Labor Day weekend decided to bless us the same week as Eid ul-Fitr this year, and I took it as a sign that I needed to escape the city for some fresh air and some mind, body, and soul recuperation. Ramadan this year was a mixture of feelings: it was everything from my body returning to a state of normalcy, my mind in deep thought, and feeling a different kind of homesickness, yet being more present in my physical environment.
Mosques were closed for the whole month and it left me yearning for a space outside my home to pour into. I poured into the things I knew, and even then, I felt like it wasn’t enough. Sometimes all you can do is wonder ‘how much can you really do to feel enough’. Yup, we’ll have to save this conversation for a therapy sesh.
The ending of Ramadan is always bitter-sweet, but I know there’s always a lesson to be learned, regardless of how much we think we’ve benefitted. To commemorate the last days of this soulful month, I decided to plan a solocation away from the city and to be in my own thoughts.
Here’s how I spent my last days of Ramadan in Deyang, a city north of Chengdu.
About Deyang
- Deyang is located northeast of Chengdu and in central Sichuan Province.
- It is known for being a major equipment manufacturing base for things like nuclear power products, hydropower units, thermal power units, steam turbines, and more.
- Xiaoquan Ancient Town located in Deyang is the largest ancient town in Western Sichuan.
- The ancient town has a history of over 2000 years.
- Some of the scenic spots to visit in Deyang are Sanxingdui Museum, Mt. Yinghua Scenic Area, Confucius Temple, and the Art Wall.
Where to stay – Deyang Yuhuyuan B&B
By far one of the most relaxing and pleasing hotels I’ve stayed at thus far. I wanted this trip to be a mixture of luxury, and simplicity. I splurged more than usual on my accommodation this time, knowing I’d be working and relaxing more in the hotel. Booked me a “fashionable room” with a bathtub, and it was worth my coins. Sometimes you just got to treat yourself, lady.
Everything about the hotel was clean, aesthetically pleasing, and comforting.
More on how to book your stay here.
Where to eat – Xiaoquan Ancient Town
A short walk from the Deyang Yuhuyuan B&B hotel is the Xiaoquan Ancient Town. Within the town, you’ll find a small community of Muslims. “Huimin Chu”, also known as the Muslim Street. I first heard about there being a mosque in Deyang from a friend’s Instagram post a while back, and for the longest time, I had it in my mind to visit.
There’s a plethora of halal food on this street, and it just gave me all the comfort I needed.
What to do
Most of my time was spent in the Xiaoquan Ancient Town and in my hotel room. For the 2.5 days I was in Deyang, it was enough for me to relax and do a little sightseeing without venturing too far.
Walk around the Xiaoquan Ancient Town
The ancient town is worth taking a long stroll around. Lots of old, yet well-kept buildings, small shops, food, fruit stands, traditional Chinese snacks, and more.
Soak up the sun (if it’s sunny lol)
An entire month of fasting and work required some needed physical rejuvenation and basking in the sun was how I chose to relax.
I completely understand why old people find joy in relaxing on a bench, people-watching, and soaking in the sun. Life feels a lot more wholesome with even the slightest bit of sunshine.
So, go on and be wholesome like the old souls.
Take a stroll by the water
A river just a couple of minutes away from the hotel. There are small bridge overpasses to get to the other side as well. It was rejuvenating walking by the water and just listening to the sound of nature.
Visit the mosque
At this point, I think I’ve visited more mosques in China within the 3 years I’ve lived here, than most of my life living in the U.S.
The Xiaoquan mosque is quite small and slightly hidden. Behind the blue and gold Islamic-style archway in the Muslim street, you’ll find the mosque towards the end of the road and to the right.
Engage with the locals
I have endless stories of how I encounter people. This brother approached me as I was taking photos of the mosque gate. I was unaware it was the entrance to the actual mosque, and he told me to come and look. He led me to the community museum, gave me a history lesson about the Muslims in the town, showed me around the mosque, courtyard, and cemetery, and even shared his poetry with me.
It may not have felt like much, but it’s the effort and kindness others have shown me regarding their love to share their history and culture that never fails to amaze me. It’s the way they honor the spaces that become more than spaces, but places that create a sense of healing.
And as for me, I just pray I’m able to soak up all the beauty and eventually pour it into the work I do.
