Chapter 445 - 22: Return to Chengdu

Chapter 445: Chapter 22: Return to Chengdu

Li Xiao looked where he was pointing and nodded. "It really does. The divine craftsmanship of nature is truly breathtaking."

The small boat drifted slowly along the river until they reached a place called Nine Horses Painting Mountain. There, naturally formed on the cliff face, were the vivid, lifelike images of nine horses.

"Wow, this Nine Horses Painting Mountain is incredible," Huang Pengfei marveled.

Li Xiao was also captivated by the unique scenery. "They say that anyone who can spot all nine horses is very wise," he said. "Let’s see if we can find them all."

They studied the patterns on the cliff face, trying their best to find the shapes of the horses. After a bit of effort, they finally managed to spot all nine.

"Haha, so we’re pretty wise, too," Huang Pengfei said proudly.

Li Xiao smiled. "It’s just a legend, but it still speaks to how magical this place is."

After their tour of the Li River, they headed to Yangshuo. West Street in Yangshuo was incredibly lively and filled with a rich, artistic atmosphere. They strolled down the street, admiring the ancient architecture and the various unique shops.

"This West Street has so much character," Huang Pengfei said.

Li Xiao nodded. "It does. There are tons of handicrafts and local delicacies. We can eat while we explore."

On West Street, they sampled some of Yangshuo’s local delicacies, like Beer Fish and Stuffed Snails.

"This Beer Fish is delicious! The meat is so fresh and tender, with a subtle hint of beer," Huang Pengfei said, unable to stop praising it as he ate.

Li Xiao also tried a Stuffed Snail. "These Stuffed Snails are really unique, too," he said. "The filling is so rich, and it tastes great."

After dinner, they went to see a performance of *Impression Liu Sanjie*. The show was staged on the banks of the Li River, using the natural landscape of mountains and water as a backdrop. It was spectacular.

"That show was absolutely breathtaking," Huang Pengfei said excitedly after it was over.

Li Xiao was also deeply moved by the performance. He remarked, "*Impression Liu Sanjie* perfectly blends Guilin’s natural scenery with its folk culture, letting you truly experience the city’s unique charm."

After the show, they went out into the streets of Yangshuo to buy some local specialties, such as Guilin Sanhua Liquor, Yangshuo Golden Tangerines, and Yangshuo painting fans.

"Old Li, look at this painting fan. It’s beautiful! We should buy some to give to our friends back home," Huang Pengfei said, picking one up.

Li Xiao took a look. "Good idea," he said. "The painting fans from Yangshuo have real artistic value. They’d make great souvenirs."

They picked out a few local specialties and put them in their backpacks.

"Well, that’s the end of our return trip to Guilin," Li Xiao said.

Huang Pengfei sounded a little sad to be leaving. "It’s over already? I’m not done having fun yet."

Li Xiao chuckled. "Don’t worry, there are still plenty of places we haven’t been. Where to next?"

Huang Pengfei thought for a moment. "How about we go to Chengdu? I still can’t stop thinking about the food there."

"Sounds good. Off to Chengdu it is," Li Xiao said.

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei arrived once again in the bustling city of Chengdu. The moment they stepped into the city, that familiar, lively energy washed over them.

"Hey, Old Li, we’re back in Chengdu! It feels so welcoming," Huang Pengfei said, excitedly looking all around.

Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "Yeah, Chengdu is always a city full of promise. Come on, let’s go check out Kuanzhai Alley first."

The two arrived at Kuanzhai Alley, which was as bustling and crowded as ever. The antique charm of the Wide Alley and the artistic vibe of the Narrow Alley intertwined, creating a captivating atmosphere.

"Look at that teahouse, it has such a great vibe," Huang Pengfei said, pointing to a traditional-looking one.

"Chengdu’s teahouse culture is famous for a reason," Li Xiao said. "Let’s go in for a bit and experience the leisurely lifestyle of the locals."

They entered the teahouse and found a table. A server quickly brought over a pot of hot tea and some snacks. They sipped their tea while enjoying the performance inside.

"This Sichuan opera face-changing is incredible," Huang Pengfei said, his face filled with awe as he watched the performer on stage.

Li Xiao was also captivated by the brilliant performance. He remarked, "Sichuan opera is one of Chengdu’s cultural treasures. It’s breathtaking every time I see it."

After finishing their tea, they sampled more of the food in Kuanzhai Alley. Tangyou Guozi, Longchaoshou, Zhong’s Dumplings... each delicacy left them wanting more.

"Old Li, I could never get tired of the food in Chengdu," Huang Pengfei said as he ate.

Li Xiao replied with a smile, "You’re right. Chengdu is a true foodie paradise. The food here isn’t just delicious; it’s also filled with the ingenuity of the local people."

After exploring Kuanzhai Alley, they headed to Jinli Ancient Street. At night, Jinli was brilliantly lit and incredibly lively. Crowds of people thronged the various food stalls, and the air was thick with the aroma of delicious food.

"Wow, Jinli is even more atmospheric at night!" Huang Pengfei said excitedly, taking in the lights and crowds on the ancient street.

"The night scenery at Jinli is definitely beautiful," Li Xiao said. "We can walk around, sample the food, and get a taste of Chengdu’s nightlife."

In Jinli, they sampled more of Chengdu’s specialties, like Chuan Chuan Xiang, Rabbit Head, and Bingfen.

"This Chuan Chuan Xiang is amazing! It’s so satisfyingly spicy," Huang Pengfei said, wiping away sweat as he ate the skewers.

Li Xiao took a bite of a rabbit head as well. "The flavor of the rabbit head is very unique—numbing, spicy, and savory. And the Bingfen is great for cutting the heat. They’re a perfect match."

After they finished eating, they went to see a shadow puppet show. The venue was packed with spectators. On stage, puppeteers manipulated the figures, acting out fascinating stories.