Liuyang River in China: Episode 2 - Simple Flavor

The Liuyang River flows east to west. It originates in the Daweishan Mountains, and its first point of interest is an old town by the name of Baisha.

“Vegetables and tofu ensure longevity”. This is what the Chinese people believe to be the key to good health. Fresh and cool mountain spring water is a unique asset for the local townsfolk. For generations, they’ve been using this water to make tofu. As time passes, family workshops have gradually emerged.

The owner of this tofu workshop is Chen Bingfu.

CHEN BINGFU: Since I was 27, I’ve been making tofu. At that time, my family was in need of money, so I bought tofu from others and sold it in Liuyang.

Uh… I needed to take the bus there, so I got up early every single day.

Chen Bingfu has been making the staple food on Liuyang’s dinner tables.

CHEN BINGFU: When I started, I didn’t have much money, so I got a loan from the bank. Then I bought a second-hand tofu making machine, and tried different recipes for making it myself. I remember the first few batches I made they weren’t very good, so I had to sell them in the countryside at low prices to try to cover my expenses.

After two years, the quality of my tofu has greatly improved. My wife and I have some discussions, and we move to Liuyang to build our business. Back then, we worked tirelessly, from dusk till dawn. We worked / till midnight every day, no exceptions.

Food reminds people of where they come from.

Each place produces its own flavors. However far its people may travel, they won’t forget it.

CHEN BINGFU: I put the sticks here, to keep the tofu from getting squashed.

“Fair river! In thy bright, clear flow of crystal, wandering water.” Perhaps because of the hardworking tofu makers here living their simple and happy lives, that after the Liuyang River has flowed through this town it can’t help but miss the people and the scenery that it’s seen.

The Liuyang River, after running through Dawei Mountain, flows straight to its next destination. The flowing water brings the flavor of Liuyang to faraway places.