Where to go on summer weekends? Chunli Homestay, the ideal choice for family gatherings

Sunlight on the weekend streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Shanghai Chunli Homestay, and the evening breeze quietly disperses the summer heat. Our family walks through the courtyard gate of Chunli Homestay, and the laughter of relatives and friends rings like a string of crisp wind chimes, gently rippling in this quiet little courtyard amidst the bustling city.

As soon as you enter, your nose is surrounded by the sweet fragrance of fruit—the long table in the living room is filled with freshly cut watermelon, plump blueberries, and crystal-clear grapes. Nearby, glass jars hold caramelized sunflower seeds and dried mango. Grabbing a piece and popping it into your mouth, the refreshing sweetness mixed with the anticipation of reunion warms your heart.

The homestay’s living room is spacious and cozy, with one wall of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a vine-covered courtyard. While the adults are still chatting, several children are already drawn to the digital paint-by-numbers in the corner. The vibrant paint spreads on the canvas as little hands twirl the brushes, carefully coloring the little bear on the canvas. Occasionally, they look up to compare progress with their companions, their laughter full of childlike focus.

Slightly older kids are attracted to the corner’s ping pong table, standing on tiptoes to hold the paddle, aiming and pushing the ball. Though their movements are still a bit clumsy, they learn with great enthusiasm. The adults sit on nearby rattan chairs, chatting about recent events, watching the children play noisily, occasionally standing to straighten a crooked ping pong paddle for the little ones, their smiles impossible to hide.

As the sun sets, the aroma of dinner gradually fills the air. The homestay’s kitchen feels like a magical space, soon presenting a table full of sumptuous dishes: glossy braised pork cooked until tender, steamed sea bass fresh and juicy, vibrant green seasonal vegetables with a sweet freshness, and the children’s favorite sweet and sour ribs, whose tangy flavor is quickly snatched up once served. Everyone sits around together, clinking glasses with crisp sounds, the aroma of food mingling with laughter, becoming the warmest footnote of the evening.

Late at night, the children rub their eyes and are carried into the guest rooms. The soft big beds support their small bodies like clouds, covered with skin-friendly quilts, and soon even breathing becomes steady and even. The adults finish tidying the dining table, sit in the living room with a cup of tea, watching the moonlight outside the window, feeling completely at ease—the homestay’s thoughtful and attentive facilities, ample hot water, and toiletries with a faint fragrance make you feel truly at home.

This weekend, there is no city noise, only the warmth of being with loved ones. In the time spent at Chunli Homestay, whether it’s the children’s playful laughter or the delicious food at the table, all become the softest memories in the heart, making you look forward to the next gathering, to slow down and fully enjoy this simple happiness.

Post by 椿鯉民宿 | Aug 1, 2025