Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

Chapter 1757

During the performance, the actors' superb skills and affectionate interpretation made them seem to travel back to that ancient legend. The graceful dance of the dancers showed the beauty and kindness of the Zhuhai fishing girl; the difficult movements of the acrobats showed the hardships and bravery of the Zhuhai fishing girl in the process of collecting pearls; the music added a rich emotional atmosphere to the whole performance, allowing people to feel the charm of this legend more deeply.

"This performance is so wonderful. It gave me a deeper understanding of the legend of the Zhuhai Fisher Girl." Li Xiao said, with tears of emotion in his eyes.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, the actors' performances are so devoted that it makes people feel as if they are actually there."

Lin Yifei said: "This legend is really touching. The spirit of the Zhuhai fisherwoman is worth learning from."

After watching the folk performance, the three of them came to a nearby handicraft shop. Zhuhai's handicrafts are unique. Among them, Zhuhai embroidery combines traditional embroidery with modern aesthetics with its unique techniques. The works are exquisite and elegant, with high artistic value; Zhuhai ceramics are famous for their delicate craftsmanship and exquisite patterns. There are both traditional blue and white porcelain and modern innovative works, showing the ingenuity of Zhuhai ceramic artists.

They picked some handicrafts in the store as souvenirs of their trip. Li Xiao bought a Zhuhai embroidered handkerchief with a beautiful seascape embroidered on it, with delicate stitches and bright colors; Zhang Yuedong chose a Zhuhai ceramic vase with exquisite patterns, smooth lines and elegant shapes; Lin Yifei bought some small handicrafts to give to family and friends.

"These handicrafts are so beautiful, and each one is full of artistic atmosphere." Li Xiao took the handkerchief and admired it carefully, with a joyful smile on his face.

Zhang Yuedong also couldn't put down the vase he selected: "Yes, these handicrafts are the embodiment of Zhuhai culture. It's great to take them back as souvenirs."

Lin Yifei said: "I believe my family and friends will be very happy to receive these gifts."

During this day in Zhuhai, Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei had a great time in Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, where they watched various cute marine animals, experienced exciting rides, and watched wonderful fireworks shows. They tasted delicious Hengqin oysters, enjoyed the beautiful sea view, watched folk performances related to the legend of Zhuhai Fisher Girl, and bought handicrafts with Zhuhai characteristics. This romantic city left them with deep and beautiful memories, and made them look forward to the next journey.

Ancient Shaoguan: Exploring the fusion of nature and history

Bidding farewell to the romantic Zhuhai, Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei set off on a journey to Shaoguan with great expectations. Shaoguan, a city with a long history and profound cultural heritage, is like an ancient history book, with traces and stories recorded on every page, making them eager to explore the mysteries.

"I heard that the Danxia Mountain in Shaoguan is particularly spectacular and is a world natural heritage site. I have long wanted to go and see it." Li Xiao said excitedly while sitting in the car, his eyes full of longing for the Danxia Mountain.

Zhang Yuedong also responded with a smile: "Yes, I also heard that the landform there is very unique and is a masterpiece of nature. And Shaoguan has many delicacies, such as braised duck with sour bamboo shoots and Datang braised pork, which makes people salivate just thinking about it."

Lin Yifei looked out the window, looking forward to arriving in Shaoguan as soon as possible: "This ancient city must have many surprises waiting for us. It not only has beautiful natural scenery, but also rich history and culture."

As soon as they arrived in Shaoguan, the three of them headed straight for Danxia Mountain. Danxia Mountain is located in Renhua County, SG City, GD Province. It is a world geological park, a world natural heritage, and a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It is famous for its unique Danxia landform. The mountains are endless, the peaks are steep, and the red rocks are red. It is like a colorful landscape painting that makes people intoxicated.

Walking into the Danxia Mountain Scenic Area, it feels like being in a red world. The rolling mountains are made of red gravel rocks, shining brightly under the sunlight, as if they were carefully painted by nature with red paint. These peaks have different shapes, some look like camels, some like elephants, and some like fairies, which are lifelike and make people marvel at the uncanny workmanship of nature.

"Wow, the scenery here is so spectacular!" Li Xiao was stunned by the beauty in front of him and couldn't help but exclaim in admiration.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded: "Yes, this Danxia landform is indeed worthy of its reputation. These peaks are like works of art carved by nature, and each one is unique."

Lin Yifei looked around excitedly: "Let's go and see those famous attractions. I can't wait."

They first came to Changlao Peak. Changlao Peak is one of the core scenic spots of Danxia Mountain. It is composed of Changlao Peak, Hailuo Peak and Baozhu Peak, and the highest point is 409 meters above sea level. Climbing along the winding mountain road, there are green trees on both sides, and occasionally you can hear the crisp sound of birds, as if it is a beautiful piece of music played by nature. The mountain road is sometimes steep and sometimes gentle, and each section is full of challenges and surprises.

"This mountain is really high. I'm out of breath after climbing it." Li Xiao said while wiping the sweat from his forehead.

Zhang Yuedong patted him on the shoulder and said, "Perseverance is victory. When you reach the top of the mountain, you will be able to see the beautiful scenery. That will be worth the trip."

Lin Yifei also encouraged him, "Yes, come on! I can't wait to stand on the top of the mountain and overlook the entire Danxia Mountain."

With mutual encouragement, the three finally reached the top of Changlao Peak. Standing on the observation deck at the top of the mountain, the whole Danxia Mountain is in full view. The rolling red peaks are particularly spectacular against the backdrop of blue sky and white clouds; the Jinjiang River at the foot of the mountain meanders through, the river water is clear and sparkling, like a green ribbon surrounding this magical land. The villages in the distance are scattered and the smoke from cooking is curling, as if it is a paradise.

"The scenery is so beautiful, I feel like I am in a fairyland." Li Xiao exclaimed, with an intoxicated look on his face.

Zhang Yuedong was also shocked by the beautiful scenery: "Yes, this is one of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. The power of nature is so great." Lin Yifei took out his camera and kept taking pictures of the beautiful scenery: "I want to record these beautiful moments and show them to my friends when I get back."

After coming down from Changlao Peak, they came to Yangyuan Mountain. Yangyuan Mountain is named after the world's rare Yangyuan Stone. It is opposite to the Yinyuan Stone of Danxia Mountain. One is Yang and the other is Yin, which echo each other and form a wonderful natural landscape. The Yangyuan Stone is 28 meters high and 7 meters in diameter. From the side, it looks like a huge stone pillar, reaching into the sky, which is very spectacular.

"This Yang Yuan Stone is so peculiar, it's simply a miracle of nature." Li Xiao exclaimed, staring at the Yang Yuan Stone closely, afraid of missing any details.

Zhang Yuedong was also attracted by the uniqueness of Yangyuan Stone: "Yes, it's the first time I've seen such a realistic natural landscape, it's incredible."

Lin Yifei smiled and said: "This Danxia Mountain is really full of surprises. Every scenic spot is eye-catching."

In Yangyuan Mountain, they also saw many other strange landscapes, such as the Nine-Nine Heavenly Ladder, Lion Rock, and Double Staples. The Nine-Nine Heavenly Ladder is steep and precipitous, as if it is a stairway to the sky, which is daunting; the Lion Rock is shaped like a lying lion, majestic and lifelike; the Double Staples are like a pair of plump breasts, round and upright, full of mystery.

After leaving Yangyuan Mountain, they came to Jinjiang River. Jinjiang River is the mother river of Danxia Mountain. It originates from Zhudongao, Chongyi County, Jiangsu Province, flows through Renhua County, and meanders at the foot of Danxia Mountain. Taking a cruise on Jinjiang River, admiring the beautiful scenery of Danxia on both sides, it is like swimming in a painting. The peaks on both sides are reflected in the water. As the cruise ship moves forward, the reflections of the peaks sway on the sparkling water, like a flowing painting.

"The scenery of Jinjiang River is so beautiful. It feels like traveling through a fairyland." Li Xiao exclaimed with a happy smile on his face.

Zhang Yuedong was also intoxicated by the beautiful scenery: "Yes, the mountains and waters of Danxia Mountain complement each other, it is really a paradise on earth."

Lin Yifei said: "It would be great if I could live here for a while and enjoy such beautiful scenery every day."

On the cruise ship, they also met a local tour guide, who enthusiastically introduced them to the geological knowledge and historical culture of Danxia Mountain, allowing them to have a deeper understanding of Danxia Mountain.

The tour guide pointed to the peaks on both sides and said: "The Danxia landform of Danxia Mountain is formed by red sandstone after long-term weathering and erosion by running water. This landform is characterized by a flat top, steep body, gentle foot, exposed rocks and bright colors. The Danxia landform of Danxia Mountain is very typical, with complete types and rich shapes. It is a natural laboratory for studying Danxia landform."

Li Xiao asked curiously, "How did Danxia Mountain get its name?"

The tour guide smiled and replied: "Danxia Mountain is named after its color. The rocks here are bright red, just like the sunset glow in the sky, so it is called Danxia Mountain. And there is also a beautiful legend about Danxia Mountain. It is said that a long time ago, fairies from heaven came down here and were attracted by the beautiful scenery here, so they stayed and turned into these mountains."

Zhang Yuedong also asked: "What is the historical and cultural value of Danxia Mountain?"

The tour guide replied: "Danxia Mountain is not only a natural beauty spot, but also a treasure house of history and culture. There are many ancient temples, Taoist temples and cliff carvings here, such as Biechuan Temple, Jinshiyan Temple, Danxia Mountain Cliff Carvings, etc. These temples and Taoist temples have a long history and unique architectural style. They are important heritages of Buddhism and Taoism. The cliff carvings are precious cultural heritages left by literati and poets of all ages. They record the history and culture of Danxia Mountain and have high artistic value."

After listening to the guide's introduction, the three people had a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Danxia Mountain and cherished the opportunity of this trip even more. They all said that they must study the history and culture of Danxia Mountain after returning to let more people know about this magical mountain.

Before they knew it, it was already noon. The three of them had a rumbling stomach, so they decided to try the specialties of Shaoguan. They walked into a local restaurant and ordered several specialties, including braised duck with sour bamboo shoots, Datong braised pork, and stir-fried mountain snails.

Braised duck with sour bamboo shoots is a famous Han Chinese dish in Shaoguan, Guangdong. This dish skillfully combines sour bamboo shoots with duck meat. The tenderness of duck meat and the sourness of sour bamboo shoots blend together, which not only removes the fishy smell of duck meat, but also makes the taste of sour bamboo shoots softer. It is made entirely of the oil of duck meat itself, maintaining the original flavor, and it tastes sour and appetizing, which makes people have endless aftertaste.

Datang Braised Pork with Taro is a traditional local dish in Qujiang, Shaoguan, Guangdong. The meat of this dish is sandwiched with taro, and the aroma of meat and taro blends together. When making it, fat and lean pork belly is selected. After multiple processes such as pickling, frying, and steaming, the pork belly is fat but not greasy, soft in the mouth, and sweet and delicious. Fermented southern milk is the essence of this dish, which adds a unique flavor to the braised pork, making people want to eat more.

Stir-fried mountain snails are a traditional snack in Shaoguan, Guangdong. Mountain snails grow in clear, unpolluted mountain streams. They are long and pointed, about the size of a little finger. Although the snails are small, they have a strong flavor and delicious meat. Stir-fried over high heat, the delicious meat absorbs the rich soup and the aroma is overflowing. When eating, pick out the snail meat with a toothpick, put it in your mouth, and take a light bite. The delicious soup and the chewy snail meat are perfectly combined, making people unable to stop.

"This braised duck with sour bamboo shoots is so delicious. The sour and spicy tastes are perfectly matched. It's simply a great dish to go with rice." Li Xiao praised it while eating, with a satisfied look on his face.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, this Datang Braised Pork is also very good, fatty but not greasy, melts in the mouth, and has a strong taro flavor."

Lin Yifei said: "The stir-fried mountain snails are really delicious, fresh, spicy and tasty, and leave you with an endless aftertaste."

After tasting the delicious lunch, the three of them took a short break and then went to watch the dragon and lion dance performance. Dragon and lion dance is the traditional folk culture of Shaoguan. During every major festival or celebration, the local people will hold dragon and lion dance performances to pray for good weather, peace and prosperity.

When they arrived at the performance venue, many people had already gathered there. With the sound of cheerful gongs and drums, the dragon and lion dance performance officially began. Two golden dragons were seen tumbling up and down in the hands of the dragon dancers, sometimes winding and circling, sometimes holding their heads high and wagging their tails, as if two real dragons were flying in the sky. The lion dance performance was equally exciting, with two majestic lions jumping, rolling, and playing on the ground. Their movements were flexible and lifelike, sometimes blinking, sometimes licking their fur, and sometimes jumping, winning rounds of applause and cheers from the audience.