This important coastal port city in Zhejiang Province, which once witnessed the passage of Tang and Song dynasty sailing ships, carries in its essence the distinctive tranquility characteristic of the Wu and Yue regions. The city maintains perfect proportions in its scale, with buildings and streets creating a spatial harmony that reflects exceptional aesthetic balance. Many of its ancient structures remain beautifully preserved, and the interwoven presence of modernity and antiquity throughout the city evokes countless fascinating contemplations. I first encountered it through a textbook phrase: “Books preserve ancient and modern wisdom, while the port connects the world.” When I finally set foot on this land, the gentle ripples of Moon Lake remained unchanged, and the scholarly fragrance of Tianyi Pavilion lingered still. As China’s earliest private library, this remarkable institution not only astounds visitors with its vast collection of volumes but also reveals, through its ingenious layout and ancient elegance, the profound reverence and care that scholars of old held for knowledge. Wandering through its halls, one can almost hear the rustling of turning pages and witness the spiritual pursuits of generations of literati.

If you venture to Dongqian Lake in the early morning, you might encounter pedestrians strolling through the mist, touched by the lake’s subtle emerald hues. As twilight spreads across the eaves of TianFeng Pagoda, its shadow weaves into the commercial fabric of Nantang Old Street. Walking along the stone-paved paths of Nantang Old Street and Drum Tower area feels like treading upon the rings of history itself. Every latticed window, every brick and tile, holds the warmth of bygone eras. From street corners and alleyways drift enticing aromas: soft and sweet glutinous rice balls, crispy-outside-tender-inside oil fritters, steaming hot xiaolongbao dumplings… Each bite carries the tenderness of memory, and every flavor embodies the Ningbo people’s love for and attention to the finer aspects of life. Yet what truly touches the heart is this city’s warmth. The spontaneous courtesy and caring greetings reveal Ningbo’s tender essence. Here, “integrity, pragmatism, openness, and innovation” is embedded in every resident’s character. As one of the oldest cities with Southern Song heritage, this important port city has gracefully evolved while preserving its soul.