Question 1

Describe a city you have been to and would like to visit again.

Accepted Answer

The city I’m eager to revisit is Kyoto, a millennia-old former imperial capital of Japan, nestled in the central region of Honshu island. I first traveled there last spring with two college friends, during the peak cherry blossom season. We spent three days meandering through iconic cultural sites: we hiked the winding trails of Fushimi Inari Taisha, lined with thousands of vermilion torii gates, stumbled across a geisha hurrying to an appointment in the preserved Gion district, and savoured a delicate kaiseki meal at a family-run ryokan. We also wandered through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where sunlight filtered through towering stalks to create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. I’m desperate to return because our trip was crammed with rushed sightseeing and we missed several unmissable spots, like the gilded Kinkaku-ji Temple. Plus, I’ve seen stunning photos of Kyoto’s fiery autumn foliage, and I’d love to take a traditional tea ceremony class to immerse myself more deeply in local culture, rather than just scratching the surface as a rushed tourist.

millennia-old /məˈleniə əʊld/：有着数千年历史的

otherworldly /ˌʌðəˈwɜːldli/：超现实的，宛若世外的

meandering /miˈændərɪŋ/：漫步，闲逛

vermilion /vəˈmɪliən/：朱红色的

ethereal /ɪˈθɪəriəl/：空灵的，超凡脱俗的

crammed /kræmd/：排得满满的，挤满的

foliage /ˈfəʊliɪdʒ/：（树木的）叶丛，秋叶景观

Question 2

What’s the difference between the city and the countryside?

Accepted Answer

The city and the countryside offer completely different lifestyles. Cities are fast-paced, with bustling streets, modern infrastructure, and countless opportunities for work and entertainment. On the other hand, the countryside is calm and peaceful, surrounded by nature, fresh air, and a slower way of life. While cities provide convenience and access to resources, the countryside offers a sense of community and a more relaxed atmosphere. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences and what kind of environment someone feels most comfortable in.

Question 3

Some people say that large cities are suitable for old people. What do you think of it?

Accepted Answer

I honestly think large cities can be both a blessing and a bit of a challenge for older people. On one hand, cities offer better healthcare, public transport, and recreational activities tailored to seniors. But on the flip side, they're often crowded, noisy, and expensive, which might not suit everyone. The key is accessibility and how well the city caters to their needs. If urban spaces are designed with elderly-friendly features, like quiet parks and affordable housing, I'd say cities can actually be a wonderful place for them.

Question 4

Do you think it is possible that all the people should move to cities?

Accepted Answer

I don't think it's realistic for everyone to move to cities. While cities offer better jobs, education, and healthcare, overcrowding could lead to serious problems like pollution and housing shortages. Plus, life in rural areas has its own advantages, like peace, space, and a closer connection to nature. Relocating everyone to urban areas could harm the balance between urban and rural development, so it's important to maintain diversity in where people live.

Question 5

Do you think people in the countryside are friendlier than people in the city?

Accepted Answer

Honestly, I think it depends on the individual, but generally, people in the countryside do seem friendlier. Life there is slower, and communities are smaller, so people often take the time to greet and chat with each other. In the city, though, it's not that people are unfriendly—it's just that life moves so fast, and everyone's rushing around. That said, I've met incredibly kind people in both settings, so I wouldn't make a sweeping generalization. It really boils down to personality, not location.

Describe A city you have been to and would like to visit again

Describe a city you have been to and would like to visit again.

Part 3 Discussion