It was my first time visiting Xining, a city located on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, carrying an air of mysterious allure. As soon as I got off the train in the morning, the sunlight reflected off the Huangshui River, making the water shimmer as if waving at me. The air here was fresh and cool, carrying a faint scent of grass and earth, completely different from the cities I was used to. Under the high-altitude sun, I couldn't help but take a deep breath, feeling a sense of unparalleled openness.

As I slowly walked along the Huangshui River, I saw a few people strolling along the banks—elderly people and children with light steps. For them, the Huangshui River is not only the "mother river" of Xining, but also a lifeline. I sat on a bench by the river, gazing at the clear water of the river, and my thoughts drifted back to the rivers and fields of my hometown. This sense of familiarity made me suddenly realize that, no matter where we are, rivers always somehow connect our lives and memories.

During my few days in Xining, I visited the famous Ta'er Monastery. The Buddhist stupas and prayer flags fluttered in the wind, the colorful flags dancing in the mountain breeze, as if telling the story of centuries of faith and wishes. The monks in the temple quietly carried out their rituals, and the monks in red robes sat silently by the side, seemingly untouched by the outside world. This peace and serenity inspired me, prompting me to reflect on the rhythm and direction I seek in life.

After leaving Ta'er Monastery, I also visited a local vegetable market. The vendors greeted customers enthusiastically, and stalls were filled with Qinghai specialties like milk tea, butter, and barley wine. Curious, I tried a small cup of barley wine. It had a robust taste, almost like the first impression the plateau gives: simple and unique. After sipping it, a warm sensation spread through my throat and heart, making me feel an unusual sense of closeness.

In the evening, I took a walk along the Huangshui River. The setting sun bathed the entire river in a warm orange-red hue, and the distant mountains softened under the light. Watching the city slowly quiet down as night fell, I couldn't help but say to myself, "Xining is a place that makes you slow down." It doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of the city, but instead teaches you to appreciate the quiet and simplicity of every moment. Here, I felt the people's reverence for nature, their serenity toward life, and their love for the plateau lifestyle.

When I left Xining, I felt a sense of reluctance. Perhaps the next time I visit, the Huangshui River will still flow quietly, the prayer flags at Ta'er Monastery will still flutter, and I will find peace for my soul in this pure plateau city. This experience made me realize that some places may only be passed through, yet they are enough to leave an indelible mark on my memory, making me reminisce about them in the years to come.