Minibus trip | Walk in the ancient forest by the Mi Ju River for dyeing and printing, and pick wild vegetables by the field to make tempura

Today I went on a van trip with Sister Yanzi.

It's been a long time since I was this close to nature. The roadsides are lined with over two hundred-year-old Huanglian trees and Acacia, so close that the cicadas' chirping sounds a bit harsh, and there are many spider webs hanging from the trees.

The puppies are all very happy, sniffing here and there, secretly hiding many small gifts in their faces and leg hair.

Through the leisurely introduction by the swallows, I learned about many plants, such as the Morus tree, Equisetum, Firethorn, Cuscuta, and Clematis. I identified Chinese yam and wild yam, watched her step into a small ditch beside the vegetable field to pick wild celery and wild coriander, then coated them in batter and fried them into delicious tempura.

I also learned to harvest plants for tie-dyeing on cotton and linen fabrics, watching the plant juices leave beautiful marks on the cloth.

On the way back, I saw many egrets leisurely walking in the rice fields, and the puppies curiously poked their heads out.

This unhurried walk and afternoon tea were truly wonderful. Time seemed to slow down, and at this moment, we are people counting the beats together with nature.

Yami spent a perfect afternoon with Xiaoxi.

In the humid forest, just breathing feels like a spa. Yami knows the nearby mountains and forests well. When the rain stops, we walk along the small river, learn about various interesting plants, and when the rain falls, the van is our roof. Time flows quietly and vibrantly.

Every time I come to Dali, I sign up for the Hiking House activities. Now, even before leaving, I already know what kind of trip I want to experience next time. See you next time.

A very worthwhile van trip, with the quiet and comfortable countryside of Eryuan.

Centennial ancient trees beside the ancient river path, fields combined with sunshine, suitable for low-energy groups to relax and recharge.

Swallows lead us through tie-dyeing, introducing plants and explaining, making the whole journey peaceful and relaxing.

A very healing van trip~

Although it's cloudy, the overcast day in Dali is already beautiful. Clouds, distant mountains, villages, and fields are a painting in themselves. Plus, the specially modified van and the carefully prepared afternoon tea by Swallow make it a place where you can quietly stay all afternoon! Sometimes the two o'clock can be a bit mischievous, but Swallow listens very well. When sitting in the car, I sit close to my feet, warm and cozy~

Swallow's fried wild vegetable tempura is especially delicious, I almost got full eating it haha. The aroma of wild vegetables is wrapped in the batter, crispy outside and tender inside, a flavor I've never tasted before!

Dairy products yyds, another flavor of fresh milk and yogurt I haven't tried before, I really like it~

Tie-dyeing is so magical, it feels like bringing vitality home. Swallow said it's a cheat version of painting, haha. So outdoor sketching is like this. Finally, she also helped me return to the guesthouse. Watching Swallow and the two o'clock leave, I will always remember this afternoon

This afternoon's trip to Eryuan by minibus was so healing! Traveling through mountains, fields, and rural areas, on the way back we also saw a beautiful sunset reflecting on the hillside, creating a very atmospheric vibe~ In the afternoon, we immersed ourselves in outdoor picking of fresh leaves among ancient trees, experienced plant dyeing firsthand, and made plant specimens — the process was relaxing and fun! Sister Xiaomi patiently took care of the kids, so moms can relax~

This trip brought us closer to nature and allowed us to personally capture the greenery of Eryuan. The slow-paced healing journey is highly recommended and truly amazing! The kids are still missing Sister Xiaomi and the little dog Xiaoxi.

Also, the northwest noodle shop recommended by Xiaomi is perfect — they have hot porridge for the kids, and I can also enjoy a bowl of oil-splashed noodles to soothe my northern stomach, haha.

Today’s activity was fantastic. Both kids loved it, especially the two dogs, one named Zha Mao and the other Xiaoxi. They kept company with me and us the whole time. We foraged for wild vegetables, did leaf printing, and finally made tempura with celery, mushrooms, and cilantro — all tasted great. Sister Xiaomi was also wonderful, guiding us through a very unique rice paddy experience and tasting sweet贡菜. We also visited a cornfield. Many wonderful photos were taken.

To Sister Swallow:

Thank you, Sister Swallow, for leading us into the thousand-year-old secret realm of Miju River.

You are like a walking encyclopedia of nature — which leaf can be used for printing, which wild vegetables can be picked and taken home, and which tree has the most touching story... you know everything. The children follow behind you, asking endless 'why's,' and you always smile and squat down patiently to show them.

An afternoon of time, ancient dikes, old trees, picnics, and crafts, all arranged thoughtfully and gently by you. You are not just taking us to play, but more like opening a door to nature and tradition for us.

Sister Swallow, I want to go on an adventure with you again next time.

Once again an unforgettable experience, picking wild vegetables in the fields and returning to the creek to do plant dyeing and wild vegetable tempura, very fragrant, crispy, and rich, can't stop eating. Thank you to the gentle and thoughtful guide for accompanying us, excellent photography skills, love it