As I wandered the decks of the three-story steamer, actors and actresses in period costumes were bringing their life stories in Wuhan through intimate vignettes.

Their compelling voices and expressions touched me with tales of love and betrayal, personal sagas and patriotic deeds — each story unfolding in the ship's cabins or echoing through its old-fashioned bar, where spirited dancers whirled under vintage lights.

As the music started playing, performers gracefully drew visitors into their waltz, completing their passage through time.

For full immersion, replica period attire such as qipao awaits rental before boarding, transforming observers into authentic passengers of the era.