People in the “Suzhou time zone”
 

Yan Wenliang (1893-1988), the founding president of Suzhou Art Academy, is typical of people in the “Suzhou time zone”.

From learning traditional Chinese painting to studying oil painting, and from founding the art school to studying abroad and then returning to China for art education, Yan drew and followed the trajectory of his life based on what he believed were the right things to do.

Today, the Yan Wenliang Memorial Hall stands on the former site of the school, and Yan’s life philosophy is being practiced by many people who dare to break the cultural timeline to create the rhythms of their lives.

Also, life in the “Suzhou time zone” is romantic. As night falls, there is beautiful Kunqu opera singing from the ancient garden Canglang Pavilion which is separated from the Yan Wenliang Memorial Hall by a wall, and a splendid night picture is rolling out. [MORE]

 
Delicious food in the “Suzhou time zone”
 

Here, recipes change as time changes.

The famous Huang Tianyuan store sells cakes and pastries according to seasons and local folk customs. There are so many varieties that even those in bad mood can find one to make themselves feel happier.

In the “Suzhou time zone”, people like to make food with seasonal ingredients. For example, in summer, they make salty desserts to make up the salt lost in sweat, and eat cold noodles mixed with sauce to keep cool. These eating habits also reflect their pursuit for self-consistency.

The “Suzhou time zone” allows people to waste a little bit of time in strolling, listening to music or doing whatever they want. It is also kind of enjoying life.[MORE]