Secluded Serenity｜Embrace the Poetic Charm of Jiangnan at Amanfayun, Tiantai

Nestled amidst the misty peaks of Tiantai Mountain in Zhejiang Province lies Amanfayun, Tiantai, a secluded sanctuary where the courtyard is the soul. Here, far from the urban clamor, you'll find the tranquil beauty of Jiangnan courtyards, where flowing streams, swaying bamboo shadows, and a harmonious blend of Chinese aesthetics and natural wilderness await. If you yearn for a slower pace of life, a moment of respite from the everyday, step through the carved wooden doors and embark on a rejuvenating journey for the body and soul. --- ### **A Realm Within Each Courtyard: Discovering the Zen Aesthetics of Oriental Gardens** Entering Amanfayun is like stepping into a vibrant ink-wash painting. With the courtyard as its design core, the hotel unfolds through three successive courtyards, where white walls and dark-tiled roofs are punctuated by moss-covered stone paths, exquisite rock gardens, and serene pools. In the morning, a gentle mist hangs over the pond where koi gracefully swim, reflecting the shadows of stone lanterns and maple leaves. In the afternoon, sunlight filters through latticed windows, casting dappled patterns on the corridors. As dusk settles, warm yellow courtyard lights illuminate the swaying trees, enhancing the tranquility. **Photo Tips**: - Don a simple cheongsam or Hanfu and pose by the stone bridge or bamboo blinds for stunning, traditional-style photos. - The tea pavilions, stone benches, and moon gates tucked away in the courtyard corners offer picturesque frames. Capture these scenes in the soft light of early morning or evening for the best results. --- ### **Rooms with a View: Embrace the Four Seasons from Your Window** Designed with the concept of "courtyard symbiosis," half of the hotel's rooms offer direct views of the courtyards. I stayed in the Garden Courtyard Suite, a space of simple elegance adorned in natural wood tones, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private courtyard. Awakened by birdsong, I drew back the curtains to reveal dewdrops glistening on bamboo leaves and water lilies blooming in stone basins. Sipping Tiantai Mountain cloud tea while curled up in a wicker chair with a good book, time seemed to stand still. **Room Recommendations**: - **Families with Children**: Opt for the Family Room with tatami mats and children's toys. Kids can frolic in the small courtyard while parents enjoy tea and the scenery. - **Couples on Honeymoon**: The private balcony on the second floor of the Loft Duplex Suite offers breathtaking views of the starlit courtyard at night, creating a truly romantic ambiance. --- ### **Culinary Delights: A Symphony of Flavors from the Mountains** Amanfayun's dining experience is equally poetic. The all-day dining restaurant, Shan Lan, is surrounded by courtyards on three sides, with floor-to-ceiling windows bringing the greenery to your table. I recommend trying the Tiantai Mountain specialties: the nourishing Dendrobium and Duck Soup, the savory Braised Pork with Mountain Bamboo Shoots, and the refreshing Cloud Mist Mojito made with mint grown in the courtyard. For a closer connection with nature, reserve an afternoon tea in the courtyard. Savor handmade mung bean cakes and sweet fermented rice with osmanthus flowers under the wisteria trellis, while enjoying the gentle breeze and fragrant tea. --- ### **Nearby Activities: Exploring the Poetic Landscapes of Tiantai** - **5-minute drive**: Stroll to Guoqing Temple, a Sui Dynasty temple surrounded by rice paddies and ancient pines, where a thousand years of Zen tradition permeate the air. - **15-minute drive**: Visit the scenic Qiongtai Xiangu (Fairy Valley), hike along the picturesque landscape described by Li Bai, and experience the grandeur of his verse: "Refusing to dwell in dragon palaces and phoenix pavilions, I soar straight to Tiantai." - **Hotel Experiences**: Start your day with a Tai Chi class in the courtyard or participate in cultural activities such as sachet making and traditional rubbing, immersing yourself in the charm of intangible cultural heritage. --- ### **Tips for Your Stay** 📍 Address: Next to Guoqing Scenic Area, Tiantai County, Taizhou City 🚗 Transportation: Approximately 2 hours by car from Hangzhou. Take the high-speed train to Tiantai Mountain Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride. 🍃 Recommended Seasons: Spring and autumn are ideal. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in the courtyard during spring and the crimson maple leaves against white walls in autumn. Summer is also a pleasant time to escape the heat. --- During my three days at Amanfayun, Tiantai, I often recalled the words from Yuan Ye: "Though made by human hands, it appears as if crafted by nature." This is not just a hotel; it's a sanctuary for the soul. If you seek a place to listen to the wind, watch the rain, and admire the moon, step into this courtyard and let the tranquility of Amanfayun smooth the wrinkles of everyday life. *Search "Amanfayun, Tiantai" on Trip.com to book your stay and receive a complimentary courtyard afternoon tea or a guided tour of Guoqing Temple.*