In a small village in China, the life of a young woman named Mei unfolds amidst the serene beauty of nature and the struggle for survival in a hostile rural environment. Mei, a talented artist, dreams of escaping her monotonous world and exploring great cities, but her duty to her family and the traditions of her community keep her anchored to her home.
Everything changes when a foreign photographer arrives in the village in search of inspiration. Drawn by the authenticity of rural life and Mei's beauty, he begins a relationship that challenges cultural norms and family expectations. As they get to know each other, Mei feels inspired to break the chains that bind her to the past, unraveling a deep passion for art and freedom.
However, the arrival of the photographer also sparks tensions within the community and pits Mei against her family and her own beliefs. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, she must make difficult decisions that test her loyalty, identity, and love for art.
Set against a splendid backdrop of snow-covered landscapes and the beauty of bamboo in winter, this story becomes a powerful tale of the search for identity, sacrifice, and the struggle to follow oneβs dreams, all while the cold winter serves as a symbol of renewal and personal transformation.