The “Imperial Garden” in front of My Home The housing estate I live in is divided into four areas, based on the specific plants growing there - orchid, bamboo, plum blossom, and chrysanthemum. My apartment belongs to the Bamboo Garden. As the name suggests, there is a micro garden surrounded by residential buildings, where not just bamboos thrive though. Over the past four years, I’ve lived far away from home for college study, therefore I can almost only witness what the garden is like in summer and winter. When hanging out there, I typically imagine I’m a princess walking across an imperial garden. In the west, four swan statues strut in the pool. They seemed to be paddling until the water was drained several months ago. Look around this place, and the lush vegetation will catch your eyes - graceful magnolia, grand camphor trees, well-tended lawn, osmanthus with mild fragrance, and foremost, leafy bamboos. In the center of the garden sit two antique pavilions that I have an affection for. Wandering there, I could be bathed in my fantasized ancient world. Beside that is a piece of area laid with old wood floor, water running underneath. If you walk on the floor, you’ll make a pleasant clip-clop sound. During summer vacations, I often run in circles around the garden in the evening. As dusk sets in, some owners are out to walk their dogs. It’s fun to watch those pets barking and sniffing around. However, winter is the most amazing time for this place. Piles of snow fall on the evergreens and pavilions, turning it into an icy wonderland. Seen through windows from the eighth floor, the landscape looks just like an ink painting. I feel so blessed to live here.