Passing by an ancient building, they encountered a tour group wearing matching T-shirts. There were young people and elderly, with a few children, gathered around a guide holding a microphone explaining the historical significance of the ancient building. They toured while listening.
Yi Zhuo stopped and looked up at the wooden and stone structure before him.
Chang Xuyu, accustomed to such tour groups, noticed his interest in the architecture and took the initiative to explain, “This pavilion was built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was where a minor official’s daughter would throw an embroidered ball to choose her husband. Langxi is a remote, small place nestled in the mountains for centuries, evading many wars, so these structures have been well preserved.”
She pointed to the plaque above the door and continued, “The intention of this building is captured in this plaque—‘Xiying Pavilion.’ The young lady who threw the ball was named Zhang Luofei, which means ‘falling cherry blossoms.’”
“You can see how much the official cherished his daughter. Romantic, isn’t it? Many couples visit here every year. The pavilion is still maintained, and you can hang wish plaques here.”
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