2021 Qingming Holiday, Traveler's Memory – Early Spring in Beijing's Tongzhou, a Journey to the Imperial Canal
In this imperial capital of Beijing, where the Forbidden City has reigned supreme for a century, you've crossed the Forbidden City, climbed the Great Wall, browsed Dashilan, taken in the night views of Zhengyangmen, and experienced old Beijing charm. Yet there's one place that probably hasn't been on your Beijing must-visit list: a place that 'thrives by business in the day and bustles with entertainment by night' – it's the 'city that never sleeps by the water,' Beijing's Tongzhou. Full of excitement, we came to the great imperial capital's Tongzhou to explore its historical legacy and modern innovation.
Many friends would be curious: where's the best place to stay when visiting Tongzhou? Just as you compare goods from three shops, you should compare hotel reviews. High-rated places are always my first choice, so this time I again chose Yingshang Cheng Tongzhou branch, known for excellent service and super attentive staff. We drove there; a staff member personally came out to guide us to the hotel's exclusive parking spot. Everything felt so natural and thoughtful. As someone who values comfort and service quality, my first impression of the hotel was nearly perfect. Location-wise, it's in the golden area of Tongzhou; if you want to explore all the bustling spots, this is the ideal place to be. To the south is Luhe Hospital, to the east Tongzhou Grand Canal Forest Park, to the north Universal Studios, and to the west Wanda Plaza for dining, entertainment, and shopping. Universal Studios is about to open, making this the best base to explore various attractions. I was here for a project inspection and to spend the Qingming mini break.
The check-in experience was truly stunning. The bright, open lobby was suffused with a literary, bookish atmosphere, and the service made travelers feel right at home. The front desk's decor was in old Beijing style; I loved the candy on the counter – a wide variety and all free! The check-in took just two minutes, the fastest I've ever experienced, which I appreciated after a long journey. The room was cozy and comfortable, with a simple yet lively color scheme, natural flow, and clean windows. The bedding was so comfortable I felt like lazing in bed for 24 hours straight. What pleased me most was that every little detail in the room had been thoughtfully designed. Their responsive service is probably one reason for the high ratings. If the hotel were a woman, Yingshang Cheng might not be a head-turner at first glance, but you'll grow to love her after a while.
After a good rest, once the project inspection was done the next day, it was time to dive into Tongzhou's historic sites and culinary delights. Renowned cuisine, the century-old canal, the exotic Prague Farm, and the famous Three Temples and One Pagoda. And the three treasures of Tongzhou snacks: Dashunzhai's sweet sesame cakes, Xiaolou's braised catfish, and Wantong's fermented bean curd. I'd heard there's a popular street stall behind Luhe Hospital selling excellent Luzhu (braised pork organs), perfect after a day's work – I could drop by on my way back to the hotel to try it. It's said that Yunjingli's braised pork elbow is the best in Tongzhou. I'll definitely use these delicacies to fill my temple of a stomach.
Every day brings new discoveries, every day a new world. There's no absolute scenery in the world, only the eyes that know how to see. Life is not about rushing along, but about savoring the journey. The best moments are always on the road; setting out is always the most meaningful thing. Since we can't hold back time, let's store up more beautiful memories. I hope that every trip, whether for business or leisure, will have nights as wonderful as this: so restful, with such beautiful views and such charming atmosphere.
