The first stop on the early spring eastern route of Wuyuan is Likeng

Wuyuan's first stop is supposed to be Moon Bay, but coming in early March is a bit too soon. The trees have just begun to sprout, and the cherry blossoms planted along Cherry Blossom Avenue are still in buds, waiting to bloom. The bamboo rafts have not yet set sail, which feels a bit disappointing, so we can only head to Likeng. Likeng, 7km away from Moon Bay, has the style of a southern Jiangnan water town, with small bridges over flowing water and Huizhou-style residences. Stone-paved paths, streams, black-awning boats, and festive red lanterns of various styles. The pink walls and black tiles are reflected in the small streams, and the 'Three Carvings of Huizhou'—stone, brick, and wood carvings—are visible everywhere. The village still retains some old houses, where one can see the vicissitudes of history. Each household has family instructions posted at the door, which is considered a way of inheriting traditional culture amidst the simple local customs. Unfortunately, the commercialization in Likeng is quite severe, with various shops standing side by side, causing the already small village to lose its original simplicity and tranquility. The collision of old and new has not achieved the desired harmony. Although villagers are still washing in the river, the water is no longer clear, and the smell is less than pleasant. Instead, walking along the path towards Mushroom Pavilion and Banana Spring, the environment is quiet, the air is fresh, and climbing high to overlook the scenery is quite poetic.