This person is clearly a male protagonist in a female-oriented novel, yet he is excessively lucid.

On the morning of the third day, the two set off from Anqing and sped towards Huanggang along the G50 Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway.

The scenery along the Yangtze River Expressway at the end of September is absolutely stunning. On one side is the surging Yangtze River, its waters a deep turquoise, laden with fine sand as they repeatedly lap against the gray-blue banks.

The splashing water droplets condensed into a fine, cool sensation in the wind, and distant ships, shrouded in a thin mist, appeared and disappeared in the hazy place where the water and sky met, moving as slowly as a flowing ink painting.

On the other side are endless citrus orchards, where Huangzhou tangerines are ripe and the golden fruits hang densely on the branches, bending the slender branches with their weight.

The layers of emerald green leaves make the fruits look even brighter, exuding the unique freshness of a bountiful harvest.

"The tangerines here look sweet."

Xiao Yilin leaned against the car window, her gaze following the orchard outside, her voice filled with barely concealed anticipation.

Yu Chenzhou nodded with a smile, a gentle smile in his eyes:

"The Huangzhou tangerines are at their sweetest and juiciest at the end of September. Let's buy two pounds to try when we pass by the service area later."

The National Day holiday is just a few days away. Not only will prices go up, but you'll also have to wait in long lines if you want to buy something. We've chosen the perfect time to travel off-peak.

Occasionally, trucks loaded with citrus fruits would slowly pass by, their cargo beds piled high like small mountains. The golden color and the juicy fruit were palpable even through the truck windows, radiating the joy of a bountiful harvest.

During their casual conversation, the two talked about Su Shi's years in Huangzhou, and Yu Chenzhou quietly recounted the origin and story of "Dongpo Jushi" (Dongpo Hermit).

From his experience of being demoted to Huangzhou to his open-mindedness in finding solace in nature, Xiao Yilin listened with great interest, occasionally asking questions. The carriage was filled with soft conversation and pleasant warmth, and the fatigue of the journey quietly dissipated.

When we arrived at Dongpo Red Cliff, the sun was already gradually setting in the west, and the area outside the scenic spot was already filled with a gentle festive atmosphere.

The flower beds in the square are arranged in a neat and orderly manner, with various flowers in full bloom. Several bright red national flags flutter in the breeze. Staff members are busy sweeping the road and tidying up the landscape, making preparations in an orderly manner for the upcoming Golden Week.

The two encountered a minor accident as soon as they arrived at the entrance:

Due to equipment maintenance before National Day, some immersive attractions in the scenic area implemented visitor flow control measures, and I had to queue for more than 20 minutes to enter the park.

Fortunately, this wait was soon rewarded.

Upon entering the park, we were greeted by an extra performance of the intangible cultural heritage of iron flower making, a special fireworks display to warm up for National Day. The performers used tools to vigorously strike molten iron into the night sky.

The molten iron instantly transformed into a sky full of dazzling sparks, blooming wildly in the twilight of late September. Its shimmering and colorful appearance amazed the entire audience, instantly soothing the anxiety and fatigue of those waiting in line.

Yu Chenzhou held Xiao Yilin's hand tightly, his voice gentle yet clear:

"You see, unexpected surprises can be found even in the unexpected."

Inside the scenic area, strings of small red flags are tied to the low railings beside the antique buildings, creating a unique blend of rich literary charm and subtle festive warmth that is both understated and exceptionally touching.

The two boarded a Song-style cruise ship and slowly cruised through the shimmering wonderland of Yiai Lake. The lake surface sparkled, turning the lights on the shore into tiny, fragmented spots of light.

In the "Well-read" scene, a giant lotus leaf installation and a semi-transparent light and shadow curtain slowly unfold, with soft lights flowing gently with the water ripples.

Xiao Yilin curiously reached out and touched the gauze curtain. Amidst the swaying light and shadow, a flock of lively virtual butterflies suddenly appeared, fluttering their wings and swirling around her, causing her to smile broadly.

Yu Chenzhou stood with her at the bow of the boat, watching the flying fire pot spew out brilliant flames, the sparks from the iron-making fireworks reflecting the lights on the lake and the national flags on the shore.

The warm yellow firelight illuminated their faces, creating a romantic and breathtaking scene. The warmth and joy of that moment were hidden in every little detail, quietly seeping into their hearts.

After landing, the two strolled along the bluestone path to the ancient buildings area of ​​Chibi. Xiao Yilin stood in front of the stele inscribed with "Nian Nu Jiao: Reminiscences of Chibi" and read it softly line by line, her words filled with admiration for the spirit of the ancients.

Yu Chenzhou quietly stayed by her side, explaining the ins and outs of the "Wutai Poetry Case" to her in detail, pointing to the panoramic mechanical telescopic scroll next to him.

He patiently explained how the device, through the interplay of light and shadow and mechanical movement, recreated Su Shi's difficult situation and emotional changes when he was demoted to Huangzhou.

When they arrived at the "Rain and Mist" scene, the staff handed them two simple oil-paper umbrellas. The two walked side by side into the simulated misty rain. The drizzle and the swaying bamboo shadows made them feel as if they had traveled through a thousand years and shared the same feelings as Su Shi.

Deeply feeling the open-mindedness and composure of "letting life unfold as it may," I walked briskly through this rich ancient atmosphere.

Around noon, the two found an authentic Hubei restaurant in Huanggang city for lunch.

The dishes on the table are all local specialties. The Huanggang fried glutinous rice balls have a crispy outer skin, and when you bite into them, the sweet and glutinous filling inside slowly flows out. They are sweet but not greasy.

Xishui lotus root starch has a delicate texture, a refreshing and sweet taste, and a subtle lotus root aroma; Huangmei fish noodles soak up the broth, are chewy and flavorful, and every bite is full of freshness and richness.

Xiao Yilin ate with great relish, praising every single dish.

Seeing her satisfied expression, Yu Chenzhou smiled and added a spoonful of lotus root starch to her bowl, his tone filled with expectation:

"These are all local specialties of eastern Hubei. When you arrive in Wuhan, there will be even more authentic delicacies waiting for you to try."

After a short rest at a restaurant in the afternoon to shake off the post-meal lethargy, the two drove from Huanggang, taking the G50 and then the G70 Fuyin Expressway, speeding towards Wuhan.

The closer you get to this familiar hometown city, the more naturally the festive atmosphere blends into the streetscape. On the GG signs along the roadside, in addition to the familiar Wuhan dialect slogans, the eye-catching words "Happy National Day" have been quietly added.

Next to the friendly slogan "Go to Hubu Alley for breakfast, and Jiqing Street for late-night snacks," small red flags are lightly inserted, their vibrant red color and warm sentiment instantly bridging the distance between people and the city.

"It's getting dark, the night view of Wuhan must be beautiful."

As Xiao Yilin gazed at the gradually descending twilight outside the window, the sky tinged with a faint orange-red, her voice filled with anticipation, she turned to Yu Chenzhou and spoke.

"Luckily we arrived before the National Day holiday, otherwise the highway would have been completely jammed, and we wouldn't have been able to travel and play so easily."

Yu Chenzhou smiled and nodded, his fingertips lightly tapping the steering wheel, his eyes filled with an undisguised sense of belonging.

"We'll take the Second Yangtze River Bridge into the city later. The national flags on the bridge are already hung up. When the lights are on, they complement the river view. On the left is the bustling city of Hankou, and on the right is the cultural heritage of Wuchang."

The river view at night, combined with the festive warmth, makes it the perfect time to take you home.

He suddenly recalled his childhood memories and added softly:

"When I was a child, I used to come fishing with my dad by the river. Back then, the Second Bridge had just opened to traffic, and the river would be covered with national flags before National Day. There weren't so many tall buildings along the river. The evening breeze carried the coolness of the river water, making it especially refreshing."

Bringing you back now brings a different kind of warmth than before.

Xiao Yilin leaned back in her chair, closed her eyes, and imagined that scene, her voice gentle:

"That sounds lovely. How about we go for a walk along the river after we've settled in?" "Of course!"

Yu Chenzhou glanced at her, his eyes overflowing with tenderness.

"But let's get some rest and recharge tonight. Tomorrow I'll take you on a leisurely tour of Wuhan, and then we'll go to the old-established hot dry noodles shop near my middle school. That shop has been open for many years, and the taste is the most authentic."

The two-hour drive passed in the blink of an eye. The car slowly crossed the Second Yangtze River Bridge, where the national flag on the bridge swayed gently in the evening breeze and the lights.

The bright red color stands out against the night sky, creating a vivid and lively urban landscape with the surging river view and the flow of traffic.

The eaves of the Yellow Crane Tower in the distance are faintly visible amidst the dazzling lights, and the surrounding colorful lights have been set up, revealing the eager anticipation for the National Day holiday.

Yu Chenzhou slowly slowed down the car, turned his head and whispered to Xiao Yilin:

"Let's stay at the hotel for one night first. Before the National Day holiday starts, let's take you to see Wuhan for a day."

When they arrived in Wuhan, night had already completely enveloped the city. The two first went to check into the hotel in Wuchang District that they had booked in advance.

Pushing open the room window, you are greeted by the vibrant atmosphere of Wuhan. In the distance, the Yangtze River Bridge is lit up with a continuous stream of lights, like a silver ribbon spanning the river.

The national flag on the bridge glowed with a faint red light under the illumination of the lights, and the buildings on the riverbank were brightly lit. The light and shadow were projected onto the river surface, intertwining with the reflection of the lights on the river to create a beautiful night scene. Warmth quietly spread in the cool night.

After a short rest, the two changed into comfortable clothes and strolled slowly along the riverbank. The evening breeze, carrying the moist scent of the river, gently carried away the fatigue of their journey.

The national flag flutters in the wind under the streetlights. Occasionally, you'll encounter neighbors taking a stroll after dinner, speaking in a warm Wuhan dialect. The sounds of everyday conversations fill the air, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

The next morning, just as dawn broke, the two followed the smell of cooking fires to Liangdao Street in Wuchang District.

Most of the shops along the street have small red flags tied to their doorways, blending in with the steaming food inside and the bustling street life. The warmth of the festival is hidden in the ordinary daily life, making it especially touching.

Yu Chenzhou found the old-established hot dry noodles shop that had been open for 20 years with ease and ordered a full table of breakfast, including hot dry noodles, bean curd sheets, and shumai with lots of oil.

They also specially added fried dough sticks, rice noodle soup, and egg wine, each of which is a classic breakfast staple for Wuhan locals.

He skillfully mixed the hot dry noodles for Xiao Yilin, evenly drizzled sesame paste on top, and then added her favorite pickled cowpeas and diced radish, carefully instructing her:

"Eat it while it's hot. Once it cools down, the sesame paste will solidify and lose its rich flavor."

Seeing her swallowing with gusto and her eyes crinkling with satisfaction, Yu Chenzhou smiled and said:

"This is the most authentic taste of Wuhan, much more genuine than those trendy restaurants on the main street."

Once National Day arrives, this street will be so crowded you won't be able to move. You'll have to wait in line for half an hour just to get a bowl of hot dry noodles. This quiet way of having breakfast is the most comfortable state for us.

Xiao Yilin nodded while stuffing fresh, fragrant bean curd sheets into her mouth, responding indistinctly:

"That's so true. We can see beautiful autumn scenery, feel the perfect festive warmth, and spend time with you like this, slowly savoring the flavors of your hometown."

Looking at her adorable appearance, Yu Chenzhou's eyes were full of tenderness, and he quietly added a spoonful of delicious rice noodle soup to her bowl.

After breakfast, the two went to the Hubei Museum, which they had booked in advance.

The National Day-themed flowerbeds in the square are meticulously arranged, with flowers and greenery creating a festive look that complements the ancient and solemn historical buildings, creating a lively atmosphere while maintaining the tranquil ambiance of the cultural heritage site.

Since it wasn't the National Day holiday, there weren't many visitors in the exhibition hall, allowing the two to leisurely appreciate each artifact.

In the exhibition hall of Marquis Yi of Zeng's chime bells, Xiao Yilin was deeply attracted by this exquisite set of bronze chime bells, and her gaze lingered there for a long time.

Yu Chenzhou held her hand and explained in detail the playing principles and historical background of the chime bells. He also accompanied her to experience the interactive bell-ringing device in the exhibition hall. The simulated bell sound was deep and melodious, and the rhythm that traveled through thousands of years touched people's hearts.

Seeing her amazed expression, Yu Chenzhou patiently recounted the stories behind each artifact, his eyes revealing both pride in his hometown's history and culture and tender care for those around him.

After leaving the museum, the two drove to the East Lake Listening to the Waves Scenic Area to enjoy an autumnal lake view.

In autumn, the East Lake is shimmering with blue waves. The lake surface is as calm as a giant mirror, clearly reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and weeping willows on the shore, their branches drooping down to the water.

A gentle breeze causes it to sway softly, shattering its reflection in the water and creating delicate ripples.

The camphor trees along the riverbank are still lush and green, while the maple leaves are gradually turning a light crimson, and the ginkgo branches are covered with golden leaves.

Colorful branches and leaves intertwine to form a vibrant corridor, and warm sunlight filters through the gaps in the leaves, casting dappled light and shadow on the walkway, creating a wonderful atmosphere.

Yu Chenzhou rented a tandem bicycle and rode slowly along the lake with Xiao Yilin on his back. A gentle breeze caressed their faces, carrying the refreshing scent of the lake water and the fragrance of the grass and trees.

Xiao Yilin wrapped her arms tightly around his waist, leaned gently against his back, and felt the warm sunshine and gentle breeze enveloping her, her heart filled with peace.

They stopped to rest at a bench by the lake. Xiao Yilin leaned on Yu Chenzhou's shoulder and watched the boats slowly glide across the lake, leaving long trails of water.

In the distance, Mount Moshan appears and disappears in the light mist, its shadow blending with the lake's reflection, creating a tranquil and beautiful scene where time seems to slow down, making one feel intoxicated.

As evening fell, the two went to the Hankou River Beach and waited for the sunset in the cool river breeze.

As the sun gradually sets, it dyes the entire river surface a warm orange-red, and the national flag on the shore is particularly bright and eye-catching in the afterglow of the sunset.

Many citizens brought their families to stroll and play. The children's laughter and the adults' chatter, accompanied by the sound of the river waves, created a particularly warm and lively atmosphere.

After sunset, the lights along the riverbank gradually illuminate, their soft glow reflecting off the lights of the buildings on the opposite bank, outlining the city's bustling skyline and creating a stunning night scene.

The two strolled side by side along the riverbank, occasionally pausing to gaze at the river and feel the gentle caress of the evening breeze. They didn't say much, but their unspoken understanding and warmth were palpable.

Travel Tips

Traveling during the National Day holiday requires thorough travel planning in advance, including careful checking of road conditions along the entire route.

It is best to set off before the National Day Golden Week at the end of September, prioritizing the G4221 Shanghai-Wuhan Expressway with better road conditions, thus successfully avoiding the peak holiday congestion and ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey.

I booked tickets for popular attractions such as Dongpo Red Cliff and Hubei Provincial Museum 1-3 days in advance before departure, which saved me the time of queuing on site and coincided with the final stage of the scenic spots' National Day decorations.

The gentle festive atmosphere blends naturally into the scenery along the way, neither deliberately ostentatious nor lacking in ambiance, allowing one to immerse themselves in the warmth of the holiday.

Every accommodation needs to be carefully selected. In Wuhan, it is best to choose a hotel in the heart of Wuchang District, close to the river and popular attractions, with convenient transportation, so that you can leisurely enjoy the early autumn scenery at the end of September and also enjoy the National Day atmosphere.