Ancient Tea-Trading Pathway: A Journey Stimulating All Senses
Brewing a steaming cup of tea transports me to a distant time, teasing my senses with scents of apricots and earthy notes. The Tea Horse Road, once a bustling trade route that stretched over 3,000 kilometers, spirals me through memories and enchanting experiences. Tracing the path of the ancient Silk Road and weaving between luxurious boutique hotels, every pebble whispers tales of cultural exchanges, local traditions, and the exchange between various minorities and nature.
Lijiang (丽江市)
My pulse quickens, as a sleeping dragon called Yulong keeps vigil over the vibrant city of Lijiang. A melting pot of diverse cultures since ancient times, I can almost hear the whispers of traders traveling over 500 kilometers on foot in search of tea. As I stroll through the old town of Dayan, a labyrinth of wood-carved courtyards and colorful Naxi patterns greets me. Each complex Naxi pattern depicts flowers, animals, or abstract designs, often found on the clothing or accompanying the intriguing Dongba script, a rare hieroglyphic script. Although immersing myself in Naxi culture fills me with awe, I feel a vague sense of incompleteness. The answer is as elusive as the scent of fresh tea.
Sangushui (三股水)
Finally, I catch a glimpse of Rong Gui, one of the last survivors of the Tea Horse Road. He tells stories of his personal trials and tribulations in navigating the treacherous mountain passes, at times accompanied only by the strongest horse. I listen enraptured as he shares tales of mule losses on their journey to the Himalayas, a reminder of the bravery and resilience the traders displayed.
Shangri-La (香格里宁)
Heading deeper into the mountains, I arrive at the magical city of Shangri-La. Every breath fills me with the serenity of the city, nestled in the heart of the Tibetan plateau. A master of thangka painting welcomes me to his studio, and I am captivated by the stories told upon the scroll paintings. The peaceful atmosphere, the artistic craftsmanship, and the incredible landscape mesmerize me, creating a feeling of unity and harmony.
Benzilan (奔子栏)
Embarking on a journey deep into the wilderness, I trek through the lush forests, noticeable for their diverse cultures of mushrooms. Layers of mushrooms defy my attempts at identification, offering new discoveries with every step. Markers of stones and the soft light of the setting sun illuminate the rich scenery, while a slight sense of enchantment accompanies me on this extraordinary adventure.
The road stretches far into the distance, beckoning me northward. The Tea Horse Road holds secrets that continue to unfold as I tread carefully on the path of history and embrace each challenge as a unique part of a remarkable journey.
In the bustling city of Lijiang, the diverse cultural exchanges and teas embody a lifestyle reminiscent of the Tea Horse Road. Savoring the flavors of food-and-drink, I am drawn to the old town of Dayan, where intricate Naxi patterns tell stories that echo the era of trading tea.
The trail further leads me to the magical city of Shangri-La, nestled in the heart of the Tibetan plateau, where the soothing art of thangka painting offers a glimpse into the food-and-drink and travel experiences of the region. Each step on this journey through the wilderness of Benzilan brings new discoveries, enriching my appreciation for the food-and-drink traditions, cultural exchanges, and travel stories along the Tea Horse Road.
