Half Jiangnan charm, half European style, encounter the unique romance of Qingtian

Half Jiangnan charm, half European style, encounter the unique romance of Qingtian Nestled amidst the mountains and rivers of southeastern Zhejiang, lies a small town, half a graceful and elegant Jiangnan water town, half a charming European city-state, unique and enchanting. This is Qingtian. Stepping into Qingtian, the Oujiang River meanders through the city, its waters shimmering, reflecting the scenery on both banks. Strolling along the riverbank, a gentle breeze caresses your face, carrying a hint of moisture, refreshing and pleasant. Looking up, the distant mountains rise and fall, lush and green, sketching a traditional Chinese painting. Ancient stone bridges span the river, connecting the past and the present, witnessing the long history of the small town. If you come in the early morning, the river is shrouded in mist, dreamy and illusory, as if you have stepped into a poem or painting, filled with the subtle charm of a Jiangnan water town. Qingtian also has a rich European flavor. European-style buildings line the streets, with Gothic spires and Baroque carvings, making you feel as if you are in a European town. In the streets and alleys, cafes, bars, and Western restaurants are scattered, and the air is filled with the rich aroma of coffee and the wheaty fragrance of bread. Step into a cafe, order a cup of fragrant latte, sit by the window, watch the pedestrians stroll by, and feel the comfort and leisure, as if you have arrived on the streets of France. You can even use euros here, and a wide variety of imported goods are available, released simultaneously with Europe, and mostly duty-free, making it easy to enjoy "global shopping." Qingtian, known as the "Hometown of Stone Carving," has a long and profound history of stone carving art. Stepping into the Qingtian Stone Carving Museum, you will be amazed by the countless exquisite stone carving works on display. These works are made of local Qingtian stone, which is warm, delicate, and rich in color. With their exquisite skills, the craftsmen carve the stones into lifelike figures, lively animals, and beautiful landscapes. Each piece is imbued with their painstaking efforts and wisdom, giving life and soul to the stone, and showcasing the unique cultural charm of Qingtian. Food is another essential part of Qingtian that cannot be missed. Qingtian cuisine blends Jiangnan flavors with international characteristics, forming a unique food culture. Shanfen Jiao, with soft taro and sweet potato flour as the skin, wrapped with fillings such as vegetables and minced meat, made into a triangular shape, and steamed until soft and fragrant, is a regular on the locals' dining table. There is also Qingtian Mai Bing, similar to Jinyun Shaobing, but with its own characteristics. The thick filling includes lean meat, fatty meat, dried vegetables, and dried shrimp, baked until the outer skin is golden and crispy. Taking a bite brings a sense of satisfaction. Of course, you can also enjoy authentic Western food in Qingtian, such as Italian pasta, Spanish paella, and French steak, to satisfy your cravings for international cuisine. As night falls and the lights come on, Qingtian takes on another charming appearance. The banks of the Oujiang River are brightly lit, and the colorful lights reflect in the river water, creating a dreamy scene. The shops along the streets are brightly lit, and people are either enjoying food in restaurants or strolling and chatting on the streets, filled with the breath of life. At this time, Qingtian has both the tranquility and peace of a small Jiangnan town at night and the bustling prosperity of a European city, making people linger and reluctant to leave. Qingtian, a small town that blends diverse cultures, exudes a unique charm, whether it's the natural scenery, unique culture, or food and lifestyle, waiting for you to explore and discover.