The summer heatwave rolls in with the sound of cicadas, strolling through the ancient city of Tai'erzhuang

As the summer heatwave rolls in with the sound of cicadas, the moment you step into the ancient city of Tai'erzhuang, a pool of clear water and stretches of dark-tiled roofs filter out most of the summer heat. This time, staying at the Wenhui Wangfu Courtyard feels like a seal hidden in the folds of the ancient city. The front hall is filled with the aroma of dishes, the backyard rests under the moonlight, perfectly capturing the day and night of the ancient city. Passing through the wooden door carved with entwined patterns, a wave of coolness first greets you in the front hall. The eight-immortal table is covered with an indigo tablecloth, and outside the wooden window lattice flows the murmuring canal. Boats row past under the window, the mist they bring mingling with the spicy chicken aroma drifting from the kitchen, forming the liveliest welcome. Order a pot of mixed fish from the canal, paired with freshly baked vegetable pancakes. The waiter greets guests in Mandarin with a local accent. The stone-paved road outside the window shines under the midday sun, yet it doesn’t feel hot at all. When the afternoon heat is at its peak, stepping into the backyard changes the scene. The small courtyard paved with bluestone has pomegranate trees hanging fruit like red lanterns, grapevines weaving a green net over the pergola, and several vintage lanterns hanging under the corridor, gently swaying in the breeze. The guest rooms are old-style brick and wood structures; opening the window reveals the courtyard view. The bed is covered with coarse linen sheets, carrying the scent of sunlight. Curling up in the rattan chair to read a book, listening to the distant sound of Pingtan storytelling, you unknowingly doze off. When you wake, the setting sun slants across the courtyard wall, casting long tree shadows. As dusk spreads over the horse-head walls of the ancient city, the front hall becomes lively again. Lanterns light up one after another, casting a warm yellow glow on the canal water. Guests gather in the courtyard chatting; some say they took great photos by the ancient city wall during the day, others talk about which place has the most authentic Huanghua beef noodles. The evening breeze carries moisture, dispersing the last bit of summer heat. Only then do you understand why some say the most beautiful summer in Tai'erzhuang is spent in such a courtyard, living life in slow motion.