  • Drive from Guilin (1.5–2 hours) along winding mountain roads. The final stretch to the viewpoint is narrow, so go slow!
  • Take a bus from Guilin to Ping’an Village (around 2 hours), then hire a local taxi or motorbike to the viewpoint.
  • Hike from nearby villages like Ping’an or Jinkeng for a more immersive experience.

Natural Beauty: A Living Postcard

Phoenix Looking Back Viewpoint is famous for its sweeping rice terraces that look like giant stairs carved into the mountains. The terraces change colors with the seasons:

  • Spring: Flooded fields mirror the sky, creating a silvery canvas.
  • Summer: Green rice shoots turn the hills into a lush, layered painting.
  • Autumn: Golden harvests glow under the sun, perfect for photos!
  • Winter: Frosty terraces and morning mist make it feel like a fairy tale.

The viewpoint’s name comes from a curved ridge that resembles a phoenix turning its head to gaze back. Sunrise and sunset are magical here—the light dances on the terraces, and clouds often wrap around the mountains like soft cotton.

Cultural Immersion: Yao Zhou Dynasty Vibes

This area is home to the Red Yao people, known for their vibrant culture. At Phoenix Looking Back Viewpoint, you might spot:

  • Traditional wooden houses with roofs covered in straw or tiles.
  • Local women wearing bright costumes with colorful embroidery.
  • Festivals (like the Red Yao Festival) where villagers sing, dance, and play traditional instruments.

The terraces themselves are a testament to century-old farming wisdom. Carved into steep slopes, they rely on rainwater and careful stewardship. You’ll often see farmers tending the fields, still using tools passed down through generations.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Facilities: There’s a small parking lot, basic restrooms, and a few stalls selling snacks or water. Bring cash—cards aren’t always accepted.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for sunset. Avoid noon when the sun is harsh.
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes! The terrain is uneven, and some paths are muddy after rain.
  • Weather: Check forecasts. Cloudy days can be dull, but a light drizzle adds drama.

The Experience: Why It’s Worth It

Standing at Phoenix Looking Back Viewpoint, you’ll feel tiny next to the towering mountains and endless terraces. It’s peaceful—just the sound of wind rustling rice plants and distant bird calls. For photographers, it’s paradise: every season offers a new backdrop, and the curves of the terraces lead the eye into the horizon.

If you’re lucky, you’ll meet locals who’ll share stories about the land or invite you to try oil tea, a Yao specialty. And don’t rush! Spend hours here—the view changes with the sun, and each moment feels like a living postcard.

Pro Tip: Pair this stop with nearby villages like Ping’an or Jinkeng for a full day of exploring Longji’s beauty. But save enough time at Phoenix Looking Back Viewpoint—it’s the crown jewel of the terraces!