Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

Chapter 1444 1459.

Li Xiao stood under the ancient city wall, the sun shining through the mottled bricks and onto his face, warm and soft. His friends Zhang Yue and Huang Xu stood on either side of him, all three of them with excited smiles on their faces. They had just finished touring the Forbidden City and were now planning their next stop.

Zhang Yue is a lively girl, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, "Brother Xiao, where are we going next?"

Li Xiao smiled and said, "I heard that there is a place called Shichahai not far away. It has beautiful scenery and many old BJ snacks. We might as well go there for a look."

Huang Xu is a calm young man. He nodded in agreement. "It sounds good. I have always wanted to try authentic Beijing noodles."

The three of them walked along the ancient street. The buildings on both sides were simple and elegant. Tourists came and went from time to time. They took photos or tasted various snacks in front of the stalls. Li Xiao and his friends were no exception. They tasted various delicacies while walking, with satisfied smiles on their faces.

Soon they arrived at Shichahai. The lake was sparkling, and a few ducks were swimming leisurely on the water. The willow trees by the lake swayed gently in the wind, as if welcoming visitors from afar. Li Xiao and his friends found a teahouse by the lake and sat down, ordering a pot of tea and some snacks.

Zhang Yue looked at the lake and exclaimed: "It's so beautiful here. It feels like time has slowed down."

Huang Xu was more concerned about the decorations in the teahouse. "Look at these wood carvings. They are really exquisite and have the flavor of old BJ."

Li Xiao quietly sipped tea, enjoying the tranquility. "Yes, this place is far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, which makes people feel relaxed."

Old Beijingers in the teahouse were also chatting, revealing their deep love and pride for this land. Li Xiao and his friends listened to these stories and felt more deeply the history and culture of the city of BJ.

The afternoon sun gradually became softer, and the three decided to continue their journey. They strolled along the path by the lake, admiring the scenery along the way, occasionally stopping to take pictures and record this beautiful time.

On the other side of Shichahai is an ancient temple, the sound of the temple bells is melodious and can purify people's souls. They walked into the temple and felt the tranquility and peace here.

Li Xiao said softly: "This place is really suitable for meditation, making people forget the troubles of the world."

Zhang Yue was full of curiosity about the Buddha statues in the temple. "These Buddha statues are so solemn. Looking at them, I feel like my soul has been cleansed."

Huang Xu is more concerned about the architectural style of the temple. "The architecture here is very distinctive. Every brick and tile reveals the accumulation of history."

They stayed in the temple for a long time, and left reluctantly only when the sun set. They knew that this was just the beginning of their trip to China, and there were more beautiful views and stories waiting for them to explore.

Li Xiao and his friends decided to find a special restaurant nearby and enjoy an authentic BJ dinner. They believed that this would be an unforgettable night.

As the afterglow of the sunset gradually faded, Li Xiao, Zhang Yue and Huang Xu left the temple and set out on a journey to find a place for dinner. They walked through the bustling streets, and from time to time they heard the hawkers' cries and the pedestrians' laughter, which constituted the lively prelude to BJ's night.

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"Brother Xiao, look at the sign of that store, it looks very unique!" Zhang Yue said, pointing to a restaurant with quaint decorations.

Huang Xu also agreed: "Yes, I heard that BJ's roast duck is very famous, why don't we go and try it."

Li Xiao nodded in agreement, "Good idea, I have long wanted to try authentic Beijing roast duck."

They walked into the restaurant and were immediately attracted by the lively atmosphere inside. The interior of the restaurant was elegantly decorated, with Chinese-style calligraphy and paintings hanging on the walls and exquisite porcelain on the tables. The waiter greeted them warmly and guided them to a table by the window.

"Welcome, we have the most authentic Beijing roast duck here, as well as a variety of other authentic Beijing dishes." The waiter introduced enthusiastically.

Zhang Yue couldn't wait to look through the menu. "Wow, there are so many varieties here. I don't know what to order."

Huang Xu seemed calmer. "Let's order the roast duck first, and then we'll look at the other dishes."

Li Xiao smiled and said to the waiter: "Then give us a roast duck first, and then recommend us some special dishes."

The waiter nodded, "Okay, wait a moment, our roast duck chef will slice the duck for you on the spot, it is guaranteed to be fresh and delicious."

Soon, the roast duck was served. The chef skillfully sliced ​​the duck into thin slices and placed it on a plate, with chopped green onions, cucumber strips and sweet noodle sauce on the side. Li Xiao and his friends couldn't wait to taste it. The roast duck had crispy skin and tender meat, and the sauce and vegetables gave it a rich taste that left a lasting impression.

"This roast duck is so delicious. It can't compare to anything I've eaten before." Zhang Yue exclaimed as he ate.

Huang Xu also nodded and praised, "Indeed, this taste is absolutely amazing, it is worthy of being BJ's signature dish."

While enjoying the food, Li Xiao was also observing the surrounding environment. "The environment here is also very good, making people feel very comfortable."

They enjoyed the food, chatted and shared what they had seen and heard that day. The atmosphere in the restaurant was warm and lively. They seemed to be integrated into the life of the city and felt the unique charm of BJ.

After dinner, they decided to take a walk around the neighborhood to help digest their food. BJ was brightly lit at night, and the neon lights on both sides of the street flickered, illuminating their way forward. They strolled in the alleys, feeling the charm of the old BJ.

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“Brother Xiao, look at the lanterns over there, they are so cool!” Zhang Yue said, pointing to the red lanterns hanging in front of a small shop.

Huang Xu is interested in the old houses in the hutongs. "These houses are very historical, and every brick and tile is full of stories."

Li Xiao smiled and said, "Yes, every corner of BJ has its unique charm, which is worth our careful appreciation."

They strolled in the hutongs, occasionally stopping to take pictures and record these beautiful moments. They knew that this was only a small part of their trip to China, and there were more scenery and stories waiting for them to explore.

As the night deepened, Li Xiao, Zhang Yue and Huang Xu walked slowly along the alley, their shadows stretched out long under the dim street lights. The old BJ residents in the alley were chatting at their doorsteps or drinking tea leisurely in the courtyards, and the pace of life seemed particularly peaceful and leisurely.

"Brother Xiao, look at the old man over there playing chess. Should we go over and take a look?" Zhang Yue pointed curiously at a group of people not far away.

Huang Xu also showed interest. "Chess is a traditional Chinese chess game. I can learn some skills by watching how they play it."

Li Xiao nodded, "Good idea, let's go join in the fun." They approached the crowd and saw several old men sitting around a stone table, concentrating on playing chess. The black and white pieces on the chessboard were clearly marked, and every move seemed cautious and well thought out. The audience discussed quietly on the side, occasionally making sounds of admiration or regret.

Zhang Yue couldn't help but admire, "These old men are so good at playing chess. Every move seems to have a deep meaning."

Huang Xu was more concerned about the strategy of the game. "Seeing them play like this, I feel like my understanding of chess has deepened."

Li Xiao is enjoying this atmosphere. "This kind of old BJ nightlife is really unique."

The three of them watched the chess game for a while, and then continued their night tour. They came to a small square where a group of residents gathered for square dancing. The music was cheerful and the dance steps were light, attracting many people to stop and watch.

Zhang Yue couldn't help but pull Li Xiao and Huang Xu to join in, "Come on, let's dance and experience BJ's square dance culture."

Although Huang Xu was a little hesitant, he was still infected by Zhang Yue's enthusiasm. "Okay, let's give it a try. It's a rare experience anyway."

Li Xiao joined the dance group with a smile, "Then let's blend into this joyful atmosphere and enjoy it to our heart's content."

They followed the rhythm of the music, and although their movements were a little clumsy, the smiles on their faces were genuine and happy. When the residents around saw them, they also gave them friendly smiles and encouraging applause.

After dancing, the three of them sat on a bench in the square to rest, enjoying the cool breeze and tranquility of the night.

"Today was a really fulfilling day. Not only did I visit the Forbidden City, but I also got to experience the nightlife of old Brooklyn," Zhang Yue said with satisfaction.

Huang Xu nodded, "Yes, this kind of trip is really meaningful. It allows us to better understand BJ's culture and life."

Li Xiao looked at the starry sky and said, "We can continue exploring tomorrow. There are still many places in BJ that are worth discovering."

They sat quietly, enjoying the peace and contentment, their hearts full of anticipation for the journey ahead.

The next morning, the sun shone through the gap in the curtains and gently woke Li Xiao up. He rubbed his eyes, stretched, then got up and opened the curtains, letting the fresh air and warm sunshine fill the room. Zhang Yue and Huang Xu were still sleeping soundly, so Li Xiao decided not to disturb them and went to the breakfast shop downstairs first.

He walked into a time-honored breakfast shop, which was already full of early risers, some of whom were eating their hot breakfasts or chatting with acquaintances at the next table. Li Xiao ordered a bowl of soy milk and a few fried dough sticks, which is the traditional breakfast of old BJ.

"Boss, soy milk and fried dough sticks." Li Xiao said to the waiter.

"Okay, please wait, it will be here soon." The waiter responded enthusiastically.

Soon, a bowl of steaming soybean juice and a few golden fried dough rings were served on the table. Li Xiao took a sip and found the soybean juice unique and the fried dough rings crispy and delicious, which made him nod his head repeatedly.

"This soy milk is really authentic, and tastes exactly the same as it did when we were little." An old BJ sitting next to Li Xiao couldn't help but strike up a conversation as he watched him eat with gusto.

Li Xiao smiled and responded, "Yes, it's my first time trying it too. I didn't expect it to be so tasty."

Old BJ smiled and said, "It's not easy for young people to like this."

The two chatted for a while, and Li Xiao learned about Old BJ's deep feelings for the city and his persistence in traditional culture. After breakfast, Li Xiao returned to the hotel and woke up Zhang Yue and Huang Xu.

"Get up, we are going to the Great Wall today, are you ready?" Li Xiao said excitedly.

Zhang Yue rubbed his eyes. "The Great Wall? Wow, I've wanted to go there for a long time!"

Huang Xu also got up quickly, "The Great Wall is a symbol of China, we must go and see it."

The three of them packed their bags and took the subway to the Great Wall. On the subway, they looked at the scenery passing by outside the window and felt the vitality of the city.

When they arrived at the foot of the Great Wall, they were shocked by the sight before them. The Great Wall was winding and undulating, like a giant dragon perched on the mountain ridge, majestic and spectacular.

"This is the Great Wall. It's so spectacular!" Zhang Yue said excitedly.

Huang Xu took out his camera and said, "I want to take a few more photos to record this moment."

Li Xiao stood quietly at the foot of the Great Wall, feeling the weight of history. "This place has witnessed thousands of years of Chinese history, and every step is full of stories."

They began to climb the Great Wall, enjoying the magnificent scenery and feeling the majesty of the Great Wall along the way. They stopped and walked, took photos, and shared their feelings about the Great Wall with each other.

"Brother Xiao, look at the beacon tower over there. Was it used to transmit military intelligence in ancient times?" Zhang Yue asked curiously.

Li Xiao nodded, "Yes, beacon towers were important facilities used to transmit military intelligence in ancient times. Whenever there was an enemy invasion, beacons would be lit to notify other areas."

Huang Xu was amazed at the construction technology of the Great Wall. "Look at these bricks and stones. They have gone through thousands of years of wind and rain, and they are still as solid as ever. It's really amazing."

They spent a whole morning on the Great Wall and left reluctantly at noon. They decided to have a meal at a nearby farmhouse and experience the local farm life.

The farmhouse is in a very natural environment, surrounded by lush trees, and the air is filled with the fragrance of soil and plants. They tasted a sumptuous farmhouse meal and felt a lifestyle that was completely different from that in the city.

"The vegetables here are all grown by ourselves, and they taste really fresh." Zhang Yue said while eating.

Huang Xu praised the peaceful environment here, saying, "It must be very pleasant to live in such a place."

Li Xiao was thinking, "This trip allowed us to see the many sides of BJ, from ancient culture to modern city life, each side has its own unique charm."