Shanghai A Slow Journey Through Baoshan’s Golden Autumn: History, Nature, and Nostalgic Flavors

Seeking a break from the fast pace of city life, I embarked on Baoshan’s “Silver Age Leisure Tour,” a two-day journey designed for relaxation and reflection. Wandering through ancient towns, serene temples, and golden rice fields, I discovered a side of Shanghai steeped in history and natural beauty. Along the way, I tasted nostalgic snacks, learned traditional crafts, and chatted with locals—each interaction reminding me of the simple joys of slow travel. This trip wasn’t about checking off landmarks; it was about savoring the moment and immersing myself in the region’s rich culture.

My journey began in Luodian Ancient Town, a 700-year-old town known as “Golden Luodian.” As I walked along its stone-paved streets, I felt like I’d stepped back in time. The town was lined with traditional brick houses with black tiles, and small canals flowed alongside the roads, their waters reflecting the blue sky. I visited the ancient bridges, including the graceful Lianqi Bridge, and stopped at a local teahouse to sip jasmine tea. The teahouse owner, an elderly man named Mr. Wang, told me stories about the town’s history—how it was once a bustling trading hub along the Lianqi River. He recommended I try the town’s famous fish balls, so I headed to a small restaurant nearby. The fish balls were soft and juicy, made with fresh river fish and seasoned with scallions. They melted in my mouth, a perfect blend of savory and fresh.

From the ancient town, I traveled to Baoshan Temple, a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty-style architecture. The temple’s wooden buildings, with their curved eaves and intricate carvings, were breathtaking. I wandered through the courtyards, admiring the lotus ponds and stone lanterns, and sat in the main hall for a moment of quiet reflection. The air was filled with the scent of sandalwood, and the sound of Buddhist chants echoed softly. A monk explained that the temple was built using traditional techniques, with no nails or screws—each piece of wood fitting together perfectly. It was a testament to the skill of ancient craftsmen, and I felt a deep sense of peace as I explored.

The next day, I ventured into the countryside, starting with Luodian Yuanjing Village. As I walked through its thousand-acre rice fields, the golden stalks swayed gently in the breeze, creating a sea of ripples. The village was a picture of rural idyll—clear rivers, green trees, and farmhouses with red roofs. I visited Tianjian Chashi, a café with large windows overlooking the rice fields. I ordered a cup of osmanthus latte and a plate of handmade wontons, savoring the food while watching farmers harvest rice. The café owner told me that many city dwellers come here to escape the hustle, and it’s easy to see why—there’s a sense of calm that’s hard to find in the city. Later, I joined a group for persimmon picking in Luojing Xinlu Village. The orchard was filled with orange persimmons hanging from the trees like small lanterns. I plucked one from a branch, wiped it clean, and took a bite—sweet and crisp, with a hint of honey. It was the perfect autumn snack.

My final stop was Luojing Haixing Village’s Water Conservation Forest, a “natural healing paradise.” As I walked along the forest trails, I breathed in the fresh air, filled with the scent of pine and cedar. The forest was vibrant with autumn colors—red maples, yellow ginkgoes, and green camphors. I spotted white egrets flying over the lake, their wings gliding gracefully over the water. At the end of the trail, I reached Hubao Aquaculture, where I tasted Baoshan Lake crabs. The crabs were plump and flavorful, with firm meat and rich roe. I ate them with a side of rice cakes, savoring the last bites of my rural adventure.

As I drove back to the city, I thought about the moments that had touched me most—the sound of chants at Baoshan Temple, the taste of fresh persimmons in the orchard, the laughter of locals at the teahouse. This trip had reminded me that happiness lies in the simple things—in slowing down, connecting with nature, and embracing tradition. Baoshan’s golden autumn wasn’t just a feast for the eyes; it was a feast for the soul. I left with a heart full of memories, a bag of local snacks, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of slow travel. In a world that’s always rushing forward, Shanghai’s countryside offers a precious chance to pause, reflect, and find joy in the present.