Dreaming of the Border Town, Envisioning Phoenix

🌿【Day 1】Dreaming by the Misty Tuo River Arriving in the afternoon, the cobblestone path leads me into the reflections of stilted houses. The Tuo River, like a jade ribbon, winds through the town. Amid the sound of oars, I lightly step across the jumping stones, as if playing piano keys to compose the prelude of the ancient town🛶. At dusk, I ascend the Rainbow Bridge Wind and Rain Tower, watching the sunset gild the Wanming Pagoda. The wind chimes on the eaves tinkle softly, as if whispering, "Time is long, no need to rush"🌇. Staying overnight at a riverside inn, I push open the carved wooden window to see river lanterns scattering like a galaxy, drifting far away. In my dreams, the moonlight of the border town described by Shen Congwen fills the night🌙. 🎨【Day 2】Exploring the Texture of the Ancient Town Wandering through the alleys in the morning mist, I find the gentle charm of "Border Town" hidden in the green-brick courtyard of Shen Congwen's former residence. The wisteria trellis in Xiong Xiling's courtyard casts dappled shadows📖. In the afternoon, I sip a cup of Miao-style sweet rice wine coffee at the "Shadow Café," watching black-awning boats glide under the clouds from the terrace☕. At dusk, I stroll along the city walls, where moss-covered bricks and the distant mountain songs in the twilight make me feel as if I've traveled back a century. In the evening, don't miss the "Border Town" forest live performance. When the water curtain rises, Cuicui's longing is so beautiful it brings tears to your eyes🎭. 🍃【Day 3】Bidding Farewell Amidst Mountains and Rivers In the early morning, I rent a Miao outfit, capturing stunning photos with silver ornaments jingling amidst the misty towers📸. Drifting downstream to Tingtao Mountain, I lay a bouquet of wildflowers at Shen Congwen's tomb, silently reciting the epitaph: "Reflecting my thoughts, you may understand 'me.'" Before returning, I savor ginger candy, blood duck, and shefan, letting my taste buds remember the fiery and sweet flavors of Western Hunan🍲. As I depart, I glance back to see the ancient town in the mist, like an unfinished ink painting. Over these three days, we became part of the artwork. 💫Travel Tips: 1️⃣ Choose accommodations near Nanhua Bridge for proximity to attractions while avoiding the crowds. 2️⃣ The ancient town is most authentic at 6 AM and 10 PM. 3️⃣ Bring a pair of comfortable shoes. Time here is softened by the Tuo River. Though three days are short, they are enough for the ancient town to weave its stories into your heart. You arrive with anticipation and leave with a springtime of Western Hunan in your heart🌺.