First experience in Taierzhuang Ancient City! Staying at Huajiadi Art Restaurant is so relaxing!

My first experience of Taierzhuang Ancient City! Staying at Huajiadi Art Restaurant was such a treat!

As soon as I stepped onto the bluestone streets of Taierzhuang Ancient City, I was enveloped by the vibrant red lanterns and the shimmering water of the ancient canal. It felt like I'd stepped into a living Jiangnan landscape! As I dragged my suitcase to the Huajiadi Art Restaurant I'd booked in advance, I couldn't help but exclaim, "Wow!"—dried wheat ears draped across the wooden door curtains, hand-painted maps of the ancient city covered the windows, and even the house numbers were ceramic lotus leaf designs. It was so artistic!

At check-in, the staff handed me warm osmanthus tea and said, "Warm yourself up first. We can see the canal at night from upstairs." My unfamiliarity was instantly washed away! The room was even more of a surprise. The headboard wall was a hand-painted ancient city street scene, the table lampshade was wrapped in burlap, and even the mouthwash cup was a small blue and white porcelain bowl. The window looked out onto the gurgling canal, and the evening breeze swayed the willow branches along the bank. I felt like I had stepped into a poem.

When it was time for dinner, there was no need to run outside. The restaurant was on the first floor, and the menu was full of creative fusion dishes! I ordered the signature canal carp, which was stewed to a melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and the broth was lightly scented with lotus leaves. The ancient city mixed grains, wrapped with minced meat and pickled vegetables, were filled with the aroma of home. Finally, a bowl of red date mixed grain porridge was so sweet and warming that even two bowls were enough.

After dinner, follow the waiter around the ancient city. She'll point out which lanterns are the most photogenic and which stone bridges offer the best night views. She'll also say, "At 5 a.m., the ancient city is least crowded, and the mist is like a fairyland." I woke up early the next day and was not disappointed. Walking through the deserted alleys, I listened to the distant clatter of oars. Turning back, I could see smoke rising from the chimney of Huajia Di Restaurant. This feeling of slowing down was truly more unforgettable than any other scenery.

If I were to visit Taierzhuang again, I would definitely choose this place again! After all, there are so few places that combine comfortable accommodations and delicious food within the charm of an ancient city.

Post by quill_7890 | Oct 21, 2025