Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

Chapter 1658

Li Xiao, Zhang Yuedong, and Lin Yifei are college classmates and close friends. After graduation for many years, they are busy at work, but they always have a yearning for the distant future in their hearts. After a chance meeting, they talked about their past dreams after three rounds of drinks, and they hit it off and decided to start a trip to China without any preparation.

Li Xiao, with a cheerful personality and many ideas, is the "wise man" of the team; Zhang Yuedong, calm and introverted, is meticulous in his work and is responsible for arranging all the small and big matters during the journey, making everyone feel at ease; Lin Yifei, a photography enthusiast, can always capture the most beautiful moments with his camera and record every detail of the journey.

After packing their bags and looking forward to the unknown, they set off on this wonderful journey. The first stop was the ancient Xi'an. As soon as they got off the plane, the historical atmosphere in the air hit them, as if taking them back to the prosperous Tang Dynasty.

After a short rest, they headed straight for the Xi'an City Wall. Li Xiao ran ahead excitedly, shouting, "This city wall is so spectacular! It feels like traveling back to ancient times. If we wear ancient costumes, we might be able to star in a costume movie." Zhang Yuedong smiled and responded, "You love to fantasize, but this city wall is really shocking. It is still so solid after so many years. The wisdom of the ancients is amazing." Lin Yifei was busy looking for angles to take pictures, muttering, "Wait until I take a picture of this magnificent city wall and go back to show it off to my friends." The three rented bicycles and rode on the city wall, with the breeze blowing on their faces. The hustle and bustle of the city wall and the ancient buildings in the distance intertwined into a unique picture.

Coming down from the city wall, night had already fallen, and Xi'an, with the lights just turned on, had a unique charm. They came to the famous Muslim Street, where people were bustling and the aroma of various delicacies filled the air. Li Xiao's eyes lit up, and he pulled the two of them to a Roujiamo stall: "When you come to Xi'an, the first meal must be Roujiamo. I've been craving it for a long time." The stall owner skillfully took out the chopped braised meat from the pot, put it into the crispy steamed bun, poured a spoonful of thick marinade on it, and handed it to them. Li Xiao took a bite and nodded with satisfaction: "This steamed bun is crispy and the meat is fragrant. It's so authentic, much better than what I eat outside." Zhang Yuedong also praised it: "Indeed, the meat is well-marinated, and the steamed bun is chewy and delicious." Lin Yifei didn't bother to talk, and was busy taking pictures to record this delicious moment.

The next morning, the three of them went to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The sun shone on the tower, making it sparkle. Li Xiao looked at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and sighed: "This tower carries too much history. Master Xuanzang translated Buddhist scriptures here after returning from his pilgrimage. Let's also get some Buddha's light today." Walking into the Da Ci'en Temple, incense smoke curled up and believers prayed devoutly. They visited the cultural relics and historical sites in the temple, climbed the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and overlooked the entire city of Xi'an. Lin Yifei said excitedly: "From here, the beautiful scenery of Xi'an is in full view. The ancient architects were so amazing that they could build such a tall and stable tower." Zhang Yuedong added: "This is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty architectural art. It has stood the test of time and space. We, the descendants, must protect it well."

After leaving the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, they headed to the Qin Shihuang Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. As soon as they entered the exhibition hall of Pit No. 1, the three were shocked by the scene in front of them and were speechless. Thousands of terracotta warriors were neatly arranged and lifelike, as if they could see the majestic momentum of the Qin army sweeping across the six kingdoms. Li Xiao exclaimed: "This is so spectacular. Each terracotta warrior has its own expression and demeanor. How did the ancients do it?" Zhang Yuedong looked at the introduction board carefully and said: "It is said that the production process was extremely complicated at the time, and it consumed a lot of manpower and material resources. This was Qin Shihuang's underground army, guarding his tomb." Lin Yifei kept pressing the shutter, trying to capture every shocking moment: "These photos must be sorted out when I go back. They are too precious. This is a wonder of the world."

After leaving Wusong Island, we found a Korean restaurant. The bibimbap was served on the table, sizzling. The colorful side dishes were spread on the steaming rice, and then a spoonful of hot sauce was poured on it and mixed evenly. Zhang Yuedong took a bite and said with satisfaction: "The rice is crispy and the side dishes are refreshing. This bite is so authentic!" During the meal, we also enjoyed the singing and dancing performance of Korean girls, who danced with long sleeves and sang melodiously. When leaving, I bought a few bags of Korean-style spicy cabbage and prepared to enjoy it slowly when I got home.

The last stop was Shenyang, where the red walls and yellow tiles of the Forbidden City fully displayed the majesty of the royal family. Li Xiao strolled through it, imagining the prosperity of the former palace, and muttered to himself: "Although it is not as large as the Forbidden City in Beijing, this exquisite and delicate one has a different charm." After visiting the Forbidden City, have a bowl of Laobian dumplings, thin skin and large fillings, with different fillings. Lin Yifei ate with oil in his mouth: "This dumpling is worthy of being a time-honored brand, and every bite is a surprise!" Before leaving Shenyang, several exquisite Manchu embroideries were carefully put away. With the boldness and warmth of the Northeast, the three embarked on the return journey, and secretly calculated the distant place they would go next time. The tired birds that continue to return to their nests have yet to recuperate, but these three hearts that are keen to venture out can no longer hold back. Before the hustle and bustle of the city completely melted the icy romance of the trip to the Northeast, Li Xiao shouted passionately in the WeChat group: "Brothers, the wind and sand of the Northwest seem to be calling us. The flying apsaras in Dunhuang and the colorful Danxia in Zhangye, just thinking about it makes my blood boil. Let's plan our next trip there. What do you think?" Zhang Yuedong and Lin Yifei could not resist such temptation. As soon as the message popped up, they responded immediately and prepared for a journey to explore the Northwest in full swing.

As they stepped into Dunhuang, the yellow sand and scorching sun gave them a warm "hug". Mogao Grottoes is like a wise man who has been silent for a thousand years, hidden in the cliffs. With awe in their hearts, the three followed the guide into the caves one by one. In the dim light, the flying goddesses on the murals had fluttering clothes and graceful postures, as if they were about to break through the wall in the next second.

They strolled along the streets of the ancient city, with the sound of Uyghur conversations echoing in their ears. The rich smell of spices and the aroma of freshly baked naan intertwined to create a dreamlike atmosphere. Zhang Yue curiously walked into a spice shop, where colorful spices were neatly placed in wooden boxes. The owner enthusiastically picked up a handful of unknown spices and handed them to Zhang Yue, introducing them in not very fluent Mandarin: "This is very fragrant. When cooking mutton, add a little bit, the taste is amazing!" Zhang Yue sniffed gently, and a rich and mysterious scent penetrated her heart. She smiled and said to Li Xiao and Lin Fei: "This spice is so special. Take some back. Maybe it can add a lot of exotic flavor when cooking in the future." Li Xiao was attracted by a handicraft shop, which was filled with exquisite earthenware, gorgeous Idres silk products and simple musical instruments. He picked up an earthenware bowl painted with traditional patterns, rubbed it gently, and exclaimed: "These handicrafts are simply artistic treasures. Every pattern is the result of the hard work of the craftsmen and carries the cultural memory of Kashgar." Lin Fei was studying a peculiarly shaped Uyghur musical instrument with great interest. The shop owner saw his curiosity, came over and gently plucked the strings. A melodious and graceful melody instantly flowed out, lingering in the small shop, making people intoxicated.

Continuing along the street, they arrived at the Id Kah Mosque. This magnificent mosque shone with holy light under the sunlight. In the square, believers who came to worship looked pious, and the elderly in traditional clothes sat quietly by the side with peaceful and serene eyes. Zhang Yue unconsciously slowed down his steps and said softly: "Here, you can really feel the power of faith. It gives this city a deeper soul." Li Xiao nodded in agreement. The three of them stood quietly by the side, admiring the unique style of this building and feeling the solemnity and dignity brought by religious culture.

As evening approached, the streets of Kashgar became more and more lively. They came to the bustling night market, where bright lights were on, illuminating the stalls filled with all kinds of delicacies. The grilled lamb skewers were sizzling with oil and exuding fragrance; the pilaf was distinct, with fresh lamb and sweet carrots on top; there were also yogurt dumplings of various flavors, soft, glutinous, sour and sweet. Lin Fei couldn't wait to buy a few skewers of grilled lamb skewers, took a bite, and praised them highly: "This lamb skewers is so authentic, the meat is tender and juicy, and the seasoning is just right. It's simply a delicacy on earth!" Li Xiao and Zhang Yue also started their "food exploration journey". Every time they tasted a kind of food, it was like opening a small door to the depths of life in Kashgar.

After eating and drinking, they strolled back to the hotel. The night breeze blew gently, bringing a little coolness. Li Xiao looked up at the starry sky and said with emotion: "Kashgar is such a charming place. Every moment is intoxicating. I really look forward to discovering more customs and interesting things tomorrow." Zhang Yue and Lin Fei also felt the same way. In the anticipation of tomorrow's journey, they ended this fulfilling and wonderful day.

The next morning, the sun gently sprinkled on every brick and tile of the ancient city of Kashgar, awakening the unique vitality of this small border town. Li Xiao, Zhang Yue and Lin Fei got up early and planned to visit the bazaar (market) in the ancient city. Before they got close, they heard the noisy bargaining and the neighing of donkeys, which was very lively.

As soon as you enter the bazaar, you will be dazzled by the dazzling array of goods. The colorful Uyghur flower hats are piled up into a small mountain, and the exquisite embroidery on the hat brims shows the superb skills of the craftsmen; carpets of various styles are spread all over the ground, and the complex patterns tell ancient legends; there are also countless bronze and silver wares, shining charmingly in the sun. Zhang Yue took a fancy to a flower hat embroidered with pomegranate flowers, put it on his head, and looked around in the mirror beside him: "Look, do I look like a local Uyghur girl?" Li Xiao joked: "All I need is a beautiful adelas silk skirt!" Lin Fei squatted in front of the carpet stall, carefully studying the patterns of the carpets, listening to the stall owner telling the weaving stories behind each carpet, and exclaiming from time to time.

After leaving the bazaar, they headed to the high-rise residential areas in Kashgar. This ancient residential area is built on the cliff, and the layers of earthy yellow houses seem to grow naturally from the mountain. Walking through the narrow alleys, you can see old people sitting at the door to bask in the sun from time to time, and children laughing and chasing in the alleys, and the rich atmosphere of life among the neighbors is overwhelming. Li Xiao curiously walked into a house with the door open, and the owner warmly invited them in. The house was simply decorated but full of ethnic characteristics, with exquisite tapestries hanging on the wall and steaming Fu tea on the kang table. The owner chatted with them in not very proficient Mandarin, sharing small stories inherited from the family, which made them deeply feel the simple hospitality of the people of Kashgar.

In the afternoon, they came to the East Lake Park in Kashgar. The lake was rippling in the breeze, and the weeping willows on the shore were swaying, which contrasted with the ancient city buildings in the distance. On the lake, small boats were swaying gently, and many local residents were out with their families, and their laughter echoed on the lake. Zhang Yue suggested: "Let's go boating and feel this cozy atmosphere up close." So the three of them boarded the boat, Li Xiao was in charge of steering, and Lin Fei and Zhang Yue leisurely enjoyed the surrounding scenery. "Rowing here, it feels like time has slowed down. Compared with the hustle and bustle of the ancient city, this place is like another quiet world." Lin Fei said comfortably.

In the evening, they went to a local traditional teahouse. The teahouse was filled with a faint scent of tea. The old people sat together, playing the rebab and humming ancient Uyghur songs. They found a corner to sit down, ordered a few bowls of special medicinal tea, and savored them slowly. Li Xiao closed his eyes and immersed himself in the melodious melody and the misty tea fragrance: "At this moment, I seem to have touched the tenderness deep in the soul of Kashgar. This trip is really a feast for the soul." Zhang Yue and Lin Fei also nodded silently, reluctant to let go of every precious moment in front of them. As the night deepened, the atmosphere in the teahouse became more and more warm. They also wove their own travel memories in this exotic night in Kashgar, looking forward to the unknown and wonderful journey that followed. Continuing the next day, the three decided to go to the villages around Kashgar to explore the more simple and pure customs and customs. We rented a car and drove along the winding country road. Outside the window was an endless field with cotton fluffing. From a distance, it looked like a sea of ​​white clouds. In the vineyards, bunches of purple grapes hung heavily on the branches, exuding an alluring sweet scent under the kiss of the sun.

The car stopped in a small village. As soon as we got off the car, enthusiastic villagers surrounded us, their eyes full of friendliness and curiosity. An uncle invited them to his home in stiff Mandarin, and everyone went happily. Walking into the yard, the first thing that caught my eye was the figs hanging on the branches. Li Xiao couldn't help picking one and biting it gently. The soft, sweet flesh instantly burst in his mouth: "Too sweet! This fig is simply a gift from nature." Inside the house, the housewife was busy preparing lunch. The smell of the hot naan pit and the aroma of roasted lamb were intertwined. After a while, a table full of farm dishes was served, including big plate chicken, stir-fried seasonal vegetables, and yogurt made from fresh goat milk, which was just the right thickness, and sprinkled with some raisins and chopped walnuts on the surface.