"Chasing Light and Shadows: Encountering the Beauty of Shezhou Fish Lanterns"

One of the purposes of this trip to Huizhou Ancient City was to witness the dazzling spectacle of Shexian's intangible cultural heritage—the fish lanterns. The moment I stepped into the Wuta Shezhou Memories Hotel, I was greeted by these magnificent lanterns. In the center of the lobby, two giant fish lanterns hung suspended in the air, their bodies shimmering with radiant colors. Under the warm yellow light, their scales glistened, and their tails seemed to sway gently, as if they might break free from their confines at any moment and leap into the clouds. Gazing up, the intricate framework and delicate paintings spoke volumes about the artisans' exquisite craftsmanship and their deep passion for fish lantern culture, instantly drawing me into a dreamy dance of light and shadow. After dropping off my luggage, I hopped on a Hello shared bike at the entrance and headed to Yuliang Dam. This ancient dam, weathered by centuries, lay across the Xin'an River like a slumbering dragon. Massive granite blocks, each bearing the marks of time, were stacked layer upon layer, whispering tales of history. The river rushed over the dam, churning up snowy white waves and roaring with deafening power, a sight both majestic and awe-inspiring. Standing atop the dam, I gazed at the distant emerald mountains and the leisurely flow of the river below. A gentle breeze brushed my face, bringing a refreshing coolness that lifted my spirits. But what I anticipated even more than the natural scenery was the fish lantern spectacle at Yuliang Dam. Beyond the renowned Zhanqi Fish Lanterns and Wangmantian Fish Lanterns, the Yuliang Fish Lanterns were equally captivating. As night fell, the first lantern to catch my eye was the Carp Lantern—its agile form so lifelike. Its fiery red scales sparkled brilliantly under the moonlight, and its mouth opened and closed as if cheerfully blowing bubbles. Its lively posture seemed ready to leap out of the water at any moment, embodying the auspicious wish of the "Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate." Next, the Dragon-Head Fish Lantern made its grand appearance. With a unique design, its dragon head held high and whiskers flowing, it exuded both majesty and vitality. The fish body was adorned with colorful scales that shimmered under the interplay of light and shadow. Its long, winding form resembled a swimming dragon, majestic and breathtaking, symbolizing people's hopes for favorable weather and bountiful harvests. Finally, the Goldfish Lantern took the stage—its chubby belly and big, round eyes irresistibly charming. Its golden body glowed with an aura of prosperity, and its fins swayed gently as if swimming leisurely through water, conveying blessings of happiness, abundance, and well-being. After the performance, filled with awe and joy, I returned to Wuta Shezhou Memories Hotel. In my room, a tea set printed with fish lantern patterns awaited. I brewed a pot of fragrant tea, watching as the steam curled upward, filling the air with its aroma. Under the soft light, the fish lantern designs on the tea set came to life, as if the lanterns I had just seen had leaped onto the porcelain. Taking a sip, the tea's fragrance spread across my tongue, and the beautiful memories of the lanterns flooded my mind. On this tranquil night, surrounded by the scent of tea and the illusion of fish lanterns, I lost myself in the unique charm of Shezhou, reluctant to wake from this dream.