Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

After having morning tea, the three learned that there was a Yangzhou puppet show nearby, so they decided to go and watch it. They came to the performance venue and found a seat. Soon, the performance began. On the stage, the puppets, under the control of the artists, performed various actions and plots vividly, which was amazing.

"This Yangzhou puppet show is so exciting. The puppets' movements are so lifelike!" Zhang Yuedong couldn't help but exclaim.

Li Xiao was also deeply attracted by the actors' performances. He stared at the stage intently and said, "Yes, these puppets seem to have life in the hands of the artists. The performances are so vivid."

Lin Yifei nodded in agreement: "And the singing and music of this puppet show are also very unique, making people feel as if they have returned to ancient times."

They were watching the classic Yangzhou puppet show "The Monkey King Defeats the White Bone Demon Three Times". The actors, through superb manipulation skills and vivid performances, vividly displayed the Monkey King's wit and bravery, the White Bone Demon's cunning and treachery, and the monk Tang's kindness and compassion, making the audience feel as if they were in that mythical world.

"The movements of this Sun Wukong are so flexible, it feels like the real Sun Wukong is performing," said Zhang Yuedong.

Li Xiao also said: "Yes, the artist's manipulation skills are really superb. He can manipulate the puppet so lifelike."

Lin Yifei was attracted by the plot. He looked at the stage nervously and said, "I wonder if Sun Wukong can successfully kill the White Bone Demon. I am really looking forward to it!"

After the performance, the audience applauded and the actors bowed several times. The three also praised the performance highly. They felt that watching the Yangzhou puppet show gave them a deeper understanding of Yangzhou's traditional culture.

After watching the puppet show, the three of them strolled around the nearby streets, preparing to pick some Yangzhou specialties to bring back to their relatives and friends. They came to a specialty store filled with a variety of specialties, including Yangzhou paper-cuts, Yangzhou lacquerware, Gaoyou duck eggs, and cowhide candy.

"These Yangzhou paper-cuts are so beautiful, each one is lifelike." Zhang Yuedong picked up a Yangzhou paper-cut and admired it carefully.

Li Xiao also walked over and looked at the Yangzhou paper-cutting. He said: "Yangzhou paper-cutting is a traditional handicraft of Yangzhou with a long history and exquisite craftsmanship. These paper-cutting works can not only be used as decorations, but also have high artistic value."

Lin Yifei was also very interested in Yangzhou paper-cutting. He selected several of his favorite paper-cutting works and said, "I will take these paper-cutting works back to give to my friends so that they can also experience the traditional culture of Yangzhou."

In addition to Yangzhou paper-cuts, they also selected some Yangzhou lacquerware. Yangzhou lacquerware is one of the traditional Chinese crafts. It originated in the Warring States Period, rose in the Han Dynasty and gradually formed a scale, and flourished in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Yangzhou lacquerware is divided into seven categories: carved lacquer inlaid with jade, flat-ground snails, bone and stone inlays, dotted snails, engraved lacquer, painted hook knives, and lacquer sand inkstones. The products include screens, floor screens, hanging screens, table screens, wardrobes, wine cabinets, TV cabinets, and various types of furniture and furnishings such as tables, chairs, tables, stools, bottles, plates, tubes, boxes, etc. There are more than 7 kinds of furnishings. Yangzhou lacquerware has a stable and elegant shape, delicate and exquisite workmanship, harmonious and symmetrical colors, and a soft and rich luster. It has both the rich and calm national characteristics of traditional Chinese crafts.

"This Yangzhou lacquerware is so exquisite, each piece is like a work of art," Zhang Yuedong exclaimed.

Li Xiao picked up a piece of Yangzhou lacquerware and carefully observed the patterns and craftsmanship on it. He said: "The craftsmanship of Yangzhou lacquerware is really exquisite. These patterns are carefully carved and painted by craftsmen, reflecting their superb skills and wisdom."

Lin Yifei also picked out a piece of Yangzhou lacquerware and said, "I want to take this lacquerware back home and put it as a decoration. It must be very beautiful."

They also picked some Gaoyou duck eggs and Niupi candy. Gaoyou duck eggs are one of Yangzhou's specialties, famous for their fresh egg whites and rich egg yolk; Niupi candy is one of Yangzhou's traditional delicacies, loved for its unique taste and sweet flavor.

"The yolk of the Gaoyou duck egg is really red and looks very appetizing," said Zhang Yuedong.

Li Xiao smiled and said: "The reason why the yolk of Gaoyou duck eggs is so red is because the ducks eat foods rich in astaxanthin, so the yolk is so red, and it tastes delicious."

Lin Yifei also picked up a Gaoyou duck egg and said, "I must try this Gaoyou duck egg when I get back to see if it is really as delicious as the legend says."

The three of them chose their favorite specialties, paid for them, and left the specialty store. With a lot of harvest, they were ready to go to the next destination and continue their journey. During this trip to Yangzhou, they not only enjoyed the beautiful scenery and tasted delicious food, but also felt the unique cultural charm of Yangzhou, which will become an unforgettable memory in their lives.

As soon as they arrived in Wuxi, the three of them could not wait to go to Yuantouzhu. Yuantouzhu is a peninsula lying on the northwest shore of Taihu Lake. It is named after the huge rocks protruding into the lake, which look like a tortoise with its head raised. It is known as the "No. 1 scenic spot in Taihu Lake". As soon as we entered the scenic area, the fresh air hit us in the face, making us feel refreshed.

"Wow, Yuantouzhu really lives up to its reputation, the scenery is so beautiful!" Zhang Yuedong said excitedly. As he spoke, he took out his camera and kept taking pictures of the beautiful scenery in front of him.

Li Xiao was also deeply attracted by the scenery. He looked around and said with emotion: "The scenery of lakes and mountains here is really intoxicating. It is worthy of being called 'the most beautiful place in Taihu Lake'."

Lin Yifei nodded in agreement: "Yes, and now is the season when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The cherry blossoms and the beautiful scenery of Taihu Lake complement each other, just like a beautiful painting."

They strolled along the path by the lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. The lake was sparkling, the water was clear, and the mountains in the distance were rolling, looking particularly beautiful under the sunshine. The cherry blossom trees by the lake were scattered in an orderly manner, and the pink cherry blossoms were like clouds and rosy clouds. The breeze blew, and the petals fell one after another, as if a romantic cherry blossom rain had fallen.

"Look, what's the name of that pavilion?" Li Xiao asked, pointing to an antique pavilion not far away.

Zhang Yuedong looked at the guide map and replied, "That's the Changchun Bridge. This bridge spans the water and is lined with cherry trees. Every time the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, it attracts many tourists to come and see them."

"It's really beautiful. It feels like walking into a fairy tale world." Lin Yifei exclaimed.

They came to the core attraction of Yuantouzhu - Yuantouzhu Lighthouse. This lighthouse is located at the top of Yuantouzhu and is an important navigation mark of Taihu Lake. The lighthouse is 13.1 meters high and is made of reinforced concrete with a simple and elegant shape. Standing next to the lighthouse, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Taihu Lake, and you can see the islands and ships in the distance.

"Standing here, you can really feel the vastness and magnificence of Taihu Lake," said Li Xiao.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, the beauty of Taihu Lake is really something you never get tired of seeing." Lin Yifei took out his camera and took a few photos of the lighthouse and the beauty of Taihu Lake. He said, "I want to record all these beautiful views and savor them when I return."

After leaving the lighthouse, they continued along the lake and arrived at Taihu Fairy Island. Taihu Fairy Island is an island in the center of the lake in Yuantouzhu Scenic Area. The island is shaded by green trees, with pavilions and towers scattered in an orderly manner, just like a fairyland. There are Yue Lao Temple, Tiandu Fairy Mansion, Lingxiao Palace and other attractions on the island, which are full of rich mythological colors.

"This Taihu Fairy Island is so beautiful. It feels like I have arrived in a fairyland." Zhang Yuedong said excitedly.

Li Xiao smiled and said, "Yes, the scenery here is really charming, making people feel like they are in a paradise."

Lin Yifei also said: "There are also many myths and legends here, which makes people feel very mysterious."

They spent a long time on the Fairy Island of Taihu Lake, admiring the beautiful scenery and feeling the charm of myths and legends. Every scenic spot made them linger and they took out their cameras to take pictures, wanting to freeze these beautiful moments forever.

After coming out of Yuantouzhu, the three of them took a short rest and then headed to Lingshan Scenic Spot. Lingshan Scenic Spot is a Buddhist cultural theme scenic spot that integrates lake and mountain scenery, garden square, Buddhist culture, and historical knowledge. It houses the world's tallest outdoor bronze statue of Sakyamuni - Lingshan Buddha.

As soon as you enter the scenic area, a magnificent Buddha comes into view. The Lingshan Buddha is 88 meters high, and the Buddha's body is made of 2000 bronze panels, with a total copper weight of 725 tons. The Buddha has a kind smile and looks at all living beings. His right hand is in the "Abhaya Mudra", which represents the elimination of suffering; his left hand is in the "Giving Wish Mudra", which represents the giving of happiness. The whole Buddha statue looks solemn and dignified, which makes people feel awe.

"Wow, this Lingshan Buddha is so spectacular!" Zhang Yuedong couldn't help but exclaimed.

Li Xiao was also shocked by the giant Buddha in front of him. He said with emotion: "This giant Buddha is really so majestic. It makes people feel the profoundness of Buddhist culture."

Lin Yifei nodded in agreement: "Yes, standing at the foot of the Buddha, I feel so insignificant."

They climbed up slowly along Dengyun Road, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. Dengyun Road has 216 steps, divided into 36 groups of 6 steps each, with platforms connecting each group. The railings on both sides of the steps are carved with exquisite lotus patterns, implying that lotus will grow with every step.

"The design of this Dengyun Road is really meaningful. It makes people feel as if they are getting closer to the world of Buddha step by step," said Li Xiao.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, and the scenery along the way is also very beautiful, which makes people not feel bored during the climb."

Lin Yifei said: "I think this cloud climbing path is also a kind of spiritual practice. It allows people to calm down and think about the meaning of life during the climbing process."

They came to the foot of the Buddha and felt the majesty and sacredness of the Buddha up close. Here, they could see every detail of the Buddha and feel the exquisite craftsmanship of the craftsmen.

"The carving of this giant Buddha is so detailed that every expression and gesture is so lifelike," Zhang Yuedong exclaimed.

Li Xiao also said: "Yes, this Lingshan Buddha is not only a work of art, but also a symbol of Buddhist culture."

Lin Yifei said: "I feel that standing at the foot of the Buddha, I will feel an inexplicable peace and tranquility in my heart."

In addition to the Lingshan Giant Buddha, they also visited Xiangfu Temple. Xiangfu Temple has a long history. It was first built in the Tang Dynasty and is a famous temple in China. It is said that there was a right general named Hang Yun in the reign of Emperor Taizong of Tang. He was from Maji Mountain and resigned from office and returned home when he was old. After Master Xuanzang returned from India to seek Buddhist scriptures, he came to the Maji Mountain area and was received by Hang Yun. The two of them traveled among the local mountains and rivers and saw the beautiful scenery of the southern foot of Qinlu Peak in Maji Mountain, which was similar to the Lingjiu Mountain that Master Xuanzang saw when he went to India to seek Buddhist scriptures. Xuanzang called it "Xiaoling Mountain". Hang Yun then contributed land and funded the construction of Xiaoling Mountain Temple. Master Xuanzang also ordered his disciple Kuiji to preach in this temple. This Xiaoling Mountain Temple is the predecessor of Xiangfu Temple.

Walking into Xiangfu Zen Temple, you will be greeted by a simple and elegant atmosphere. The buildings in the temple are well-arranged, and the main hall, the Heavenly King Hall, the bell and drum tower and other buildings are magnificent and solemn. The temple is very popular, and believers come here to worship and pray for peace and happiness.

"This Xiangfu Zen Temple is really full of historical charm, and makes people feel the long history of Buddhist culture." Li Xiao said.

Zhang Yuedong also nodded in agreement: "Yes, and the architecture in this temple is also very exquisite. Every detail shows the superb skills of ancient craftsmen."

Lin Yifei said: "I think being here can purify one's soul and let one feel the charm of Buddhist culture."

They visited Xiangfu Zen Temple for a long time, admiring the architecture and Buddha statues in the temple and feeling the profoundness of Buddhist culture. Here, they also listened to the monks in the temple explain the Buddhist doctrines and culture, which gave them a deeper understanding and knowledge of Buddhism.

After a day of shopping, the three of them were a little hungry, so they decided to find a restaurant to taste the food of Wuxi. They walked into an antique restaurant and ordered several Wuxi specialties, including Wuxi Xiaolongbao, Wuxi braised spareribs, and three-fresh wontons.

Soon, the dishes were served one after another. The first dish served was Wuxi Xiaolongbao, which is famous for its thin skin, tender meat and rich juice. It is one of the specialties of Wuxi. The skin of the Xiaolongbao is as thin as a cicada's wing, and you can almost see the filling inside through the skin. Gently bite open a Xiaolongbao, and the boiling soup will instantly flow into your mouth, and the delicious taste will make you intoxicated.

"Wow, these Wuxi Xiaolongbao are so delicious!" Zhang Yuedong couldn't help but exclaimed. As he spoke, he picked up another Xiaolongbao and put it in his mouth.

Li Xiao also tried a steamed dumpling and nodded in agreement: "Well, this steamed dumpling tastes really good, with thin skin and large fillings, and the soup is delicious. It really makes people linger on the taste."

Lin Yifei also praised the Wuxi Xiaolongbao: "This Xiaolongbao is really delicious. I want to eat a few more."

Then, the waiter served Wuxi braised pork ribs. Wuxi braised pork ribs is one of the traditional dishes of Wuxi. It is made of pork, soy sauce, sugar, salt and other ingredients. It is made through pickling and cooking. It tastes delicious. The ribs are red in color, fragrant, and the meat is tender and melts in your mouth. (End of this chapter)