skipping stones in search of a phoenix | fenghuang

i visited phoenix ancient town, which is 1 hour south of zhangjiajie by high-speed rail. despite the drizzle, the experience was unlike any other city in china. it was a raw sensation of aged tradition blowing in my face. and just when i thought i had witnessed it all, the town evolved and morphed into a completely different space at night as the sun dimmed, the lights shone. the buildings suddenly became neon wonders, towering and reflecting off the dark river. soon, a woman in a red dress rose from the water—like a phoenix from old lore. boats slowly approached her, as if she were a goddess this town made me appreciate how china never has, and never will, forget its roots. instead, as it ages, it does so looking both behind and forward. it was a calming yet jaw-dropping experience, and i hope more people visit or maybe keep it lowkey :) also huge credit to 楚童古琴 for their lovely guqin music in the intro 00:00 intro 00:19 wandering 01:36 going to skipping stone 02:19 skipping stone 04:16 riverside houses 05:39 grabbing din din 05:55 phoenix arises