Punch: From third-rate anchor to top chef

Chapter 1495 1510.

Li Xiao stood in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, the autumn sun shining on his face, warm and bright. His friend Huang Pengfei stood beside him, both wearing casual clothes, ready to start their journey to China.

"Brother Xiao, look at Tiananmen Square, it's so spectacular!" Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

Li Xiao smiled and responded: "Yes, Pengfei, this is my first time in BJ. I didn't expect BJ to be so beautiful in autumn."

The two strolled along Chang'an Avenue, admiring the perfect combination of ancient buildings and modern high-rise buildings on both sides. They decided to go to the Palace Museum first to experience the splendor of the ancient Chinese royal family.

Walking into the Forbidden City, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei were shocked by the red walls and golden tiles in front of them. They shuttled between the palaces and listened to the tour guide telling the stories behind each building.

"Brother Xiao, look at this dragon throne, where the emperor sits, it's so majestic!" Huang Pengfei said, pointing at the dragon throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

Li Xiao nodded in agreement: "Yes, every brick and tile here carries history."

After visiting the Forbidden City, the two came to Wangfujing Snack Street, where there are a wide variety of snacks and the aroma is overflowing.

"Pengfei, let's try the BJ snacks here. I heard that the fried noodles with soybean paste and bean juice are very famous." Li Xiao suggested.

"Good idea, I've been hungry for a long time." Huang Pengfei replied with a smile.

They tasted a variety of snacks, from noodles with soybean paste to candied haws, and every bite was a challenge and enjoyment to the taste buds.

After eating and drinking, the two went to another iconic attraction in BJ - the Great Wall. Standing on the Great Wall, looking around, you can see the winding Great Wall like a giant dragon, perched on the mountain ridge.

"Brother Xiao, this Great Wall is so magnificent. The wisdom and strength of the ancients are truly admirable." Huang Pengfei said with emotion.

Li Xiao also felt the same way: "Yes, standing here, I can seem to feel the weight of history."

As the sun sets, the two of them admire the afterglow of the sunset on the Great Wall, feeling the tranquility and greatness.

"Pengfei, we are leaving BJ tomorrow. Where do you want to go next?" Li Xiao asked.

"I want to go to Xi'an to see the Terracotta Warriors and experience the ancient military culture," Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

"Okay, that's settled. We'll set off for Xi'an tomorrow." Li Xiao replied with a smile.

The two left their footprints on the Great Wall and left deep memories of the city of BJ. As night fell, they embarked on a journey to the next attraction.

The next morning, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei took the high-speed train across the North China Plain and arrived at the ancient capital of Xi'an. When they walked out of the station, they were greeted by a strong historical atmosphere.

"Brother Xiao, look at the city wall of Xi'an, it's even older than that of BJ!" Huang Pengfei said, pointing to the city wall not far away.

Li Xiao nodded: "Yes, Xi'an is the ancient capital of 13 dynasties. Every brick here tells a thousand-year story."

The two decided to visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum first. On the way to the museum, they were attracted by a roadside snack stand and decided to try the local food first.

"Come on, try the roujiamo and liangpi, they are Xi'an's specialties." Li Xiao recommended to Huang Pengfei.

Huang Pengfei took a bite of the Roujiamo and exclaimed: "Wow, this Roujiamo is so fragrant, the steamed bun is crispy and the meat is tender, the combination is just right."

After eating, they came to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. Standing in front of the huge pit and looking at the neatly arranged terracotta warriors and horses, both of them were shocked by the spectacular sight.

"Brother Xiao, these terracotta warriors are so lifelike, and each one has a different expression." Huang Pengfei exclaimed.

Li Xiao was also deeply touched: "Yes, this is not only a work of art, but also a witness to history. Qin Shihuang's ambition to unify the six kingdoms is reflected here."

After visiting the Terracotta Warriors, the two went to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Standing at the foot of the pagoda, they looked up at this ancient tower and felt the solemnity and tranquility of Buddhist culture.

"Pengfei, look at this Big Wild Goose Pagoda. It is said that this is where Monk Tang stored his Buddhist scriptures after returning from his journey to the West." Li Xiao said.

Huang Pengfei nodded: "Yes, this is not only a Buddhist holy place, but also a bridge for cultural exchange."

As night fell, the two tasted a variety of delicacies in Huimin Street, from mutton soup with steamed buns to sour plum soup, and they were full of praise for every dish.

"Brother Xiao, look at Huimin Street now, it's so lively and there are all kinds of snacks that are dazzling." Huang Pengfei said.

Li Xiao smiled and replied: "Yes, the food and culture here are so delicious that people can't help but linger."

As the night deepened, the two ended their day's journey in the hustle and bustle of Muslim Street. They returned to the hotel to prepare for the next day's trip.

"Pengfei, let's go to Mount Huashan tomorrow and experience the passion of the sword contest at Mount Huashan," Li Xiao suggested.

"That's a good idea. I've long wanted to see how steep Mount Hua is." Huang Pengfei replied excitedly.

In the morning, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei set out on a journey to Mount Huashan. As one of the Five Sacred Mountains, Mount Huashan is famous for its steepness and is a common place for martial arts competitions in martial arts novels.

"Brother Xiao, look at Mount Hua, it's so steep. I wonder if we can climb up." Huang Pengfei said, looking at the mountains in the distance.

Li Xiao encouraged: "Don't worry, Pengfei, as long as we are determined, nothing is impossible."

They took a cable car to the middle of the mountain and then began to climb on foot. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, but the mountain road became steeper and steeper.

"Brother Xiao, this mountain road really tests one's will." Huang Pengfei said, panting.

Li Xiao smiled and responded: "Yes, but look at the scenery along the way, isn't it also a reward for our persistence?"

After some efforts, the two finally reached the North Peak of Huashan. Standing on the top of the peak, looking around, they saw mountains surrounded by clouds and mist, like a fairyland.

"Pengfei, look at this scenery, it's really worth the trip!" Li Xiao exclaimed.

Huang Pengfei also felt the same way: "Yes, Brother Xiao, the steepness and beauty of Mount Huashan are really refreshing."

They took a short break at the North Peak, tasted local wild vegetables and spring water, and felt the gift of nature. Then they continued to the South Peak, the highest peak of Huashan.

"Brother Xiao, I heard there is a stone on the South Peak called 'Swordsman on Mount Hua'. We must go and see it." Huang Pengfei said.

"Okay, then let's go look for it and feel the heroic spirit described in martial arts novels." Li Xiao replied.

After a difficult climb, they finally found the legendary stone. Standing next to the stone, the two seemed to feel the heroic swordplay of the ancient martial arts masters.

"Brother Xiao, look at this stone, it seems like you can still hear the sound of sword energy." Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

Li Xiao nodded: "Yes, this is not only the highest point of Huashan, but also a holy place in the world of martial arts."

As the sun gradually set, the two of them admired the beautiful sunset on the South Peak of Huashan, feeling the exhaustion and satisfaction of the day. "Pengfei, let's go to Chengdu tomorrow to try the hot pot there and see the giant pandas." Li Xiao suggested.

“That’s great! I’ve wanted to go to Chengdu for a long time. I heard that the pace of life there is very slow, which is perfect for us to relax.” Huang Pengfei replied excitedly.

The two ended their day's journey in the dangerous Huashan Mountain, and set out for Chengdu with a yearning for the world of martial arts.

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei arrived in Chengdu by plane. The city is famous for its leisurely lifestyle and rich food. As soon as they walked out of the airport, they felt the humid climate and slow pace of life in Chengdu.

"Brother Xiao, look at the streets of Chengdu. They are so lively and peaceful, and people don't seem to be in a hurry or impatient." Huang Pengfei said as he observed the surrounding environment.

Li Xiao smiled and replied, "Yes, Pengfei, the life philosophy of Chengdu people is to enjoy life. We should also adapt to the local customs and take it slow."

They first came to Chengdu's Kuanzhai Alley, which is a microcosm of Chengdu culture. The quaint buildings and a wide variety of snack stalls attracted their attention.

"Brother Xiao, let's try the snacks here first. I heard that there are countless kinds of snacks in Chengdu." Huang Pengfei suggested.

"Good idea, I'm looking forward to it too," said Li Xiao.

They tasted authentic Chengdu snacks such as Chuan Chuan Xiang, Long Chao Shou, and Dan Dan Noodles, and they were full of praise for every bite.

After eating and drinking, the two decided to go to the Chengdu Giant Panda Base to see the national treasure.

"Brother Xiao, giant pandas are so cute. Look at the way they eat bamboo, they are so adorable." Huang Pengfei said with a smile.

Li Xiao nodded: "Yes, the giant panda is not only China's national treasure, but also a symbol of world nature conservation."

After visiting the giant panda base, they went to Jinli Ancient Street, which not only has a variety of special snacks, but also many handicrafts and souvenirs.

"Pengfei, look at these handicrafts, they are very unique. We can buy some as souvenirs." Li Xiao suggested.

“Good idea, I will also bring some back for my family and friends.” Huang Pengfei replied.

As night fell, the two enjoyed an authentic Sichuan hotpot at a hotpot restaurant in Chengdu. It was spicy but not dry, and numbing but not bitter, which made them very satisfied.

"Brother Xiao, this hotpot is so delicious. It's so spicy that it almost makes me cry, but I can't help but want to continue eating." Huang Pengfei said while eating.

Li Xiao responded with a smile: "This is the charm of Sichuan hotpot, which makes people unable to stop."

After enjoying the delicious food, the two strolled on the streets of Chengdu, feeling the leisure and enthusiasm of this city.

"Pengfei, let's go to Jiuzhaigou tomorrow. The natural scenery there is known as a paradise on earth." Li Xiao suggested.

"That's great! I heard that the water in Jiuzhaigou is very clear and the scenery is very beautiful. I have wanted to go and see it for a long time." Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

The two ended the day's journey in leisure in Chengdu and prepared to greet the new day with anticipation for Jiuzhaigou.

The next day, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei took a bus through the mountains of Sichuan and arrived at Jiuzhaigou, which is known as a paradise on earth. The natural scenery here is like a series of moving paintings, which makes people feel relaxed and happy.

"Brother Xiao, look at this water, it's so clear and the colors are so rich, it's amazing." Huang Pengfei said, pointing to the Five-Colored Pool in Jiuzhaigou.

Li Xiao also praised: "Yes, the water color here changes a lot, as if it is a palette of nature."

The two walked along the plank road, admiring the various scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou. They saw the magnificence of Nuorilang Waterfall and felt the tranquility of Changhai.

"Pengfei, look at this waterfall. The water pours down from a high place, it's majestic." Li Xiao said.

Huang Pengfei nodded: "Well, the momentum of this waterfall reminds me of life. Sometimes we also need such courage and strength."

During the tour, the two did not forget to communicate with local Tibetan compatriots and learn about their lifestyle and culture.

"Brother Xiao, look at their costumes, they are brightly colored and very ethnic." Huang Pengfei said, pointing at a Tibetan girl.

Li Xiao smiled and replied: "Yes, every nation has its own unique culture, which we should respect and learn from."

After the tour, the two tasted the local butter tea and barley wine in the Tibetan village of Jiuzhaigou and felt the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people.

"Pengfei, the taste of this butter tea is very special, you should try it." Li Xiao handed Huang Pengfei a cup of butter tea.

Huang Pengfei took a sip and said with a smile: "Well, it's a little salty, but very fragrant. It's a brand new experience."

As night fell, the two sat quietly under the starry sky of Jiuzhaigou, enjoying the tranquility and beauty.

"Brother Xiao, where are we going tomorrow?" Huang Pengfei asked.

Li Xiao thought for a moment and said, "Let's go to the ancient city of Lijiang in Yunnan, which has a long history and unique Naxi culture."

“That’s great. I’ve always wanted to go to Lijiang. I heard the ancient town there is very unique.” Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

The two ended their day's journey in the wonderland of Jiuzhaigou and prepared to embark on a new journey with a yearning for the ancient city of Lijiang.

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei arrived in Lijiang by plane. This ancient city is famous for its long history and unique Naxi culture. They walked into the ancient city and were immediately attracted by the simplicity and tranquility here.

"Brother Xiao, look at this ancient city. Every stone slab and every wall reveals the vicissitudes of history." Huang Pengfei said with emotion.

Li Xiao nodded: "Yes, every building and every street here carries the wisdom and life traces of the Naxi people."

The two strolled along the streets of the ancient city, admiring the ancient buildings and handicrafts on both sides. They visited the Mu Mansion and learned about the history and culture of the Naxi people.

"Pengfei, look at this wooden palace, it's so magnificent, and every carving is so exquisite." Li Xiao exclaimed.

Huang Pengfei also felt the same way: "Well, the carving art here is really amazing."

In the ancient city, the two also tasted local specialties, such as Naxi grilled fish, chicken bean jelly, etc. Every dish left them with an unforgettable aftertaste.

"Brother Xiao, this Naxi grilled fish is really delicious. The fish meat is fresh and tender, and the seasoning is unique." Huang Pengfei said while eating.

Li Xiao smiled and responded: "Yes, the food here, like the culture, has its own unique charm."

As night fell, the two strolled in the alleys of the ancient city, listening to the Naxi ancient music coming from afar and feeling the tranquility and peace of the ancient city.

"Pengfei, let's go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain tomorrow. The scenery there is spectacular." Li Xiao suggested.