Editor's Note:

The" China In The Eyes Of Mila" segment of South Asia Network TV has consistently aimed to showcase the unique charm of various regions in China. This time, let us follow Mila's footsteps into the Land of Abundance—Chengdu—to experience the enchanting allure of this city.

The picture shows  Mila preparing to board the plane to China. 

South Asia Network Television Reporter: Boya,  Mila

As I set foot on the enchanting land of Chengdu, a sense of wonderful familiarity instantly surged within me. With each step forward, it felt like embracing history and culture affectionately and every breath I inhaled could smell the unique fragrance of this city.

The image depicts a highway in China.

Just as I settled into the taxi, the kind and friendly driver, with his warmly enthusiastic and amiable words, struck up a delightful start for my journey in Chengdu. His voice was soothing and sweet, proudly describing every detail of Chengdu to me. From the bustling commercial districts to the lively old streets filled with fireworks, his vivid descriptions painted a vivid cityscape, filling me with endless anticipation and excitement for the journey ahead.

The flavor of hotpot, a warm-hearted personality.

The image shows Sichuan hotpot.

In a fragrant hotpot restaurant, I indulged in the unique cuisine of Chengdu. The boiling red broth resembled an exhilarating symphony, with spicy and hot notes leaping like passionate musical notes. The diverse ingredients, akin to a magical palette of colors, painted a mouthwatering picture in the pot. As the numbingly spicy and fragrantly delicious flavors burst on my taste buds, it was like a lively and unrestrained carnival, immersing my senses in endless pleasure. I felt as if I could truly experience the vibrant and bold personality of Chengdu locals, much like the hotpot itself—fiery and unrestrained.

The sensation of that numbing spice dancing on my tongue was like a fire burning in my mouth, simultaneously stimulating and addictive. Despite gasping for breath from the heat, I couldn't resist taking one bite after another. This unique taste completely intoxicated me.

In the Wuhou Shrine, echoes of history resound.

Stepping into the Wuhou Shrine felt like crossing a gateway through time into the turbulent of Three Kingdoms era, renowned for its heroes and dramatic changes. The weighty sense of history, like layers of dense fog, surged forth, inspiring awe in every visitor. The red walls and green tiles, weathered by time, oozed an ancient and solemn dignity. Ancient trees stood tall, their branches intertwining, seeming to whisper about past glories. Walking through, each step felt like plucking the strings of history, playing out poignant melodies. The inscriptions and couplets inside the shrine carried profound cultural connotations, resembling the deep, contemplative gaze of history, silently witnessing the passage of time and expressing endless praise and fond remembrance for Zhuge Liang, the loyal and wise minister. The words engraved on stone inscriptions echoed with the grandeur of the Three Kingdoms era, recounting tales of battles and strategies, while the lifelike statues in the halls vividly portrayed the heroic stature and grandeur of the figures.

The continuous burning of incense in Wuhou Shrine, year after year, carried the reverence and remembrance of later generations for their ancestors. It seemed to transcend the barriers of time, connecting the past with the present.

Standing there, I could almost hear the echoes of history, feel the weight of time and couldn't help but be filled with emotions.

Jinli Ancient Street, with its traditional charm and leisurely ambiance.

Entering Jinli Ancient Street, the charm of the old street is like aged fine wine, intoxicating and irresistible. The traditional Sichuan-style buildings are arranged in a harmonious and rhythmic manner, resembling a beautiful poem with smooth rhythms. Along the street, shops display a variety of unique crafts and delicacies. Sugar-coated fruits bubble happily in oil pots, emitting appealing sweetness, while Sichuan-style three big cannons leap joyfully on chopping boards, creating a delightful rhythm. Here, I could admire the unique charm of ancient architecture and savor traditional snacks, experiencing Chengdu's distinctive leisure and comfort. As night falls and the lanterns light up the street, Jinli becomes a dreamlike scene. Sichuan Opera face-changing performances dazzle on stage, with the magical face-changing technique leaving the audience astounded and applauding. Every movement and expression of the actors exudes powerful artistic tension, showcasing the unique charm of Chengdu's traditional culture. The instant changes of facial masks, like magical transformations, swiftly shift from red to black, from floral to white, leaving one mesmerized. The high-pitched singing of Sichuan Opera, melodious and expressive, seems to penetrate the soul, conveying a range of emotions.

Strolling through the alleys of Jinli, amidst bustling voices and colorful lights, my heart brims with joy.

Next up: Modern Chunxi Road, a stage of trends.

The image shows Chunxi Road, Chengdu.

Chunxi Road resembles a dazzling stage of modern prosperity in Chengdu, where a fashionable atmosphere freely permeates and trendy melodies resound passionately. The bustling crowds flow like tidal waves, dressed in stylish attire, showcasing their personalities and charm. Fashionable shops and towering skyscrapers complement each other, creating a splendid modern cityscape. As I wander through, I indulge in the endless joy of shopping and deeply feel the city's vibrant energy and enthusiasm.

Watching those trendy young people, I am also inspired by their vitality, feeling especially cheerful.

Next: Wide and Narrow Alley, a tranquil haven.

The image shows a street in Wide and Narrow Alley (Kuanzhai Xiangzi).

Wide and Narrow Alley is a tranquil and cozy haven of Chengdu's ancient culture. The serenity of Wide Alley is like a soothing lullaby, offering moments of peace to the soul, while the delicacy of Narrow Alley resembles an exquisite piece of art, tempting visitors to stop and admire its beauty. Walking on the bluestone-paved road, ancient courtyard houses and traditional Sichuan-style residences stand quietly on both sides, seemingly whispering the tales of time.

One afternoon, I entered the Fragrant Listening Restaurant in Wide and Narrow Alley with my uncle and boss. Upon entering, we were warmly greeted by a waitress speaking authentic Sichuan dialect, "Welcome, please have a seat inside!" We gathered around the table and ordered classic Sichuan dishes. The aroma of twice-cooked pork filled the air, each piece perfectly stir-fried to a bright red color, tender yet not greasy. My uncle, picking up a piece of pork, exclaimed in Nepali, "Absolutely delicious, this is heavenly!" The boss chuckled in agreement, "Absolutely, it's fantastic." The spicy and satisfying Mapo Tofu melted in the mouth. My uncle, sweating slightly from the heat, kept saying, "Spicy and satisfying!" I added with a smile, "After all these years in China, I still can't get enough of this spicy flavor." In this warm atmosphere, we enjoyed our meal and pleasant conversation, experiencing the comfort and coziness that this unique dining environment brings.

The image shows ear cleaning.

After dinner, we also experienced the local specialty of ear cleaning. The master's skillful hands gently maneuvered the tools around our ears, creating a sensation that was both ticklish and comforting, relaxing our entire bodies. My uncle couldn't help but exclaim, "This is truly a wonderful experience!" The boss nodded repeatedly in agreement.

Occasionally, the melodious sound of the guzheng drifted through the alley, played passionately by artists in the tea houses. The notes flowed like running water, captivating people in this tranquil and beautiful atmosphere. The intricately carved doors and windows, along with the mottled walls, carried the weighty memories of history. Meanwhile, the red lanterns hanging at the entrance added a touch of festivity and serenity to this ancient alley.

I sat there, listening to the guzheng, enjoying delicious food, feeling as if time had stood still, everything was so beautiful.

In pursuit of culture, a journey of the soul.

Additionally, I had planned to visit the panda base to see those adorable giant pandas. Unfortunately, time was too tight and I couldn't make it which made me very regretful.

I also visited the thatched cottage of Du Fu, tracing the footsteps of the poet sage Du Fu. There, I could almost hear him reciting his poems in the thatched hut, feeling his concern and yearning for his country and the world. The forest of poems in the cottage showcases the adMilation and praise of Du Fu by generations of literati, as if each stone tablet were a monument of history, recording the inheritance and development of literature. The poems engraved on the stone tablets are vigorous and profound, as if allowing people to touch the poet's fervent heart for his country and people. In the teahouse of People's Park, I brewed a cup of gaiwan tea, quietly sitting on a bamboo chair, enjoying the tranquility and leisure. Listening to the storytellers vividly narrating ancient stories, time seemed to flow backwards and I felt like I became the protagonist in those thrilling plots. The fluctuating voice and vivid descriptions made me feel as if I were immersed in the long river of history, experiencing the transformation of Chengdu's changes over time.

The image shows Chinese cuisine.

This trip to Chengdu has deeply endeared me to this city—its food, its scenery, its culture—all of which have captivated me. I look forward to having more time next time to explore more beauty.

Chengdu, a city with a brilliant and profound history, is like a dazzling pearl embedded in the Land of Abundance. It preserves millennia-old cultural heritage while showcasing the charming facade of a modern international metropolis. Its cuisine is endlessly delightful, its scenery unforgettable and its people warm and hospitable. Here, tradition seamlessly blends with modernity and every corner exudes unique charm, attracting visitors who never want to leave.

(Editor: Boya ,Mila)