펑위 전통시장 장보기 | 계곡 속 차마고도 옛 마을 (매주 화요일)

The trip to the Fengyu Ancient Town market exceeded my expectations! Today was still a VIP group, and guide Xiao Li took my daughter and me along the way. We were very happy. First of all, Xiao Li's driving skills truly lived up to their reputation. Without exaggeration, he drove that last-century minivan with the momentum of an off-road vehicle plus a sports car—steady and fast! Second, Fengyu Ancient Town is a very rustic place. The market was full of locals, and we encountered fewer than 20 tourists throughout the whole trip. The goods at the market were fresh and looked healthy (all had insect holes). For many things we had never seen before, Xiao Li would introduce them and invite us to taste them. We ate as we walked along. Third, after visiting the market, we took a short walk in the ancient village and had afternoon tea. It felt so comfortable—hot tea 🍵 plus cheese sticks, very satisfying! They were very thoughtful in preparation, and there were also freshly bought fruits and boiled peanuts from the market. The plums were very sweet. Most importantly: Xiao Li himself is a person with a light about him. He is not just a guide or narrator, but he travels with us with his 'passion'. I'm not particularly good with words, and I don't know if I expressed it clearly. He has been on this route many times, but I could still see his love for all kinds of things during this short trip—photographing, observing, sharing. It was really fun to hang out with Xiao Li! I hope we can do an activity together again next time! Because of family matters, I left Dali early, so I didn't participate in the fern and Cloud Mountain Ridge activities. I'll leave it as a thought for next time, and I'll come again!

Walking in the ancient temple amidst the rain with He Chen, Bai Temple, and companions, encountering a grand event, meeting enthusiastic aunties, and wandering through the forest—this was a feast for the ears, nose, eyes, and touch. Eating at local eateries and drinking fresh milk was a delight for the taste buds. A pleasant journey full of surprises. He Chen's car is interestingly decorated with care, with plant specimens adorning every corner, colorful and beautiful seat cushions, and a light woody fragrance that I love. So no matter the distance or road conditions, whenever I get into his car, the journey is never dull. Along the way, studying the car decorations, admiring the scenery, and listening to his introductions about the locations, landscapes, local customs, and dietary habits—every word was engaging. I think such a serious, knowledgeable, thoughtful, and professional leader is rare. Under He Chen's guidance, we stumbled upon a grand event where the aunties warmly invited us, making me feel the simplicity and beauty of the locals. We were no longer just passersby or spectators in the journey; we could also be participants. He Chen is acquainted with local uncles, so he took us to several temples that are not open to the public. Walking quietly in the ancient temples, listening to He Chen's explanations, I noticed the floor tiles—they were truly special and beautiful. Following his pointing finger to the subtle corners of the eaves, I discovered the care and ingenuity in the architecture. I captured very satisfying angles and photos. The rice fields by the roadside were beautiful, and the natural forest in the rain was so fresh and ethereal, like a fairyland. Walking in the rain, smelling the fragrance of pine needles and grass, listening to the drizzle, and seeing the eye-pleasing tender green and deep green... Experiencing nature freely—this is what I wanted.

Great experience! After visiting the lively market, we also explored a quiet ancient village. The driver's skills were excellent, and taking kids along was fun. The tea break was wonderfully prepared, and the photos had a story-like quality. In short, it was a fantastic market trip.