Encountering Lizhuang: A Feast for the Senses and Soul

On a leisurely weekend, I packed my bags and headed to the long-awaited Lizhuang Ancient Town, seeking the charm and poetry hidden deep within its history. By the time I arrived in Lizhuang, it was already dusk. The setting sun cast a warm golden glow on the town's cobblestone streets. Walking through the bustling old streets, I found Xieyishao Inn at No. 12 Tianfu Hall Street. Contrary to my expectations of traditional and rustic guesthouses, Xieyishao Inn surprised me with its modern and stylish decor. The design was simple yet elegant, without excessive embellishments, exuding a sense of sophistication. With a soft beep from the smart door lock, the room door opened smoothly, and the smart home system inside began to operate. The lights turned on automatically, and the temperature adjusted to a comfortable level, instantly easing some of my travel fatigue. After settling in, I couldn't wait to explore the local cuisine. The streets and alleys of the ancient town were filled with enticing aromas. It didn’t take long before I was drawn to a small shop emitting the fragrance of white meat. The chef's knife skills were extraordinary, slicing meat as thin as cicada wings with precision. Each slice was large and translucent under the light. Picking up a piece, I dipped it lightly into a special garlic sauce and placed it in my mouth. First came the rich garlic aroma and the spicy kick of chili, followed by the tender and juicy lean meat and the melt-in-your-mouth fatty portion. The complex flavors were utterly captivating, making it impossible to stop eating. Nearby, a stall selling white cakes was bustling with activity. I joined the crowd and bought a piece. The white cake was as pure as snow, soft to the touch. Taking a bite, it was tender and delicate, with a harmonious blend of rice fragrance and subtle sweetness. The texture was so fine it felt like clouds melting on the tongue, easy to digest even for someone like me who doesn’t usually enjoy sweet treats. At this moment, a sip of Lizhuang white liquor added the finishing touch. The rich and smooth liquor slid down my throat, carrying the essence of grains, warming me to the core. I couldn’t help but marvel—this is the taste of Lizhuang! After a satisfying meal, I returned to the inn, where the friendly owner greeted me warmly, asking about my day and thoughtfully recommending the next day’s itinerary. Lying on the soft bed in the quiet and cozy room, I quickly drifted into a sweet slumber. The next morning, sunlight streamed through the gaps in the smart curtains onto my face. After enjoying a simple yet exquisite breakfast at the inn, I ventured out again to explore the ancient town. By afternoon, tired from wandering, I returned to Xieyishao Inn, curled up in the room’s lazy sofa, gazing at the town’s scenery through the large windows. With a cup of hot tea in hand, soothing music playing from the smart speaker, I immersed myself in this tranquil moment. This trip to Lizhuang was a feast for both the palate and the soul. The local delicacies like Lizhuang white meat, white cake, and white liquor delighted my taste buds, while Xieyishao Inn provided the warmth and convenience of home. If given the chance, I would love to return, savor the flavors again, stay in this cozy inn, and continue writing my story with Lizhuang.