The peaceful riverside scenery gradually gave way to something more refined as they approached their destination. Ancient willows draped their branches over stone pathways, their leaves creating natural curtains that filtered the morning sunlight into golden patches. A traditional arched bridge spanned a narrow canal, its reflection creating perfect symmetry in the still water below.
And there, nestled among the carefully manicured gardens like a jewel in a crown setting, stood the Golden Crane Tea House.
The structure was a masterpiece of Japanese inspired architecture, its dark wooden beams contrasting beautifully with white paper screens and clay-tiled roofs that curved upward at the corners. Multiple levels cascaded down toward the water's edge, each connected by covered walkways that seemed to float above meticulously raked gravel gardens. Stone lanterns lined the pathways, their presence adding to the serene morning atmosphere.
