Long Ji Terraced Rice Fields

The Long Ji Terraced Rice Fields, also known as the Dragon's Backbone, are one of China's most iconic and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the Longsheng County of Guangxi Province, these terraced fields stretch across the slopes of towering mountains, creating a stunning visual effect that resembles the scales of a dragon's back when viewed from above. The terraces, which date back over 650 years to the Yuan Dynasty, were meticulously carved by the local Zhuang and Yao people. Their hard work transformed the steep hillsides into fertile land capable of sustaining rice cultivation, even in such challenging terrain. The terraces rise in elevation from 300 to 1,100 meters, and the intricate network of paddies reflects centuries of traditional agricultural practices. Each terrace is a masterpiece of engineering, capturing and channeling water from the mountains to irrigate the rice fields below. The terraces are planted with rice in the early spring, and the fields are flooded, creating a mirror-like surface that reflects the sky. As the seasons change, the landscape transforms, from the lush green of growing rice in summer to the golden hues of harvest in autumn, and finally, to the serene, snow-dusted layers in winter. Visitors to the Long Ji Terraced Rice Fields can experience more than just the breathtaking scenery; they can also explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. The local Zhuang and Yao communities still live in traditional wooden homes, practicing customs that have been passed down through generations. Hiking trails wind through the terraces, leading to panoramic viewpoints and offering a close-up look at the rice cultivation process. Whether visiting in spring, summer, or fall, the terraces provide an ever-changing yet consistently awe-inspiring landscape that highlights the harmony between human ingenuity and nature.