Border Town: A Forgotten Ballad of Mountains and Rivers in the Folds of Western Hunan

Experience a slow-paced life away from the hustle and bustle in this border town! Chadong, the Western Hunan town depicted in Shen Congwen's writings, retains its most primitive stilt houses and flagstone streets, making it perfect for those seeking relaxation✨ 🗺️Must-Visit Attractions: 1⃣️Qingshui Riverside: The crystal-clear river offers delightful riverside strolls - don't forget to take photos (free admission) 2⃣️Wind-Rain Bridge: This century-old bridge is Chadong's landmark, offering panoramic town views from its deck 3⃣️Stilt House Cluster: Characteristic local dwellings cascading down hillsides, many preserving original living traces 4⃣️Old Street Flagstone Paths: Wandering here feels like time travel, with numerous handicraft shops lining the streets 5⃣️Shen Congwen's Former Residence: Learn about the literary giant's creative career (Location: Central Chadong Town) 🍴Food Recommendations: - Tung Leaf Cakes: ¥5 each, local specialty glutinous rice snacks wrapped in plant leaves - Blood Cake Duck: Signature dish at old restaurants, about ¥40-50 per person - Sour Fish Soup: Recommended at "Cuicui Fish Restaurant", around ¥60 per person - Ginger Candy: Available at street shops, ¥15/bag, great as souvenirs 📌Practical Tips: 1. Best travel season is May-September; avoid rainy periods 2. The small town offers old street homestays at ¥100-200/night 3. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent 4. Don't miss the ferry ride (¥2/person)! 5. Always bargain for handicrafts - typically 30% off initial quotes Life here moves at a leisurely pace, ideal for mind-wandering. Standing by Qingshui River gazing at stilt houses across the bank feels like stepping into Shen Congwen's novel 🚣♀️