【 Travel Memories 】
Do you want to disappear with me into the misty streets of Chongqing? Then come to Qijiang.
The sound of apes on both sides of the strait cannot be stopped, and a thousand boats have crossed ten thousand mountains. "In earlier years, my impression of Chongqing was vague, cold and mysterious. This trip to Qijiang has completely changed my single view of Chongqing. It turns out that in the world of confusion and chaos, there is also a" Peach Blossom Spring "hidden outside the world.

It can be the colorful and romantic Flower Fairy Valley, the refreshing and dreamlike Ancient Sword Mountain, the sincere and passionate Shihao Town, or the abstract and mysterious "Oriental Picasso".
We long to collide with art, encounter freedom, and even attempt to free ourselves from the heat of July. So, let's go to Qijiang, Chongqing and search for answers on the way.

1. Hengshan Flower Immortal Valley

There are no willow catkins due to the wind, only sunflowers leaning towards the sun. On my first stop in Qijiang, I headed straight to Hengshan Flower Fairy Valley, a place that sounded dreamy and interesting, as if I could accidentally bump into an elf.

As is well known, Chongqing is both a foggy city and a mountainous city. "The sound of apes on both sides cannot be stopped, and thousands of boats have crossed thousands of mountains." In earlier years, my impression of Chongqing was vague, cold and mysterious. This trip to Qijiang has completely changed my single view of Chongqing. It turns out that in the hazy and intertwined world of the foggy city, there is also a "paradise on earth" hidden.

Hengshan Huaxian Valley is located in Hengshan Town, Qijiang District, and is known as a natural oxygen bar. The scenic area is themed as a "small and beautiful life paradise" and aims to "create simple happiness", becoming the first choice for urban youth to escape the hustle and bustle for a short time.

As a beauty enthusiast, when I first met Hengshan Flower Fairy Valley, I was immediately attracted by its romantic atmosphere. More than 800 acres of flower sea slowly unfolded in front of me, as if encountering a young girl who was just beginning to fall in love. The air was filled with the heartbeat of first love. A gentle breeze blows, and the sea of flowers surges with the heat wave. The excitement of nowhere to place them makes people unable to help but quicken their pace.

The scenic area is situated on the mountain, with countless roads winding around it, like silver jade belts embedded in the emerald green, complementing each other and forming a beautiful scenic line.

Under the blue sky and white clouds, a flower cart full of girlishness stands tall on the green grassland, surrounded by countless champagne roses and sunflowers growing towards the sun. The design of the front of the carriage is cute and charming, with a hint of playfulness in romance, which is breathtaking. I think this is probably a love train leading to the door of happiness! For girls who love taking photos, this is definitely a unique background wall, with arbitrary concave shapes and capturing beautiful moments in every inch.

Slowly moving along the road, Qijiang in July doesn't seem as hot as imagined. Occasionally, a gentle breeze comes, mixed with the fragrance of flowers, dispersing the last hint of warmth. Eye catching sculptures occasionally appear along the road, such as "I am waiting for you in the Flower Fairy Valley", offering a final invitation to visitors with a sea of horsewhip flowers behind them as a gift.

At this time, it is the season when sunflowers and horsewhip grass are in full bloom. One is positive and enthusiastic, while the other is fresh and charming, complementing each other and becoming the most loyal companions of this summer. The green area of the scenic spot is very large, with lush green grass that catches your eye in large patches, even giving people the illusion of spring fading away.

There is a huge helicopter sculpture hidden in the scenic area, with bright green attempting to conceal the light of the grassland. Its soaring posture reveals infinite majesty, as if it is clamoring with summer.

The scenic area has a large area and is very suitable for family outings. When you come here, you can not only feel the tranquility of "the wind blows and the grass is low, seeing cows and sheep", but also experience the ancient charm of combining Chinese and Western cultures. It is said that summer scenery is unusual. This summer, come to Huaxian Valley and find your dream of "summer solstice not yet arrived".

2. Gujian Mountain
Do you want to have a dreamlike coolness this summer? Then come to Gujian Mountain in Qijiang. Almost every post-90s generation has watched 'The Legend of Sword and Fairy', and I am no exception. That TV series that taught us love, hate, and hatred has gone far with our youth. However, on this trip to Qijiang, I encountered another 'Shu Mountain', and for a moment, there was a hazy dream of returning to Chang'an.

Gujian Mountain, also known as "Jigongzui", is one of the top ten leisure and summer resorts in Chongqing, and one of the "Twelve Scenic Spots of Ba and Yu". Meeting Gujian Mountain on such a scorching July day is not a waste of this favor from heaven. The average annual temperature here is 18.5 ℃, like an air-conditioned room with a built-in humidifier, cool but not dry, making people linger and forget to leave.

When I first saw Gujian Mountain, I was attracted by its diverse Danxia landforms. The rocks here have taken on various forms under the baptism of time, whether beautiful and fresh, or towering and steep, directly striking your senses. Any gorgeous language appears pale and powerless in the face of the divine craftsmanship of nature.

Along the ancient path, surrounded by lush greenery, one can occasionally hear the chirping of apes and birds, as well as the sound of clear springs sliding down stone walls. Standing still and observing from a distance, the layers of forests are dyed, and the emerald shadows are heavy, as if the sky has descended with green brocade, making people feel washed away.

Arriving at Gujian Mountain, in addition to experiencing the exquisite beauty of the mountain itself, there is also a temple hidden here where cigarettes curl up - Jingyin Temple. The ancient temple is surrounded by steep cliffs on all sides, and if one were not within them, it would be truly awe inspiring.

As a Buddhist holy land in Bashu, Jingyin Temple has a history of thousands of years. The entrance of the temple is slightly mottled under the shining wind and rain, but the exquisite carvings and exquisite shapes do not change color, which is enough to witness the status of the ancient temple.

Climbing up the stairs, covered in moss, the sense of historical weight is overwhelming. However, even so, the fragrance of Jingyin Temple cannot be concealed. Stepping into it, there is a sense of "the four seas are empty".

The buildings inside the temple are mostly made of red brick walls, and the walls have faded to varying depths, even starting to peel off, giving people a strong sense of the original flavor of the ancient temple. Although Jingyin Temple is somewhat dilapidated, a continuous stream of pilgrims come and go, and colorful knots lower the trees, creating a strong sense of peaceful times.

What is eye-catching is that the scenic area also has tent camping sites, with stars, grassland, lake water, and tents. Just thinking about it brings a sense of happiness. The tent houses here have different styles, ranging from the low-key wooden home style to the exquisite and simple Nordic style. Whether you are a happy mother with children or a single man or woman who values freedom, you can always find your perfect little house here.

As night falls, the temperature becomes even more comfortable. Lying quietly on the grassland, watching the starry sky, the wind blowing and the bamboo rustling around, the ancient sword mountain trees swaying under the night light, feeling comfortable and content.

3. Wang Liang's former residence
Thousands of trees and frosty sky are red and blooming, and the anger of the heavenly soldiers is directed towards the night man. This is a poem written in 1931 praising the victory of the first anti encirclement and suppression campaign. It exudes an imposing aura and reveals infinite praise for this victory between the lines. One of the rare heroes is Wang Liang, the commander of the Fourth Red Army, a great man who will forever be imprinted in the hearts of the Chinese people. On this trip to Qijiang, I also visited the former residence of Wang Liang, adding a stronger touch of red to this already hot July trip.

In Zhonghua Village, Yongcheng Town, Qijiang, there is a quadrangle courtyard building standing quietly, like an enduring old man guarding this land. It is the former residence of Wang Liang. When I first saw Wang Liang's former residence, I was attracted by its quaint and simple appearance. The white walls and black tiles, as well as the low-key door, hung an ancient plaque with black background and gold letters. The four characters "Wang Liang's former residence" were vividly remembered, and the couplets on both sides complemented each other, telling the heroic legend of General Wang Liang. Compared to the glorious historical story of Wang Liang, his former residence appears much dimmer and lacks excessive decoration, making people more respectful.

Entering Wang Liang's former residence, I was greeted by a small courtyard with a wide view, as if I could see the figure of General Wang Liang reciting military strategy here when he was a child. The gray stone bricks on the ground were interlocked and gradually mottled under the baptism of wind and rain, but even so, they could not conceal the purity and elegance of the courtyard itself, revealing the temperament of General Wang.

The former residence is divided into three major areas, namely the main body of the residence, the Red Qijiang, and the deeds of Wang Liang. The exhibition layout is based on the life story of General Wang Liang. Wandering in it, you can not only feel the glorious achievements of General Wang Liang, but also have a clear view of his life.

The first thing that comes into view upon entering the main body of the former residence is the living room. As usual, the living room is simple and tidy, with only a few tables and chairs, and no other decorations. Compared to the somewhat magnificent living room, Wang Liang's former residence is truly frugal. The entire building, apart from basic facilities, has no luxurious furnishings, which makes one cannot help but admire General Wang Liang's integrity.

Moving to the bedroom of Wang Liang's parents, there is a dilapidated wardrobe and an ancient wooden bed. The carvings around the edge of the bed are lifelike, and even after a hundred years, the color has not changed, which makes people marvel at the superb skills of ancient craftsmen.

In contrast, the display of Wang Liang's deeds and the layout of the red Qijiang River appear much brighter, with the life of General Wang Liang hanging on the reddish brown wooden walls. A few brief summaries undoubtedly interpret the great achievements of General Wang Liang's life. For such a hero who sacrificed for the country, no praise is worth mentioning, only when people remember his appearance, is the greatest respect for the hero.

Times change, people's lives undergo new and ever-changing changes, but their hearts remain sincere. Looking at the timeless images, one cannot help but moisten their eyes.

4. Shihao Town (Red Army Bridge, Red Army Cave, Red Army Martyrs Cemetery, Red Army Street)
I don't know why the wild geese enjoy the Long March. When it comes to the Long March, many friends are filled with passion. As a great miracle in human history, it is also an immortal glorious history of the Central Red Army, which is still passed down orally to this day.

As people of the new era, walking on the path of happiness, it is difficult to feel the bitterness and hardships of the past. However, on this trip to Qijiang, I came to Shihao Town, a must pass place for the Red Army's Long March. The strong red cultural atmosphere allowed me to truly step into the Long March and converse with heroes for the first time without being bound by books.

When I first saw Shihao Town, I was immediately attracted by its unique historical flavor. Although the town is known for its red culture, it does not have too many flashy decorations. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and simple, with a faint red scent. Walking and stopping along Red Army Street, every step under my feet felt particularly heavy. Even on such a sunny day, my mood remained fluctuating. I occasionally see a huge memorial tower, with its body gradually mottled under the baptism of wind and rain, and a sense of historical weight is overwhelming. The memorial tower is surrounded by standing green pine trees, just like the spirit of the Long March, which remain evergreen throughout the year.

Loyal bones are buried everywhere in the green mountains. Slowly walking alone along the path, tombstones were faintly visible in the bushes on one side, all of which were traces left by revolutionary martyrs. The uneven stone tablets and powerful inscriptions froze the lives of the martyrs in every inch. If you want to delve deeper into the story of the Red Army and Shihao Town, you must not miss the exhibition room. On the red and white walls, there are scenes of revolutionary soldiers working hard and struggling. The revolutionary spirit is passed down from generation to generation, and the spirit is immortal.

What is eye-catching is a weathered stone wall at the foot of Qing Shan, with a bright red five-star red flag painted on the wall. The old slogans are still vivid in my mind, and the stones in front of the stone wall are piled up. The murky river water flows through. Even under such harsh conditions, the red flag, which symbolizes the spirit of the Red Army, has stood firm and cannot be ignored. Stepping into the Red Army Cave, one's nose couldn't help but ache. A small hole made of worn-out straw suddenly appeared before my eyes, creating a strong visual contrast with the surrounding green trees. It was desolate and barren, making people give a thumbs up to the Red Army soldiers.

In Shihao Town, there is also a stone and wood structure bridge with a Xieshan style blue tile roof design and a perforated beam frame, showcasing the original ancient bridge design. It is the Red Army Bridge. Compared to traditional bridges, the Red Army Bridge carries more historical missions and witnesses the turbulent years of the Central Red Army's Long March to Qijiang. It is like a mirror, reflecting the past and present. Strolling along the ancient bridge, one can almost hear the sound of Red Army soldiers shouting. In an instant, nearly a hundred years have passed like a white horse, but only the old bridge remains unchanged in color.

5. Qijiang Museum
If time brings a city a gift of time, then the most precious things in this gift are hidden in museums. To truly understand the rise and fall of a city's history and feel the ups and downs of its fireworks, all you need is a trip.

The predecessor of Qijiang Museum was Qijiang Stone Carving Art Museum, which now has five exhibition halls, namely the Preface Hall, Qilong Hall, Geology Hall, History and Culture Hall, and Stone Carving Hall. When I first saw the Qijiang Museum, what caught my eye was its signboard, an irregular stone sculpture with a unique and artistic design that was eye-catching. Entering the museum, the cool gray tone perfectly interprets a sense of sophistication, and the usual artistic emphasis greatly increases people's interest.

The main color tone of the museum is gray, with clear water bricks paired with gray walls, creating a strong sense of modern technology. The semi-circular ring light design collides with a hint of industrial style, making people marvel at the designer's ingenuity. Slowly advancing along the long corridor, the surrounding walls display vivid images, vividly telling the origin and evolution of humanity, instantly adding a touch of the scholarly atmosphere that a museum should have.

The hall of the museum displays several dinosaur fossil sculptures, shining brightly. Even though they have lost their former appearance under the baptism of time, their proud aura cannot be concealed. The surrounding walls are painted with scenes of primitive forests, perfectly complementing the sculptures and rendering the atmosphere to the extreme. Moving to the Hall of History and Culture, the scene suddenly changes, and the original minimalist style disappears completely. The wooden display panels are arranged in a staggered manner, and the warm spotlights illuminate the entire space softly. The ancient books and documents in the glass cabinet remain fresh for a long time.

The walls of the Morandi colored ancient village are faintly visible, and in the midst of confusion, one can see the Red Army Bridge in Shihao Town. These eternal paintings frozen in every inch have become the most precious memories in the hearts of the people of Qijiang. Although some of these portraits have faded, and some cannot be highly restored due to old craftsmanship, for the people of Qijiang, these are not important. They are like a spark that guides passersby home.

In contrast, I love the Stone Carving Hall more. Those thousand year old objects, washed by time, lie quietly there, without making a sound, but emitting a special magic that is difficult to ignore. If it weren't for seeing it with one's own eyes, it's hard to imagine leaving so many amazing treasures in such a backward and impoverished era. It's truly eye opening.

If the old street is a microcosm of an era, then the museum is definitely a moonlight treasure box for several generations. As soon as you open it, you can travel back in time and relive those fleeting golden years.

6. Qijiang Farmers' Printmaking Academy
Even before coming to Qijiang, I had heard that it was the "hometown of Chinese folk culture". This visit truly lived up to its reputation. In Qijiang, there is a kind of art that leaves no consensus. It is a resounding business card for Chongqing's foreign exchanges, a deep imprint of local culture in the hearts of Qijiang people, and the "Oriental Picasso" in the international art world. It is the Qijiang Farmers' Printmaking.

When I first heard about peasant prints, I couldn't figure them out. I have seen many art exhibitions of all sizes, but peasant prints are the first time I have heard of them. I believe many friends, like me, were confused when they first heard about them. So, what exactly is this peasant print? This trip to Qijiang Farmers' Printmaking Academy has also broadened my horizons. The Qijiang Farmers' Printmaking Academy is located on the north side of Jiulong Square. At first glance, it was not very attractive, with a low-key and elegant appearance of blue gray marble, which was not enough to catch my eye. However, when I actually walked in, the original boredom and monotony were instantly forgotten, and vivid colors danced, constantly activating my thoughts, as if entering an abstract fairy tale world full of infinite unknowns.

The Qijiang Farmers' Prints Academy is divided into 4 floors, with the first floor being the art exhibition hall. If you are lucky, you can encounter exciting and diverse art exhibitions. The dark red wall patterns are distinct and full of texture. The farmer prints with different styles are misspelled one by one, making people stare intently. These prints have bright colors, bold techniques, and abstract styles, and can easily lead you into a fantasy multiverse world.

In contrast, the second floor is even more unforgettable. The exquisite exhibition hall here gathers the essence of Qijiang farmers' printmaking. Walking in it, you can also see exhibits from all over the world, which makes people feel artistic influence. The vivid and down-to-earth "Miao Le Tu" here has attracted countless visitors to admire its reputation and received unanimous praise from the outside world.

The third floor is a printmaking studio. If you have enough time, you must not miss the entire process of printmaking, from material collection to typesetting to printing, every step requires full attention and 100% investment. The fourth floor is the training room. After learning about printmaking techniques, you can come to the training room to "show off your skills". When you truly immerse yourself in creation, you will truly feel the priceless value of art. There is no need to pay attention to proportion and color matching, and you can freely express your imagination, allowing art to flourish in your hands and allowing your soul to have ultimate freedom.

At this moment, as a photographer, I shuttle through the corridors of the art academy, feeling the free movement of prints one by one, attempting to freeze artistic moments with light and shadow. At that moment, as if time had stood still, countless free little elves danced wildly before my eyes, perceiving the real world in abstraction.