We saw a picture of the dragon on Facebook before we'd even arrived home...

At Siniawan.

Who can resist a 298-feet-long dragon? (For some reason, his length is always quoted in feet.)

Must go, we said...

So we were delighted to be invited by some friends for a little expedition to Siniawan this evening.

I've talked about this place before. Vibrant back in the 19th century, it spent the 20th contending with the Japanese occupation, economic decline, population loss, and environmental challenges. But, rather than throw in the towel, the residents began a highly successful revival campaign. They created what would become a lively night market and entertainment venue. Its combination of heritage, atmosphere, and good food was soon drawing visitors from near and far.

So off we went, the five of us. We checked out the river, the antique shop, and the decorations:









We had some great food. Of course... Stars of the show were excellent rojak, tasty char kuay teow, and -- a new and accidental discovery on our part -- Hakka dumplings. These are particularly plump little chaps, with very generous vegetable fillings. Really good:



But the star of the show was undoubtedly that dragon, whose appearance changed as the late afternoon turned to evening:







A fun evening. Very memorable.