In 2023, I embarked on a wonderful trip, and the whole process cost 14,850 yuan, and this is not only a simple trip, but also an exploration of myself and the appreciation of the world. Every stop, I felt a different culture, customs, and every expense became my growth experience.
First of all, I chose Nanjing as my first stop. As a city steeped in history, Nanjing's museums and historical sites are breathtaking. Walking around the presidential palace, I felt as if I had traveled through time and space, feeling the power and vicissitudes of the past. The night market at Confucius Temple is filled with the smell of fireworks and the enticing aromas coming from the food stalls, which makes me linger. In this city, I feel as if I have stepped into the picture scroll of history, every step is a story, and every piece of bluestone has precipitated the vicissitudes of time.
Next, I chose Lijiang, Yunnan, a place full of ancient folklore and natural beauty. In the old town of Lijiang, I immersed myself in the tranquility of the stone streets and alleys, and felt the simplicity and uniqueness of the Naxi people. The majesty of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain makes me sigh at the magic and beauty of nature. In this land, I have experienced the blending of diverse cultures, which has made me cherish and understand the traditions and customs of different ethnic groups more.
Then, I set foot in Tibet, a mysterious and sacred place that people yearn for. The Potala Palace in Lhasa was majestic and gave me a taste of the breadth and profundity of Tibetan Buddhism. When the peach blossoms are in full bloom in Nyingchi, I drove through the mountains and rivers, as if I had entered a sea of flowers. This trip to Tibet not only made me feel the grandeur of the plateau, but also made me deeply understand the guidance of faith on people's hearts.
Later, I chose Kyoto, a city full of Japanese culture. In the early morning at Ginkaku-ji Temple, I quietly sipped a cup of matcha tea and felt the Japanese reverence for nature and life. On the bamboo forest trail of Arashiyama, I felt like I was in the anime world of Hayao Miyazaki. This trip to Japan allowed me to appreciate the unique beauty of oriental culture, and it also made me love and respect each different cultural tradition even more.
In the end, I chose Hanoi, Vietnam, which is a vibrant and welcoming city. In the streets and alleys, I tasted authentic Vietnamese food and felt the unique flavor of Southeast Asia. In Pham Ngu Lao Street in Ho Chi Minh City, I felt the Vietnamese people's quest for independence and freedom, which gave me a deeper understanding of the country's history. This trip to Vietnam made me deeply appreciate the enthusiasm and open-mindedness of Southeast Asian countries.
During this trip, I got to know many interesting characters. In Nanjing, I met an old street artist who played an ancient tune for tourists with the melodious sound of the guzheng, which made me feel the power of art. In Lijiang, I met a young Tibetan who took me into the mountains and shared his awe of nature and love for life. In Kyoto, I met a tea master who introduced me to the unique charm of the Japanese tea ceremony. In Hanoi, I met an elderly Vietnamese woman who taught me the preciousness of life with her tenacious attitude.
This trip is not only a feeling of the scenery, but also a reflection and recognition of oneself. In every unfamiliar place, I learned new knowledge and expanded my horizons. I learned that travel is not only a sightseeing experience, but also an opportunity to have a conversation with myself. In the long journey, I have discovered more possibilities and become more convinced of the diversity and beauty of the world.
This trip cost a total of 14,850 yuan, but for me, it was not only an investment of money, but also a precious life experience. In every city, every time I meet, I have become a different version of myself. I think travel is not only about the itinerary, but also about the release of the soul. Perhaps, the scenery of the next stop will be more beautiful, but the inspiration and emotion given to me by this journey will always be with me and become a beautiful scenery in my life.