In China, cycling has never been just a mode of transportation; it's a journey across mountains and rivers, a touch of civilization. From the celestial roads of the snowy plateau to the stone bridges of the Jiangnan water towns, from the highways of the northwestern Gobi Desert to the greenways of coastal cities, every inch of land traversed by the wheels holds unique scenery and stories, sketching a flowing scroll of Chinese landscape.
Cycling in the west is a dialogue with magnificent nature. Traveling along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, starting from the fertile plains of Chengdu, crossing passes over 4,000 meters above sea level, such as Zheduo Mountain and Dongda Mountain, witnessing the grasslands gradually transform from tender green to golden yellow, seeing glaciers refracting a deep blue light under the sun, and listening to the ceaseless flow of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Prayer flags flutter by the roadside, herdsmen slowly drive their yaks by, and occasionally encountering fellow cyclists—a nod, a word of encouragement—is enough to dispel the fatigue of cycling on the plateau. On the Duku Highway in Xinjiang, you can experience all four seasons in a single day, from barren deserts and Gobi to snow-capped mountains and lakes, from forests and canyons to grasslands and seas of flowers. The extreme contrasts in landscape make every ride a delightful surprise.
Cycling in Jiangnan is an embrace of gentle, tranquil time. Choose a greenway along a river, following the waterways of Taihu Lake, West Lake, or ancient towns. Willows sway gently on both banks, white-walled and black-tiled houses are scattered in a picturesque scene, and small boats sway gently on the water, the sound of oars echoing softly. Passing through ancient towns like Zhouzhuang and Wuzhen, you might stop, push your bicycle along the cobblestone streets, watch the flowing water under the bridges, and see artisans intently crafting Suzhou embroidery and wood carvings in the alleys, the air filled with the sweet aroma of qingtuan (green glutinous rice dumplings) and osmanthus cakes. Or, in Yangzhou in spring, cycle along the banks of the Slender West Lake, watching the peach blossoms in full bloom and the magnolias in full bloom, experiencing the poetic romance of "going down to Yangzhou in the third month of spring."
Cycling through the city is a vibrant way to feel the pulse of the times. Today, more and more cities are building dedicated cycling greenways, connecting parks, shopping districts, and subway stations, making cycling a convenient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. In Beijing, cycling along the moat allows you to walk from the red walls of the Drum Tower to the skyscrapers of the CBD, taking in the blend of ancient and modern scenery. In Hangzhou, the greenways along the Qiantang River are flat and wide, offering a refreshing breeze on one side and the ever-expanding city skyline on the other. In Shenzhen, the coastal cycling path connects Dameisha and Xiaomeisha, creating a striking contrast between the blue sea and the red cycling path, making it a popular choice for citizens' leisure and fitness. While cycling, you can encounter elderly people doing morning exercises, commuters, and children playing, experiencing the city's lively atmosphere and energy.
Cycling in China is also a journey through history. Cycling along the Silk Road's remnants, imagine the camel bells of ancient caravans; riding along the ancient city walls of Xi'an, a 13-kilometer loop feels like stepping back into the prosperous Tang Dynasty; cycling through the Tulou (earthen buildings) of Fujian, seeing the round and square structures scattered across the mountains, one can feel the wisdom and resilience of the Hakka ancestors. With each turn of the wheels, the past and present converge, imbuing every journey with profound cultural significance.
From the Sichuan-Tibet and Xinjiang-Tibet highways, where professional cyclists push their limits, to urban greenways and rural roads for ordinary people's leisure and fitness, cycling has long been a popular trend in China. It's not just a healthy lifestyle, but also an attitude of exploring the world. On a bicycle, we can appreciate the magnificent landscapes of our motherland and feel the rapid changes of the times; we can find solitude for reflection and meet like-minded companions.
Cycling in China, every route offers unique scenery, and every journey holds unforgettable stories. Why not hop on a bicycle, let the wind caress your face, let the wheels measure the earth, and experience the vastness, beauty, and warmth of China through cycling.
