The narrator travels to a remote location in China to document a unique landscape where rice crops create a mirror-like reflection at certain times of the day due to sunlight. The journey is long and complicated, involving flights and hours of driving, climbing a mountain, and crossing a sea. Upon arrival, the narrator marvels at the breathtaking view and the local culture, which revolves around rice.
The narrator also tries local food, including street food and rice dishes, and interacts with the local Hani people, learning about their customs and traditions. The Hani people have a unique way of dressing, with colors changing depending on age, and the narrator even tries on traditional clothing.
The narrator also visits a local hotel, which is surprisingly modern and comfortable, with a rustic exterior and a cool vibe. The hotel room has a great view of the rice crops, and the narrator enjoys the amenities, including a bathroom with a view.
The narrator returns to the rice crops at sunrise and sunset to capture the mirror-like reflection, but faces challenges due to crowds of tourists. Despite this, the narrator is impressed by the beauty of the landscape and the unique experience.
In conclusion, the narrator reflects on whether the journey is worth it, considering the distance and difficulty in getting to the location. While the landscape is beautiful, the narrator suggests that it may not be worth it for those with limited time, but for those who have the freedom to explore, it is a unique and rewarding experience.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The narrator traveled a long distance to see rice crops.
2. The narrator took a flight and then drove many hours to reach their destination.
3. The rice crops reflect sunlight in a way that gives off phosphorescent tones.
4. The water buffalo are used to make way for the crops and as a method of transportation.
5. The locals eat the water buffalo.
6. The narrator ate three banderillas, which cost 20 yuan (approximately $3).
7. The narrator tried different types of rice, including purple and yellow rice.
8. The narrator had a sweet potato, which is a local specialty.
9. The narrator visited a local community, where they saw traditional homes made of straw.
10. The narrator stayed in a hotel that was very local and had a rustic vibe.
11. The hotel rooms had a code for each person, and the rooms were simple but clean.
12. The narrator saw a lot of people taking photos of the rice crops at sunset.
13. The narrator noticed that the tourists brought a lot of cameras and equipment.
14. The narrator took photos of the sunrise over the rice crops.
15. The narrator said that the reflection of the sun on the water was like a mirror.
16. The narrator mentioned that the locals wear clothing that changes color depending on their age.
17. The narrator visited China for the third time and had already visited important places like the Great Wall, Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.
18. The narrator recommended visiting the place for people who have a lot of time and want to experience the local culture.