In the melodious tunes of folk songs, we embarked on a long journey to the Land of Heavenly Abundance. Chengdu, a city with beautiful stories, welcomed us with the warmest rhythm, allowing us to witness the scenic beauty of this holiday together. In every corner of this city, POE found a unique charm. Let's set off and explore this vibrant city, immersing our souls in this poetic land.
Arriving in Chengdu, a hot and spicy life awaits us, starting with a mouthful of authentic Chengdu hot pot. As we gaze at the steaming broth and a variety of ingredients, thinly sliced meats with alternating layers of fat and lean, crispy vegetables, and numerous types of mushrooms, our mouths water in anticipation. Whether it's a clear broth or a spicy one, the POE team can indulge in different delicious experiences. With meat on the table and drinks in our cups, it seems that our taste buds have been ignited by the enthusiasm of Chengdu hot pot. The spicy and numbing aroma fills the air, awakening the passion deep within us. Gathered together, we savor the spiciness of chili peppers, feeling the atmosphere of unity and love. Hot pot becomes our bond, connecting us closely.
Make a wish: To be a panda in the next life.
Destination 1: Panda Paradise
Without hesitation, the POE team steps forward with excitement, arriving at the Panda Base to breathe the same fresh air as the giant pandas and empty our minds. Here, we see the giant pandas lying on their backs with their bellies exposed, lazily patting their stomachs with their front paws, kicking their legs, and then rolling over to continue their deep slumber. When they wake up, they sit up like children, rubbing their naturally dark-circled eyes, curiously observing the passing visitors. Then, they get up and walk to the other side of the enclosure, sitting down as if to clear their minds. When they eat, they often sit with both hind legs crossed, using their front paws to hold the bamboo and delightfully munching away!
In addition to the giant pandas, we also encounter the adorable and playful red pandas at Panda Paradise. The young giant pandas are not only cute but also mischievous and energetic, captivating the passing tourists. Luckily, we spot a red panda emerging from a crevice, dragging its fluffy tail and wearing a thick fur coat, as it moves around to search for food. It is said that when the weather is cold, they use their fluffy tails as blankets or curl up into a ball to maintain a suitable temperature and endure the harsh winter.
Destination 2: Dujiangyan
Dujiangyan · Yuleige: The ancient name of Leishan was Panlong Mountain. During the Tang Dynasty, Du Fu, a famous poet, visited and left behind a quatrain that says, "The scenery of Jinjiang brings heaven and earth together, while Yulei Pavilion witnesses the changes of ancient and modern times." Yuleige is located west of the ancient canal and connects to the Qin Tower, with the South Bridge and Lidian to the south and the Wen Temple to the north.
"Bowing to Dujiangyan, seeking the Tao of Qingcheng Mountain." Dujiangyan, as a thousand-year-old water conservancy project, is not just an irrigation project; it is also a symbol of spirit and culture. It fills us with longing for Dujiangyan. Fortunately, we all have the opportunity to experience it firsthand, being in the presence of the magnificent river. The river water surges out from the dam, resembling a galloping army with great momentum. The river here is not just a scenic view; it is a lifeline that has nurtured countless Chengdu residents. Standing here, we can feel the history and present of this city, as well as the strength and hope that this water conservancy project brings us. It seems to convey the inheritance of human wisdom. We can sense the traces of ancient wisdom and courage and be amazed by the power of nature.
Destination 3: Jiezi Ancient Town
Away from the neon lights of the city and the busy zebra crossings, the POE team steps into "Chuanxi Water Town" - Jiezi Ancient Town. As we walk into the town square, we are greeted by an ancient persimmon tree and buildings that complement each other, creating a delightful scene. In November, the persimmons are ripe, hanging from the branches like red clouds, shining with golden colors, and bringing joy to our hearts. As southerners, we have rarely seen such fiery red persimmons hanging from the branches. It feels warm and pure.
We stroll along the old streets, walking lightly on the ancient cobblestone road, feeling the weight of the years carried by each stone. As we pass through a long alley, lined with old houses on both sides, they stand silently like elders, telling the stories of old times without words. The river is not far from our feet. In a water town, there must be a breeze. The gentle breeze brushes across the water's surface, creating ripples, which is quite fascinating.
Compared to the bustling crowds of Shenzhen, walking on the quiet and comfortable food street of Jiezi Ancient Town in Chongzhou, the lingering spicy aroma fills the air. In Jiezi Ancient Town, the streets on both sides are filled with delicious food, such as oil cakes. The snow-white glutinous rice cakes are cut into evenly thick rectangular pieces and then fried in a sizzling oil pan. After just a few minutes, they turn golden and crispy. When eaten hot, a unique aroma of chili and numbing spices fills the senses!
Destination 4: Du Fu Thatched Cottage
In this severe winter, carrying the sentiment of Du Fu, the poet sage of the Tang Dynasty, the POE team arrives at the Du Fu Thatched Cottage... When touring Du Fu Thatched Cottage and engaging in a dialogue with the poet sage, it feels as if we can sense the aura of the old hermit of Shaoling. Standing in front of the thatched cottage, we can imagine the hardships Du Fu endured while fleeing the "An Shi Rebellion" and truly feel his concerns for the country and the people. "If I had a thousand houses, I would shelter all the poor in the world," he wrote. Strolling along the flower paths, passing through the red walls, and walking through the bamboo grove, we see a painting that recites the eternal poems, unrelated to exams or age. The poems left for us are about love and the wisdom of ancient sages, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of everything. We hope that we can also have the spirit of lofty ambition and walk with dignity. Although we may not reach that level, our hearts aspire to it.
When we come to Du Fu Thatched Cottage, we not only reminisce about the poet sage but also wander through the gardens, experiencing the dwellings and landscapes rarely seen in modern city life. In addition to the bustling architectural complexes, Du Fu Thatched Cottage has many corners with lush vegetation and few people, such as the Huanhua area and the Plum Garden. There are slowly flowing streams and tranquil ponds reflecting the colors of the sky. In every corner, we can feel the omnipresent and all-encompassing natural atmosphere.
Together, we stroll into the Maowu Scenic Area and see a pond outside the firewood door, with flowers casting their shadows. Withered leaves gather and float on the water, and the pool reflects the ink-green shadows of the trees. The pond doesn't disappoint. It represents the simple and elegant charm of Chinese gardens. The combination of the pond, pavilion, and trees creates a picturesque scene that evokes a sense of tranquility and harmony.
As we continue our journey through the thatched cottage, we encounter the famous "Three Plum Trees." These trees are said to be descendants of the plum trees planted by Du Fu himself. They stand tall and proud, bearing witness to the passing of time and the enduring legacy of the poet. When the plum blossoms bloom in early spring, their delicate white petals contrast beautifully with the dark trunks, creating a stunning sight that attracts visitors from near and far.
In the tranquil bamboo forest, we can immerse ourselves in the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and the gentle whispers of the wind. The bamboo grove provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere, allowing us to escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Before leaving Du Fu Thatched Cottage, we make a stop at the Memorial Hall, where we can learn more about the life and works of Du Fu. The exhibits showcase his poems, calligraphy, and historical artifacts, giving us a deeper understanding of his contributions to Chinese literature and culture. It is a place of reverence and reflection, honoring the legacy of a great poet.
Overall, our visit to Du Fu Thatched Cottage is a journey through time and a chance to connect with the spirit of Du Fu. It is a reminder of the power of words and the enduring impact of great thinkers and artists throughout history.
Position 5: Wuhou Shrine
During this trip, the POE team had the privilege of visiting the Wuhou Shrine to pay respects to the Prime Minister. For centuries, the praises for the Prime Minister have been countless: "Where can we find the shrine of the Prime Minister? It stands solemnly outside the city of Jin Guan." The Wuhou Shrine in Chengdu is the only temple in the country where both the ruler and his subjects are enshrined together. It is the most influential Three Kingdoms heritage museum in the world. Unlike the grand and epic historical narratives of battles and conquests, the Wuhou Shrine exudes a natural and refreshing ambiance.
We slowed down our pace, let go of restlessness, and embraced the beauty around us. We captured eternal moments with our cameras and recorded the winter scenery with our eyes. Walking along the long alley paved with bluestones, we were surrounded by the faint smoke and tranquility of the ancient town. The town's memories seemed to linger in the air, with blue bricks, gray tiles, stone slabs, narrow lanes, ornate doorways, and ancestral halls. Every corner was enough to astonish our eyes.
Stepping into the Wuhou Shrine, we felt as if we had entered a classical garden. The courtyards were deep, adorned with artificial hills and flowing streams, lush bamboo groves, towering ancient trees, and dancing rays of sunlight that brought joy to our hearts. We wandered through one after another of the buildings, walked amidst the red walls and shadows of bamboo, and were presented with a vivid depiction of the epic history of the Three Kingdoms—full of heroic tales of iron-clad horses, gleaming swords, and the rise and fall of heroes.
Position 6: Mount Emei
If the mountain doesn't come to us, we go to the mountain. We arrived at Mount Emei and hurriedly made our way to the Golden Summit with a few colleagues. When we saw the statue of Bodhisattva Samantabhadra, our hearts were put at ease. As we reached the summit, clouds and mist enveloped us, but soon the wind cleared the sky, and the sunlight shone brilliantly on the Golden Summit. Despite the intensity of the sunlight, a refreshing breeze brushed against our faces, bringing a coolness to our hearts. From the elevated platform of Huazang Temple, we gazed into the distance. Mount Gongga appeared and disappeared amidst the clouds, while the golden and silver halls on both sides seemed to float freely among the clouds. The precipices of She Shen Cliff and Wanfo Summit to the north were obscured by mist, with clouds swirling, sometimes forming gentle waves and other times disappearing into the sky.
At that moment, we couldn't help but marvel at the beauty before us, exclaiming, "Venturing far, the splendor of the world unfolds, revealing a flourishing era of mankind." It was a clear day with a gentle breeze, a backdrop of azure sky, and pure white clouds floating lightly around the majestic mountain. At the foot of the mountain lay yellowing leaves and tall pine trees, creating a scene that was both surreal and dreamlike—overlooking the world.
The land shapes its people, and the mountains and rivers evoke emotions. As the red sun illuminated Mount Emei, radiating intense light, we, full of youthful vigor, carried a passionate and pure heart. The dreams of youth are often directed toward distant horizons. "Fear not the passage of time, for there is still glory in distant lands."
We captured the most beautiful scenery, creating the most beautiful mood. Immersed in the beauty of the green mountains and clear waters, we became intoxicated by the scenery. The grandeur of the mountains is etched in our hearts. The allure of nature lies in its enchantment—a magical force that draws countless footsteps on the journey of travel. The POE trip to Chengdu was a fulfilling experience, and regardless of the return date, we will continue our journey, cherishing the memories of this five-day adventure!
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