Long have I planned to visit the Eastern Grove,
And now I seize a leisure day to roam.
My eyes grow bright as I leave the city walls,
My spirit soars, eager to challenge the autumn air.
The wilds stretch vast where a lone falcon soars,
The river clear where distant gulls glide.
Near the mountains, green peaks merge in a screen,
Abundant crops float like clouds of emerald green.
Sounds of chickens and dogs reach each other,
Water in ditches and ridges flows in disorder.
Crossing the bridge, my retinue's clamor rises,
Around the trees, the carriage horses turn with neighs.
Inquiring of customs, I marvel at this Yao-era land,
Seeking monks, I arrive at the Fertile Isle.
Deep and serene, the precious gates open wide,
Vast and majestic, the ornate carriage halts.
The statue is solemn in the pearl-adorned hall,
Chanting of sutras hides behind crimson curtains.
Looking up, the incense pagoda stands straight,
Strolling slowly, the painted corridor extends long.
I observe everything I encounter,
Pausing briefly at every pavilion I meet.
The front courtyard first opens up wide and clear,
The rear path then turns deep and secluded.
Wild ridges are beautiful with dark bamboo,
Frosted maples thick with crimson leaves.
Beyond the wall, I hear lovely birdsong,
Along the pond, I watch swimming fish at play.
Green stalks of palms are just stripped,
Red-tipped rice is half harvested.
Ascending the void, I climb the steps in sum,
Facing the layered towers that circle the realm.
Dark valleys hide precarious plank roads,
Flat sands border distant prefectures.
Rivers and plains gather like froth,
My life's journey is as fleeting as a floating gull.
Turning my head, homesickness drifts in,
Facing the cup, I wash away the traveler's sorrow.
Leisure aids the skill of fine chess,
Victory lies in deep contemplation.
Shadows stir like Rang Ju's battle flags,
Winds rise like Chen Ping's cunning plans.
I dare not slow my returning steed,
As the setting sun shines on the patterned chessboard.