西子湖TheWestLake – 獨與天地精神往來

“Wander the world without becoming isolated; go along with others without losing oneself.

遊於世而不僻順人而不失己”
— Ma Rong, 东汉马融

西湖画舫

West Lake boats in evening glow Crimson sunset reflecting below Ripples shimmer, misty sheen Mountains green, dusk falls serene Sails drift soft through fading light Evening’s peace, tranquil sight Gentle oars do water cleave Darkness comes, day takes its leave

Night.

As dusk falls over Hangzhou, Yuyuan Street springs to life. The air fills with aromas wafting from sizzling street food stalls lining the sides of the bustling lane. Lanterns cast a warm glow as people throng the market, weaving between merchants selling silk fabrics, jade ornaments, and scented teas. Musicians pluck the strings of pipas, adding to the din of haggling voices. A storyteller spins colorful tales in Wu dialect as listeners lean in eagerly. Under the eaves, a calligrapher inks flowing poems to the beat of chatter and laughter. Lovers stroll hand in hand, basking in the festive atmosphere. As the moon rises over West Lake, Yuyuan Street becomes a tapestry of Southern Song culture experienced through all the senses.

南宋御街