By the ancient city, time slows down

Staying at Shell Hotel (Wuhu Ancient City Branch), you can see the distant outline of the blue-gray eaves of Wuhu Ancient City just by opening the window. Separated from the bustling city by only one street, it feels like two different eras divided. The ancient city has not fully awakened in the early morning. The bluestone pavement is damp with night dew, reflecting the first light of dawn. The ochre brick walls, carved wooden windows, and hanging lanterns stand silently like a painting in the morning mist. Turning into the alley of Geng Fuxing, a bowl of shrimp roe noodles steams hot. The thin noodles are smooth, and the broth is fresh and rich, the gentlest way this city awakens your taste buds. In the afternoon, take the light rail to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street. Sunlight filters through the plane tree leaves, casting dappled shadows. Modern shops sit side by side with time-honored brands, and the sound of street performers’ guitars mingles with the sweet aroma of roasted chestnuts drifting in the air. Buying two jin of “Silly Melon Seeds,” you snack as you walk, and in the crisp sound, you taste a bit of the joy of old festive times. My favorite is returning to the ancient city at dusk. The twilight gilds the horse-head walls with gold edges, and lanterns light up one after another, warming the night like a glowing cave. Standing under Changhong Gate, watching the quiet ancient city blend with the bustling street market in light and shadow—you realize that the best travel is letting time freely flow between past and present. This corner of the world lets you shed your hurry. Between the blue bricks and lights, you encounter the most charming side of Wuhu.