Zhejiang Hid a ‘Lonely Island,’ Once More Famous Than Gulangyu Island, with Fewer Tourists and More Beautiful Scenery
With the popularity of the TV series 'A Family in Wenzhou,' many people have gained a clearer understanding of Wenzhou's past life. Due to the reform and opening-up policy, Wenzhou's economy has made tremendous progress, and most people's income has been quite substantial. But did you know that Wenzhou is not only known for its 'business empire' reputation, but also has many national-level scenic and historic sites hidden within it? There are so many beautiful places that one day or two is not enough to explore. However, today I'd like to tell you about a unique and tranquil island – Jiangsin Island. This island was actually more famous than Xiamen's Gulangyu Island in ancient times!
The road to Jiangsin Island has both a highway and a ferry that can be reached. I think taking the ferry to the island offers a different experience because as the ferry enters the harbor, the Jiangsin Island that appears in everyone's eyes gradually becomes real and lively, with Jiangsin Island looking majestic from afar, with clouds and sunlight reflecting each other, and a single Jiangsin Island standing on the vast river, but not monotonous. The blue sky is already unique, and Jiangsin Island adds to the mystique by complementing it. They enhance each other, creating a sense of mystery.
The biggest feeling when coming to Jiangsin Island is as if your soul has entered a postcard because it's truly so exquisite. And what I mean by exquisite isn't the trendy style we currently think of, but rather the feeling of warmth and quiet pervades everywhere. Although Jiangsin Island is not far from the city center, once you step onto the island, you'll understand what 'living in a secluded cage' means. The trees are lush and tall, surrounding Jiangsin Island. If you look from the outside, you might even doubt if there are people inside. But the two towers at the east and west ends of Jiangsin Island will remind you that this is indeed a real place.
Walking through the pavilions and towers, breathing the fresh air, your gaze is drawn to the lush greenery. Jiangsin Island is undoubtedly a good place to relax and unwind. Walking along the greenways of Jiangsin Island, you can occasionally hear the sound of the ferry's horn, as if time has slowed down. The East Tower and West Tower, although seemingly similar, each have their own brilliance. Let's start with the East Tower – the construction date is the earliest. You can't tell much difference from the outside, but the East Tower is actually a hollow tower, and because of the situation at the time, the top of the tower was never completed. In addition, the top of the East Tower has a (realized by natural growth and unassisted cultivation), which is maintained in a hydroponic manner, and it's always green throughout the four seasons – it's quite interesting. The West Tower, on the other hand, has extremely high artistic value. There are Buddha statues carved inside, and the eaves of the West Tower are hung with copper wind chimes. When the wind blows, you can hear the crisp sound of the wind chimes.
What corresponds to the East Tower and West Tower is Jiangsin Temple, located in the deepest part of the Jiangsin River. Tall ancient trees surround the temple, separating Jiangsin Temple from the outside world. There are three halls in the temple, and the Round Hall is the most magnificent and grand, because it houses Guanyin Bodhisattva, which is one of the national Guanyin Bodhisattva pilgrimage sites. No matter what mood you come to Jiangsin Island with, I believe everyone will have a satisfying experience.
