When the lanterns light up, the ancient town becomes a dream you don't want to wake from

The night at Boxin Yun She Wenyuan begins with the lighting of the first lantern. The last streak of orange-red dusk still hangs on the horizon as the old craftsmen at the alley entrance bring out their ladders. Some lanterns are printed with ink-wash landscapes, others embroidered with lotus vine patterns. When lit, the light shines through the fabric, casting flowing paintings on the bluestone pavement.

As night deepens, why not sit on the stone steps by the river? The water is clear, revealing the pebbles at the bottom. Occasionally, small fish swim by, disturbing the reflections of the lanterns on the water’s surface before calm returns. Under the distant bridge arch, couples whisper softly; their voices are carried intermittently by the wind, adding a touch of romance.

Looking up, the sky is a pure indigo blue, with stars scattered like a handful of salt, dazzlingly bright. At this moment in Boxin Yun She Wenyuan, there is no urban restlessness, only the warm glow of lanterns, the gentle sound of the river, and the tender evening breeze. It feels like a carefully woven dream you don’t want to wake from, wanting only to immerse yourself in the night until dawn breaks.

Post by KHLOE HARRISON | Nov 4, 2025