Suzhou Qinyuan: Living in Art

Spring in Jiangnan always comes with gentle drizzles, softly sprinkling on ancient stone-paved paths. This time, I chose a unique homestay—Suzhou Qinyuan Art Homestay, which is not just a place to stay but more like an art gallery to savor slowly. 🎨🍃 🚶‍♂️ Strolling Through Suzhou-Style Art Corridors 🧕 Upon entering this homestay, it feels like stepping into a poetic world across time. The antique architecture, paired with contemporary artists' works, turns every step into a painting. The art pieces scattered throughout the courtyard especially allow you to feel the charm of art in unexpected moments. Walking in such an environment effortlessly lightens the mood. 🌸🎨 🏡 Cozy Mountain-View Room with Endless Scenery 🌄 I stayed in a mountain-view room. Opening the window, rolling mountains and misty clouds greeted me, as if I were inside an ink-wash painting. The room is equipped with high-end amenities like Thai latex mattresses and Dyson hair dryers, with every detail reflecting the owner's thoughtfulness. At night, lying in bed while listening to the wind outside offers a rare moment of tranquility. 🌟🛌 🍽️ Uncle’s Culinary Skills Take Your Taste Buds on a Journey 🔍 The food here is a must-mention. The homestay has a talented "folk uncle" who crafts each dish like an artwork—delicious and creatively plated. The steamed white fish, in particular, is tender and flavorful, paired with a special sauce that makes every bite a delight. During meals, the owner shares stories behind each dish, making it feel like you're savoring history rather than just eating. 🐟🍜 🌳 Escape the Hustle, Embrace Nature and Culture 🌱 What moved me most was the environment here—99% greenery coverage, with faint floral scents in the air, making urban worries fade away. Waking up to birdsong in the morning and taking a stroll along the paths to soak in nature’s essence makes time feel slower. Here, you can truly unwind and enjoy a slow-paced life. 🍃🌞