A Day at the Mountain Residence ~ Joyful and Slow Yixing Homestay

A standalone villa designed and built by the owner, who is also a "Member of the China Photographers Association." For a photography novice like me, the owner is truly a master-level figure. Located in Longchi Mountain Scenic Area, Zhangzhu Town, Yixing City (with a unique geographical advantage, right outside is Longchi Mountain Bicycle Park, adjacent to the National Forest Park, and the Bamboo Sea Scenic Area to the east, all just a 10-20 minute drive). There are only seven guest rooms: Wenying, Wangshan, Tanxi, Guanchan, etc., full of poetic charm and very distinctive. Each room is spacious, featuring bathtubs, tatami mats, and extra-large floor-to-ceiling windows with views filled with greenery—perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The interior decoration is very warm and comfortable; the rooms are fully equipped with toiletries, thoughtfully prepared face masks, Dyson hairdryers, and more. The bedding is also very comfortable, and the surroundings are quiet for a good night's sleep! The rooftop open-air viewing terrace offers 360-degree mountain and wilderness views!! The owner and housekeeper are warm and hospitable, making staying at Songlou Yisu feel as relaxed and comfortable as being at home. There are sweet potatoes, corn, nuts, fruits, pumpkin, refreshing side dishes, grilled sausages, and radish steamed buns made by the homestay auntie; additionally, you can choose one staple food: such as wontons, white porridge, soy milk, or milk. The variety is truly rich and the portions generous. Reservoir Fish Head Soup: The broth is thick, milky, and very fresh, making you want to have several bowls! The fish meat is firm and delicate, and the shepherd's purse dumplings in the soup are exceptional—chewy and smooth glutinous rice skin wrapped around shepherd's purse meat filling. I unknowingly ate three. Braised Chestnut Bamboo Forest Chicken: Autumn special | The chestnuts freshly picked from the homestay are soft, sweet, and fragrant, paired with free-range local chicken, making it a perfect dish to go with rice. Clear Water Cilantro Beef: Original flavor, tender and not dry; Crispy Fried Mulberry Leaves: crispy and fragrant; Cilantro with Kudzu Starch is also very good.