At Liangzhou in Xuanwu Lake, Encountering the Breeze of the Southern Dynasties / Nanjing Xuanwu Lake (Part 1)

Entering through the main gate of Xuanwu Lake and taking an electric cart along the lakeshore, the first stop is Liangzhou. This island is one of the oldest in Xuanwu Lake, historically known as "Liangzhou." Legend has it that Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty during the Southern Dynasties once built a royal garden here, hence the name. Through the passage of time, remnants of the imperial grandeur of ancient Jinling can still be glimpsed. In a quiet corner of Liangzhou lies the Jinling Penjing Garden. The garden features a diverse array of bonsai, each uniquely shaped—pine and juniper bonsai exude resilience and character, while lotus buds in ceramic pots await blooming, harmonizing with the rustic containers. This blend of natural charm and artistic craftsmanship adds an elegant tranquility to the lakeside scenery. Liangzhou is embraced by emerald waters, with weeping willows swaying along the shore and lush greenery covering the island, dotted with pavilions. In the distance, the purple-hued Zijin Mountain looms, while the faint silhouette of the Jiming Temple Pagoda can be seen nearby, unfolding a picturesque scene of mountains, water, city, and forest.