A Poetic Journey to Jieyang: A Two-Day Dreamlike Escape

Hey everyone👫! I just have to share my amazing two-day trip to Jieyang🎉! This city has a rich history, stunning natural beauty, tons of delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife. There are surprises around every corner. Come join me on this incredible journey👇. 🚢 Day 1: Ancient Charm of Rongcheng and Emerald Peaks of Qishan🌳 Arriving in Jieyang in the early morning, the city still held the unique tranquility and freshness of dawn. I couldn't wait to explore the historic Rongcheng Ancient Street. Stepping onto the street, the smooth, timeworn flagstones seemed to whisper stories of the past. Each step felt like a walk through history, with echoes of bygone eras resonating in my ears🎵. Along the street, ancient arcade buildings stood in elegant rows, showcasing traditional Chaoshan crafts like wood carving, stone carving, and porcelain inlay. Exquisite wood carvings of flowers, birds, fish, and insects came to life, while detailed stone carvings depicted historical figures and stories. The vibrant porcelain inlays shimmered under the sunlight, a testament to the artisans' exquisite skills. Ascending Rongcheng Tower, I gazed out at the panoramic view of the city. In the distance, rolling hills met the blue sky and white clouds, creating a harmonious natural landscape. Below, the red-tiled roofs of the ancient street stretched out, and the bustling streets teemed with life. For lunch, don't miss the authentic Rongcheng tofu and delicious clay pot congee. Rongcheng tofu is as smooth as jade, melting in your mouth with the slightest touch. Steamed Rongcheng tofu, simply seasoned with soy sauce, chopped green onions, and sesame oil, perfectly highlights the tofu's tenderness and aroma. It's an unforgettable melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you prefer it pan-fried until golden brown, the crispy exterior and soft interior, dipped in a special garlic vinegar sauce, will tantalize your taste buds. The clay pot congee is made with fresh shrimp, crab, shellfish, and other ingredients from the seafood market, simmered slowly with plump fragrant rice. As the temperature rises, the flavors of the ingredients meld into the thick, creamy congee, filling the restaurant with a tantalizing aroma. Each spoonful is a taste of the ocean's bounty, so delicious you'll want to have seconds😋. In the afternoon, I headed to Huangqishan Park. Walking up the winding mountain path, I passed lush ancient trees, with sunlight dappling through the leaves. Along the way, I saw many ancient cliff carvings, their inscriptions strong and powerful, some recording the reflections of scholars and poets, others commemorating historical events, silently narrating the passage of time. Reaching the summit, I looked out over the rolling hills and verdant trees. The fresh air, infused with the fragrance of plants, was invigorating. Strolling through the ancient town at the foot of Huangqishan, I admired the old houses, weathered walls, and deep alleys, all seemingly frozen in time, creating a tranquil atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city. As night fell, I returned to the city center, where the night market was ablaze with lights. The smoky aroma of barbecue stalls mingled with the fresh scent of seafood. Sizzling skewers, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, were mouthwatering. Plump seafood, either steamed to preserve its original flavor or stir-fried with rich spices, was a feast for the senses. Don't miss this culinary adventure🍗🦀. 🌟 Day 2: Rongjiang River Scenery and Dazzling Night Views🌃 Day two was even more exciting! Cruising along the Rongjiang River felt like stepping into a flowing landscape painting. The riverbanks showcased a unique blend of modern high-rise buildings and traditional Chaoshan-style houses. Along the way, I observed the leisurely life of the river dwellers, children playing on the bow of the boat, adults busy with chores at the stern, a scene full of life. Onboard, local folk song and dance performances captivated the audience. Dancers in colorful costumes moved gracefully to cheerful Chaoshan music, creating an immersive cultural experience amidst the beautiful scenery👏. Lunch was enjoyed by the river, featuring fresh catches from the Rongjiang River. The steamed perch was tender and flaky, melting in my mouth with pure, natural flavors. The boiled shrimp were firm and succulent, perfect with a simple dipping sauce, offering the purest taste of the sea. The delicious flavors lingered on my palate all day. In the afternoon, I continued exploring Jieyang's beauty at the tranquil Xianqiao Scenic Area, where mountains and water meet. Clear streams meandered through the mountains, passing by oddly shaped rocks, some resembling oxen, others like galloping horses, showcasing the wonders of nature. Strolling through this picturesque landscape felt like being in a fairyland, a truly relaxing experience. At Xichang Lake Park, the shimmering lake reflected the golden sunlight. Lush trees surrounded the lake, and a gentle breeze cooled me as I walked along the lakeside path, leaving behind happy footprints. In the evening, I returned to the city center to experience the vibrant nightlife. The streets were bustling with bars and night markets filled with laughter and chatter. I found a local shop and enjoyed some local desserts, like the sweet and chewy Chaoshan rice cakes and the smooth almond paste, experiencing Jieyang's energetic side. My trip to Jieyang was filled with wonderful memories. I not only admired the stunning scenery but also immersed myself in the local culture and cuisine. Have you ever been to Jieyang🧐? Or do you have other fun places to recommend? Share them in the comments below👇.