Chapter 443 - 21: The Charm of Xiamen

Chapter 443: Chapter 21: The Charm of Xiamen

Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "Yeah, Xiamen is a very charming city. Let’s go. We’ll head to Gulangyu Island first."

They took a ferry to Gulangyu Island. The moment they stepped onto the small island, they were captivated by the artistic architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

"Wow, Gulangyu Island is gorgeous!" Huang Pengfei exclaimed, admiring the surrounding European-style buildings and tree-lined streets.

Li Xiao was also drawn in by the unique scenery. He said softly, "Gulangyu Island is known as the ’International Architecture Exhibition.’ Every building here has its own story."

They strolled through the alleyways of Gulangyu Island, admiring the old buildings. Some had a history of over a hundred years, yet were still remarkably well-preserved.

"Look at that villa, it’s so distinctive!" Huang Pengfei said, pointing to a white, European-style villa.

Li Xiao took a look and said, "That was probably built by foreign merchants back in the day. Gulangyu Island was once a concession for many countries, which is why there are so many different architectural styles here."

While on Gulangyu Island, they also visited some museums and the former residences of famous people, learning about the island’s history and culture.

"Old Li, I never expected Gulangyu Island to have so much history," Huang Pengfei remarked with feeling.

Li Xiao nodded. "That’s right. Every place has its past and present. When we travel, we shouldn’t just appreciate the beautiful scenery, but also learn about the local history and culture."

After touring Gulangyu Island, the two of them went to the Xiamen seaside. The golden sand, blue ocean, and white waves formed a beautiful, picturesque scene.

"Wow, the ocean is so beautiful!" Huang Pengfei shouted excitedly as he ran toward the shore.

Li Xiao followed him to the water’s edge, feeling the crash of the waves. They took off their shoes and strolled along the beach, enjoying the rare moment of tranquility.

"Old Li, wouldn’t it be great if we could live here forever?" Huang Pengfei said wistfully, gazing out at the distant sea.

Li Xiao smiled. "We can’t do that. We still have many places to go. But we can always come back in the future."

Tired from playing by the sea, the two of them started to get hungry.

"Come on, let’s go try some of Xiamen’s local food," Li Xiao said.

They went to a seafood restaurant and ordered several specialty dishes: salt and pepper mantis shrimp, steamed grouper, and an oyster omelet. Before long, the food arrived.

"Wow, this mantis shrimp looks so tempting." Huang Pengfei eagerly picked one up, peeled the shell, and took a bite. "Mmm, this is delicious. The meat is fresh and savory, and the salt and pepper seasoning is just right."

Li Xiao picked up a piece of the oyster omelet and savored it. "This oyster omelet is delicious too. The oysters are very fresh, and the combination with egg and sweet potato starch gives it a wonderful, complex texture."

They chatted as they enjoyed their meal.

"The food in Xiamen is truly unforgettable," Huang Pengfei said.

Li Xiao nodded. "It is. The food in every place has its own unique flavor. We’ve pretty much tasted our way through all sorts of regional delicacies on this trip."

After dinner, they went to see a Min Nan Puppet Theater performance. The venue was packed with spectators. On stage, puppeteers manipulated the cloth puppets, performing a brilliant show.

"These puppets are so exquisite!" Huang Pengfei said, watching the cloth puppets on stage.

Li Xiao was also deeply captivated by the performance. He remarked with admiration, "Min Nan Puppet Theater is a traditional folk art of Xiamen with a long history. These performances help us better understand Xiamen’s culture."

After the show, they went out onto the streets of Xiamen to buy some local specialties. There were Gulangyu pies, Nanputuo Vegetarian Cakes, Lacquer Thread Carvings, and more.

Li Xiao examined a piece of Lacquer Thread Carving and nodded. "They’re truly exquisite. It’s really not easy for a traditional craft like this to be passed down."

They picked out a few Lacquer Thread Carvings and other souvenirs and put them in their backpacks. By now, the sun was setting, casting a golden light across the sea and making the waves glitter.

"Old Li, the sunset in Xiamen is so beautiful," Huang Pengfei said with a sigh, gazing at the sea.

Li Xiao was also captivated by the sight. He said softly, "It is. This city is always full of surprises. But, we should probably start thinking about where to go next."

Huang Pengfei thought for a moment. "How about we go to Dali? I’ve heard the scenery there is especially beautiful, and they have a lot of interesting folk activities."

"Alright, then let’s head to Dali," Li Xiao said.

With their backpacks on, the two embarked on their journey to Dali. After a bit of traveling, they finally arrived at the poetic destination.

As soon as they arrived in Dali, they were intoxicated by the blue skies, white clouds, and fresh air. In the distance, Cangshan stood majestic and towering, its peaks capped with white snow. Nearby, Erhai Lake shimmered with turquoise waves, like a giant mirror.

"Wow, Old Li, Dali is a paradise on earth!" Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "You’re right, the scenery here is truly beautiful. Come on, let’s go check out Erhai Lake first."

They went to the shore of Erhai Lake, rented a pair of bicycles, and started riding along the lakeside. A gentle breeze brushed their faces, carrying the scent of flowers. In the fields beside the lake, golden canola flowers were in full bloom, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue water.

"This scenery is just captivating," Huang Pengfei said, admiring the view as he rode.

Li Xiao said, "There are a lot of beautiful little towns and villages around Erhai Lake. We can explore them as we ride."

Along the way, they passed through Xizhou Ancient Town. The town preserved many traditional Bai Clan buildings with their gray tiles, white walls, and carved beams and painted rafters. They strolled through the streets of the ancient town, soaking in the serene and rustic atmosphere.