Hangzhou's Imperial Echoes: A Culinary Journey with the Ricoh GR II

Introduction

The scent of aged tea leaves and simmering broths filled the air as we stepped into Guanzhi Yinxuan. Tucked away behind the quiet Southern Song Dynasty Imperial Street Ruins Museum, the restaurant felt like a journey back in time. Sunlight dappled through the leaves, illuminating courtyards flanked by dignified Republican-era residences on one side, and the modern artistry of Wang Shu on the other. It was a serene escape, a place where the echoes of history met contemporary design.

Our first lunch in Hangzhou began with a choice from Guanzhi’s extensive tea menu – a rich tapestry of Chinese varieties. Then came the true spectacle: a Southern Song Dynasty imperial banquet, recreated dish by exquisite dish. Each plate was a testament to a bygone era, allowing us to taste the very flavors once enjoyed by emperors. The Ricoh GR II clicked, capturing the delicate artistry of the dishes, the tranquil ambiance of the courtyards, and the quiet joy of discovery. Every image held the subtle warmth of the Positive Film creative style, reflecting the quiet elegance of the moment. It was more than just a meal; it was an immersion, a sensory whisper of ancient traditions brought to life.

Gears & Settings

Gears & Settings

Figures

Camera

Ricoh GR II

Lens

GR Lens 18.3mm F2.8

Creative Style

Positive Film

Date

4 July 2025

Location

Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Photos

Photograph, Composite material, Concrete.#: 1 | SS: 1/500s | ISO: 100 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Still life photography, Still life.#: 2 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 800 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Composite material, Concrete, Building material.#: 3 | SS: 1/500s | ISO: 100 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Tableware, Drinkware, Serveware.#: 4 | SS: 1/50s | ISO: 100 | F: 2.8 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 5 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 100 | F: 2.8 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Ingredient, Dessert.#: 6 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 200 | F: 2.8 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Ingredient, Tableware.#: 7 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 200 | F: 2.8 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Flooring, Floor, Swimming pool.#: 8 | SS: 1/125s | ISO: 100 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Ingredient, Tableware.#: 9 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 400 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 10 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 250 | F: 2.8 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Ingredient, Tableware.#: 11 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 400 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.7 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 12 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 200 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.7 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 13 | SS: 1/45s | ISO: 100 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.0 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Ingredient, Tableware.#: 14 | SS: 1/125s | ISO: 100 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.0 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 15 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 200 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Ingredient.#: 16 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 250 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Tableware, Serveware.#: 17 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 320 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Food, Fruit, Tableware.#: 18 | SS: 1/40s | ISO: 125 | F: 2.8 | +/-: 0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Floor, Water feature, Houseplant.#: 19 | SS: 1/750s | ISO: 100 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.3 | FL35: 28mm

Composite material, Grey, Concrete.#: 20 | SS: 1/125s | ISO: 100 | F: 4.0 | +/-: -0.7 | FL35: 28mm

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