「Journey Along Route 318 to the Gorgeous Town of Batang
Heading west along National Highway 318, I finally grasp the romantic allure of “China’s most beautiful landscape corridor.” The scenery unfolds in endless variations along the drive. Towering snow-capped mountains line the road, the vivid cerulean sky feels close enough to touch, and expansive grasslands roll out as far as the eye can see. Mountain breezes carry the crisp, pure fragrance of highland vegetation, serving up delightful surprises around every curve.
After crossing Haizi Mountain Pass, I reached Batang, fondly dubbed the “Jiangnan of the Plateau.” The Twin Lakes rest serenely beneath snow peaks, resembling sapphires scattered across the earth. Their glassy, transparent waters create a breathtaking contrast against the distant snow-dusted mountain ridges. This quiet little town on the banks of the Jinsha River exudes a gentle, mellow vibe, tempering the rugged majesty of the 318 journey with quiet, down-to-earth warmth.
After a full day of driving, I checked into an excellent hotel that melted away all my travel fatigue the instant I walked through the door. The rooms were spotless, tastefully decorated and wonderfully comfortable, fully equipped with all necessary facilities. While resting indoors, I could gaze out the window at Batang’s soft, rolling mountain vistas.
Every kilometer along the road is filled with breathtaking scenery and calming moments. The epic splendor of Route 318, the delicate charm of Batang, and this fantastic hotel combined to make this leg of the trip an utterly unforgettable treasure.」