Spring in the Summer Palace: Flower Shadows Dance on Jade Steps

Spring in the Summer Palace: Flower Shadows Dance on Jade Steps The sky after a gust of wind is exceptionally blue. Embrace the spring sunshine and explore the Summer Palace, a royal garden steeped in 600 years of history. Enter through the New East Gate, where the Seventeen-Arch Bridge lies like a jade ribbon across Kunming Lake, its stone lions, each with a unique expression, seeming to smile. Standing on the bridge, gazing at the distant Tower of Buddhist Incense, a sense of tranquility washes over you. Willows sway gently along the shore, their branches dancing in the breeze. Passing through the covered walkways, you'll find ancient magnolias in full bloom in front of the Hall of Joy and Longevity. Snow-white petals blanket the branches, creating a delightful contrast against the red walls and yellow tiles, perfectly embodying the "Jade Hall Spring Prosperity" described by Emperor Qianlong. As a gentle breeze stirs, falling petals flutter down like snowflakes, transporting you back in time to share this magnificent "Sea of Fragrant Snow" with Empress Dowager Cixi. Along the West Dike, ancient willows and spring peach blossoms intertwine, a harmonious blend of freshness and purity, tenderness and allure. Peach trees and willows nestle by the lake, pink and white petals swaying among the emerald willow branches, like a brocade tapestry descending from the heavens. Wild ducks glide across the water, creating ripples that capture the splendor of spring in timeless silhouettes. As dusk approaches, looking back at this garden steeped in history, one can appreciate the ancient wisdom of "though man-made, it appears as if crafted by nature." This wisdom permeates every breeze, every dancing flower shadow, creating a timeless masterpiece.