“Beautiful Mood, Beautiful Journey” — Travel Essays by Employees of Nantong Open Source International Trading Co., Ltd., 2016


Release date:

2016/12/20

The gentle autumn rain in the early morning couldn’t dampen our enthusiasm for travel. Crossing the long Xishan Bridge, we finally arrived at today’s first stop: the Xishan Suzhou Taihu Cowboy Country Club. In the morning, a few fun team-building games helped everyone realize that while knowledge and skills are tangible assets for an outstanding team, a company’s spirit of service and cohesive unity are the intangible forces that enable the team to collaborate more effectively, unlock its full potential, and strengthen the company’s overall sense of unity.

  The gentle autumn rain in the early morning didn’t dampen our enthusiasm for traveling. Crossing the long Xishan Bridge, we finally arrived at today’s first stop: the Xishan Suzhou Taihu Cowboy Country Club. In the morning, a few fun team-building games helped everyone realize that while knowledge and skills are tangible assets for an outstanding team, a company’s spirit of service and sense of unity are the intangible forces that enable the team to collaborate more effectively, unlock its full potential, and strengthen the company’s overall cohesion.

 

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  The dragon boat race has begun—drums thunder across the lake, and cheers echo in unison. Along the 200-meter "waterway," participants strain, their faces flushed red as they grip their paddles tightly, summoning every ounce of strength to power through the race. The rhythmic commands, resounding drumbeats, and rhythmic splashes of oars meld together into a mesmerizing melody that dances across the water. Ziplining, on the other hand, is an exhilarating sport for the brave-hearted. Watch as our fearless adventurers don their harnesses, securely fastened to sleek little carts, then grab the zipline with both hands and hurtle themselves downward at breakneck speed—gliding effortlessly over the water’s surface before gracefully landing safely in the heart of the lake. It’s an adventure that delivers a rush of excitement unlike anything they’ve ever experienced! But that’s not all! Our intrepid souls also get behind the wheel at the go-kart arena, stepping into the role of real-life racers as they blaze around the track, relishing the thrilling sensation of drifting through sharp turns. And nestled amidst emerald hills and glistening waters, they mount spirited horses, galloping freely through the countryside and discovering a whole new world of joy and freedom. Tired of the hectic pace and bustling energy of city life? Today, we finally get to embrace the spirit of urban nomads, riding solo yet feeling boundless as we traverse landscapes far and wide. Soak in the breathtaking beauty of the misty Taihu Lake, savor the adrenaline-pumping thrill of speeding across open terrain, and even catch a glimpse of the timeless charm reminiscent of classic Western cowboys.

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  The crisp autumn breeze brings a refreshing coolness as you wander through the lush, orange-filled hills of Xishan’s rural eco-farm. Reaching out, you pluck a vibrant, plump, red-orange fruit—its peel effortlessly peels back to reveal a fragrant, golden interior that instantly entices your senses. Taking a bite, the sweet, citrusy aroma fills your mouth and lingers on your lips and teeth. To savor a fruit you’ve picked with your own hands—it’s truly a delightfully satisfying experience!

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  In the evening, we sat by the window savoring crabs while enjoying the pleasant lake breeze, effortlessly letting go of the day’s fatigue. The most famous delicacies from Taihu Lake are undoubtedly the "Three Whites of Taihu": silver fish, white fish, and white shrimp—each bursting with a freshness that’ll keep you coming back for more. As autumn deepens, Taihu crabs thrive in the vast, shimmering waters of Taihu Lake, offering a uniquely exquisite flavor: their tender chest meat rivals the finest white fish, their claw meat echoes the rich taste of dried scallops, and their leg meat rivals the elegance of silver fish. And let’s not forget their golden roe and creamy paste—truly unmatched in both taste and texture!

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  The picturesque town of Mudu is nestled amidst towering mountains and lies just beside the serene Taihu Lake, offering both the authentic charm of natural landscapes and the tranquil elegance of flowing streams and delicate bridges. The layout of Yan Family Garden is intricately designed, with winding paths that rise and fall gracefully, while its carefully crafted details exude refined beauty and understated grace, creating an atmosphere of quiet sophistication and timeless allure. This garden showcases the unparalleled artistry of its creators, who masterfully blended traditional garden design principles with innovative touches. Hongyin Mountain Villa, meanwhile, was once the elegant residence of Xu Shiyuan, a renowned scholar from Mudu. Spanning vast grounds and featuring grand, stately architecture, it epitomizes the harmonious blend of natural beauty—such as the picturesque "riverside scenery under moonlight"—and meticulously arranged gardens filled with vibrant flowers, lush trees, and tranquil pavilions. Nearby stands Bangyan Mansion, the historic home of Feng Guifen, a pioneering figure in China’s Self-Strengthening Movement and a celebrated political commentator. This mansion proudly displays the exquisite craftsmanship of Jiangnan’s “Three Great Sculptures” (brick carving, wood carving, and stone carving), which are treasured relics adorning its serene gardens. Mudu’s private gardens not only uphold the refined elegance and profound depth characteristic of Suzhou-style gardens but also boast a spacious, open quality that evokes a sense of grandeur and imperial splendor. As you stroll through Mudu, you’ll be enchanted by the sight of graceful bridges spanning crystal-clear streams, quaint old streets lined with time-worn alleys, and irresistible local delicacies that instantly evoke cherished childhood memories. Whether it’s a steaming bowl of silky tofu pudding, a skewer of pungent yet irresistible stinky tofu, or a slice of sweet, fragrant cake—every bite feels like a warm embrace from the past.

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  At night, Nianhuawan invites you to "stroll among the flowers, playfully brushing against the gentle breeze, and inhaling the intoxicating fragrance of blossoms that fills the air. Immerse yourself in this floral paradise, letting the sacred beauty of the flowers cleanse your soul—and clear your vision, leaving your spirit pure and serene." Wander through the sea of flowers, feeling the soft caress of the breeze on your hair, as you dream of violet-hued romance. The pathways of "Fragrant Moon Flower Street" are paved with elegant stone slabs, guiding you along a meticulously crafted, ancient-style marketplace inspired by the charm of Tang and Song dynasties—creating an experience that feels like stepping into a tranquil, Zen-inspired realm.

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  On the bustling streets, you’ll find not only serene Zen music halls perfect for cultivating inner peace, but also Baibai Tang and Nianhua Guan—places dedicated to spreading the art of flower arrangement—and the iconic Nianhua Tower. Nearby stands the exquisite Miaoyintai stage, where the essence of Jiangnan culture comes alive through mesmerizing performances. But perhaps the most enchanting spectacle is the water-movie show: As if by magic, a delicate mist rises gently from the lake’s surface, while ethereal blue lasers pierce through the mist above. In an instant, those standing by the lakeside are enveloped in a dreamy veil of light and shadow—creating an otherworldly, almost fairy-like atmosphere. Amidst this serene setting, soft Zen melodies seem to glide effortlessly from among the flowers and plants, like a crystal-clear spring quietly flowing into your heart. Then, five elegant lotus-petal-shaped boats emerge gracefully from the mist, each carrying a Buddhist monk holding a lotus lantern. With reverent gestures, the monks guide visitors to gently place their lanterns onto the shimmering lake. As the tiny candles flicker softly under the night sky, their glow resembles countless stars scattered across the heavens. Though the full splendor of the floral paradise may remain hidden in the darkness, the fragrant aromas of mountain peach blossoms, snake-whip chrysanthemums, blue sage, fine-leaf cherry blossoms, and golden marigolds still fill the air with an unforgettable, poetic allure. Strolling through “Fragrant Moon Flower Street” at night is, in essence, an immersive experience—a harmonious blend of Zen philosophy, timeless tranquility, and modern vitality.

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  The final stop was the Lingshan Grand Buddha. From afar, the serene and benevolent face of the Lingshan Buddha exuded both warmth and dignity, its solemnity never overshadowed by gentleness. Standing tall with ears that seemed to hang down past his shoulders, his eyes gently lowered, radiating wisdom and compassion—as if quietly watching over all living beings. Up close, the lotus pedestal revealed blossoms poised to bloom, their delicate petals just beginning to unfurl. Below, a majestic lion drum and the four guardian kings gracefully supported the lotus structure, while at the base, a pristine white circular marble pool added an elegant contrast. Surrounding it were nine soaring flying dragons and eight enchanting fairies, each with unique and graceful forms. As the grand musical dynamic sculpture "Nine Dragons Bathing the Prince," set to the evocative melody of "Buddha's Birth," slowly came to life, six colossal lotus petals began to unfold in perfect harmony with the music. At that very moment, the nine surrounding dragons simultaneously spouted spectacular, arc-shaped water jets—each soaring more than 30 meters high into the sky. Instantly, the air filled with the vibrant rhythm of drums and cymbals, as the fountain danced in a mesmerizing display of beauty and grace. The cascading water then gently washed over the statue of the Prince Buddha, leaving it gleaming brilliantly under the light. Though I’m not part of the Buddhist faith, I couldn’t help but marvel at the breathtaking splendor of this profound Buddhist artistry. Overwhelmed by its sheer magnificence, I couldn’t resist lighting a stick of incense, collecting a bottle of sacred water, and even gently touching the Buddha’s massive toe—a small yet heartfelt gesture to pray for peace and well-being for my entire family.

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  Stepping into the Buddhist palace, one is struck by its architecturally rich cultural ambiance and lavish interior design. The towering 60-meter-tall glazed dome shifts and plays with light in ever-changing patterns, while lifelike reliefs and vividly rendered murals elegantly adorn the entire hemispherical vault, lending it an air of grandeur and majesty. Intricately carved beams and ornate ceilings made from golden nanmu wood narrate poignant tales from the Buddhist tradition, complemented by a dazzling array of exquisite exhibits scattered throughout: meticulously crafted Dongyang wood carvings, hand-painted murals by Dunhuang artisans, breathtaking monumental glazed masterpieces, delicate and refined Ou-style relief murals, masterfully executed Yangzhou lacquerware, awe-inspiring oil paintings arranged in majestic series, exquisitely elegant cloisonné lamps inspired by the Sumeru motif, and beautifully crafted Jingdezhen blue-and-white porcelain vases featuring intricate doucai techniques—among countless other treasures. All visitors are left marveling at this opulent yet awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece.

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  The grand musical extravaganza, "Ode to Spiritual Mountain Auspiciousness," tells the story of Shakyamuni Buddha—how he renounced his princely throne, embarked on the path of spiritual seeking, and, after enduring countless hardships, finally attained enlightenment. As we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking, high-tech, multimedia-driven spectacle, we not only witness the awe-inspiring journey of Buddha’s awakening but also gain a deeper appreciation for the profound depth and richness of Buddhist culture. Meanwhile, the stunning梵宫—a harmonious blend of traditional temple architecture and modern grandeur—stands as a testament to the boundless wisdom and tireless dedication of countless skilled artisans and craftsmen.

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  This tourism activity not only allowed our employees to appreciate the stunning beauty of Jiangnan, the breathtaking splendor of the flower-filled landscapes, and the profound wisdom and compassion of Buddhism—but also provided a valuable opportunity for them to get to know one another better, bridging gaps between colleagues, deepening mutual understanding and trust, fostering teamwork skills, strengthening their sense of unity, and ultimately helping everyone recognize the invaluable power of working together as a team.