Yangzhou City.
Along the banks of the Qinhuai River, aside from the exquisitely gorgeous pleasure houses lining both sides, venturing a bit deeper into the surrounding streets revealed numerous restaurants and taverns, less opulent than those establishments yet possessing a distinct charm of their own. Capitalizing on the staggering influx of visitors to Yangzhou, these venues still managed to turn a handsome profit.
As night fell, the central district of the Qinhuai River came alive with vibrant energy. It was a gathering place for talented scholars and beautiful maidens to compose poetry, paint, and whisper sweet nothings, as well as a haven for men of letters to drink, make merry, and match verses.
Chapter 20